Traveling to Cabo in December: Weather, Events, and 5 Amazing Things to do!
Traveling to Cabo in December? Find out about Cabo Weather in December, Events, and Things to do in one of the best months of the year!
Cabo San Lucas is known for its beaches, scuba diving, sport fishing, luxury resorts, and tons more.
Cabo San Lucas has become a popular tourist destination in recent years, due to its beautiful scenery and a seemingly endless list of activities to keep visitors entertained (a list that keeps growing, by the way).
Whether you are looking to relax on the beach or explore the many attractions the city has to offer, Cabo San Lucas is the perfect vacation spot.
Before you pack your bags, it’s usually a good idea to research when to visit and whether Cabo would be suitable for you that month.
For those of you considering a visit to Cabo in December, here’s the info I’ll be sharing today.
Without further ado, let’s cover what kind of weather you can expect if you visit this beautiful town in December.
Weather in Cabo San Lucas In December – At a Glance
Cabo San Lucas offers near-perfect weather in December, making it one of the best months to visit. Daytime temperatures range from 79-82°F (26-28°C), while nighttime temperatures drop to a comfortable 59-65°F (15-18°C).
December is in the heart of the dry season, with virtually no rainfall—you’ll likely experience zero rainy days during your trip.
The humidity stays moderate at 60-70%, keeping you comfortable without that sticky tropical feeling. With an average of 9 hours of sunshine daily and warm ocean temperatures of 72-75°F (22-24°C), December delivers ideal conditions for both beach activities and outdoor adventures
The temperature in Cabo San Lucas in December
During the day, the temperatures in the city usually hover around 82°F to 79°F, which is a very pleasant temperature.
There’ll be a few days when the daytime temperature exceeds 90°F, but those are far in between.
At night, the temperature hovers around mid-60s to mid-70s degrees F (18-23 °C), a bit chilly for some, so you might want to pack something slightly warm for those nights.
All in all, December has great temperatures, some of the best that Cabo has to offer, which won’t hinder you at all in enjoying everything that the city has to offer.
The searing temperatures of the hot season are long gone, leaving pleasant weather all around.
Understanding December’s Temperature Variations
December in Cabo has a “split personality” when it comes to weather patterns.
Early December (Dec 1-15):
- Warmer days: 80-82°F (27-28°C)
- Warmer nights: 63-65°F (17-18°C)
- More similar to late November
- Ocean water is still relatively warm at 75-78°F
Late December (Dec 16-31):
- Slightly cooler days: 77-79°F (25-26°C)
- Noticeably cooler evenings: 59-61°F (15-16°C)
- You’ll definitely want a light jacket for evening dining
- Ocean water cools to 72-74°F
The temperature feels exactly as it reads, thanks to moderate humidity levels (60-70%). Unlike tropical destinations with high humidity, Cabo’s desert climate means 80°F actually feels like 80°F—no oppressive, sticky heat to deal with.
Real Feel & UV Index: December has the lowest UV index of the year at 5 (moderate risk), but don’t let that fool you—you still need SPF 30+ sunscreen. The sun is strong, especially during peak hours from 11 am to 3 pm.
➢ Do I need travel insurance in Mexico? Yes, you do! I can never stress enough what a lifesaver it can be in unexpected situations. Although I hope I never need it, it gives me peace of mind to know that whatever happens, I am covered. I have been using Safety Wing, and I find it quite fair, covering a lot for its pricing level. Depending on your needs or you can compare different insurance companies on this useful site, TRAVEL INSURANCE MASTER. Make sure you read carefully what’s included before making the purchase. If you are undecided yet, you can read my post on the best travel insurance for Mexico for more clarity.
Precipitation in Cabo San Lucas in December
On average, throughout the month of December in Cabo, there’s about a 6% chance of rain on any given day.
The average rainfall in the city during this month is around 0.5-1.5 inches, which is barely any and you’ll only see 2-3 days of rainfall at most.
Even on those days, the rain showers don’t last long enough to hinder any plans you might have.
December marks the beginning of the dry season so no hurricane threat should worry you!
Sunshine in Cabo San Lucas in December
Sunshine and warm weather are two of the biggest reasons tourists flock to Cabo, and the good news is that you’ll have plenty of both if you visit in December.
