places to visit mexico in december

Traveling to Mexico in December: A Local’s Guide for 2024

Traveling to Mexico in December is a great time of year to plan your trip. This is the start of the “high season” for popular destinations along Mexico’s Caribbean and Pacific coasts, and the temperature in these areas is hot, sunny, and perfect for swimming and enjoying the beaches, without being unbearably humid. 

In more central regions of Mexico, things are getting a little cooler, particularly in higher-altitude places like Mexico City, Guadalajara, San Cristobal de las Casas in Chiapas, and Guanajuato. As everyone in Mexico starts preparing for the Christmas season and decorations and twinkling lights start to grace every city street and plaza, there is something magical about traveling at this time of year too. 

I have been living in Merida, in the Yucatan for the last two years and I am preparing to spend my third December in Mexico. You are in good hands here 😉 

In this post, we will look at the best places to travel to in Mexico in December, the weather, and what activities are going on. If you then need anything else, you are welcome to drop me a comment or connect with me on social media.

Table of Contents

Traveling to Mexico in December 

December in Mexico is a great time of year to travel, whether you are looking for a tropical beach getaway or a cultured weekend city break. However, is important to acknowledge that Mexico is a vast country and that the exact temperatures and climate conditions can vary substantially from one area to another. 

So, it is impossible to give a sweeping generalization about what you should pack and how hot/cold it is going to be. In places like Queretaro and Guanajuato, it will be so cold that you can see your own breath and you will need to wear a thick coat in the evenings. 

In the Yucatan peninsula and the southern part of Jalisco (Puerto Vallarta and its surroundings), it is still going to be around 86°F/30°C. 

The weather in Mexico in December is generally dry and warm across the country. Conditions are somewhat cooler than in November and the rainy season has finally subsided.

However, it is very important to note that Mexico is vast. This is the 13th largest country in the world after all!

Exact temperatures and climate conditions vary drastically from one part of the country to another. The coastal destinations and most of Southern Mexico see very hot, balmy conditions.

Conversely, places like San Cristobal in Chiapas, San Miguel de Allende, and Mexico City are all set at higher altitudes and thus see cooler temperatures. It is important to check the specific temperatures for the part of Mexico that you are traveling to in advance of your trip so that you can pack accordingly.

Pros and cons of visiting Mexico in December 

There are pros and cons of traveling to Mexico at any time of year, including in December. The high season in many coastal parts of the country typically runs from November to March each year, during which time thousands of “snowbirds” from the US, Canada, and elsewhere flock south of the border to enjoy their winters in warmer climes in Mexico. 

This means that popular places like Merida, Playa Del Carmen, Cancun, Los Cabos, and Puerto Vallarta are at their most crowded, accommodation needs to be booked in advance, and prices soar across the board. If you need to adhere to a tight budget, it is better to travel to these places in the shoulder or off seasons when you can get more bang for your buck. 

Conversely, more “off the beaten path” destinations like Guanajuato, Hidalgo, and Queretaro are at their quietest. 

The hurricane season affects coastal Mexico between June and November every year, and fortunately, by December, the rain has subsided and things are clearing up. This also makes everywhere a lot less humid which makes it more bearable to explore ruins, hike, or do other outdoor activities. 

11 Best Places to Visit in Mexico in December

Honestly, Mexico is a great year-round travel destination so you will not be disappointed wherever you choose to travel. 

Some of the very best places to travel during this time of year are:

• Merida, Yucatan – Gorgeous colonial city and a great base for exploring Yucatan Mayan ruins
• Campeche City – Underrated capital of Campeche state, brimming with Mayan culture and gorgeous colonial architecture
• Mexico City – Fabulous cosmopolitan city boasting magical Christmas parades, and over 300 charming neighborhoods, each with their own distinct personality
• Chiapas state – Underrated Southeastern Mexican state known for its indigenous cultures, unique villages, and nature
• Puerto Vallarta – Popular beach town on Mexico’s Pacific Coast known for its excellent international restaurants, pristine beaches, and nightlife
• Cancun – Resort town known for its white sand beaches and turquoise waters that makes a great jump-off point for exploring the wider Yucatan
• Cabo San Lucas – Tourist favorite in Baja California known for its laidback beaches and whale watching
• Oaxaca – Foodie capital of western Mexico and the home of mezcal
• Guadalajara – Mexico’s second city and the cultured capital of Jalisco state  
• Cozumel – Gorgeous tropical island paradise in Q.R and a perfect spot for snorkeling, swimming, and relaxing
• The El Chepe train route – One of the “best” railways in the world that leads you through the quaint villages of the snow-capped copper canyon

Riding the El Chepe train in December 

Widely regarded as being one of the “most beautiful railways in the world”, the El Chepe train route is a wonderful Mexican adventure to embark on in December. The train runs through Northern Mexico’s Copper Canyon from Los Mochis, Sinaloa to Chihuahua, stopping at charming villages such as El Fuerte and Creel. 

The scenery is breathtaking at any time of year, but in the winter, it is extra special as the hills and mountains in the area are sprinkled with a light dusting of snow. 

You can buy different class tickets on this old-fashioned train and there is a viewing and a bar cart on board with floor to ceiling windows where you can really admire the view and take some great photos. While Chihuahua and Sinaloa are not necessarily known for their safety , the villages and hiking trails in the immediate vicinity of the stations are perfectly fine. 

Los Mochis is no great beauty but it is well deserved of a few days exploration at the start of your trip. It is home to an excellent street food and foodie culture and from here you can take a day trip out to the seaside town of El Maviri and neighboring Topolobampo where you can learn about the famous resident dolphin known as “El Pechocho”. 

Merida, Mexico in December

The colorful colonial city of Merida is the cultural capital of the Yucatan state. Merida is the safest city in Mexico and it makes a nice introduction to the country if you are apprehensive about visiting Mexico for the first time.

Many incredible Mayan ruins can be visited on day trips from Merida – including the underrated city of Mayapan , the archeological sites of Uxmal, Xcambo, the Ruta Puuc and of course, Chichen Itza, one of the “new” seven wonders of the world.

The city center itself is a photographer’s dream. Once upon a time, during the henequen boom, Merida was one of the richest cities in the world.

This is evidenced in its grand, colonial mansions that still line the cobbled streets and promenades. Calle 59 and the Avenida Del Deportista are particularly scenic. Many of these old buildings have been converted into eclectic coffee shops, sophisticated Merida restaurants , and guesthouses.

Merida is located inland, not on the coast. However, a short 20-minute journey by bus or car takes you to the little beach town of Progreso .

3-4 days is a perfect amount of time for an initial Merida itinerary . You can also visit the city as part of a wider Yucatan road trip . Just like Merida, the Yucatan state is also very safe.

Weather in Merida in December

Nestled in the heart of the Yucatan, encompassed by jungle and ancient Mayan ruins, Merida is also one of the hottest places in the country. The heat and humidity can be almost overbearing here during the summer months but in December, the daily temperature tends to bounce around 82°F to 85°F.

It is hot enough to give you your dose of summer sun and help you escape the winter blues you are feeling in your own country, but it is not too hot that spending long periods outdoors feels unbearable.

Campeche in December

The state of Campeche is the least-visited state in the Yucatan tri-state area. In some ways, this is a shame as the state is bursting at the seams with cultural and historical sites and attractions.

Coastal Campeche city is the state capital and it’s a beautiful one at that. Despite the fact that few people have heard of Campeche internationally, its colonial old town is a UNESCO-protected heritage site.

Its narrow streets, piazzas, and passageways have been so well preserved that venturing here feels like traveling back in time. The city thrived during the 17th century, at which point its strategic location right on the Gulf of Mexico made it an important trading port. Campeche mostly dealt with the trade of dyewood and salt. However, with great economic success came the threat of pirates and attacks.

Several fortresses, fortifications, and bastions still exist in Campeche today. The two defensive fortresses have been converted into museums containing interesting exhibits and boasting incredible panoramas over the Southern Mexican state.

Some of the least visited Mayan ruins can be found in Campeche, including the city of Edzna , remote Calakmul, and Becan. If you like Mexican gastronomy and Yucatecan cuisine , you can also stop by the town of Hecelchakán which is where the beloved dish “cochinita pibil” originates from. (There are also many excellent restaurants in Campeche city that specialise in regional cuisine).

Weather in Campeche in December

You can expect daily averages of around 83°F if you head to Campeche in December. While it doesn’t frequently rain, it can be cloudy or overcast around 30% of the time.

Mexico City in December

Mexico City is the capital of Mexico and the largest city in North America. It is bursting at the seams with museums, charming barrios , archeological sites and a mouthwatering gastronomy scene that is considered one of the best in the world.

Even dedicating 3-4 days to your first visit is only really enough time to scratch beneath the surface. December is a particularly interesting time to visit because of all of the festive celebrations.

On the 12th December, pilgrims from across Mexico travel to the Basilica de Guadalupe in Mexico City to celebrate the Dia de Guadalupe . Parades and processions take place across the city and fireworks illuminate the night sky.

At midnight, locals take to the streets of CDMX to sing Las Mañanitas , the Mexican birthday song, to the virgen. The annual “Christmas Festival” takes place between the 16th and the 30th December, and sees nightly performances and live music hosted at the Plaza de la Constitución.

Christmas in CDMX is a magical time, but of course, there are also many things to do here which can be enjoyed all year round too. Dedicate time to exploring Mexico Citys various neighborhoods, each of which are like little villages in themselves, and each have their own personality.

Dine at world-class restaurants in upscale Polanco, visit Frida Kahlo’s house in leafy Coyoacan , and fall in love with the street art and hipster vibes of Roma Norte.

When choosing where to stay in Mexico City , opt for a relatively central location where you will have everything you need on your doorstep. Polanco , Roma, Anzures, and the historic center are good choices.

Weather in Mexico City in December

Mexico City can actually get quite chilly during the winter months and you can expect daytime averages between 65°F and 71°F in December. While that may be milder than what you are used to, it definitely isnt shorts and tshirt weather so if you are visiting various parts of Mexico in the winter, you need to pack for different climates.

Cancun in December

As one of the most popular travel destinations in the country, Cancun needs no introduction. The Quintana Roo capital is home to a glittering hotel zone filled with ultra-luxurious resorts, world-famous nightclubs and award-winning restaurants.

While Cancun boasts excellent beaches of its own, it also makes a great base for a wider exploration of the Yucatan, gorgeous Riviera Maya beaches and Mayan ruins such as Chacchoben and Coba.

If you are planning on visiting Cancun in December, it is absolutely imperative that you book everything as far in advance as possible. Since this is the peak season, many hotels and hostels are at maximum occupancy at this time.

To escape some of the crowds, consider taking day trips out to calmer, lesser-known destinations in the Mexican Carribean such as the picturesque fishing village of Mahahual , Lake Bacalar and El Cuyo .

December in Cancun weather

December marks the beginning of the dry season in Cancun. The rain and humidity of the hurricane season have subsided, the days are hot and sunny and the nights are warm and pleasant.

Daily temperatures range between 82°F and 85°F and the water visibility at Cancun’s gorgeous beaches is perfect for swimming and snorkeling.

Chiapas in December

December is a great time to visit the Southern Mexican state of Chiapas . This part of the country is massively underrated and overlooked. Yet, it is one of the best places to travel to if you enjoy hiking, nature and learning about indigenous cultures.

Much of Chiapas state is autonomous, and many of the people that reside in the various towns and villages here belong to the Tzotzil and Zoque indigenous groups.

The gorgeous mountain city of San Cristobal de las Casas is the entire raison dêtre for most people’s visit to Chiapas and is known for its spectacular colonial architecture, artisanal markets and handicrafts.

From here, you can take a trip out to the indigenous villages of Zinacantan and Chamula where you can visit the interesting “San Juan Chamula” church where people visit curanderos (witch doctors) to seek healing from their ailments and illnesses.

Weather in Chiapas in December

The weather conditions in Chiapas vary depending on where you are in the state. San Cristobal de las Casas is nestled within the Sierra Madre mountains where it sits at a high altitude.

In the day time, you can expect averages of between 55°F – 65°F and at night, it is often so chilly that you need to utilise thick blankets and a heater.

By contrast, the capital of Tuxtla Gutierrez, along with the Pueblos Magicos of Chiapa de Corzo and Comitan de Dominguez , are located at ground level and see warmer climates that are more comparable to the Yucatan.

(Think average daily temperatures between 74°F and 82°F).

Snorkeling in Cozumel island in December 

Cozumel is a stunning tropical island paradise that awaits just off the coast of Cancun. Boasting lucious tropical beaches and crystal-clear aquamarine waters, Cozumel is perhaps best known for its diving and snorkelling opportunities. 

The island is part of the Mesoamerican barrier reef, the second-largest coral reef system in the world after Australia’s Great Barrier reef and a great place to see colourful fish like angel fish, parrotfish and grouper, as well as larger creatures like turtles, rays and dolphins. 

