Best Time to Cruise to Mexico

With its vibrant culture, beautiful scenery, and captivating history, Mexico draws visitors year-round.

Whether you’re exploring the ancient ruins, lounging on the luxurious beaches, or diving into the rich marine life, booking a cruise to Mexico offers experiences that cater to all types of travelers.

Choosing the right time of year to cruise to Mexico lets you take pleasure in a variety of things, like fun festivals and great weather.

On This Page:

1. When is the best time to cruise to Mexico?
2. When is the best month to cruise to Mexico?
   • January is one of the best months to cruise to Mexico
   • February in Mexico
   • Cruise in March
   • Pre-rainy Season in April
   • How is the weather in May?
   • Hurricane Season in June
   • Cruising in July
   • Cruise to Mexico in August
   • Is September the best time to cruise in Mexico?
   • Is October a good time to cruise to Mexico?
   • Is November the best time to go on a cruise to Mexico?
   • Cruise to Mexico in December

When is the best time to cruise to Mexico?

Overview of Mexico's Climate

Mexico has two main seasons: the rainy season from May to October and the dry season from November to March. Each season offers distinct advantages and adventures for cruise travelers.

Rainy Season

The rainy season, which runs from June to October, features short afternoon showers and long stretches of sunshine. This period coincides with the hurricane season, which officially starts in June and ends in November. Hurricanes are most likely to occur on the Atlantic side, especially in Tamaulipas and the Yucatán Peninsula. Popular cruise destinations like the Mexican Riviera and Baja Peninsula have warm, tropical weather all year.

On Mexico's east coast is where you’ll find the beautiful Riviera Maya. The Riviera Maya starts in Puerto Morelos, situated south of Cancun. It then continues through Playa del Carmen, Cozumel, Puerto Aventuras, Akumal, Tulum, and Sian Ka’an.
The region has a warm tropical climate throughout the year. It has a warm tropical climate all year.

The Baja Peninsula lies in northwest Mexico and is famous for its beautiful beaches and marine life. On Mexico’s west coast lies the Mexican Riviera. This coastal area has warm weather and a tropical climate. It includes towns like Ensenada, Cabo San Lucas, and Puerto Vallarta.

Dry Season

The dry season, from October to April and peaking from December to March offers cooler temperatures and is perfect for outdoor excursions and activities. At this time, Mexico has temperatures around 82°F, perfect for exploring the diverse landscapes without rain.

When is the best month to cruise to Mexico?

January is one of the best months to cruise to Mexico

As part of the dry season, January offers pleasant weather with temperatures ranging from the mid-60s to the mid-70s°F. This month is less crowded than other winter months, which makes it excellent for a quieter cruise experience. This calm setting makes January one of the best times to cruise to Mexico.

Cultural events, such as Día de Reyes add to the charm of visiting Mexico during this period. Celebrate Día de Los Reyes on the 6th of January. Families celebrate this holiday by eating festive Mexican food, attending church services, and exchanging gifts with each other.

February in Mexico

February continues the trend of pleasant weather, with average temperatures around 65°F. The Yucatán Peninsula and areas like Cancun and the Riviera Maya will encounter particularly favorable weather this month.

While the weather is remarkably pleasurable this time of year, February is also quite a busy tourist month. Many people plan to take advantage of the fair conditions. Because of this, it’s best to book ahead to secure the best arrangements and dining options.

The highlight of the month is Carnival. This celebration is a chance to have fun before the fasting period of Lent. This festival is a 5-day celebration with vibrant parades, costumes, and festivities, especially in coastal cities like Mazatlán.

Cruise in March

Marking the end of the winter season, March sees another surge of tourists. Expect plenty of sunny days on the Pacific coast in places like Puerto Vallarta. The Palenque jangles are bright green with beautiful foliage and moderate temperatures. This is a great opportunity for exploring historical sights, like the ancient Maya ruins here.