Even when it does rain, the showers only last an hour or two.
That means there’ll be all the sunshine you can possibly handle, whether you want outdoor activities, sunbathing, or something else. December has perfect weather for everything.
Sunshine & Daylight Hours in December
Daily Sunshine: December delivers approximately 7-9 hours of sunshine per day, with clear blue skies dominating the month.
Daylight Duration:
December has the shortest days of the year in Cabo:
- December 1: Sunrise at 6:44 am, sunset at 5:33 pm (10 hours 49 minutes)
- December 21 (Winter Solstice): Shortest day with approximately 10 hours 45 minutes of daylight
- December 31: Sunrise at 7:00 am, sunset at 5:45 pm (10 hours 45 minutes)
While December technically has less daylight than summer months, you’ll barely notice. The days are still plenty long for activities, and the reliable sunshine means you can plan outdoor adventures with confidence. Most visitors find the earlier sunset times perfect for catching Cabo’s legendary sunsets from a restaurant terrace or sunset cruise.
Cabo averages 360 sunny days per year, and December contributes its fair share to that impressive statistic!
Humidity & Wind Conditions in December
Humidity Levels
December’s humidity stays comfortably moderate at 60-70%, creating pleasant conditions without the stickiness that characterizes tropical beach destinations during humid months.
What This Means for You:
- Your hair won’t frizz (ladies, you can actually style your hair and it will stay!)
- You won’t feel sweaty just walking around
- Evening breezes feel refreshing, not muggy
- The temperature feels accurate—80°F feels like 80°F, not 90°F
Early vs. Late December:
Early December retains slightly more humidity (around 70%), while late December becomes drier (60-65%) with that classic desert crispness in the air.
Wind Patterns
December brings moderate ocean breezes averaging 3.8 m/s (8 mph, 13-14 km/h).
These winds are your friend:
- Provide natural cooling during warm afternoons
- Create ideal sailing conditions
- Perfect for wind sports like windsurfing
- Rarely strong enough to make beaches uncomfortable
- Don’t typically impact water activities or boat tours
The consistent trade winds are one reason December feels so comfortable despite warm temperatures. They keep air circulating without creating that windblown, gritty beach experience.
Ocean Water Temperature in December
December brings a shift in Cabo’s ocean temperatures that’s important to understand for planning water activities.
Average Water Temperature: 72-75°F (22-24°C)
Is It Warm Enough for Swimming?
Yes, but with a caveat. The water is cooler than the “ideal” swimming temperature range of 77-82°F (25-28°C)—the same temperature standards used for Olympic swimming events.
Early December: Water temps hover around 75-78°F—comfortable for most swimmers and perfect for extended time in the water.
Late December: Water cools to 72-74°F—refreshing rather than bath-like. Many visitors find it brisk, especially for prolonged swimming or snorkeling sessions.
For Water Activities:
- Casual swimming & beach play: The water is fine, though you might prefer swimming during the warmest part of the day (noon-3 pm)
- Snorkeling (30-60 minutes): Consider a rash guard for sun protection and warmth
- Scuba diving (extended sessions): A 3mm wetsuit is recommended, especially for multi-dive days or deeper dives where the water is cooler
- Surfing & SUP: Water temperature is comfortable with a rash guard or spring suit
Pro Tip: If bathtub-warm water is essential for your vacation, consider visiting in October or November instead, when ocean temperatures reach 78-82°F.
Sargassum Seaweed in Cabo San Lucas in December
Lately, all the coastal resort cities in Mexico have been having a problem with sargassum seaweed, which makes the beaches less than enjoyable.
Luckily, it’s not an issue for the Pacific Coast.
On the Caribbean coast instead, including Cancun and the Riviera Maya beaches, the seaweed is a problem during warmer and more humid months like May/June through August.
Events in Cabo San Lucas in December
December transforms Cabo into a festive celebration of both Mexican traditions and international holiday spirit. Here’s what you can experience:
Whale Watching Season Begins (December 15)
The official start of whale watching season! Humpback and gray whales arrive from Alaska to mate and give birth in Cabo’s warm waters. By late December, whale sightings become increasingly common, and boat tours see multiple whales on most excursions.
