Cabo San Lucas sits at the southern tip of the Baja California Peninsula, where the desert meets the sea. Its climate is predominantly dry and sunny — but the specifics matter for planning. Here’s the honest month-by-month weather guide to Los Cabos.
Overview: The Two Seasons
Los Cabos has two distinct seasons: dry season (November through May) — warm and sunny with very little rain — and wet season (June through October) — hotter and more humid with occasional afternoon thunderstorms. Both have their appeal depending on what you want from a trip.
Month-by-Month Breakdown
- January – February: Day high 24-26°C (75-79°F), night lows 13-15°C (55-59°F). Water temp: 20-21°C (68-70°F). Sunny, dry, perfect. Peak season pricing. Best time for whale watching.
- March – April: Day highs 27-30°C (81-86°F), water 21-23°C (70-73°F). Arguably the best weather of the year. Easter week brings higher rates. Spring break mid-March to mid-April.
- May: Day highs 31-34°C (88-93°F), water 24°C (75°F). Summer begins. Fewer crowds, lower rates, water warms up significantly. Excellent value month.
- June – September: Day highs 34-36°C (93-97°F), humid. Water 27-29°C (81-84°F). Afternoon thunderstorms July-August. Hurricane season technically June-November but Cabo is on the Sea of Cortez side — statistically sheltered. Lowest rates of the year.
- October – November: Day highs 31-33°C (88-91°F), humidity drops, thunderstorms ease. One of the best value months. Landscape turns briefly green after September rains. Halloween week brings Day of the Dead celebrations.
Water Temperature
The Sea of Cortez is warmest for swimming from August through October (27-29°C / 81-84°F). Coolest from January through March (20-22°C / 68-72°F) — refreshing but not cold. The Pacific side is always several degrees cooler and has stronger currents — not recommended for casual swimming.
Hurricane Risk
Los Cabos is on the Gulf of California (Sea of Cortez) side of the Baja Peninsula, which is significantly sheltered from Pacific hurricanes. Direct hurricane hits on southern Baja are historically rare — most Pacific storms track west out to sea. That said, August and September are the statistically most active months. If you’re booking during hurricane season, travel insurance is strongly recommended.
What to Pack Based on Season
For winter months (November through March): light layers for evenings — it can drop to 13-15°C inland and after sunset. For summer months: reef-safe sunscreen (essential), a light rain jacket for July-August thunderstorms, and a hat. A light pashmina or jacket is useful year-round for evenings on the beach.