There are tons of great beaches on this island that, while still somewhat busy in December, see a fraction of the amount of tourists seen in Cancun. Head to Isla de la Passion if you are seeking seclusion, peace and tranquility, Punta Sur Eco beach park for a stunning coastal area surrounded by hiking trails and nature, and Playa Palancar if you want a beach with a ton of restaurants and amenities a stone’s throw away. 

Cabo San Lucas in December

Visiting Cabo San Lucas in December is a great choice, particularly if you are interested in whale-watching and laidback beach vibes.

Every year between December and April, thousands of whales (mostly humpbacks and grey whales) flock to the warm waters of Baja California to mate. Countless tour companies throughout Los Cabos offer whale-watching tours and most of the time, you are guaranteed to see at least a couple of whales swimming alongside your boat.

Dolphin sightings are also very common and add to the experience. Although the likelihood of seeing whales is likely slightly greater in January and February, many tour companies offer refunds (or a repeat trip, as you prefer) if you are not fortunate enough to see whales on one particular boat ride.

December weather in Los Cabos

Los Cabos in December sees mild temperatures and daily averages of around 68°F. Water temperatures tend to be around 72°F-75°F so conditions are warm enough for swimming, even if this is not the hottest part of Mexico.

Puerto Vallarta in December

Set on Mexico’s Pacific Coast in the west-central state of Jalisco, the beachtown of Puerto Vallarta is one of the popular travel destinations in the country. December is the high season here, so reserving everything advance if you plan to travel at this time of the year is highly recommended. 

While Jalisco’s beaches may not have the same translucent aquamarine waters as the Mexican Carribean, they are naturally beautiful, encompassed by unique rock formations or tucked away in hidden coves. Most locals and tourists tend to stick to city beaches like Playa Camarones and Playa de los Muertos which are busy but fun.

Here you have great views of the Bahia de Banderas, and street vendors wander up and down the sandy coast selling everything from chiccharon (fried pork skins) to shrimp, tequila cocktails and Mexican candies known as “meringue”. 

For something more secluded, head to the pebbled beach of Conchas Chinas, the “Beverly Hills” of Puerto Vallarta, or the upscale coastal areas of Mismaloya and Playa las Gemelas. Though they require a little more effort to reach, you can also pay a few pesos to take a small fishing boat out to the beaches of Yelapa and Colomitos which are seldom crowded and feels as though you have a tropical island paradise all to yourself. 

If you fancy a change of pace, you can rent a car in Vallarta and take a day trip to the pueblo magicos of San Sebastian del Oeste or Mascota. San Sebastian del Oeste is particularly charming. 

This little village in the Sierra Madre mountains was once one of the most important mining towns in Mexico and is characterised by its white stone houses with red tiled gable roofs and terracotta fixtures.

Puerto Vallarta in December weather

December daytime temperatures in Puerto Valla range between 77°F and 85°F, offering the perfect conditions for enjoying the beaches and exploring the islands off Mexico’s west coast.

Guadalajara in December

The Jalisco capital of Guadalajara is Mexicos second city and arguably one of the most underrated destinations in the country. This part of Jalisco state is credited as being the birthplace of numerous Mexican traditions including mariachi, tequila and the charreria (Mexican rodeo).

Some of the most impressive architecture and attractions can be found close to the Guadalajara cathedral and the Zocalo central square. The citys San Juan de Dios market is the largest covered market in Latin America, while Mercado Corona is a great place to indulge in regional delicacies like torta ahogadas (“drowned” sandwiches), and sheep birria. 

In nearby Tlaquepaque , you can experience live mariachi at El Parian square, where some of the very first mariachi performed over 100 years ago. From Guadalajara, you can also take day trips out to Tequila, the birthplace of its namesake beverage, and Lake Chapala, the largest freshwater lake in Mexico. 

Weather in Guadalajara in December

Like Mexico City, Guadalajara is at a higher altitude than coastal regions of Mexico and sees cooler temperatures in December. (Albeit likely still milder than what you may be accustomed to at home).

Expect average daytime temperatures of 61℉, highs of 75℉, and lows of 50℉.

Oaxaca in December

Oaxaca has become an increasingly popular Mexico travel destination in recent years and is widely regarded as being the “foodie capital” of Mexico. In both 2022 AND 2023, Travel and Leisure magazine recognized Oaxaca City as being the best city in the world. That is quite an achievement!

December is a particularly wonderful time to travel to Oaxaca because of all of the Mexican Christmas festivities that are taking place at this time. The Noche de Rábanos (night of the radishes) celebration that takes place at the Plaza de la Constitución on December 23rd is not to be missed.

This obscure tradition dates back to 1897 and sees people carve various items out of radishes and enter competitions to see who has the best design. On Christmas Eve, nativity processions known as calendas take place in Oaxaca City and see floats and parades of people dressed as angels or various figures make their way through the city and to the churches.

Of course, there are many Oaxaca attractions that are wonderful to enjoy all year round. Be sure to organize a tour of one of the mezcal plantations in the region and sample regional foodie specialites like tlayuda, memela, and caldo de piedra (stone soup).

Weather in Oaxaca in December

December is a warm, sunny and dry month in Oaxaca and you can expect average daily temperatures between 78°F and 82°F.

This is warm enough to enjoy the beaches of Puerto Escondido and coastal Oaxaca, but not so overbearingly hot that walking around the city is by any means unpleasant.

Festivals and Events in Mexico in December 

Across the world, December marks the start of the festive Christmas period and Mexico is no different. From the beginning of the month, you will start to see many towns, cities, and Pueblo Magicos decorate their zocalos (central squares) with Christmas lights and decorations. 

Huge nativity scenes are set up everywhere from Cancun to Monterrey, and local stores and restaurants start decorating their interiors with garlands and bold signs that read “Feliz Navidad!”. Some of the key dates to know in December in Mexico are detailed below.

Key dates and events in Mexico in December 

• 12th December – Dia de la Virgin de Guadalupe
• 16th December – Start of the posadas
• 24th December – Noche Buena (Christmas Eve)
• 25th December – Christmas Day
• 28th December – Dia de los Inocentes
• 31st December – New Year’s Eve 

Dia de Guadalupe (12th December)

While Christmas decorations may start creeping up earlier, the festive season in Mexico officially starts on the 12th of December. This is the Día de Guadalupe, one of Mexico’s most important religious holidays. 

The day commemorates the anniversary of the 12th December 1531 when the Virgin Mary is said to have appeared in front of an indigenous peasant named Juan Diego. Across the country, many devout Catholics participate in a candlelit procession to their local churches.

Posadas Navideñas and processions

In the days that follow the Dia de Guadalupe, more and more decorations pop up around towns and cities, and colorful, sparkling piñatas are hung from store fronts and doorways. Many processions are held throughout the town including Posadas Navideña – processions that reenact Mary and Joseph’s search for an inn. There is also the more commercialized desfile Coca-Cola which is a parade sponsored by the softs drinks brand that is hosted on different dates around the country and sees illuminated floats and people dressed like Coca Cola bottles take to the streets.

Christmas Eve in Mexico

In Mexico, Christmas Eve (Noche Buena) is arguably more important than Christmas Day and people tend to enjoy their Christmas dinner and exchange gifts on this day.

Many churches across Mexico host mass (Misa de Gallo) which foreigners can attend as long as they are respectful. Traditional Christmas foods in Mexico differ to what you may be accustomed to in the west.

A popular delicacy is the Christmas Eve salad (Ensalada de Noche Buena) which is a sweet, unique, fruity salad that is prepared with beetroots, hibiscus flowers, guava fruit, apples, oranges, limes, and other fruits and flavorings.

Every Mexican family likely has a different Ensalada de Noche Buena recipe that has been passed down through the generations. Bacalao (salted codfish) and wrapped cornmeal dumplings (tamales) are also popular things to eat.

Bunuelos (fried pastries sprinkled with sugar and cinnamon) are popular desserts that you will find sold in most bakeries and panaderias.

Christmas Day in Mexico

Christmas Day in Mexico is a national public holiday and most businesses will be closed. You will find restaurants in many major cities offer Mexican or western Christmas dinner menus but advanced reservations are a must.

There are no major events or parades on this day as in Mexico, it is a day to be spent with family.

New Year’s Eve in Mexico

New Year’s Eve (Nochevieja or Año Nuevo) is a big celebration in Mexico. Many celebrations, processions, traditional markets, and fireworks displays are hosted in central squares (zocalos) across the country.

A large portion of the evening is often spent having dinner with family. There are also many parties hosted at bars and clubs across the country where people head to see in the New Year.

People are usually drinking and sipping champagne as the clock strikes twelve, after which they greet each other with a “Feliz Año Nuevo!” There is also a whole range of Mexican superstitions that revolve around the holiday too.

For instance, it is supposed to be good luck to eat twelve grapes as the clock strikes twelve. Similarly, if you run through your neighborhood with an empty suitcase on New Year’s Day, it is said to mean that you will enjoy many travels in the near future.

Mexico in December FAQs

Do you have any more burning questions about traveling to Mexico in December? You will find the answers to some frequently asked questions on the topic here.

Hopefully you will find the answers that you are looking for in this section but if not, please do not hesitate to reach out to me.

Is December a good time to go to Mexico?

December is a very good time to visit Mexico, particularly if you are planning to visit coastal destinations such as Cancun, Tulum, Yucatan beaches , and Puerto Vallarta. The weather is hot and sunny, but not overbearingly so.

This is the dry season and there is virtually no rain. However, since this is the high season, crowds and costs are at their highest. If you prefer to visit Mexico at a more peaceful time, you may prefer to travel in March or April.

Which part of Mexico is best in December?

December is a great time to visit many parts of Mexico but it really depends on what you are looking for. If you are seeking winter sun and paradisical beaches, you will love Puerto Vallarta, Los Cabos, or popular destinations in the Yucatan like Cancun, Tulum, Merida, Isla Holbox, Cozumel, and Isla Mujeres.

If you prefer to immerse yourself in local culture, places like Chiapas state, Guanajuato state, and Santiago de Queretaro are great year-round destinations which, while being a little chillier at this time, are very quiet and free from tourists at this time of year.

Can you swim in Mexico in December?

Mexico is a vast country with many different climates and water temperatures but since most coastal areas have a hot, tropical climate, it is pleasant to swim in most parts of Mexico in December.

Specifically, the Pacific and Carribean coasts and the beaches along the Gulf of Mexico in the Northern Yucatan. Baja California Sur is a little cooler, but still plenty warm enough to go for a swim.

In most places in the Yucatan , you can expect water temperatures of around 80°F to 82°F on average.

How hot is Cancun in December?

Daily temperatures in Cancun in December tend to range between 76°F and 86°F. On average, you can expect it to be around 82°F during the day.

Is Mexico still hot in December?

Many coastal areas of Mexico are still hot in December but cities at higher altitudes (like Guanajuato City, CDMX, Guadalajara and Santiago de Queretaro) are relatively cold.

Are there mosquitoes in Mexico in December?

Mosquitoes are an unfortunate reality of traveling to most tropical parts of Mexico all year round. While everywhere is generally less humid and balmy during the winter months and you are likely to encounter fewer insects, you are never free from the risk of mosquito bites.

If you are traveling to humid, coastal areas, you should always wear insect repellent, especially at night. Mosquitoes love to hang out near bodies of water such as lakes, pools, and beaches.

Carry some insect-relief cream with you, just in case too, and some anti-histamines if like me, you often have bad reactions to bites. Some mosquitoes in Mexico do carry dengue fever or the zika virus so it is important to be aware.

Final thoughts on traveling to Mexico in December

December in Mexico is a magical time of year and I am about to decorate my house for my second Christmas in Merida as we speak. While traditions and climates may be different in Mexico compared to your usual festive season back at home, Christmas is a really big deal in Mexico and locals go all out with their celebrations. 

You won’t regret your decision to spend any time in Mexico during this festive month, wherever you choose to travel. Do you have any further questions about traveling to Mexico during the winter months? 

Feel free to drop me a comment below if you need something and I will do my best to get back to you as soon as I can. If this is your first time traveling here, you might also enjoy browsing through these Mexico travel tips before you go. 

Until next time, safe travels!

Buen Viaje! Melissa xo

Melissa Douglas

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Mexico in December: Why You Should Visit the Country’s Most Popular Beach Destinations Before Peak Season

See recent posts by Kyle Valenta

If you live in a part of the world where the late fall and winter months mean bone-chilling cold, clouds, and days of rain or snow, you've likely dreamed of a warm-weather winter vacation. One problem: You aren't alone. January through April are peak season across the world's sunbelt — especially in Mexico . From Christmas onward, prices for hotels in Los Cabos , Puerto Vallarta , Riviera Nayarit , Cancun , and the Riviera Maya skyrocket. You can expect a similar spike in airfares as well. But we've got a pro tip for you to help you score that necessary vitamin D and keep your finances intact — visit Mexico in December. Read on for why you should go (and where) for a great winter vacation without the crowds.