Christmas Festivities & Traditions
Cabo San Lucas Marina:
- Twinkling holiday lights along the Marina boardwalk
- Seasonal live music and carolers
- Holiday pop-up markets
- Festive restaurant decorations
San Jose del Cabo:
- Main town square dazzles with Christmas lights and traditional Mexican decorations
- Thursday Art Walk gets extra festive during December
- Candlelit services at the historic La Parroquia de San José church
- Christmas tree lighting ceremonies
Cabo San Lucas Nautical Christmas Parade
One of Cabo’s most magical holiday events! (Note: Check the current year’s schedule as dates vary)
What to Expect:
- Boats decked out in dazzling holiday lights
- Parade starts around 5:30 pm from the Marina
- Cruises across the bay—best viewed from Medano Beach
- Spectacular fireworks finale lighting up the night sky
- Free event, family-friendly
Resort Christmas Celebrations
Major resorts pull out all the stops:
- Grand Christmas tree lighting ceremonies with live music
- Santa’s arrival with gifts for children
- Mexican fiestas with traditional music and dance
- Holiday beach BBQs and themed dinners
- Special kids’ activities and games
Many resorts invite guests to donate toys for local orphanages, creating a wonderful community spirit.
Christmas Dining Experiences
Flora Farms:
- “Pizza and Bubbles” celebration (Dec 23-24) with unlimited champagne, wood-fired pizzas, and holiday movies on outdoor screens
- Christmas Day brunch with farm-to-table specialties and live music
Private Chef Dinners: Many villas and condos offer private chef services for Christmas Eve or Christmas Day, with full 4-course meals prepared in your accommodation. Prices range from $250-$480 USD for groups of 2-8 people.
Beach Restaurants: Casual spots like Cascadas Beach Grill offer Christmas Day specials with ocean views and toes-in-the-sand dining.
Pro Tip: Make Christmas dinner reservations by October! Popular restaurants book out months in advance for the holiday period.
New Year’s Eve Celebrations
Medano Beach Fireworks: Cabo’s main celebration happens on Medano Beach with spectacular midnight fireworks visible from anywhere along the bay. Hotels and beach clubs host parties with live music, dancing, and champagne toasts.
Mexican New Year’s Traditions:
- Wearing yellow or red underwear (yellow for prosperity, red for love)
- Eating 12 grapes at midnight (one for each month of good luck)
- Running around the block with a suitcase (for travel in the new year)
Many restaurants and hotels incorporate these fun traditions into their celebrations!
Pros of Visiting Cabo San Lucas in December
✅ Perfect weather: The weather in Cabo during December is absolutely perfect for any type of activity you might want to enjoy. You can be outdoors as often as you like without rain or high humidity interrupting your plans.
✅ Water temperature is cold but still enjoyable, and visibility is great for snorkeling and scuba diving.
✅ Not as crowded as the high season: Cabo in December will definitely be noticeably more crowded than the low season, but the first three weeks are still quite calm compared to Christmas and New Year.
✅ Lots of activities to enjoy: From hiking and biking to sailing and surfing, there’s something for everyone in Cabo during December. And don’t forget about the food! The restaurants in the city offer such a variety of options that you’ll never be short of options no matter which type of cuisine you enjoy.
✅ Lower prices compared to the high season: December is still a good time to find good hotel deals before the high season prices are set for the entire winter!
✅ December’s “Split Personality” Works in Your Favor: Book early December (Dec 1-20) for smaller crowds and better prices, or late December for festive holiday energy—either way, the weather is excellent.
✅ Reliable Weather for Planning: With virtually zero rain and stable temperatures, you can book tours and activities weeks in advance without weather worries. December has the most predictable conditions of any month.
✅ Unique Wildlife Viewing: December is the ONLY month when you can potentially see humpback whales, gray whales, whale sharks, AND Munk’s devil rays all in the same trip. This is a major “pro” for me.
✅ Comfortable for All Ages: The moderate temperatures make December ideal for families with young children or older adults who find summer heat uncomfortable.
✅ Golf Season Prime Time: December’s cooler temperatures create perfect golfing conditions on Cabo’s championship courses. You won’t be melting in 95°F heat like in summer.
Cons of Visiting Cabo San Lucas in December
👎 More crowded than a low season: Cabo will be quite crowded in December as the high season is approaching, and people flock to the resort city.
