Best time to visit Cabo San Lucas (2024)

Hello, fellow travelers! 🦀 🌵 🇲🇽

As most of us know, Cabo is a forever favorite spot in Mexico. Still, whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning for another dose of its enchanting beauty, timing your trip just right can totally make or break your trip. So, when’s the best time to visit Cabo San Lucas? In this post, we’ll give you the lowdown on the perfect weather, fewer crowds, best deals, and the coolest events—straight from a local ☀️🌵😉.

Where is Cabo San Lucas?

Nestled at the southern tip of Mexico’s Baja California Sur Peninsula, Cabo San Lucas is where the Sea of Cortez meets the Pacific Ocean. This stunning coastal town is easily accessible, with just one flight from many major cities like Los Angeles, New York, Toronto or Vancouver.

Best time to visit Cabo San Lucas

The first thing you need to know is that it really depends on what you’re after. In the end, this Mexican hotspot is one of those places where you’ll always have a blast, no matter when you decide to come. So, let’s break down the best times to visit based on what you’re into:

Best weather

For those who prioritize weather over budget-friendly trips or seasonal tours, November to April is definitely the prime time to come to Cabo San Lucas. The weather is just perfect: dry with plenty of sunshine, mild and comfortable temperatures ranging from 70-85°F (21-29°C), ideal for outdoor activities like beach lounging, snorkeling, scuba diving, whale-watching and, of course, exploring the town.

• Travel hack: Most cultural events and festivals take place during these months, amping up the lively feel.

Lower crowds

If you’re into avoiding the crowds and snagging good deals, try swinging by during shoulder season, in May or October. These months have warm temperatures, a bit cooler than the peak summer months, and fewer tourists. In a nutshell, it’s perfect for a quieter vibe and cheaper lodging. Plus, the weather’s still great for beach fun and water sports, around 80-90°F (27-33°C).

Best prices

Coming to Cabo during summer (June to September) can be the best time to visit if you’re all about saving cash and don’t want to break the bank. While this season brings a lively vibe, you’ll have to brace yourself for hot, humid weather, with temperatures ranging from 85-95°F (29-35°C).

• Travel hack: This time lines up with hurricane season (especially August and September), so it is wise to keep an eye on weather forecasts.

Travel to Cabo San Lucas

Now that we’ve covered the basics to help you pick the best time to visit Cabo (based on your preferences), it’s time to move on to the next step: planning.

Best months for flights and lodging

In general, the best way to save money when traveling anywhere in the world can be summed up in two simple words: off-season. No matter where you’re headed, the reality is that airfare, lodging, and on-site transportation tend to be much cheaper during this time.

While some folks might not see the point in skipping the best of Cabo just to save a few bucks, flying to Mexico during the off-season has its perks. Cheaper flights mean you can treat yourself to nicer stays and premium tours (like sportfishing), making your trip way more memorable—but for some, it’s just about saving some cash, right?

So, when is the off-season for Cabo San Lucas? From July to September, but the real winner here is August, as flights can be 40% lower in price.

Best airlines to fly to Cabo San Lucas

For everyone coming from North America, there are a few airlines that can offer great deals, usually with direct flights or just a few layovers. As you’d guess, these are the big international companies. Here are the ones that might work for you:

• American Airlines
• JetBlue Airways
• Alaska Airlines
• Delta
• United Airlines
• WestJet
• Aeromexico
• Volaris

Travel hack: Check out the “unreal deals” on Expedia—if you book your flight and add a hotel, you’ll get 100% off your flights.

Why visit Cabo San Lucas?

Besides its convenient accessibility (direct flights from major US and Canadian cities), you’re probably wondering what makes Cabo San Lucas so special. Well, let me tell you, this vibrant little coastal town is one of the top destinations in all of Mexico—over 4 million people visited in 2023. Thus, as a tourist hotspot, Cabo has a ton to offer:

• Stunning beaches: Pristine, sandy shores such as Medano Beach and Lover’s Beach.

• Spectacular Marine Life: World-class snorkeling and scuba diving sites (Pelican Rock and Neptune’s Finger), as well as plenty of whale-watching tours from December to April.

• Iconic Landmarks: The Arch of Cabo San Lucas (El Arco) and Land’s End, where the Sea of Cortez meets the Pacific Ocean.

• Exciting Water Activities: Jet skiing, parasailing, sailing adventures, and sportfishing, with Cabo known as the “Marlin Capital of the World.”

• Vibrant Nightlife: Bars, restaurants, and bustling clubs (like Cabo Wabo Cantina and El Squid Roe) in downtown Cabo.

• Luxurious Resorts: Offering high-end accommodations with breathtaking views and world-class amenities (spa treatments, wellness retreats, amazing golf clubs, etc.).

• Exquisite Cuisine: Fresh seafood, authentic Mexican menus, upscale gourmet restaurants, and farm-to-table dining experiences.

• Outdoor Adventures: Eco-tours like hiking, ATV rides, and zip-lining in the surrounding desert, nearby canyons, and nature reserves.

• Cultural Experiences: Annual festivals and events showcasing Mexican culture and traditions, like local art galleries and other craft markets.

Cabo San Lucas weather

All in all, Cabo San Lucas offers a warm and inviting climate year-round, making it a perfect place for both beach bums and thrill-seekers. Whether you dig the dry, chill months or the blazing, lively summer, there’s always something awesome to check out in this coastal gem.