Author's Note: If you're really looking to avoid the crowds in Mexico at any time of the year, you can also check out the coolest alternatives to Mexico's most popular destinations here.

Cancun in December

The beach view from Secrets The Vine Cancun/Oyster

For many travelers, Cancun epitomizes the ultimate Mexican beach vacation. Why is that? For starters, it’s packed with amazing all-inclusive resorts that cater to your every need. Cancun also has one of the prettiest beaches in the Caribbean, and is filled with nightlife and restaurants. However, from late December to April, it can be intensely busy. Those pristine white sands are crowded by thousands of people boozing it up, playing volleyball, paragliding, and blasting music. We’ve also heard more than one high-season complaint about cut-throat competition for poolside loungers (and have lived through it ourselves).

You’ll also find that Cancun is subject to tropical rains and hurricane threats in the summer months, making a low-season visit riskier. While you’re likely to find deep discounts on hotels and flights at this time of year, your trip might get washed out. Summer also generally corresponds to the massive seaweed blooms that have plagued the Caribbean region for years now.

December in Cancun is, essentially, perfect. The storms of the summer and fall months have cleared out, meaning you’re far more likely to experience sunny skies. In fact, December is often drier than January, according to U.S. News & World Report . You’ll find temperatures hover in the pleasantly-hot range during the day (generally tapping out in the low 80s), and humidity is lower than June through November.

What does this mean for your wallet? Well, as most travelers are saving up to splurge on hotel rooms from January through April in Cancun, resorts often drastically reduce their nightly rates in December. In fact, according to Oyster’s data, hotels in Cancun can be anywhere from 15 to 30% cheaper in December than peak season. You’ll also benefit from less crowded beaches and pools at your resort. Even though there will be fewer tourists, nearly every restaurant, bar, and nightclub is open, so there’s no need to worry about getting bored either.

Our Hotel Pick in Cancun: Le Blanc Spa Resort

The pools at Le Blanc Spa Resort Cancun/Oyster

December is the perfect time to post up at Le Blanc Spa Resort Cancun . This adults-only all-inclusive property doesn’t come cheaply — rates in peak season can soar above $725 per night. However, if you visit in the first three weeks of December, you can find deals as low as $550 a night. From one of the best spas in Cancun to its beautiful pools and spacious rooms, Le Blanc Cancun is one of the most popular hotels in all of Mexico.

Pricing for Le Blanc Spa Resort Cancun

Riviera Maya in December

Tulum ruins and beach/Oyster

Located just south of Cancun, the Riviera Maya is subject to the same patterns in tourism and weather. To be fair, though, this region is much larger than Cancun — including the far-flung towns of Puerto Aventuras , Akumal , Playa del Carmen , Puerto Morelos , and Tulum — and beach crowding tends to be less of an issue in most areas year-round. That’s less true in Playa del Carmen, which has a bustling vibe on par with what you’ll find in Cancun. Even so, you’ll find thinner crowds along the sand in December, and rates are generally lower than January through April. How much cheaper are Riviera Maya hotel prices in December? Our data shows you can save at least 25% per night by visiting just before peak season.

Our Hotel Pick in Riviera Maya: Secrets Maroma Beach

Secrets Maroma Beach Riviera Cancun Swim-Out Suite/Oyster

If you’re after a romantic adults-only getaway, you might be thinking Valentine’s Day is the way to go. However, you’ll be paying an insane premium at popular romantic resorts like Secrets Maroma Beach Riviera Cancun if you try to visit at that time of year. Opting for an early December visit can score you up to $100 a night in savings. We think it’s worth it to experience Secrets’ posh swim-up rooms, beautiful pools, and top-shelf cocktails — all with a more romantic, quieter vibe.

Pricing for Secrets Maroma Beach Riviera Cancun

Los Cabos in December

Chileno Bay Beach from Chileno Bay Resort & Residences/Oyster

Having spent many a December traversing Los Cabos — from charming San Jose del Cabo to bustling Cabo San Lucas — we are here to tell you that December is the perfect month to visit. Based on our data, you’ll find Los Cabos hotel and resort prices discounted up to a whopping 60% compared to peak season (though this varies from hotel to hotel).

A December visit also gives you the same amazing weather of a visit during peak season without the crowds and additional costs. At most, you’ll need a very light sweater at night and you can expect clear blue skies. In December 2018, we felt like we had almost every beach to ourselves, never had to fight for pool space, and could roll into any restaurant and bar at any resort and score a table immediately. What’s more? Even the area’s all-inclusive resorts are relatively calm at this time of year, especially in Cabo San Lucas (which draws a mighty spring break crowd in March and April, driving up rates).

Visiting in December also means that the already charming town of San Jose del Cabo comes even more alive. In addition to the town’s weekly Thursday night Art Walk, you’ll find seasonal decorations, performances by local arts groups, and vendors set up on most nights in the town’s main plaza.

Hotel Pick in Los Cabos: One&Only Palmilla

The Adult Pool at One&Only Palmilla in Los Cabos/Oyster

If you’re going to take advantage of discounted hotel rates, you might as well snag a once-in-a-lifetime experience for yourself. The luxurious One&Only Palmilla is one of the most popular hotels in Los Cabos among Oyster.com readers. However, in peak season it can come with an eye-watering four-figure price tag. Save a couple hundred dollars a night by opting to stay here in early December instead. The resort’s massive rooms all have butler service and their own plunge pools, dining is outstanding, and the hotel has one of the few swimmable beaches in Cabo.

Pricing for One&Only Palmilla

Puerto Vallarta & Riviera Nayarit in December

Sunset over the beach at W Punta de Mita/Oyster

If you’ve been paying attention, you know that Riviera Nayarit is trending in a big way. This region to the north of Puerto Vallarta — a long-time vacation hub for sun-seekers and gay travelers — is home to a wide range of hotel styles, from quaint boutique properties to big all-inclusive resorts. Our data shows that you’re like to save at least 15% on your nightly hotel rates in December, though that discount is often higher depending on the property.

Riviera Nayarit consists of a string of towns that include the posh gated community of Punta Mita as well as the boho, artsy towns of Sayulita and San Pancho. Puerto Vallarta is where to go for a good time. The beach and marina are lined with hotels and bars, and the town throbs with nightclubs in the evenings (you should definitely catch a drag show while visiting). You’ll find a bit more local culture in Puerto Vallarta than you would in places like Cabo San Lucas , where gringo tastes are the name of the game.

Like most famous beach regions in Mexico, January through April brings a massive influx of tourists. The spring break crowd here shouldn’t be underestimated either, especially in Puerto Vallarta proper. Much like Los Cabos to the northwest, the Puerto Vallarta region is hot and dry for much of the year, though temperatures and humidity are more comfortable during the winter months. Compared to June through October — when hotel rates are often at their lowest — rain is essentially unheard of in December. That makes your prospects of coming home tan and happy all the more likely.

December also marks the start of whale-watching season in Puerto Vallarta, which is another contributor to higher rates in the peak season. Whales are often visible right from shore, though you can also book whale watches from the marina as well.

Our Puerto Vallarta Hotel Pick: Now Amber Puerto Vallarta

View from the Preferred Club Junior Suite at Now Amber Puerto Vallarta/Oyster

The Now Amber Puerto Vallarta is a sharp, modern resort that’s a bit removed from the hustle and bustle of downtown Puerto Vallarta. All-inclusive rates here are generous, and three gorgeous pools run right along the beach and sea. Rates tend to rise in the peak winter and early spring months, so a stay here in December scores you all of the cool amenities (like swim-out pool access in some rooms) for less cash.

Pricing for Now Amber Puerto Vallarta

You’ll Also Like:

• The Most Luxurious Beachfront Resorts in Mexico
• Is This the Coolest Secret Beach Destination in Mexico?
• The Best Riviera Maya Itinerary

All products are independently selected by our writers and editors. If you buy something through our links, Oyster may earn an affiliate commission.

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Mexico in December: Weather Info & Best Places to Go [2024]

Planning a trip to Mexico in December?

You’re in the right place because I live in Mexico , and I’m going to share everything I know about traveling to Mexico in December with you!

A year-round destination, you can visit Mexico anytime, but December is ideal for certain places more than others — which you’ll soon discover.

In this article, you’ll learn about the 10 best places to visit in Mexico in December , including Cancun, Mexico City, Tulum and Cabo San Lucas (Los Cabos).

You’ll also learn about the weather in Mexico in December , and the Mexico Christmas holiday at the end of the month.

Ready to learn all about visiting Mexico in December? Let’s get to it!

Mexico in December Weather

Typical mexico december weather.

You’re likely wondering, What is the weather like in Mexico in December? — so you can plan the best trip possible.

You’re in luck because Mexico’s weather in December is amazing! It’s one of the dry season months, and the weather is much cooler than the weather in Mexico in November.

When is the rainy season in Mexico ?

The rainy season Mexico months include May through October.

You have a slim chance of rain in Mexico in December, but there’s always at least some chance of rain on the coast.

Atlantic Hurricane Season officially ends November 30, so you likely won’t see any bad storms in December.

When is the Mexico busy season?

The busy season in Mexico runs from November to April. While the high season is perfect weather-wise, if you want cheap Mexico travel deals, you’re not likely to find those in December, or the entire high season.

Average temperatures in Mexico in December

Want to know, How hot is Mexico in December?

There is no set average daily temperature in Mexico in December, as it fluctuates in different parts of the country. In general, expect mild temperatures and low precipitation — but know Mexico is still on the warmer side, even in December. The beaches in Mexico on the coast will be much warmer than the cities in Central Mexico, like Mexico City , Guadalajara and San Miguel de Allende .

In fact, the cities are on the colder side, and if you’re visiting the Central or North Mexican cities, pack a light jacket and layers🧣

No matter where you’re headed, check the Mexico December weather for that destination.

There are plenty of weather apps and sites out there, like weather.com from The Weather Channel, Accuweather and Weather Spark , so you can check Mexico temperatures in December.

Mexico December Holidays

Christmas in mexico: december 25.

Like everywhere else in the world, Mexico Christmas is on December 25.

However, for Mexicans and many Latins, the actual Christmas celebration takes place on December 24 (Christmas Eve in the United States, Canada, Europe and beyond), known as Noche Buena .

Noche Buena: December 24

Traditionally, Mexicans eat the main Christmas dinner on December 24, known as Noche Buena , which means “Good Night.”

While some families open presents at midnight, others only eat the meal on this day, and don’t open presents until Three Kings Day on January 6.

Some of the Mexican Christmas dinner foods include roast turkey, tamales and romeritos con mole , among other traditional Mexican foods .

The exact spread will vary from family to family, but many serve a Mexican drink called ponche , and hojarascas , Mexican Christmas cookies similar to shortbread.

Las Posadas in Mexico

Mexican Posadas (holiday parties) take place throughout December.

The Posadas symbolize the Biblical story in which Joseph and Mary made the month-long journey from the city of Nazareth to the city of Bethlehem, in search of a place to give birth to their baby.

This is one of the oldest Mexican Christmas traditions .

It happens everywhere from private homes to rented halls, to citywide public celebrations and pastorela performances which represent the journey of the shepherds to go worship Jesus.

At a private party, you may end up joining in with the pedir posadas (posada songs). This means “asking for shelter,” as in the Biblical journey when Joseph and Mary sought shelter at the inn.

These songs can be sung at the party, or by going from door to door like Christmas carolers.

Best Places to Celebrate Christmas in Mexico

Christmas in Mexico City

Mexico City, the largest city in the country, is the best place to see Christmas decorations in Mexico. In fact, some might call it the best Mexican Christmas celebration in the whole country.

The entire Zocalo (Main Square) in Centro Historico Mexico City (downtown) has large-scale decorations, an impressive lights display and large Christmas tree.

Christmas on Mexico beaches

The beaches of Mexico might have a decorated palm tree here and there, but the beaches themselves are the main draw.

Popular with Mexican and international travelers, expect large crowds on Mexico beaches during Christmas week in Mexico, and the week after New Year’s Eve.

Visiting Mexico in December

10 best places to visit in mexico in december.

Wondering where to go in Mexico in December?

While there’s no definitive “best place in Mexico to visit in December,” you have plenty of options to choose from. In reality, you can go anywhere you’d like, as the weather in Mexico in December is near-perfect.

Below, you’ll find the Top 10 most popular places to travel in Mexico in December , with some info about what to expect and things to do.

After reading through the list, you’ll be able to determine your own best place to go in Mexico in December.

1. Cancun in December

For more information on visiting Cancun Mexico, check out this Cancun Travel Guide .

Cancun is the top travel destination in Mexico all year.

