Best Time to Visit Tulum: Month-by-Month Weather & Crowd Guide 2026

Planning a Tulum vacation but not sure when to book? Whether you're coordinating a family getaway, organizing an epic bachelorette party, or looking for the perfect romantic escape, timing makes all the difference. This guide breaks down Tulum's weather, crowds, and pricing month by month—so you can choose the best time for your trip.

Quick Take: When Should You Visit Tulum?

Best overall time: November to early December – perfect weather, post-hurricane season breezes, fewer crowds than peak winter, and reasonable hotel rates.

Best for budget travelers: May, June, and September to November – lowest prices on accommodations and activities, though you'll deal with heat and occasional rain.

Best for perfect weather: December to April – dry season with temperatures from 70-86°F (21-30°C), but expect peak crowds and premium prices.

Avoid if possible: September and October – peak hurricane season with heaviest rainfall and highest humidity, though beaches are gloriously empty and deals abound.

Understanding Tulum's Two Seasons

High Season (December to April)

This is Tulum's peak tourist period, especially December through March. The weather is nearly perfect—warm, sunny days with cool evenings, minimal rainfall, and low humidity. International tourists flood in for beach time, yoga retreats, and multi-day music festivals.

What to expect:

  • Temperatures: 70-86°F (21-30°C)

  • Rainfall: Minimal (30-71mm per month)

  • Crowds: Heavy, especially during Christmas, New Year's, and Spring Break

  • Prices: Highest of the year

  • Ocean swimming: Cooler water early in the season (January-February)

Low Season (May to October)

The rainy season brings afternoon showers, higher humidity, and the risk of hurricanes (June-November peak). However, you'll find significantly lower prices, fewer crowds, and a more authentic local vibe.

What to expect:

  • Temperatures: 79-91°F (26-33°C)

  • Rainfall: Heavy (80-226mm per month)

  • Crowds: Thin, especially September-October

  • Prices: 30-50% lower than high season

  • Seaweed: Sargassum buildup on beaches May-July

  • Hurricane risk: Highest in September-October

Month-by-Month Breakdown

January

Weather: High 82°F (28°C), Low 63°F (17°C) | Rainfall: 71mm over 7 days
Crowds: 🔴 Very High
Prices: 🔴 Premium

Perfect weather makes January one of the busiest months. The ocean and cenotes can feel chilly for some visitors, but sunshine is abundant. Book accommodations well in advance—especially around New Year's.

Best for: Beach lovers, families seeking reliable weather, winter escapees

February

Weather: High 84°F (29°C), Low 63°F (17°C) | Rainfall: 53mm over 5 days
Crowds: 🔴 Very High
Prices: 🔴 Premium

Peak season continues with gorgeous weather and minimal rain. Late February offers slightly lower prices before Spring Break hits in March.

Best for: Romantic getaways, wellness retreats, sightseeing adventures

March

Weather: High 88°F (31°C), Low 64°F (18°C) | Rainfall: 37mm over 4 days
Crowds: 🔴 Very High (Spring Break chaos)
Prices: 🔴 Premium

One of the most popular months to visit Tulum—and also the most crowded. Spring Break transforms the beach zone into a party atmosphere. Temperatures warm up significantly, making water activities more comfortable.

Best for: Party-seekers, bachelorette groups, Spring Break crowds

Avoid if: You prefer a quiet, relaxing atmosphere

April

Weather: High 91°F (33°C), Low 70°F (21°C) | Rainfall: 45mm over 3 days
Crowds: 🟠 High
Prices: 🟠 Elevated

As temperatures climb, crowds begin to thin slightly. Easter week brings a surge of Mexican tourists, driving up prices temporarily. This is one of the driest months of the year.

Best for: Dry weather seekers, cenote exploring, Mayan ruins visits

May

Weather: High 91°F (33°C), Low 73°F (23°C) | Rainfall: 108mm over 7 days
Crowds: 🟢 Low
Prices: 🟢 Budget-Friendly

The shoulder season begins. Temperatures peak, humidity rises, and afternoon showers become common—but prices drop significantly. Warning: Sargassum seaweed buildup begins on beaches.

Best for: Budget travelers, heat-tolerant visitors, those seeking authentic experiences

Avoid if: Seaweed bothers you, or you can't handle intense heat

June

Weather: High 91°F (33°C), Low 75°F (24°C) | Rainfall: 187mm over 12 days
Crowds: 🟢 Low
Prices: 🟢 Budget-Friendly

Hurricane season officially begins, though June is typically mild. European tourists arrive for summer vacation, creating a brief mini-season. Afternoon rain showers are frequent but short-lived, leaving sunny skies for the rest of the day.

Best for: Budget-conscious travelers, Europeans on summer holiday, snorkelers (warm water)

July

Weather: High 91°F (33°C), Low 75°F (24°C) | Rainfall: 130mm over 12 days
Crowds: 🟡 Moderate
Prices: 🟢 Budget-Friendly

Similar to June with frequent afternoon showers and high humidity. Seaweed continues to be an issue. The ocean is beautifully warm for swimming and snorkeling.

Best for: Families traveling during school summer break, ocean enthusiasts

August

Weather: High 91°F (33°C), Low 75°F (24°C) | Rainfall: 145mm over 13 days
Crowds: 🟡 Moderate
Prices: 🟢 Budget-Friendly

Hurricane activity picks up, though direct hits are rare. Warm ocean temperatures (29°C/84°F) make August ideal for water activities. Crowds gradually decrease as the month progresses.

Best for: Ocean swimmers, budget travelers, diving enthusiasts

September

Weather: High 90°F (32°C), Low 74°F (23°C) | Rainfall: 226mm over 15 days
Crowds: 🟢 Very Low
Prices: 🟢 Lowest of the Year

Peak hurricane season. This is Tulum's rainiest, most humid month—and the least crowded. If a hurricane doesn't threaten, you'll find incredible deals and empty beaches. Mexican Independence Day (mid-September) brings local festivities.