👎 Slightly Higher prices than a low season: This applies especially if you try to make your bookings on short notice. December is when things start getting quite busy in Cabo, so even when you can find accommodations and activities, the prices will be higher due to popular demand.
Can You Swim in Cabo in December?
Short answer: Yes, absolutely—but understand what to expect.
The ocean in December averages 72-75°F (22-24°C), which is cooler than peak summer temperatures of 82-85°F but still comfortable for swimming and water activities.
Who Will Love the December Water:
- Anyone escaping cold northern winters (it’s certainly warmer than anywhere else!)
- People who prefer refreshing water over bath-like temperatures
- Active swimmers who won’t be spending hours floating leisurely
Who Might Find It Cool:
- Those used to Caribbean bathtub temperatures
- Extended snorkeling sessions without a wetsuit
- Young children who get cold easily
- People planning to spend 3+ hours in the water daily
Swimming Tips for December:
- Time it right: Swim during the warmest part of the day (noon-3pm) when the sun has warmed the surface water
- Early December is warmer: Plan water-heavy activities for the first half of the month when temps are 75-78°F
- Wear a rash guard: Provides sun protection and an extra layer of warmth
- Choose protected beaches: Places like Medano Beach and Lover’s Beach have calmer, slightly warmer water than exposed Pacific beaches
Water Activity Recommendations:
- Swimming & beach time: Go for it! Most people find it refreshing
- Snorkeling (30-60 min): Consider a rash guard or spring suit
- Scuba diving: Bring or rent a 3mm wetsuit for comfort
- Paddleboarding/kayaking: Perfect temperature since you’re mostly out of the water
- Surfing: A spring suit is comfortable but not required
The water is certainly swimmable—it’s just not the super-warm “step into a bath” experience you’d get in August or September.
Is December Crowded in Cabo?
December has a split personality when it comes to crowds—it’s genuinely two different experiences depending on when you visit.
Early December (December 1-20): Pleasantly Calm
What to Expect:
- Resort occupancy is moderate, not maxed out
- Beaches are relaxed, with plenty of lounge chair availability
- Restaurants accept walk-ins (though reservations are still recommended)
- Tour groups are smaller
- Better hotel rates and package deals
- Easy to book last-minute activities
This period feels more like November—a sweet spot before the holiday rush. You’ll share Cabo with other visitors, but it won’t feel overwhelming.
Late December (December 21-January 3): Peak Season Madness
December 20th is when everything shifts:
- Hotels hit 95-100% occupancy at premium rates
- Flights are packed and expensive
- Beach chairs fill up by 9 am on Medano Beach
- Popular restaurants need reservations booked weeks ahead of time
- Tours often sell out, especially whale watching
- Cabo San Lucas Marina is bustling
- Holiday party atmosphere everywhere
How to Navigate Peak Season:
Book Everything Early:
- Reserve accommodations by October
- Book Christmas/New Year’s dinner by mid-November
- Reserve tours and activities 2-3 weeks out
- Consider package deals that bundle hotel + tours
Adjust Your Expectations:
- Arrive at the beaches by 8-9 am for good chair spots
- Make dinner reservations for 6 pm or 8:30 pm (7 pm is hardest to get)
- Be flexible with tour times
- Expect to share experiences with lots of other visitors
Smart Strategies:
- Stay in San Jose del Cabo or further from Cabo San Lucas for a quieter vibe
- Visit attractions early in the morning or late in the afternoon
- Book private tours instead of group tours if the budget allows
- Explore less-touristy spots like Todos Santos or Cabo Pulmo
The Trade-Off: Yes, it’s crowded and pricey, but the festive energy is contagious. For many visitors, the Christmas lights, decorations, parties, and holiday spirit make the crowds worth it. Christmas in Cabo. Photo: Cabo San Lucas Tourism Board.
Things to Do in Cabo San Lucas in December
► Go on a whale-watching tour
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 491 Reviews
One of the must-do things to do in Cabo is to go see the humpback whales doing their dance on the water.
It’s a memorable experience that any nature lover must do! Local travel agencies offer many tours. Here is the top-rated tour I have selected for you from VIATOR.
I went on a tour with a great company called Cabo Trek, and you can read my full review on my whale watching tours in Cabo in a detailed post.