In March, the weather remains consistent. This month boasts dry and warm temperatures reaching up to 86°F in beach destinations along the Yucatan Peninsula. March is also a great time to book with Norwegian Cruise Line and explore historical sites. Enjoy the lively nightlife in places like Tulum and Cozumel, while you take lifelong photos of your adventure.

Pre-rainy Season in April

As the pre-rainy season period sets in, April offers fewer crowds while still maintaining agreeable weather. With fewer tourists, booking with Holland America Line offers an ideal time to visit the Mexican Riviera and Yucatán.

This month continues with low rainfall and mild temperatures. This month provides perfect conditions for beach activities and exploring Mexico’s coastal towns. This is the tail end of the whale-watching season in Baja with thousands of grey whales still around.

Tulum still offers stunning beaches and eye-catching sites. The area encounters temperatures around 86°F, making it a great destination in April.
The Mayan Cenotes in the Yucatán Peninsula are also notable during this time. Here you can observe water-filled sinkholes naturally formed by the collapse of limestone and located across the peninsula.

How is the weather in May?

The humidity begins to rise in May. Temperatures this month range from 85-90°F. The higher temperatures are still manageable, especially for those who adore outdoor and water activities with marine life exploration.

Celebrate Cinco de Mayo with Carnival Cruise Line and indulge in the festivities.
May is also a fantastic time to visit attractions like Isla Mujeres. This island is known for its sea turtles and underwater museum. There are many types of turtles to see here, such as the Green Turtle, the Loggerhead, and the Hawksbill. This is a perfect opportunity to take some photos with these animals before the start of their mating season.

Hurricane Season in June

June marks the beginning of the wet season and hurricane season in Mexico. This period sees fewer crowds and potential discounts because of it.

This season is not the most ideal, as travelers will have to focus on indoor activities and weather-protected excursions in some areas. However, yearly tropical regions like the Mexican Riviera remain warm and sunny. Average temperatures hover around 77°F but can reach up to 90°F in places like Cancun.

June is also the start of sea turtle nesting season, making it a unique time to visit Isla Mujeres or Cancun.

Cruising in July

July continues the wet season with intermittent rain showers, especially in destinations like Cancun and Riviera Maya. So, is July a good month to cruise Mexico? Despite the rain, cultural events such as the Guelaguetza in Oaxaca.

Guelaguetza is a stunning festival celebrated each year. This is one of the most important holidays in the Mexican state of Oaxaca. Indigenous communities from the state gather at the Guelaguetza city to present their native way of life. These communities express their cultures through music, costumes, dances, and food.

Average temperatures in Mexico remain warm, making it a good time for indoor cultural activities and festivals. During this month, expect higher humidity levels, especially in coastal regions. If you are sensitive to immense heat, you might find the weather to be uncomfortable.

Cruise to Mexico in August

In August you can expect large crowds at popular tourist locations like resorts and beaches. August the weather is very warm and humid, especially along the coast.

Important to note, that August is still a part of the hurricane season, so high winds and heavy rain are a possibility. Coastal areas and tropical regions, such as Cancun and Riviera Maya, often see higher rainfall during this time.

Despite this, many events take place in Mexico this month. The largest celebration is Día de la Asunción held on August 15th. Families celebrate this day with special altars in their homes, with an image or statue of the Virgin Mary.

With cruise lines such as Virgin Voyages, Princess Cruises, and Disney Cruise Line you can savor the beauty of Mexico during this season.

Is September the best time to cruise in Mexico?

September in Mexico heralds the arrival of the fall, bringing more moderate temperatures and clearer skies. However, along the beaches, this is the peak hurricane season.

So, is September a good time to cruise to Mexico? Well, the weather in Mexico in September is less hot, but also rainy. Despite the weather, September is culturally rich, with events like Mexico’s Independence Day on September 16th.

This day calls for a vibrant fiesta filled with dancing, music, and plenty of delicious food. While the weather may not be ideal, this month offers a quieter scene for those willing to undergo the occasional storm.