Best for: Extreme budget travelers, storm chasers, those who don't mind rain

Avoid if: Hurricanes concern you, or you need guaranteed sunshine

October

Weather: High 88°F (31°C), Low 73°F (23°C) | Rainfall: 202mm over 13 days
Crowds: 🟢 Very Low
Prices: 🟢 Lowest of the Year

The rainiest month alongside September. Hurricane risk remains elevated. Some businesses close or reduce hours, but those that stay open offer major deals. Beaches are gloriously empty—you can finally photograph the ruins without being photobombed.

Best for: Budget travelers who embrace unpredictability, photography enthusiasts

November

Weather: High 86°F (30°C), Low 72°F (22°C) | Rainfall: 103mm over 8 days
Crowds: 🟡 Moderate
Prices: 🟡 Moderate

One of the absolute best times to visit Tulum. Hurricane season ends, post-storm breezes arrive, and crowds haven't peaked yet. Prices remain reasonable, especially early in the month. Day of the Dead celebrations (early November) and the Riviera Maya Jazz Festival add cultural richness.

Best for: Everyone—families, couples, bachelorette groups, solo travelers

December

Weather: High 84°F (29°C), Low 68°F (20°C) | Rainfall: 92mm over 7 days
Crowds: 🔴 Very High (especially Christmas/New Year)
Prices: 🔴 Premium (highest during holidays)

Early December is wonderful before the holiday rush. Christmas and New Year's weeks see sky-high prices, fully booked hotels, and massive crowds. Weather is perfect—dry, warm days and cool evenings.

Best for: Holiday celebrators, winter escapees (early December is ideal for avoiding crowds)

Special Considerations for Your Traveler Type

For Families

Best months: November, late February, March (avoiding Spring Break), April
Why: Reliable weather, manageable crowds, family-friendly atmosphere

Accommodation tip: Book a private villa like Casa Tira with its own pool, security, and space for the whole family—no need to navigate crowded resorts.

For Bachelorette Parties

Best months: February, March, late November, early December
Why: Party-friendly vibe, great weather for beach clubs and cenotes, optimal for group photos

Bonus: Casa Tira's 8-bedroom villa is perfect for large groups, with complimentary concierge service to arrange VIP nightlife and excursions.

For Budget Travelers

Best months: May, June, September, October, early November
Why: Hotel rates drop 30-50%, fewer crowds, authentic local experiences

Trade-offs: Heat, humidity, rain, potential hurricanes, seaweed

For Couples & Honeymooners

Best months: November, late February, early April
Why: Romantic atmosphere, beautiful weather, fewer crowds than peak season

What About Hurricanes?

Hurricane season runs June to November, with September and October being the highest risk months. Direct hits on Tulum are relatively rare—most storms pass to the north or south. Here's what to know:

  • Monitor forecasts: NOAA and local Mexican meteorological services provide early warnings

  • Travel insurance: Essential if traveling during hurricane season

  • Flexibility: Book refundable accommodations when possible

  • Historical data: Tulum hasn't experienced a direct Category 4-5 hit in recent decades, but tropical storms and lower-category hurricanes do occur

Practical Tips for Any Season

Book Early for High Season

December-April accommodations sell out months in advance. Reserve by September for Christmas/New Year's, and by November for February-March.

Embrace Afternoon Showers in Low Season

Rain typically arrives 3-6 PM and clears within 1-2 hours. Plan activities for mornings and evenings.

Watch for Seaweed Alerts

May-July brings Sargassum seaweed. Check recent beach reports before booking. Cenotes and pools aren't affected.

Pack Smart

  • High season: Light layers for cool evenings, reef-safe sunscreen

  • Low season: Rain jacket, quick-dry clothing, mosquito repellent

The Bottom Line: When Should You Visit Tulum?

For the best overall experience: Visit in November or late February through early March. You'll get excellent weather, manageable crowds, and reasonable prices.

For the best deals: Brave the September-October low season—just accept the rain and hurricane risk.

For guaranteed perfect weather: December to April is ideal, but book early and budget accordingly.

No matter when you visit, choosing the right accommodation makes all the difference. Casa Tira's location in Holistika—Tulum's safest, most established neighborhood—ensures peace of mind year-round.

CASA TIRA TULUM | follow us @casatiratulum

For your trip to Tulum, having a reliable home base makes all the difference. Casa Tira Tulum, located in the peaceful neighborhood of Holistika, offers that reassurance: a private 7-bedroom villa (sleeps 16), within a secure compound with rooftop deck, pool, 20-seat outdoor dining, so your family can relax and feel at ease while you discover the beach and town.

Our complimentary, dedicated concierge is your local shortcut to the best of Tulum. Tell us whether you want wellness and slow mornings, cenote adventures, beach-club days, or a lively weekend, and we’ll build a personalised plan—arranging vetted transfers, private chefs, bartenders, DJs, yoga or breathwork, cenote guides, and VIP beach-club access—so you don’t waste time guessing what to do.

If you want help planning your first trip, message us via the chat button, WhatsApp/Instagram, or email hello@casatira.com and we’ll map out an itinerary that matches exactly what you want from your adventure to Tulum.

Casa Tira is not just a place to stay; it's a destination to experience.

With our commitment to luxury and tailor-made experiences with our complimentary concierge, we promise an exclusive and memorable stay in Tulum.

Book Casa Tira Tulum Now and embark on an unforgettable journey of luxury and comfort.

Learn how to do Tulum on a budget

Learn more about Tulum’s Top 10 Attractions

Our Blog.