The difference between Cancun in December vs November is that December is much busier . If you want to enjoy a calmer Cancun with smaller crowds, plan for early-November, late-January or February.

Looking for the best things to do in Cancun in December?

Don’t miss swimming in the Cancun cenotes , and the Mayan Ruins in Cancun . If you want to stay at one of the best Cancun all inclusive resorts , book ASAP because December is the busiest month in Cancun, Mexico.

What’s the average humidity in Cancun in December?

The Cancun humidity in December averages about 75% — so put clothing that doesn’t show sweat on your Mexico packing list !

It will be much less muggy when traveling to Cancun in December vs November, but to really escape the heat, plan for water activities in the afternoons.

Wondering, What’s the average temperature in Cancun in December?

You can expect about 85°F (29°C) during the day, and 70°F (21°C). In short: It’s still somewhat hot! Don’t forget to stay hydrated with this Water-To-Go bottle , and even this misting fan to cool your skin.

Does it rain all day in Cancun in December?

Usually, no. If it rains at all, it’s typically for an hour in the afternoon, and then the sun will come back out. It rarely rains in December, but if it does, it should pass quickly.

If you happen to be visiting during a storm, then there is a chance it rains all day.

RELATED ARTICLE 🏖️ Cancun in December: Weather Info and Travel Tips

Atlantic Hurricane Season officially ends on November 30 (it runs June 1-November 30), so there’s virtually no chance of a hurricane in Mexico in December.

By no means is December the wettest month in Cancun, but there’s always a chance of rain anywhere on the Mexican coast.

Cancun Weather in December

2. Mexico City in December

For more information on visiting Mexico City, check out this Mexico City Travel Guide .

Considering a Mexico City December trip?

Not many know this, but the winters in Mexico City are on the colder side. If you don’t like the cold, November is a great month to visit Mexico City because it’s technically still Fall, and won’t be as cold as December, January or February.

December is part of the dry season in Mexico City, which runs from November to April.

There is still a chance of the occasional afternoon shower, but as one of the world’s biggest cities, right up there with New York City, there are plenty of indoor things to do in Mexico City when it rains.

After breakfast, head to the museums in Mexico City in the afternoon. Afterwards, enjoy some tacos at the best restaurants in Mexico City , and by then, the rains should have passed.

Looking for the best things to do in Mexico City at night?! You must see a Lucha Libre wrestling match!

What’s the best time to visit Mexico City?

This will depend on your preferences, but the Mexico City rainy season is from about April to October, so many want to avoid that. It doesn’t usually rain much (if at all) in Mexico City in December, but of course, many prefer the dry season.

If you like cooler weather, Fall and Winter might be the best bet for you.

Nighttime temperatures can drop into the high 40°Fs (about 9°C) in December, and continue to fall month by month all winter long. For warmer nights, Spring and Summer work best.

🦋 Monarch Butterfly Season in Mexico: One of the best experiences is visiting the Piedra Herrada Butterfly Sanctuary during the annual butterfly migration in Mexico, from late-November to March.

Book a Mexico butterfly tour to see millions of butterflies in the mountains near Mexico City.

Weather in Mexico City in December

3. Cabo San Lucas in December

For more information on visiting Cabo San Lucas, check out this Cabo Travel Guide .

Cabo San Lucas and nearby San Jose del Cabo are located in the Los Cabos Municipality. In Spanish, los cabos means “the capes,” (as cabo means “cape”). These are the top two destinations in Los Cabos Mexico.

Cabo San Lucas is the more popular of the two Cabos, though the airport you’ll fly into is in San Jose del Cabo, about 40 minutes away.

With a more relaxed vibe, San Jose del Cabo offers a nice alternative to lively Cabo San Lucas , so some travelers stay there.

With warmer weather all year, Mexico is great year-round — and Cabo even more so. It averages 300 days of sunshine each year (though some say it gets 350 days of sunshine!) , so you can expect to have a nice trip to Los Cabos in December.

In fact, the Cabo rainy season only runs from about August to September, followed by 8-10 months of sunshine.

December is still warm, and temperatures average about 82°F (27°C), but you can always hop in your Cabo beach resort pool or the ocean for a refreshing swim.

Swim With the Whale sharks in Cabo

Whale sharks are sharks , but they are a docile and harmless variety, similar to a nurse shark. They are also the largest fish in the sea at about 40- to 50-feet-long (12m-15m)!

Cabo Whale Shark Season runs from about November to April, so if you want to experience this bucket list activity, book your Los Cabos Whale Shark tour ASAP because they do sell out.

Cabo Weather in December

4. Tulum in December

For more information on visiting Tulum Mexico, check out this Tulum Travel Guide .

Once a sleepy beach town, Tulum is now one of the most popular and best places to visit in Mexico .

In recent years, it has also become one of the most expensive . Since December is one of the Tulum busy season months, you’ll want to book your Tulum beach resort ASAP!

Weather-wise, it likely won’t rain at all, though a brief afternoon shower isn’t uncommon anywhere on the coast.

Since the Tulum weather in December is so great, this is the busiest month for Tulum travel, so do expect large crowds throughout December in Tulum.

If you were planning to travel to Tulum on a budget , your money will definitely stretch further in the summer months, during the Tulum slow season.

December and January will be pricey, but you can find some good Tulum travel deals in February, and still enjoy the nice weather.

With the money you can save visiting Tulum in November vs December, you may even want to extend your trip beyond Mexico and into Central America.

Just a few hours south of Tulum, you can do a land crossing into Belize near Lake Bacalar, Mexico . 

Tulum Weather in December

5. Oaxaca in December

For more information on visiting Oaxaca Mexico, check out this Oaxaca Travel Guide .

🗣 Before we talk about visiting Oaxaca in December, let’s clear up the Oaxaca pronunciation. If you’re wondering, How do you pronounce Oaxaca? , it’s waa-haa-kah.

Oaxaca State is one of the most culturally-rich places in Mexico and all Latin America.

Oaxaca City, the capital of Oaxaca State, is well known as the Foodie Capital of Mexico thanks to its delicious Oaxacan cuisine . There’s also and colorful festivals, like Day of the Dead and the Guelaguetza .

When most people say “Oaxaca,” they are referring to Oaxaca City (AKA Oaxaca de Juarez) , in the central part of the state.

The beaches of Oaxaca , like Puerto Escondido , Mazunte , Zipolite and Huatulco , are also popular, but they are located on the Pacific Coast.

Oaxaca City weather is more of a desert-like climate, versus the beaches that are quite tropical. Though a desert, Oaxaca City does have a rainy season which runs from about May to September, so if you visit in December, you’ll have beautiful weather.

Oaxaca Weather in December

6. Riviera Maya in December

The Riviera Maya is located between Cancun and Playa del Carmen, in the Yucatán Peninsula. It is the most posh area in Yucatan, where you’ll find many of the best resorts in Mexico and even the nicest Mexico overwater bungalows .

Given its location, you can expect similar weather to Cancun, Tulum and Playa del Carmen, which is to say it’s on the hotter side .

Of course, you’ll be right on the Caribbean Sea, so you’ll likely have a nice breeze, but you can also jump in the sea to cool off in the afternoons.

🏝 Costa Maya Mexico Weather in December : Located about 3.5 hours south of Riviera Maya, you’ll be in the beach town of Mahahual, Mexico on the Costa Maya. The weather in Riviera Maya and Coast Maya is similar, but the vibe is much more laid back in Costa Maya.

Besides the Caribbean, there are so many other places to cool off and swim near Riviera Maya.

From the cenotes in Tulum and cenotes near Cancun , both close to Riviera Maya, you also have water parks like Xcaret and Xel-Ha , and underground rivers, like Rio Secreto .

For a truly memorable experience, head about 40 minutes south to the beach town of Akumal .

It’s just south of Tulum, and one of the more up-and-coming Mexico resort towns. However, the real claim to fame is that you can swim with the turtles in Akumal Beach .

riviera maya weather in December

7. Puerto Vallarta in December

For more information on visiting Puerto Vallarta Mexico, check out this Puerto Vallarta Travel Guide .

Puerto Vallarta is one of the safest cities in Mexico , and best beach towns in Mexico.

It appeals to all types of travelers, from solo travelers to honeymooners, families and LGBTQ+ travelers — as Puerto Vallarta is the gay capital of Mexico, AKA the San Francisco of Mexico.

If you’re looking to go on a cruise to Mexico in December, see if there are any to Puerto Vallarta. A top destination for cruises in Mexico, there’s no shortage of things to do in Puerto Vallarta when you venture off-boat.

🏝 Sayulita in December : Located about one hour from Puerto Vallarta, many visit or even take a day trip to Sayulita, Mexico . This bohemian beach town has the same great weather as Puerto Vallarta in December, and it’s absolutely worth checking out.

On one side of the city, there’s Bahía Banderas (Bay of Banderas), a tranquil inlet off the Pacific Ocean great for swimming, snorkeling , and whale watching (winters only). The Sierra Madre mountains are just behind the beach, so you really get the best of all worlds.

As with all Mexico beaches in December, you can expect hotter, somewhat humid weather, but little rain.

If it does rain, the showers usually pass quickly, and then you can go back to enjoying all the Old World charm, beautiful nature, and best beaches Puerto Vallarta has to offer.

Puerto Vallarta Weather in December

8. Playa del Carmen in December

For more information on visiting Playa del Carmen Mexico, check out this Playa del Carmen Travel Guide .

Though some call Playa del Carmen the mini-Cancun, it’s a destination in its own right. Now, to get there, you do have to travel from Cancun to Playa del Carmen (or just “Playa,” as the locals call it), but it’s just a one hour drive.

Once you arrive in Playa, it’s much more of a beach town than Cancun, which is a resort town.

Now, there are some beautiful resorts in Playa del Carmen , but it has a small town feel. It’s much more walkable than Cancun, which is great because there’s no Uber in Playa del Carmen .

What these two cities do share, is their weather .

Much like Cancun, you can expect warmer days and cool, breezy nights. There’s not much humidity in winter, but to avoid it entirely when traveling to Playa del Carmen in December plan to be indoors, or in the water, in the afternoons.

If you want to visit the nearby Mayan Ruins in Mexico , arrive early in the morning when they open, and you’ll be done touring the site by midday when the humidity can roll in.

When in the Yucatan Peninsula, don’t miss Chichen Itza Pyramids — one of the Seven Wonders of the World.

Playa del Carmen Weather in December

9. Puerto Escondido in December

For more information on visiting Puerto Escondido Mexico and all the best beaches of Oaxaca, check out this Oaxaca Beaches Travel Guide .

Located on the Pacific Coast of Mexico, Puerto Escondido is the most famous of all Oaxaca Beaches.

It is popular with surfers, artists, backpackers, and solo travelers in Mexico , but there’s really something for everyone in “Puerto,” as the locals call it.

🏄‍♀️ Want to learn to surf in Puerto Escondido? Book some surfing lessons now so you can learn how to in one of the best places to surf in Mexico.

Some will start in Oaxaca City , then make the Oaxaca to Puerto Escondido journey, for a complete Oaxaca state trip. There are so many things to do in Puerto Escondido , however, that you can easily spend your whole trip there.

When in town, you’ll want to visit the best beaches in Puerto Escondido , like Playa Carrizalillo, Playa Zicatela, Playa Bacocho, Playa La Punta and Playa Puerto Angel.

December is part of the Mexico whale season, so you may even see some whales from the shore. You can also take a Puerto Escondido boat tour out to see the dolphins that hang out near Puerto.

When the sun is setting, join the baby turtle release experience to send these adorable creatures into the sea for the first time. At night, head to Laguna Manialtepec Lagoon to see the bioluminescence.

Puerto Escondido Weather in December

10. Cozumel in December

🚢 Planning to take a Mexico cruise in December? Cozumel Island is one of the best Mexico cruise ports, especially for snorkelers and divers.

Cozumel is a Mexican Caribbean island, located about 30 minutes by ferry from Playa del Carmen . There are also flights to Cozumel, and you can land right on the island at Cozumel International Airport.

It’s also quite easy to travel from Cancun to Cozumel .

Some say Cozumel is the best place for snorkeling in Mexico, and the best place for diving in Mexico as well. Just off-shore, there’s the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, the second largest coral reef in the world, after the Great Barrier Reef.

There are plenty of ways to see the reef, even if you don’t want to swim.

That’s right, the Cozumel Submarine Tour is an unforgettable experience to see these coral reefs in an actual submarine. Cozumel also has beautiful beaches, and Mayan Ruins as well.

You likely won’t get rain when traveling to Cozumel in December.

However, the vast majority of all the best things to do in Cozumel involve being in, on or near the Caribbean Sea, so that makes the (possible) afternoon showers more tolerable.

Cozumel Weather in December

Weather in Mexico in December: FAQs

Does it rain in Mexico in December?

It can, but it’s rare — December weather in Mexico is as close to perfect as it gets.