Is October a good time to cruise to Mexico?

The weather in October is warm, however, the humidity of the summer is less intense compared to other months. The weather brings a perfect balance between warm and pleasant. Offering an opportunity to explore your favorite destinations without the burning summer temperatures. This month also marks the last stretch of the rainy season.

October is also a quiet month for Mexico. With fewer tourists, this makes it a great time for outdoor activities and sightseeing. Events like the Festival Internacional Cervantino in Guanajuato, featuring music and cultural performances, add to the allure of visiting Mexico in October.

Is November the best time to go on a cruise to Mexico?

November marks the beginning of the dry season. This month hosts mild temperatures and low rainfall. Popular destinations like Baja California, Riviera Maya, and the Mexican Riviera undergo warm weather. This makes it a great time for beach activities and exploring local attractions.

On your Royal Caribbean International cruise, take pleasure in some vibrant celebrations like Día de Muertos on November 1st and 2nd. The International Gourmet Festival in Puerto Vallarta is a grand opportunity to witness top chefs and culinary delights.

Día de Muertos is a holiday celebrated throughout Mexico, where families welcome back the souls of their deceased relatives. Many families hold fiestas to honor and celebrate their ancestors and loved ones. This holiday is frequently celebrated with picnics and all-night vigils. People build shrines in their homes to honor their departed relatives.

Cruise to Mexico in December

December is a peak tourist period due to festive events and ideal weather conditions. Events like Christmas and New Year’s Eve celebrations make December an exciting time to cruise to Mexico.

Coastal destinations like Cancun, Puerto Vallarta, and Playa del Carmen have temperatures ranging from 77°F to 86°F. These warm, sunny conditions are perfect for beach and water activities. December is also a great time for festive activities, such as ice skating and exploring the beautifully decorated streets.

Enjoy your Departure to Mexico

Mexico offers a wealth of options for cruise travelers, and the best time to visit depends on your personal preferences and interests.

If you’re still wondering the best time to go on a cruise to Mexico, remember that the dry season, from November to March, is ideal for those seeking pleasant weather and fewer crowds. The rainy season, from May to October, provides unique opportunities such as sea turtle nesting and vibrant cultural festivals.

Whether you're interested in exploring historical treasures, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere, or unwinding on the beach, Mexico offers something for everyone.
For a seamless and memorable cruise experience, trust Cruisebound to help you plan and book your perfect Mexican getaway. With our detailed guides, expert advice, and exclusive deals, you can embark on the adventure of a lifetime.

FAQs

Q: What are the ports on the Mexico Cruise?
A: Some popular ports on a cruise to Mexico include Puerto Vallarta, Cabo San Lucas, Mazatlán, Ensenada, Cozumel, Costa Maya, and Yucatán.
Q: What cruise lines offer cruises to Mexico?
A: Cruise lines that offer cruises to Mexico include Carnival, Royal Caribbean International, MSC Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line, Princess Cruises, Costa Cruises, Holland America Line, Oceania Cruises, Cunard, Seabourn, Silversea, Regent Seven Seas Cruises, Azamara Cruises, Viking Ocean Cruises, Disney Cruise Line, and Virgin Voyages.
Q: What is the best month to take a cruise to Mexico?
A: The best time to visit depends on your personal preferences and interests. However, Mexico is the most crowded during its dry season, from the beginning of December to the end of March. Mexico is especially popular around Christmas and Easter.
Q: Is May a good time to cruise to Mexico?
A: May is a fantastic time to visit Mexico. Enjoy attractions like Isla Mujeres, known for its sea turtles and underwater museum.
Q: When is the best time to take a cruise to Mexico?
A: December is a peak tourist period because of all the festive events and ideal weather conditions.
Q: When is the worst time to cruise to Mexico?
A: While there is no bad time to travel to Mexico, the rainy season tends to have frequent storms and heavy rainfall. This can put a stop to some outdoor activities and make travel more challenging.