👉 Book your whale-watching tour on VIATOR
► Play Championship Golf Courses
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December’s comfortable temperatures (avoiding summer’s scorching heat) make it prime time for golf in Cabo. With 18+ championship courses designed by legends like Jack Nicklaus and Tiger Woods, you’ll find ocean-view holes that rank among the world’s most scenic.
Top Courses to Play:
- Palmilla Golf Club – Cabo’s original championship course with 27 holes
- Cabo Del Sol Ocean Course – Stunning ocean views that might distract your swing
- Diamante Dunes Course – Exclusive and spectacular
- Puerto Los Cabos – Two courses, more affordable, near San Jose del Cabo
- Quivira Golf Club – Clifftop holes with dramatic coastline views
Most courses offer lower afternoon rates starting around 1-2 pm. Book tee times in advance during the holiday period.
► Kitesurfing Excursion to Los Barriles
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December through March brings strong El Norte winds (15-30 knots) to the East Cape, making Los Barriles one of North America’s top kitesurfing destinations.
What to Know:
- Los Barriles is 90 minutes north of Cabo San Lucas
- Rent a car or book a day trip
- Lessons available for beginners at schools like Exotikite and Vela Baja
- Equipment rentals on the beach
- Calmer morning conditions for learning, stronger afternoon winds for experienced kiters
Even if you don’t kitesurf, Los Barriles is worth visiting for its laid-back vibe and watching the colorful kites dance across Bahía de Los Muertos.
► Full-Day Balandra Bay Adventure
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 800+ Reviews
Balandra Bay near La Paz is consistently rated one of Mexico’s most beautiful beaches—and December weather is perfect for visiting.
What’s included in the tour:
- Round-trip transportation from Cabo to La Paz (2 hours)
- Catamaran cruise to turquoise Balandra Bay
- Swimming in crystal-clear, calm shallows
- Snorkeling with playful sea lions at San Rafaelito
- Light breakfast (fruit, yogurt, pastries)
- Lunch buffet (burritos, guacamole, pasta salad)
- Open bar throughout the day
The shallow, protected waters of Balandra stay slightly warmer than Cabo’s ocean, and December’s comfortable temperatures make the 2-hour drive pleasant.
👉 Book your Balandra Bay tour on VIATOR
► Private Chef Christmas or New Year’s Dinner
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Skip the crowded restaurants and enjoy a private chef experience at your villa or condo—perfect for families or groups celebrating together.
What to Expect:
- Chef does all the shopping, prep, cooking, and cleanup
- Customizable 4-5 course meals
- Mexican specialties or international cuisine
- Wine pairings available
- Typically $250-$480 USD for groups of 2-8
Recommended Private Chefs:
- Chef Albert Martinez (Kreaccion Los Cabos) – 20+ years of experience at luxury resorts
- Chef Ivonne Herrera – Mexican and seafood specialist with complimentary margaritas
- Chef Rogelio Granado – WhatsApp: +52-624-160-1126
Book early! Private chefs fill up for Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve by late November.
► Visit El Arco
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 494 Reviews
El Arco, also known as Land’s End, is a beautiful natural rock formation at the southernmost tip of Cabo San Lucas.
This area is well-known for its stunning scenery and mild weather, making it a popular tourist destination.
While you’re here, you can also visit the beautiful Lovers’ Beach nearby. Make sure to bring your swimsuit and sunscreen!
👉 Book your kayaking and snorkeling tour to El Arco on VIATOR
► Swim with Whale Sharks from La Paz
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 494 Reviews
December is also whale shark season, but boat tours leave from La Paz.
If you are staying in Los Cabos worry not, I’ve got you covered. Tours are leaving from Cabo to take you there. Fully inclusive of transport and boat. Read more on VIATOR
👉 Book your whale shark tour from La Paz on VIATOR
► Go on a sailing trip
4.5 ⭐️ 929 Reviews
Enjoy a trip on a sailing boat tour, enjoying the sea breeze while sipping your cocktail and eating a delicious locally made meal, snorkel, and admire the spectacular views of the Baja California coastline.