There is a very slim chance of rain, though Nature does what it wants! If you’re visiting the beaches on the Mexican coast, an afternoon shower is always possible, though it would likely pass quickly.

What’s the typical Mexico Christmas weather?

Weather is never 100% predictable, but Mexican weather in December is somewhat predictable.

While there’s no set Mexico temperature in December, you can expect warm days and cool nights on the beaches, but cold nights in the cities. It’s the dry season, so rain shouldn’t be an issue.

What’s the best time of year to visit Mexico?

Weather-wise, the best time to travel to Mexico is from November to March.

This is during the dry season, when you’ll see very little (if any) rain, low humidity, and few mosquitoes . This is also the high or busy season in Mexico, when most people visit so they get the best weather.

For travelers who want to escape the crowds, the summer months also give you more bang for your buck.

You can still find cheap flight prices and hotel deals in December, but you have to look! If you want to treat yourself to a fancy resort in Mexico, opt for February over December.

When is the shoulder season in Mexico?

The shoulder season is a magical time when the weather is still nice, but the crowds have died down, and the prices have as well. It takes place just as the busy season is about to begin, and right after it ends.

For my money, this is the best time to visit Mexico! The Mexico shoulder season includes the months of October to November and April to May; though May is the hottest month in Mexico.

You may still find great Mexico travel deals in other months, but you likely won’t find low prices or small crowds anytime during the busy season.

How hot is it in Mexico in December?

You might want to know, Is Mexico warm in December?

Yes — It is still quite warm in Mexico, even in December. If you don’t like tropical weather, plan to visit the cities in Mexico in December, not the beaches, which are considerably warmer than the cities.

❄️ Mexico Fun Fact : The coldest city in Mexico is the small pueblo of Ciudad Madera, Chihuahua, located in North Mexico. Ciudad Madera sees a few inches of snow each year.

Many are surprised that December is still one of the warmer months in Mexico, especially if you’re visiting the Mexico beach towns .

Average temperatures in Mexico in December hover around 80°F (26°C) on the beaches, but it can feel a few degrees hotter because of the humidity.

Is it sunny in Mexico in December?

Yes — It tends to be sunny in Mexico year-round, even in the Winter season.

Since December is not a Mexico rainy season month, it likely won’t rain at all. In the event it does, just know that even if storms, cloud cover and rainfall rolls in, the sun often comes back in an hour.

What is the average temperature in Mexico in December?

Wondering, Is Mexico hot in December?

It Depends — The average weather in Mexico in December is on the warmer side, but it’s not very humid. If you’re visiting Mexico City and/or Central Mexico, the temperatures cool down considerably at night, but this isn’t the case on Mexican beaches.

For Mexico beaches , you can expect 80°F days (26°C) and 72°F nights (22°C). With the humidity factored in, it might even feel hotter.

Inland, the cities of Mexico are considerably cooler, so plan for 65°F days (18°C) and 45°F nights (7°C).

If you’re debating on when to visit, know it’s usually a bit warmer in November compared to December. For travelers who enjoy the cooler weather, winters in Mexico are perfect, so plan to visit between December to March.

When is Mexico Hurricane Season?

Mexico has about 5,800 miles (9330 km) of coastline, so there’s a lot of places susceptible to hurricanes.

⛈ Atlantic Hurricane Season runs from June 1 to November 30 , so you’re always better off visiting Mexico beaches in December vs November, just in case!

What are the best beaches in Mexico in December?

I come bearing great news because beaches in Mexico all have great weather in December — sunny, warm (but not hot) , with low humidity.

In fact, December Mexico weather is perfect in both cities and on beaches, so you’re in for a great trip, regardless of when you’re going.

No matter if you’re headed to the Pacific Coast beaches ( Puerto Vallarta , Puerto Escondido and Sayulita ), Caribbean beaches (Cancun, Riviera Maya, Tulum and Playa del Carmen) or Yucatan beaches (Progreso, El Cuyo) — you’re in for a beautiful vacation.

Best time to see whales in Mexico: December to March

If you are visiting any of the Mexico Pacific beach towns, you must take a boat tour to see some whales.

Several species of whales migrate past the Pacific coast during Mexico whale watching season, but the best place to see them is off the coast of Baja California .

Baja California is a peninsula on Mexico’s west coast. It’s home to many of the best beach towns in Mexico, like Cabo San Lucas (Los Cabos), La Paz, Loreto and Rosarito.

If you’re visiting Cabo San Lucas in December, don’t pass up the chance to take some of these Cabo whale tours .

Should I go to Mexico in December?

Yes — Mexico December weather is ideal, and you can expect sunny, cool days.

If you’re traveling at the beginning of December, you will have nice weather and smaller crowds, though the crowd level picks up considerably as it gets closer to Christmas.

Can you go to Mexico in December?

Yes — In fact, it’s the month when the most visitors go to Mexico!

December is a lively month in Mexico, but it’s also an exciting time as cities (especially downtown Mexico City ) get decked out for the Christmas holiday season. You might even see some decorations on Mexico’s beaches.

Are there any major Mexico holidays in December?

Yes — December 25th is Christmas in Mexico, though many actually use this as a day of rest. The main Christmas event in Mexico is Noche Buena on December 24, as well as the Christmas Posadas , parties that take place throughout the month.

Dia de la Virgen de Guadalupe: December 12

Christmas is the biggest Mexico holiday in December. However, there are others like Hanukkah for Jewish Mexicans (exact dates change every year), the Feast of the Immaculate Conception on December 8, New Year’s Eve on December 31.

There’s also Dia de la Virgen de Guadalupe on December 12. One of the central religious figures, images and statues of the Virgen de Guadalupe (Virgin of Guadalupe) can be seen all over Mexico.

For devout Catholics, the Dia de la Virgen de Guadalupe (Virgin of Guadalupe Day) on December 12 is one of the most important holidays.

The main place to experience the holiday is the beautiful Basílica de Guadalupe in Mexico City.

On December 12 each year, millions of devout Catholics (yes — millions!) travel from every corner of Mexico to attend this mass; some even make the trek on foot as a form of pilgrimage.

Are there mosquitoes in Mexico in December?

Yes — Mosquitoes are a way of life everywhere that has tropical weather, from Mexico and Costa Rica, to Puerto Rico and the Dominican Republic.

The mosquitoes are at their worst in the Mexico rainy season, but you can still get bit in the dry season. You’ll want to pack insect repellent when visiting Mexico, and apply it more than once during the day.

I recommend this eco-friendly mosquito spray from Repel, or this combo reef-safe sunscreen/mosquito repellent from Bullfrog.

Final Thoughts: Traveling to Mexico in December

If you’re going to Mexico in December, you’ll be in good company — as it’s the busiest month for Mexico travel. The weather is sunny, but cool all over the country, and there’s a festive feeling in the air, particularly the cities in Central Mexico.

What’s the best place to visit in Mexico in December? In my opinion, Mexico City, because it’s so beautiful around Christmas time. All the Mexican beaches have perfect weather in December, but if you want to escape the crowds, check out Zihuatanejo or La Paz.

You will definitely encounter crowds and high price tags in December and January, so if that’s not for you, opt for November or February.

These are shoulder season months, so you’ll have nice weather, smaller crowds and reasonable prices — it just might be the best time to visit Mexico!

If Mexico in December isn’t for you…

After reading this, you might not want to visit Mexico in December after all. If so, check out the articles linked below about visiting Mexico during other months of the year.

• Mexico in January
• Mexico in February
• Mexico in March
• Mexico in April
• Mexico in May
• Mexico in June
• Mexico in July
• Mexico in August
• Mexico in September
• Mexico in October
• Mexico in November
• Mexico in December

Mexico Travel Planning Guide

Should i buy mexico travel insurance.

YES — With basic coverage averaging just $5-10 USD per day, enjoy peace of mind with a plan from Travel Insurance Master , one of the biggest names in travel insurance. ( Read more )

Can you drink the water in Mexico?

No — You’ll want to buy this Water-To-Go Bottle , which filters your drinking water so you don’t get sick from drinking water in Mexico.

Also, it helps keep you hydrated while traveling Mexico. ( Read more )

Is it safe to rent a car in Mexico?

Yes — Renting a car in Mexico is one of the best ways to see the country! I always rent with Discover Cars , which checks international companies and local Mexican companies, so you get the best rates. ( Read more )

Will my phone work in Mexico?

Maybe — It depends on your company, so check with your provider. If you don’t have free Mexico service, buy a Telcel SIM Card . As Mexico’s largest carrier, Telcel has the best coverage of any Mexico SIM Cards. ( Read more )

What’s the best way to book my Mexico accommodations?

For Mexico hotels, Booking.com is the best site , but for hostels, use Hostel World . If you’re considering a Mexico Airbnb, don’t forget to check VRBO , which is often cheaper than Airbnb.

What do I pack for Mexico?

Head to the Ultimate Mexico Packing List + FREE Checklist Download to get all the info you need on packing for Mexico.

What’s the best site to buy Mexico flights?

For finding cheap Mexico flights, I recommend using Skyscanner .

Do I need a visa for Mexico?

Likely Not — U.S., Canadian and European Passport holders don’t need a visa for Mexico; but check here to see if you need a Mexico travel visa. Most travelers will get a 180-Day FMM Tourist Visa passport stamp a upon arrival.

12 Must-Visit Destinations in Mexico for a Winter Vacation

Are you looking for a warm escape from the cold winter weather?

Mexico is the perfect destination for a winter vacation, offering warm weather, stunning beaches, vibrant culture, delicious cuisine, and plenty of activities to keep you entertained.

Plus, if you’re from the United States or Canada, flights to Mexico are quick and affordable.

Here are 12 must-visit destinations in Mexico for a winter vacation whether you’re seeking relaxation or adventure.

Read on to discover the best winter vacation spots in Mexico!

Best Destinations in Mexico for a Winter Vacation

Whether you’re looking for beaches, mountains, colonial towns, or lively cities, Mexico has it all. That said, i n most areas, the winter weather is warm and sunny, making it the perfect escape from the cold. So much so that it has been growing in popularity, with many air travel companies offering a reduction in private jet prices and opening the doors to a vast display of wonders.

Here are the top destinations in Mexico for a winter getaway:

Located on Mexico’s Caribbean coast, Cancun is the quintessential Mexico beach destination, known for its stunning turquoise waters, white sand beaches, and lively party scene. But there’s more to this popular vacation spot than just its world-famous spring break parties.

In Cancun, you can explore ancient Mayan ruins like Chichen Itza (a UNESCO World Heritage site ), shop at upscale malls or traditional markets, or simply relax on the beach with a margarita in hand. And there’s no shortage of activities, from snorkeling and scuba diving to zip lining through the jungle.

Cancun also offers a variety of all-inclusive resorts, making it easy to plan a stress-free vacation.  All meals, drinks, and resort activities are often included in the price, leaving you with nothing to worry about except enjoying your vacation no matter when you visit. After all, Cancun is one of the best places to visit Mexico all year long.

2. Riviera Maya

Just south of Cancun, Mexico’s Riviera Maya is a stretch of Caribbean coastline and is known for its stunning beaches , vibrant coral reefs, and eco-adventures.

In Riviera Maya, visitors can explore the ancient Mayan ruins of Tulum, swim in cenotes (natural sinkholes filled with crystal clear water), or snorkel with sea turtles in Akumal Bay. 

Plus, the region’s numerous adventure parks offer ziplining adventures , ATV experiences, and a variety of adrenaline-pumping activities.

The Riviera Maya also offers a variety of luxury all-inclusive resorts including posh overwater bungalows and beachfront suites.  Guests can also enjoy expansive pools with swim-up bars, pampering spas, and world-class restaurants.

3. Puerto Vallarta

Located on Mexico’s Pacific coast, Puerto Vallarta is a beach town that offers a stunning coastline and charming old-town atmosphere.

Spend your days lounging on Puerto Vallarta’s golden sand beaches or take a boat ride to the nearby Marietas Islands, where you can spot wildlife like whales, dolphins, and sea turtles, and explore hidden caves.

Take a stroll through the cobblestone streets of Puerto Vallarta’s old town and browse colorful markets selling traditional Mexican handicrafts and artwork. 

And don’t miss the chance to sample Mexico’s delicious cuisine, from fresh seafood to traditional favorites like tacos and enchiladas.

4. Los Cabos

Located at the tip of Mexico’s Baja California Peninsula, Los Cabos offers both beautiful beaches and desert landscapes. Los Cabos is made up of two towns, Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo, each offering a unique vibe.

Cabo San Lucas is known for its lively nightlife, upscale restaurants, and luxury resorts. San Jose del Cabo offers a more laid-back atmosphere with traditional Mexican charm, art galleries, and relaxing beachfront resorts like Cabo Azul .