Yearly weather overview

The region of Los Cabos (Cabo San Lucas and San José del Cabo) enjoys a desert climate with over 300 sunny days per year and very little rainfall, with average temperatures from 64-75°F (18-24°C), reaching up to 75°F (35°C) during summer. Broadly speaking, there are two main seasons:

• Dry Season (November to May)
  • Weather: Mild to warm temperatures, minimal rainfall, and clear skies.
  • Best for: Outdoor activities, beach lounging, and exploring the region without the worry of rain.

• Rainy Season (June to October)
  • Weather: Hotter temperatures, higher humidity, and occasional rain showers or storms, particularly in August and September.
  • Best for: Enjoying water sports, marlin fishing, and summer festivities, with some preparation for potential rain.

Yearly key events in Cabo

To help you make the most of your vacation, here’s a list of annual events in Cabo, based on when you visit. Plus, knowing about these festivities will let you fully appreciate all that Cabo San Lucas has to offer:

January

• Lord of the Wind Kiteboard and Windsurf Competition (Los Barriles)
• Todos Santos Tropic of Cancer Music & Arts Festival
• Whale-watching season

February

• Todos Santos Art Festival
• Los Cabos Half Marathon
• Whale-watching season

March

• Beginning of Spring Break season
• San José del Cabo Annual Festival
• Sabores de Baja Food Festival (currently as Sabores de Sudcalifornia)
• Sabor a Cabo Rural Food and Wine Festival
• Whale-watching season

April

• Spring Break ends

May

• Surf season begins
• Cinco de Mayo
• San José Jazz Weekend

June

• Annual Paella Festival
• Los Cabos Open of Surf
• Stars & Stripes Tournament
• Fiesta de la Música (San José del Cabo)
• Beerfest San José

July

• Turtle nesting season begins
• East Cape Dorado Shoot Out (Fishing Tournament)

August

• Hurricane season begins
• San Jose Jazz Summer Fest

September

• Sea of Cortez diving season
• Mexican Patriotic Celebrations (Independence Day)

October

• Bird-watching season at San José Estuary (Ecological Reserve)
• Los Cabos Billfish Tournament
• Bisbee’s Black & Blue Tournaments (Fishing)
• Culinary Awards Los Cabos

November

• Surf season on the Pacific side begins
• Wind sports season begins
• Whale-shark season begins
• Los Cabos Organic Market season begins (organic farming, crafts, music, and other activities)
• Day of the Death Celebrations
• Los Cabos International Film Festival
• Oktoberfest Cabo
• Taco Fest Los Cabos

December

• Whale-watching season
• Medano Beach fireworks show (New Year’s Eve)
• Sabor a Cabo Food and Wine Festival

November to June

• Weekly Art Walk at the San José del Cabo Art District every Thursday evening.

Whether it’s events backed by the Mexican government or put together by private groups, these celebrations pop up every year around the same time, while others don’t always stick to a set schedule but still happen pretty regularly:

• Ironman Los Cabos
• Gastrovino Food and Wine Festival (Todos Santos)
• Cabo Cocktail Festival
• Los Cabos Tennis Open

Travel hack: If you are open to diving into Mexican culture, you can book spots at venues and restaurants that host special dinners and parties to celebrate big dates like the Day of the Dead or Independence Day. Additionally, you can check out iconic places like Plaza Amelia Wilkes, Plaza León Cota Collins, or Plaza Mijares (San José del Cabo).

Music Events in Cabo

For music enthusiasts, checking Bandsintown is a great way to see which artists are playing in upcoming concerts, festivals, live shows, and events happening in Cabo San Lucas.

The bottom line

Alrighty! To wrap up this info, here are a few things to keep in mind when planning your trip to Cabo:

For the dry season (November to May)

• If you’re craving perfect, warm, sunny weather without extreme heat, plan your trip between November and March. It’s prime time for all kinds of activities, beach outings, events, and more.

• If you’re looking for nice weather without the peak season crowds, then April and May are the ideal times to visit.

• If you’re aiming to swim and do water activities, February might not be the best bet since the water can be too chilly for some, and the wind can mess with some outdoor fun.

• If you want to dodge the crowds and steep prices, it’s best to skip the peak season (Christmas to New Year’s is the busiest time).

For the rainy season (June to October)

• If you want to avoid the high temperatures and hurricane season, hold off on booking flights from August to early October.

• If you opt to visit in the summer, it’s best to stay updated on the weather and focus on outdoor activities at sunrise and evenings.

• Make sure to pack bug spray and lots of reef-safe sunscreen, stay hydrated, and avoid direct sun exposure from 12:00 to 16:00.

• Typically, summer attracts mostly domestic tourists, so be ready to mingle with locals during this season. A bit of Spanish won’t hurt!

Your next visit to Cabo San Lucas

We hope that after reading this article, planning your next trip to Cabo San Lucas will be a breeze. Just remember, it’s all about what you like, what you need, and what fits your budget. And hey, no worries—there’s always something fun to do and plenty to enjoy here.

From lively festivals and warm waters to serene landscapes and quieter beaches, Cabo welcomes you year-round with something special to offer. So, whenever you choose to visit, rest assured that there’s always a perfect time to explore and enjoy everything this beautiful destination has in store for you.

Happy travels!