👉 Book your sailing tour on VIATOR
► Cabo San Lucas Downtown Food and Tacos Tasting Experience
⭐️⭐️⭐️ ⭐️ 656 Reviews
Learn about the culinary scene in Cabo by joining this guided tour where a local expert will take you around the most authentic eateries in Cabo San Lucas.
👉 Book your Food and Tacos Tasting Experience tour on VIATOR
► Take a day trip to Todos Santos and San José del Cabo
Don’t limit yourself to just Cabo San Lucas while you’re in the area, especially not when there are excellent options like Todos Santos and San José del Cabo nearby.
Compared to Cabo San Lucas, these two locations, especially Todos Santos, offer a more laid-back, relaxing atmosphere; that’s why San José del Cabo is very popular with couples seeking an intimate retreat.
The best way to visit Todos Santos and other beautiful sites, such as La Paz and Cabo Pulmo is by renting a Car so that you can cruise around Baja California Sur in your own peace. I recommend checking rates and availability on the Discover Cars platform, where you can compare prices and book full car insurance.
In a rush? Here is the best Car rental searching platform
When It comes to renting a car in Mexico I always recommend the Discover Cars platform where you can compare prices among different car rentals and then decide which one is best for you.
Tips For Visiting Cabo San Lucas in December
✔️ Check the weather forecasts: It is essential to check the weather forecast before heading out so that you can dress appropriately and be prepared for any changes in the weather.
✔️ Pack both light and slightly warm clothes: December is actually one of the best times to visit Cabo, as the weather is still warm but not too hot. You’ll need to pack both light and slightly warm clothes though, as the temperature can get a bit chilly on some nights.
✔️ Remember to take sunscreen: While you’re packing your bags, remember to take sunscreen because the sun can be intense. While you’re outside, use SPF 30 or higher sunscreen and reapply it every two hours. Be aware that even on cloudy days, you can get sunburnt as the sun’s harmful rays can go through clouds.
✔️ Carry an insulated water bottle: One of the best ways to stay hydrated while you’re out and adventuring is to carry an insulated water bottle with you. That way you also avoid adding plastic waste to the environment. You can easily get your bottle filled with filtered water at restaurants and your hotel.
✔️ Don’t be afraid to go off the beaten path: The recommendations for events and things to do I’ve given here are just general suggestions. It’s important that you also try and explore the area to find out what you like. Cabo is extremely safe so you don’t need to worry about safety here. Make sure to explore the area and try new activities; that’s the fun of going to a new place, after all.
How to Avoid Crowds in December
Even during Cabo’s busiest month, you can find peaceful moments with thoughtful planning:
1. Visit First Half of December
December 1-19 offers the best “crowd to weather” ratio. You get perfect weather without peak-season chaos.
2. Book Private Tours
Instead of 40-person whale watching boats, book private charters with 6-10 people max. Yes, it costs more, but the experience is infinitely better.
3. Explore Beyond Cabo San Lucas
Day trips to Cabo Pulmo, Todos Santos, La Paz, and Los Barriles take you away from tourist central. These towns feel authentic and uncrowded even during peak season.
4. Beach Timing Strategy
- Visit beaches 8-9 am or 4-6 pm
- Skip Medano Beach entirely and head to Chileno Beach, Santa Maria Beach, or Palmilla Beach
- Consider Pacific-side beaches (emptier but check swimming conditions)
5. Dine Off-Hours
Make reservations for 5:30 pm (early bird) or 9 pm (late seating) to avoid the 7-8 pm rush. Or skip tourist restaurants entirely for local taquerías.
6. Activity Scheduling
- Book first departure time for tours (usually 7-8 am)
- Afternoon tours (2-3 pm) often have smaller groups
- Save popular activities for mid-week (Tuesday-Thursday)
7. Choose Accommodations Wisely
- All-inclusive resorts with private beaches reduce the need to fight for space
- Boutique hotels in San Jose del Cabo offer intimate experiences
- Vacation rentals with pools mean you don’t need crowded beaches daily
Weather in Cabo San Lucas in December Frequently Asked Questions
Is Cabo San Lucas worth visiting in December?
Cabo San Lucas is a world-renowned tourist destination for its beautiful beaches, luxurious resorts, and vibrant nightlife.
December is one of the best months to visit Cabo San Lucas due to the mild weather and many activities that are available to its visitors.