In Los Cabos, visitors can enjoy world-class golf courses, deep-sea fishing, whale-watching tours, and other adventure activities. Although some of the beaches are not swimmable due to strong currents, the destination still offers plenty of opportunities to soak up the sun on beach loungers or poolside at your resort.

And don’t miss a boat ride to see Cabo’s most famous attraction, “El Arco”, a towering rock formation at the southernmost tip of Mexico. Here, you can also visit Lover’s Beach, where the Pacific Ocean meets the Sea of Cortez.

5. Playa del Carmen

Located just 1 hour south of Cancun, Playa del Carmen is a bit more relaxed and laid-back than its northern neighbor and offers an affordable winter escape. There’s plenty to do with its stunning beaches, nearby archeological sites, and many freshwater cenotes.

Playa del Carmen is known for its vibrant nightlife and upbeat beach clubs, as well as its shops, restaurants, and bars along 5th Avenue. This pedestrian-only street is the most happening part of town and offers a variety of dining options, from traditional Mexican cuisine to international fare.

There are many different kinds of accommodation options in Playa del Carmen to fit any budget.  You can stay in one of Playa del Carmen’s all-inclusive resorts or rent a beachfront condo for a more intimate vacation experience. And you’ll be within easy walking distance to the town’s beaches and attractions.

If you’re looking for an alternative to the bustling beach scene of Cancun, head to Tulum. This smaller resort town has a hippie-chic vibe, drawing in yoga enthusiasts and eco-conscious travelers.

Visit the famous Mayan ruins of Tulum, perched on top of a cliff overlooking the turquoise waters of the Caribbean Sea.

In addition to its ruins and stunning beaches, Tulum is also known for its cenotes–natural sinkholes filled with crystal-clear water. Cool off with a refreshing swim or go snorkeling to spot underwater cave formations.

And for a unique experience, stay at one of Tulum’s beachfront hotels made from sustainable materials and offering yoga classes and holistic spa treatments.

While a winter vacation to Tulum won’t come cheap, the destination offers a more upscale and relaxing atmosphere with a focus on wellness.

Just off the coast of Playa del Carmen, Cozumel is Mexico’s largest Caribbean island known for its stunning coral reefs. It’s a popular destination for scuba diving and snorkeling, with many dive shops offering trips to explore the colorful reefs and dive sites around the island.

Aside from excellent snorkeling and diving, Cozumel offers plenty of other water sports and activities like kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and deep-sea fishing.

On land, explore the island’s shops and restaurants in its main town, San Miguel de Cozumel. And don’t miss a visit to the San Gervasio Mayan ruins, once a pilgrimage site for Mayan women.

Accommodation on Cozumel ranges from budget-friendly hotels to luxury all-inclusive resorts. And with direct ferry access from Playa del Carmen, it’s easy to visit Cozumel for a day trip or add it onto a Mexico winter vacation itinerary .

8. Mexico City

Mexico’s bustling capital may not immediately come to mind as a winter vacation destination, but the city offers plenty of cultural and historical attractions, as well as a lively food scene . 

Visit Mexico City’s main attractions like the ancient ruins of Teotihuacan and the National Anthropology Museum, or explore the city’s colonial-era buildings like the magnificent Palacio de Bellas Artes. And don’t miss out on Mexico City’s famous street food, from tacos and quesadillas to tlacoyos and elote.

Stay in the trendy Roma or Condesa neighborhoods , filled with colorful street art, hip bars and cafes, and boutique shops. While it won’t be as warm as Mexico’s beach destinations, the temperatures in Mexico City are still comfortable and mild in the winter months. Plus there are lots of interesting day trips from Mexico city to keep you entertained.

9. Holbox Island

Located off Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula, Holbox is an island offering a remote and tranquil winter escape. The island is known for its stunning beaches and calm turquoise waters, as well as its diverse wildlife–including flamingos and whale sharks.

Relax on the beach, take boat tours to spot these amazing animals in their natural habitat, or even view the bioluminescence that lights up the waters around Holbox at night.

Holbox Island has a very laid-back atmosphere, with small boutique hotels and restaurants lining the beachfront. There are no cars on the island so you’ll have to explore by bike or golf cart.

And while the island may not have the most stable infrastructure, it’s one of Mexico’s most stunning beach destinations and the perfect place to relax and unwind on a Mexico winter vacation.

10. Isla Mujeres

Located just a short ferry ride from Cancun, Isla Mujeres offers a tropical island escape from the busy tourist scene.

Relax on the island’s tranquil beaches or take a catamaran sail or boat tour to explore its clear turquoise waters or underwater sculpture museum. 

You can also visit the Mayan ruins of Ixchel at the island’s southernmost point or explore the island’s colorful streets, filled with local shops and restaurants.

Stay in one of the island’s beachfront hotels or rent a villa for a more intimate vacation experience with stunning ocean views. And don’t miss out on visiting the spectacular Playa Norte, considered one of Mexico’s best beaches.

11. San Miguel de Allende

If you’re looking for a charming small town in Mexico with colonial architecture, an artsy atmosphere, and fantastic food, then look no further than San Miguel de Allende.

Nestled in Mexico’s central highlands, San Miguel de Allende offers colorful cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and stunning mountain views.

Explore the town’s many art galleries or take a cooking class to learn about Mexico’s delicious cuisine. And don’t miss a visit to the Parroquia de San Miguel Arcángel, the stunning pink church that dominates the town’s main plaza.

Stay in one of the town’s beautiful colonial-style hotels or book a trendy Mexican-style vacation rental.  The weather in San Miguel de Allende in winter is cool with mild temperatures, perfect for exploring the town’s charming streets and nearby attractions like Guanajuato.

12. Sayulita

Located on Mexico’s Pacific coast just north of Puerto Vallarta , the small beach town of Sayulita offers a laid-back atmosphere, stunning beaches, and excellent surfing.

Relax on Sayulita’s picturesque beach or take surf lessons at one of the many surf schools in town. Explore the colorful streets lined with boutiques, art galleries, and delicious restaurants.

Stay in one of Sayulita’s charming beachfront hotels or rent a villa for a more private vacation experience.

Visiting Mexico in Winter: FAQs

Here are the answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about visiting Mexico in winter:

Is winter a good time to visit Mexico?

Winter is a great time to visit Mexico , as it is typically dry and mild with the least amount of humidity. Beach destinations on Mexico’s Caribbean coast will be warm and sunny with comfortable water temperatures all year round.

Mexico’s winter temperatures on the Pacific coast will be slightly cooler with colder water, but it’s still a great time to visit as there will be plenty of sun.

Central Mexico destinations like Mexico City and San Miguel de Allende will have cool but comfortable weather in winter, perfect for exploring the cities’ attractions and cultural offerings.

How are Mexico’s winter temperatures?

In Mexico, winter temperatures can vary depending on the region. In the northern and central parts of the country, temperatures tend to average in the mid-teens to mid-twenties Celsius (60s to 70s Fahrenheit).

In the southern parts of Mexico, the temperatures tend to remain relatively warm and may range between the high teens and high-twenties Celsius (70s to 80s Fahrenheit).

What’s the weather like in Mexico during winter?

The weather in Mexico during winter varies depending on the region.

Generally, the climate is mild with coastal regions experiencing mild and humid weather, while the mountainous regions experience cool and dry weather.

In northern Mexico, temperatures can drop to below freezing during winter, while the south remains mostly warm.

Winter in Mexico is generally the driest season of the year, with very little rainfall.

Where is the best place to spend winter in Mexico?

Mexico’s Caribbean coast will typically have the warmest temperatures during winter. However, the best places to spend winter will depend on your preferences. In fact, you might be surprised that it does snow in Mexico !

Mexico has a diverse range of destinations, from bustling beach towns to vibrant cities to charming colonial towns.

Consider what kind of vacation you want – relaxation, adventure, or culture – and choose a destination accordingly.

Is Mexico a good place to visit in December?

Yes, Mexico is a great place to visit in December.  The weather will be mild and dry, making it a great time for outdoor activities and beach vacations.

The warmest place in Mexico in December will typically be on the Caribbean coast, although Mexico’s Pacific coast will also be warm and sunny.

December is also the peak season for many tourist destinations in Mexico, offering a wide range of holiday events and activities for Christmas and the New Year.  Be sure to book accommodations in advance as they can fill up quickly during this busy time of year.

Can you go to the beach in Mexico in January?

Yes, Mexico has many beach destinations that are enjoyable in January. Mexico’s Caribbean coast will have the warmest water temperatures during this time, making it a great time for swimming and water activities.

Remember that some areas may be cooler during this time of year, so consider bringing a jacket or light sweater for cooler evenings.

What can you do to travel responsibly in Mexico?

Traveling responsibly in Mexico or anywhere else requires abiding by some general best practices. Here are a few tips:

• Research your destination to prioritize sustainable tourism and a balanced relationship between the environment and people.
• Connect with the area through activities while respecting local customs and laws.
• Minimize your carbon footprint by taking electric vehicles, public transport, or bike-friendly routes and reducing waste and energy.
• Show your support by shopping locally and finding eco-friendly activities.
• When leaving, remember to avoid littering, minimize the impact on natural areas, and properly dispose of waste.

Conclusion: Mexico Winter Vacation Destinations

Overall, Mexico offers a variety of top winter destinations–from beach towns to charming colonial cities to small surf retreats.

Consider which type of vacation you’re looking for and choose the best destination for you–whether it’s the warm Caribbean beaches, cultural attractions of Mexico City, or the laid-back atmosphere of Sayulita.

And don’t forget to book accommodations in advance as Mexico’s top destinations can fill up quickly during the winter season. No matter which destination you choose, Mexico is sure to offer a memorable and enjoyable winter vacation.

Journey To Mexico

Your Travel Guide To Mexico

Mexico in December: Weather, Things To Do And Travel Tips

Since Mexico is such a large country, the climate here differs from one location to the next. In December , Mexico’s north is characterized by mild temperatures while the country’s south has high temperatures.

It also does not rain in Mexico between December and April , making this period the ideal time to plan a trip to the country.

With this fine weather, you can fill your itinerary with visits to bustling cities, as well as a weekend in a beach town.

Note, however, that the country as a whole experiences cool evenings during this time of year, so don’t forget your favorite jacket or scarf!

Things you'll find in this article

The temperature in Mexico in December

Rain in mexico in december, wind in mexico in december, 1. get to know ajijic, jalisco (near chapala), 2. indulge in mexican food, 3. visit ensenada, baja california norte, 4. take part in holiday festivals, 5. discover tlaxcala city, in the state of tlaxcala (the smallest state in mexico), 6. go on a cruise, 7. spend a weekend in zihuatanejo, guerrero, travel tips and resources.

Related Read: 

• Mexico in January
• Mexico in February
• Mexico in March
• Mexico in April
• Mexico in May
• Mexico In June

In Mexico, the month of December is mild in the south but chilly in the north.

On the Yucatán Peninsula , the weather is perfect for going to the beach, and in the extreme north, there is even the possibility of snow. The majority of the cold weather occurs during the night and in the evenings in Mexico City and San Cristobal.

Temperatures in Mexico in December are about 70-75 °F by day and drop to 40 °F at night.

The typical sliding 31-day rainfall in Mexico during December is generally steady, averaging roughly 0.2 inches and seldom surpassing 0.6 inches.

In December, the wind in Mexico is usually 8.4 miles per hour (13.6 kph).

Things to Do in Mexico in December

During December in Mexico, you may enjoy a variety of fun events, traditional Mexican celebrations, and even the beach. This early winter month in Mexico is a season for whale watching, relaxing on the beach, and having a good time.

Are you going on a trip to Mexico for yourself as a holiday present? You may check out our list of the most popular destinations and things to do in Mexico in December.

Ajijic is located on the northernmost tip of Mexico’s biggest body of fresh water, Lake Chapala. It is a community that is a part of the municipality of Chapala, which is also known as Lake Chapala.

Ajijic enjoys a mild climate with acceptable temperatures and minimal humidity thanks to its location in the Sierra Madre mountains.

On the weekends, several of the local galleries open their doors to the public for art walks. The city markets are another favorite destination. Make it a point to familiarize yourself with the music of the Mariachi, which was born right here in Jalisco.

To book this tour click here .

As you explore Mexico in December, make sure to indulge in the exciting flavors of the local cuisine . The culinary landscape of this nation is a true marvel, boasting diversity that is unrivaled anywhere else on the planet.

Each region has its own unique and distinct flavor profile, making for a truly varied gastronomic experience. Mexican gastronomy is renowned for its masterful use of three key ingredients: beans, corn, and chili peppers as well as rice, juicy tomatoes, and creamy avocados.

Indulge in delectable dishes such as the savory tamales, hearty pozole, rich mole, crispy chilaquiles, succulent tacos el pastor, crispy tostadas, and flavorful enchiladas.

To truly savor the essence of the moment, be sure to complement your palate with a sip of mezcal or tequila. This will undoubtedly add an authentic and exhilarating touch to your experience.

