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Cancun & Beaches

Cancun is Mexico’s number one holiday destination, with the perfect combination of fascinating history, luxury amenities and exceptional beaches. With the crystal clear waters of the Caribbean Sea brushing up against vast stretches of powdery beaches, you can choose from intimate five-star luxury resorts or more modest beachside accommodation. Visitors can also explore the ecotourism hotspots of Xel-Ha, Xplor and Xcaret, where you can snorkel and swim with dolphins whilst admiring the impressive terrain. In addition to its natural charms, the Cancun area is also home to some fascinating Mayan relics, with the temple complex at Chichen Itza and the archaeological site of Tulum amongst the must-see highlights.

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What you’ll love most about Cancun

  • Relax on the pristine beaches of Cancun’s Hotel Zone, with their soft white sands, turquoise waters, and vibrant atmosphere, perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports activities
  • Take a day trip to Isla Mujeres, a charming island paradise just off the coast of Cancun, where you can explore colourful streets, relax on secluded beaches like Playa Norte, and snorkel in crystal-clear waters teeming with marine life
  • Discover the ancient Mayan ruins of Tulum and Chichen Itza, located within easy reach of Cancun, where you can explore impressive archaeological sites, learn about Mayan history and culture, and marvel at iconic landmarks like the Temple of the Frescoes and El Castillo
  • Dive or snorkel at the Underwater Museum (MUSA), a unique underwater sculpture garden located off the coast of Cancun and Isla Mujeres, featuring over 500 submerged sculptures that serve as artificial reefs and marine habitats
  • Explore the cenotes (natural sinkholes) of the Yucatan Peninsula, such as Cenote Dos Ojos and Gran Cenote, where you can swim in crystal-clear waters, admire stalactites and stalagmites, and experience the natural beauty of these unique geological formations
  • Experience the vibrant nightlife of Cancun’s Hotel Zone, with its beachfront clubs, bars, and restaurants, offering live music, DJ sets, and themed parties until the early hours of the morning, providing endless entertainment and fun for partygoers

Average temperature

Information below is based on average highest temperature for each month.

  • 28℃
  • 29℃
  • 30℃
  • 32℃
  • 33℃
  • 33℃
  • 33℃
  • 34℃
  • 33℃
  • 31℃
  • 30℃
  • 28℃
  • 7
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 5
  • 8
  • 5
  • 6
  • 10
  • 11
  • 8
  • 7

Information above is based on the average number of days which experience some form of rainfall for each month.

Rainfall

When to Visit

Below gives you information and a rating of the best time of year to visit.

January

High season begins with warm, sunny days, highs around 27–29°C, and light trade winds. Beaches and turquoise waters are ideal for swimming, snorkelling, and paddleboarding. Early mornings suit visits to Mayan ruins at El Rey Archaeological Zone or excursions to nearby islands like Isla Mujeres. Evenings are lively with waterfront dining and cultural entertainment.

February

Similar warmth continues, 27–29°C, with low rainfall. Sea conditions are calm, perfect for diving and sailing. Whale shark season begins along the Yucatán coast later in the month, offering early opportunities for guided snorkelling. Local markets, festivals, and beachfront events add cultural interest.

March

High season persists, highs of 28–30°C. Ocean conditions remain inviting, while inland excursions to cenotes, eco-parks like Xcaret Park, and Mayan sites such as Tulum are comfortable in the morning and late afternoon. Evening walks along the hotel zone or waterfront marinas are enjoyable.

April

Warm, highs 28–31°C, with slightly higher humidity. Spring break crowds can be noticeable, particularly at popular beaches. Early mornings or late afternoons are best for eco-adventures, snorkelling trips, and exploration of less frequented cenotes and nature reserves. Dining and evening entertainment remain vibrant.

May

Temperatures remain 29–32°C, with increasing humidity and occasional short showers. Rainfall is usually brief, refreshing the lush landscapes. Inland trips to cenotes, jungle trails, and archaeological sites are comfortable in the cooler parts of the day. Coastal waters remain perfect for water sports.

June

Early summer brings highs of 30–32°C and more frequent tropical downpours, particularly in the afternoons. Mornings are ideal for diving, snorkelling, or sailing excursions. The rain keeps greenery vibrant, and evenings are perfect for waterfront dining, nightlife, or cultural shows.

July

Hot and humid, highs of 31–33°C, with daily afternoon or evening showers. Tourist numbers remain high due to summer holidays. Early mornings and late afternoons are the best times for beach visits, excursions to Isla Holbox, and guided tours to Mayan ruins. Evening markets and resort entertainment remain lively.

August

Similar conditions, 31–33°C, with tropical showers continuing. Coastal winds provide relief, and sheltered bays are excellent for kayaking and snorkelling. Inland cenotes and eco-parks are accessible before midday heat, while evenings offer cultural performances and local cuisine along the hotel zone.

September

Warm and humid, highs 30–32°C, with the heaviest rainfall of the year and potential tropical storms. Despite this, mornings can be clear, suitable for excursions, snorkelling, and archaeological tours. Resorts and indoor activities provide comfortable options during afternoon showers.

October

Temperatures remain 29–31°C, with gradually decreasing rainfall. Coastal waters are calm for swimming, diving, and sailing. Inland excursions to cenotes, eco-parks, and Mayan sites remain rewarding, and local towns offer markets, crafts, and cultural events.

November

Drier conditions return, highs of 28–30°C, with low humidity. Beaches and coastal activities are comfortable, and the sea is ideal for snorkelling, diving, and sailing. Early morning trips inland are perfect for exploring Mayan ruins, while evenings are lively with restaurants and cultural events.

December

High season returns, 27–29°C, with sunny skies and gentle breezes. Coastal waters are calm, beaches are perfect for swimming and watersports, and cultural activities along the hotel zone are vibrant. Early mornings and late afternoons are ideal for photography, excursions, and relaxation.

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City chic meets edgy opulence at Breathless Cancun Soul Resort & Spa. A cosmopolitan beach experience awaits at this stylish, all-suite resort nestled between the Caribbean Sea and Nichupte Lagoon. Luxuriate in an inspiring energy and curate your holiday style as you Live Big and Breathe Deep at the newest hot spot and soul of Cancun.

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