So I’d say that Cabo is absolutely worth visiting in December!
What is the weather like in Cabo San Lucas?
The weather in Cabo is sunny and warm year-round, making it a popular destination for travelers, especially during the cold winter months.
However, some months are far better weather-wise for tourism.
The summer months have noticeably hotter temperatures, a higher humidity on average, and tons of rain.
During the wettest months, Cabo can have as many as 12-15 rainy days. That’s why winter months are much more popular with tourists and the high season occurs from December to April when the weather is perfect.
What is the best time to visit Cabo San Lucas?
There’s no one best time to visit Cabo. It all depends on your budget and what you want from your vacation.
If you want perfect weather with tons of activities and events, then you should visit from December to April.
During this time, you can also swim with whale sharks in Cabo, which is something I highly recommend.
However, be aware of two things if you plan on visiting during these months.
One, the prices for accommodations, travel, events, etc., will be considerably higher compared to the low season. Two, Cabo will be quite crowded in these months.
If you’re on a budget, you can visit from May through September. May and June are much better in my opinion because July through September sees a lot of rain and high humidity.
If you want the best of both worlds, December is your month. The weather will be perfect, and if you start booking early enough, you might even be able to save some money.
Is Cabo San Lucas a safe place to visit?
Absolutely, yes! Cabo San Lucas is a very safe place. If you look at the crime statistics, it’s safer even than a lot of cities in the US.
As long as you follow some basic safety recommendations, there’s no reason to be concerned about safety in Cabo. I have a separate post covering safety recommendations in Cabo.
Do I need travel insurance?
Yep, you probably do! I can never stress enough what a lifesaver it can be in unexpected situations. Although I hope I never need it, it gives me peace of mind to know that whatever happens, I am covered. I have been using Safety Wing, and I find it quite fair, covering a lot for its pricing level.
Depending on your needs or you can compare different insurance companies on this useful site, TRAVEL INSURANCE MASTER. Make sure you read carefully what’s included before making the purchase. If you are undecided yet, you can read my post on the best travel insurance for Mexico for more clarity.
Is the water warm enough to swim in December?
Yes, the water averages 72-75°F (22-24°C), which is cool but swimmable for most people. It’s cooler than ideal Olympic swimming temperatures of 77-82°F, so it feels refreshing rather than bath-like.
Swimming is most comfortable during midday when the sun has warmed the surface water. For extended snorkeling or diving, consider a wetsuit or rash guard.
How many daylight hours does Cabo have in December?
December has approximately 10 hours 45 minutes of daylight, with sunrise around 6:44-7:00 am and sunset around 5:33-5:45 pm.
While these are the shortest days of the year, you’ll still have plenty of time for activities, and the early sunsets create perfect conditions for Cabo’s legendary sunset views.
Do I need reservations for Christmas dinner in Cabo?
Absolutely yes! Popular restaurants book out 2-3 months in advance for Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. If you’re visiting during the holidays, make dinner reservations by October. Alternative options include private chef dinners at your villa or casual beachfront restaurants that don’t take reservations but may have wait times.
When does whale watching season start in December?
The official whale watching season begins December 15th, though some early whales arrive in late November. Whale sightings increase dramatically in late December and peak in January-February. If whales are your main reason for visiting, aim for the second half of December onward.
Is December considered peak season or shoulder season?
December has a split personality: December 1-19 is late shoulder season with moderate crowds and good prices. December 20-January 3 is the absolute peak season with maximum crowds, the highest prices, and everything fully booked. Plan and budget accordingly based on your travel dates.
What’s the humidity like in December?
December humidity ranges from 60-70%, which is comfortably moderate. It’s not the sticky, oppressive humidity of tropical destinations during monsoon seasons. The air feels dry and pleasant, and you won’t deal with frizzy hair or constant sweat. Early December is slightly more humid (70%) while late December becomes crisper (60-65%).
Traveling to Cabo San Lucas in December – Final thoughts
The best time to visit Cabo San Lucas depends on your budget and what you want from your vacation.
If you want perfect weather with tons of activities and events, then you should visit from December to April.
During this time, you can also swim with whale sharks in Cabo, which is something I highly recommend.
But be aware of the fact that winter and spring are the most popular travel seasons in Los Cabos.