Related Read

• Mexico In July
• Mexico In August
• Mexico In September
• Mexico In October
• Mexico In November

Ensenada, often known as La Cenicienta del Pacfico (The Cinderella of the Pacific), is Baja Mexico’s third-largest city. There are cruise ships here, a space center in the city, and Mexico’s largest wine-producing region in Todos Santos (The Bay of All Saints).

In December, Ensenada is brimming with exciting events and sights. The Malecon is a part of the Civic Plaza, where you’ll find a huge Mexican flag, as well as sculptures of Mexican national heroes. A wide variety of marinas can be found throughout the bay.

On the east side of Ensenada, Tiangui Los Globos, an open-air food, and flea market are located. Shop for a wide variety of regional goods.

Visiting Mexico in December is a great way to learn about the colorful culture of the country.

Acapulco’s Pierre Mundo Imperial Hotel hosts the three-day Tropico Music Festival. Fashion shows, music, and dancing, as well as exhibits and pool parties, all take place during this seaside festival, which is held during the first week of December each year.

The Feria de la Posada y Pinata, which takes place in the middle of December, is another noteworthy occasion in Acolman in Northern Mexico.

Teotihuacan archaeological site , meanwhile, hosts a traditional Christmas extravaganza every year. There are pinata-making classes, live music performances, and horse racing all available.

The Spanish began erecting structures in the Colonial City of Tlaxcala in the 1520s, making it one of the most interesting and unique places to visit in December in Mexico.

Plaza de la Constitución, the large city center, is home to the Santa Cruz fountain as well as a sizable commercial district.

Popular tourist destinations in Tlaxcala include the historic buildings in Centro Historico de Tlaxcala as well as the murals that can be found in the Government Palace.

The Basilica of Our Lady of Ocotlan was originally founded as a Franciscan monastery in the middle of the 16th century and is now a popular place for tourists to visit. In addition, the city is home to a significant number of museums.

How about exploring Mexico this December via cruise? This December, set sail on a luxurious cruise and explore the captivating wonders of the Riviera along the Pacific Ocean’s western coast.

Alternatively, indulge in the mystical charm of the Caribbean’s island mojo on the eastern coast or bask in the breathtaking coastal scenery of Baja.

As you set sail, you can revel in the sheer joy of immersing yourself in the local traditions and customs. Get ready to be swept away by the magic of Mexico, as you soak up the sun, indulge in delicious cuisine, and create unforgettable memories.

The Mexican ports, ranging from the popular tourist spots like Cabo San Lucas, Puerto Vallarta, and Cozumel to the lesser-known local gems, each bring their own unique and distinct essence to the table.

Indulge in the ultimate Mexican getaway as you sail through the pristine waters and soak in the breathtaking vistas that surround you.

Zihuatanejo is located 150 miles north of Acapulco on Mexico’s Pacific coast and is protected by a bay.

In Zihuatanejo , about 150 miles north of Acapulco, you’ll find colorful buildings housing galleries, folk art shops, and quaint hotels to stay in while exploring the area. Concerts, art exhibits, and other activities are held at Casa de la Cultura in the plaza.

In addition to seafood restaurants, the Malecon, or “Paseo del Pescador” (Fisherman’s Path), is a path that runs along the city beach. Zihuatanejo is home to a slew of breathtakingly beautiful beaches. Check out the fresh fish tacos and ceviche when you’re in the area.

If you’re a fan of the great outdoors, there are plenty of snorkeling and scuba diving spots nearby that can be reached by water taxi. There are several other options for recreation, including swimming, fishing, surfing, horseback riding, birdwatching in local lagoons, and golf.

Travel Tips

•  The climate in Mexico in December is perfect for walking, so make sure you bring a comfortable pair of shoes to wear on your excursions.
• In the evening temperatures are lower than expected, so you should also bring a light jacket with you.
• When you are out and about, it is a good idea to bring a scarf or a pashmina to keep warm. If you don’t already have one, you can buy one at any of Mexico’s many markets.

Travel Insurance: I never leave home without travel insurance. My personal opinion is if you can afford to travel, you can afford to buy a travel insurance. All things can happen while on the road and you can never be too sure. And it's something that you'll be glad to have when you need it. For my preferred travel insurance, I use Safety Wing .

Where To Stay: I personally use Booking.com for all my accommodations. Check out for their latest deals here .

Hola! Que tal? I'm Christine, a Filipina but in love with Mexico. I used to live in Central America and Mexico is my favorite. Love tacos, tequila, and margarita.

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Top Winter Vacations to Take in Mexico

When you need a warm escape during the dark days of winter, look no further than just across the border. The winter months in Mexico are one of the most comfortable times to visit, since you're spared from the blazing heat of summer and arriving just after hurricane season ends. Of course, it's a big country and the weather can vary significantly depending on what region you visit , but all in all, you can expect sunny days lounging around at the beach.

Each area has its own advantages, whether it be whale watching or holiday events in December , so read up to choose the best destination for your winter getaway.

Riviera Maya

If a romantic getaway with your partner is what you're looking for to warm up in winter, then the Riviera Maya is the place to be. Situated just south of Cancun , the Riviera Maya is a coastal section that runs for roughly 40 miles between the cities of Playa del Carmen and Tulum. As Cancun became overdeveloped and glutted with resorts, the Riviera Maya turned into a less-crowded escape with the same sublime beaches. And while the Riviera Maya is no longer a secret, the region does have a stronger focus on conservation and sustainable tourism in order to protect the delicate local ecosystem.

Playa del Carmen is one of the most popular towns in the area, but other towns you can stay in include Tulum and Akumal. All of them are located on the Caribbean Sea, which is ideal for snorkeling and scuba diving in the crystal clear water with all types of sea life, from colorful fish to sea turtles. Within easy driving distance, you can visit Mayan ruins or the famous cenotes , an expansive underground cave system that visitors can swim in.

Michael DeFreitas / Getty Images

Even though the island of Cozumel is technically a part of the Riviera Maya, the sheer beauty of the island and its remoteness from the mainland make it deserving of special recognition. Only 12 miles off the coast, it's easy to reach via ferry from Playa del Carmen or a short flight from the Cancun airport . While many tourists in Cancun head to Cozumel just to spend the day, those who have been there know that this idyllic island is worth a vacation in and of itself.

Diving and snorkeling are the prime activities around Cozumel, which is right in the heart of the Mesoamerican Reef, the second-largest coral reef in the world. If you want to explore farther out from the shore, there are a number of boat companies that will take visitors out to sea for a more intimate experience with the reefs. After swimming around for the day, check out the nightlife scene on the island. It's much more low-key than the packed clubs and bars of Cancun, appealing to a very different crowd from the party-goers on the mainland.

Puerto Escondido, Oaxaca

Puerto Escondido isn't quite as accessible as the major resort destinations in Mexico, so you can take in the area's natural beauty without feeling overwhelmed by towering resorts or hoards of tourists. Puerto Escondido is especially popular with surfers since it's home to the legendary Zicatela Pipeline, one of the best surf spots in the world. If you don't know how to surf but want to learn, the Oasis Surf Academy pairs your surf lessons with Spanish classes so you can learn how to ride the waves and order food in a local restaurant all at the same time.

Even if surfing isn't your thing, the laid-back surfer lifestyle is appealing to many. Puerto Escondido is a small town and several hours away from the nearest big city, Oaxaca , so there isn't a lot to do. This is the place to go when you want to escape and spend your days reading on the beach and eating fresh-caught seafood, without any pressure to sightsee or do touristy things.

Cabo San Lucas

Davidlohr Bueso / Flikr / CC BY 2.0

At the southern tip of Baja California Sur is the popular resort town of Cabo San Lucas. The party scene downtown is especially popular with groups of friends visiting for bachelor or bachelorette parties, but Cabo is also a destination with lots to do for families. Winter is actually when Cabo experiences the best weather of the year , with the average high temperature hovering around 81 degrees Fahrenheit. It's also one of the busiest times to visit and travelers should plan out reservations long in advance, especially during the Christmas holidays when kids are out of school.

Perhaps an even bigger draw than the ideal weather is the perks of visiting during whale season . From December to April, humpback whales come to the Sea of Cortez right off the Cabo coast for their annual migration, and boat tours can bring visitors close to these magnificent animals. If you're willing to travel a few hours north, you can see gray whales breeding during the same time.

Puerto Vallarta

Puerto Vallarta Tourism Board

Like many Pacific Coast cities in Mexico, Puerto Vallarta experiences the most comfortable temperatures —and biggest crowds—in the winter. This resort town on the Pacific Coast wraps around scenic Banderas Bay, with its dramatic Sierra Madre backdrop. Safe, friendly, and bursting with family-friendly activities, Puerto Vallarta offers kids distractions like snorkeling, whale-watching, and jungle adventures while keeping parents entertained with world-class restaurants, golf courses, and a thriving art scene.

Not only is Puerto Vallarta a popular family destination, but it's also one of the prime LGBTQ+ vacation spots in Mexico. After a day spent on a local excursion or sitting by the beach , downtown Puerto Vallarta has plenty of nightlife options for all tastes, including a neighborhood with a collection of LGBTQ+ bars that's amusingly named the Zona Romántica. When you need a bite to eat, the food scene includes upscale fine dining and casual beach palapas, plus everything in between.

Tequila Country

TripSavvy / Ana Alarcon 

Just 40 miles outside of the bustling metropolis of Guadalajara in the state of Jalisco, visitors can head to the endless fields of agave plants that are used to make Mexico's national drink, tequila. Just as vineyards are known as wine country, this area of Mexico is known as Tequila Country, and the epicenter of it all is the aptly named town of Tequila. Here, you can visit the factory of the world-renowned Jose Cuervo brand, along with dozens of other local distilleries. You'll likely be trying tequila at each place you stop, so hiring a tour guide to drive you around is a smart idea. While this can all be done on a day trip from Guadalajara, nothing beats spending a couple of nights in an authentic rural hacienda.

Apart from tequila, the state of Jalisco is also the birthplace of quintessential Mexican traditions like mariachi music and charrería , the country's national rodeo sport. You can—and should—see them both while in the area. Mexican cuisine varies from state to state, so don't expect to just eat tacos everywhere you go. In Jalisco, the specialties are tortas ahogadas , a saucy sandwich, and birria , a meat stew often made with goat or mutton.

Monarch Butterfly Reserves

Richard Ellis / Getty Images

Winter isn't just whale season in Mexico; it's also butterfly season. When it gets too cold in the U.S. and Canada for monarch butterflies to survive, they make a 3,000-mile journey to the Monarch Buttery Biosphere Reserve in Mexico, a UNESCO World Heritage Site . The reserve straddles the states of Michoacan and the State of Mexico, just under two hours away from the capital Mexico City so it's easy to reach for a day trip or weekend excursion.

Up to a billion butterflies make their winter home in the area, so many that the sound of their wings flapping mimics rainfall. There can be so many on a tree at one time that their weight actually causes the branches to bend. The butterflies start to arrive in November, but they're most active during the cooler months of January and February. If it gets too hot during the day they'll head back to their trees to roost, so morning or evening are usually the best time to catch them.

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• Here’s How To Make Your Vacation In Mexico In December 2024 A Delightful Experience!

27 Dec 2021

Cover Image Credit: Wikimedia

When it comes to choosing a holiday destination there are a vast number of options in the world. Mexico is diverse, vast, best of all and always gets stays in our top recommendation. Cultural, warm, friendly, adventurous and exceptionally attractive, Mexico in December carters everything that one can think of experiencing on a holiday, and affordable too. Enjoying an abundance of tourists every year, this Latin American country thrives with rich cultural history, beauty, and energy. It is another world entirely, inviting, full of energy, friendly people and diverse.

When December approaches, the big holiday celebrations, high-season crowds, and excellent wildlife viewing start. It is a great time for water activities and sports like kiteboarding, windsurfing, snorkeling and diving. Mexico in December is quite pleasant and is indeed the best month to explore its beauty.

Weather In Mexico In December

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Mexico is a huge country and the weather here varies region by region. Generally, Mexico in December is cool in the north and warm in the south. December to April is the time when there is no rain in Mexico and is a perfect time to vacation here. Weather in Mexico in December is quite warm, dye and pleasant during the day and cold during the evenings across the country. The average temperature in Mexico in December can be somewhere around 24 to 28-degree Celsius. Mexico in December is fun-packed with suitable weather to enjoy beach activities, sightseeing in the day and lovely walks enjoying local food in the evenings.

4 Top Things To Do In Mexico In December

Wondering what to do in Mexico in December? Here is a guide to help you plan your vacation in a better way.

1. Cabo San Lucas: Watch The Sunset On A Cruise

Love water and sailing? Mexico certainly fits the bill for a nice cruise holiday with family or friends. Experience Mexico’s rich culture, fun and the real thrill of sailing on a cruise to Mexico in December. Each port of Mexico including the top favorites of locals and tourists – Cabo San Lucas, Puerto Vallarta and Cozumel – exhibits its own unique local flavor to the mix.

Mexico’s large coastlines on the Sea of Cortez, Gulf of Mexico and the Pacific Ocean are apt for a comfortable and rousing cruise holiday. Cruise ships to Mexico depart from Florida, California, San Francisco, Los Angeles, San Diego and many other cities from the United States. You can take a 3 to 10-day vacation on a cruise to Mexico in December and explore the charm of Pacific west-coast Riviera, east-coast Caribbean’s island mojo or Baja’s coastal scenery. No matter what your preference or cruise style is, you are sure to experience a great vacation.

Recommended cruises: Disney Wonder, Eurodam, Nieuw Amsterdam, Norwegian Joy, Ruby Princess, and more. You can choose one depending on the type, traveler type, region and best itinerary for you.

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2. Playa Del Carmen: Take A Dip

Are you a beach baby and water sports are what excites you? Well, Mexico is a destination with an inviting coastline to match your expectations. December is the best time to indulge in a beach retreat and visit some of the best beaches in Mexico in December. The relaxed vibe and clean beaches give you the real taste of this country. Located on the strip of Caribbean shoreline, Playa Del Carmen is not only known for its beaches but for shops, restaurants, and nightspots ranging from dance clubs to laid-back bars. Gaining a sophisticated reputation, Playa del Carmen with coral reefs, Rio Secreto and more jewels is worth visiting.

The saline but warm blue water, sandy shores, seafood, adrenaline-pumping water activities, and exotic locations of the beaches of Mexico with a backdrop of blue skies awaits your arrival. Cozumel, Tulum, Playa Mazunte, Playa Paraiso, Playa Las Gatas, Isla Holbox, Playa Norte, Playa Maroma and Bahia Balandra are a few other best beaches in Mexico in December for visiting.

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3. Try The Tempting Mexican Cuisine

Your vacation in Mexico in December is incomplete without trying the local Mexican cuisine. Each region of this country is distinct, hence serves distinct variety and flavors of food that make it completely diverse in the globe. No matter which area you travel, Mexican food is made with high-quality and fresh ingredients. The three main staples used in Mexican dishes are beans, corn and hot peppers.

People consume corn in all the possible forms and mainly the tortillas, you should definitely try them. Tomatoes, rice and avocados are also heavily used in Mexican dishes. Tamales, Pozole, Mole, chilaquiles, Tacos el Pastor, Tostadas, and Enchiladas are some of the best dishes that you should try. Also, do not forget to wash it down with mezcal (a rough version of tequila) or tequila for a stimulating and authentic experience.

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4. Be Part Of The Mexican Festivals

Mexico in December is full of festive vibes and worth watching to know about its vibrant culture. The energetic three-day Tropico Music Festival is held in Pierre Mundo Imperial Hotel in Acapulco. This beachfront festival held in the first week of December is full of fashion events, music and dancing, at displays and pool parties.

Held in mid-December, the Feria de la Posada y Pinata is another fine event in Acolman. It is a traditional festival that is celebrated during the Christmas season every year near Teotihuacan archaeological, Mexico City. You can attend the pinata-making workshops, music shows, and horse races. The most famous play based on the Christmas story is Pastorelas. Other festivals celebrated here include Posadas, Christmas, and New Year.

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The aforementioned things to do in Mexico in December will surely help you plan your trip with ease. This paradise offers an endless array of exciting experiences from sightseeing, activities, food, nightlife, shopping and more that you cannot miss. Just pack and take a trip to mexico for a fun filled holiday experience.

Disclaimer: TravelTriangle claims no credit for images featured on our blog site unless otherwise noted. All visual content is copyrighted to its respectful owners. We try to link back to original sources whenever possible. If you own rights to any of the images and do not wish them to appear on TravelTriangle, please contact us and they will be promptly removed. We believe in providing proper attribution to the original author, artist or photographer.

Frequently Asked Questions About Mexico In December

Is December a good time to go to Mexico?

December to April is the best time to holiday in Mexico, it is dry, warm and not affected by no rain.

Is it warm in Mexico in December?

December is quite warm and serves as perfect beach weather, especially along the Pacific Ocean.

Can you swim in Mexico in December?

Yes, you can definitely swim in Mexico in December, the water is warm and the weather is adequate too.

When should you not go to Mexico?

May to October is generally the rainy season in Mexico and is it advisable to avoid these months. Also, avoid visiting the Caribbean coast from June to November as it can be affected by the hurricane season.

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13 Places to Visit in Mexico in December

• November 15, 2023

Table of Contents

As the year gracefully winds down, December unfolds its magic, casting a spell that beckons travelers to the embrace of sun-kissed shores . Mexico, a country where time seems to slow down, becomes a tapestry of vibrant colors and warm breezes . Embrace the enchantment of winter in Mexico—a haven where the sun dances on golden shores and warm breezes weave through rich landscapes. Mexico beckons with its tropical embrace as the northern hemisphere embraces winter’s chill, offering an idyllic escape for those seeking sun-kissed adventures and festive warmth. It is the best place for a vacation in December.

Cancun: A Tropical Oasis Awakens

Cancun, in December, emerges as a tropical haven, shaking off the vestiges of the rainy season. The weather transforms into a symphony of warm breezes , making it one of the best tropical vacation spots in December. The azure waters of the Caribbean Sea invite you for a refreshing dip, and the powdery white beaches stretch out like a welcome mat.

Puerto Vallarta: Where Charm Meets Celebration

Puerto Vallarta in December is a celebration of contrasts— the festive energy of the season seamlessly blending with the serene beauty of Banderas Bay . It is one of the best places for vacation in December , offering a delightful mix of tradition and tropical allure. The cobblestone streets of the Romantic Zone come alive with twinkling lights, and the scent of local delicacies fills the air. It’s undeniably one of the best places for vacation in December, where the warmth of Mexican hospitality mingles with the gentle ocean breeze.

Los Cabos: A Desert Oasis Transformed

Los Cabos in December unfolds as a desert landscape bathed in golden sunlight. The weather is mild , making it one of the best family beach vacations in December. The Sea of Cortez and the Pacific Ocean converge, creating a breathtaking backdrop for leisure and adventure. December is a visual feast where l uxury meets the azure expanse of the Sea of Cortez .

As the sun sets over the ocean, Los Cabos transforms into a cosmic paradise, with the sea waves lulling you to sleep after a delicious day.

Mexico City: New Year’s Revelry in the Cultural Heart

Experience the pulsating heart of Mexico in Mexico City, adorned with festive decorations and a vibrant tapestry of events, solidifying its status as a top destination for New Year’s Eve celebrations.

Tulum: Tranquil December Bliss

For a December vacation embraced by tranquility, Tulum unfurls its serene beaches and a laid-back vibe, complemented by eco-friendly resorts that resonate with a harmonious connection to nature.

Cozumel: A Snorkeler’s Paradise

Cozumel, an island paradise, unfolds its pristine allure, serving as an idyllic escape for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts seeking refuge from the winter’s chill.

Guanajuato: Charming Streets and Festive Markets

Explore the enchanting streets and vibrant Christmas markets of Guanajuato, a colonial city that shines with historical charm in December.

Oaxaca: A Unique Holiday Haven

Oaxaca beckons travelers with its indigenous culture and culinary prowess , promising a unique and culturally rich holiday experience.

San Miguel de Allende: A Magical Festive Retreat

San Miguel de Allende, adorned with its kaleidoscope of colorful buildings and a jubilant atmosphere, transforms into a magical sanctuary for Christmas and New Year’s celebrations.

Merida: A Warm Cultural Escape

The capital of Yucatan, Merida, where Mayan and colonial heritage converge , extends a warm and culturally rich winter escape.

Zihuatanejo: A Coastal Oasis

From a humble fishing village to a resort destination, Zihuatanejo provides a serene retreat with its pristine beaches and quaint coastal charm.

Puebla: A Traditional Mexican Christmas

Puebla invites travelers to partake in traditional Mexican Christmas celebrations, where colonial architecture and culinary specialties create a festive tapestry.

Acapulco: A New Year’s Extravaganza

Acapulco, one of Mexico’s timeless beach destinations, entices revelers with its v ibrant nightlife and the allure of beautiful bays , establishing itself as an ideal locale for a New Year’s celebration.

The Best Vacation Spot in December: A Choice for Every Soul

In Mexico, December isn’t just a month; it’s an invitation to indulge, explore, and create lasting memories. Whether you find yourself captivated by the allure of Cancun, the charm of Puerto Vallarta, or the serenity of Los Cabos, the best vacation spot in December is where your soul finds its perfect rhythm.

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Discover the 10 Best Places in Mexico to Visit in December

Looking for the best places in Mexico to visit in December? You’re in the right spot!

We’ve compiled a must-see list of sun-soaked beaches, vibrant cultural hubs, and tranquil natural retreats. So sit back, grab a margarita, and let’s embark on this Mexican adventure together.

It’s time to spice up your winter travel plans!

There’s a reason Cancun tops our list of the best places in Mexico to visit in December. Imagine swapping your snow boots for flip-flops, your snowman for a sandcastle. Sounds dreamy, right?

This slice of the Caribbean is exactly that – a dream come to life. The weather in December is just what the doctor ordered for your winter blues. With temperatures hovering around the mid-20s Celsius (high-70s Fahrenheit), you can bid farewell to frostbite.

But what is it that makes Cancun stand out among the sea of beach destinations? Besides its pristine white sand beaches that stretch as far as the eye can see, it’s home to one of the most significant remnants of the Mayan civilization, the El Rey Ruins. Step back in time as you explore these ancient structures, all the while being a stone’s throw away from the beach.

When the sun goes down, Cancun comes alive with a vibrant nightlife. Dance the night away in one of the many bustling clubs and bars that line the streets of the Hotel Zone.

Pro Travel Tip: While in Cancun, don’t miss out on a day trip to Isla Mujeres. It’s a short ferry ride away and is famous for its tranquil beaches and stunning snorkeling spots.

2. Playa del Carmen

Here’s another beach town that’s no stranger to the spotlight. But let me tell you something, Playa del Carmen is not just another name in the long list of Mexico’s beach destinations. It’s a place that leaves its mark on you. And in December? It’s nothing short of a tropical Christmas fantasy.

The weather in December is as inviting as a warm hug. The average high temperature stays around 28 degrees Celsius (low 80s Fahrenheit), giving you plenty of opportunities to get your dose of Vitamin Sea.

When it comes to attractions, Playa del Carmen brings a world of wonders to your feet. The famed Fifth Avenue, or Quinta Avenida, is a vibrant stretch of shops, restaurants, and bars where you can find everything from local handicrafts to high-end brands.

For nature lovers, eco-parks like Xcaret and Xel-Ha offer an unforgettable mix of adventure and natural beauty. And let’s not forget the spectacular scuba diving experiences on offer. The Great Maya Reef, one of the largest coral reef systems in the world, is just off the coast.

Pro Travel Tip: If you’re visiting in early December, don’t miss out on the Riviera Maya Jazz Festival. It’s one of the biggest events of the year in Playa del Carmen and a great chance to groove to some world-class jazz music.

Last on our list of sun-kissed beach destinations, but certainly not the least, is Tulum. A place that weaves a magical spell of serenity, Tulum is an ideal retreat to escape the winter chills. With December temperatures averaging a balmy 28 degrees Celsius (low 80s Fahrenheit), it’s a perfect time to explore this tropical paradise.

Tulum is a unique blend of stunning beaches, captivating history, and an irresistible bohemian vibe. The Tulum Ruins, a well-preserved Mayan coastal city perched on a cliff, is a sight to behold. The Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a biodiverse wonderland that houses thousands of species of flora and fauna.

For those seeking inner peace, numerous yoga retreats around town offer a serene environment to unwind and rejuvenate.

Pro Travel Tip : While in Tulum, make sure to visit one of the many cenotes – natural sinkholes filled with crystal-clear water, perfect for swimming, snorkeling, or simply cooling off.

4. Mexico City

Stepping away from the beaches, let’s dive into the cultural heart of Mexico. Mexico City, the capital, is a bustling metropolis that blends the old with the new, traditions with trends, and the quaint with the quirky. In December, the city takes on a festive air, with lights, decorations, and celebrations in full swing.

The weather is cooler here, with temperatures ranging from 8 to 21 degrees Celsius (mid-40s to low-70s Fahrenheit). It’s an excellent time to explore the city without the summer heat or the rainy season showers.

Mexico City is a city of wonders. The Zocalo, one of the largest public squares in the world, is a must-visit. The Frida Kahlo Museum, dedicated to the life and works of the famous Mexican artist, is a cultural gem. And you simply cannot miss out on the city’s Christmas celebrations, which include colorful processions, live performances, and a grand display of lights and decorations.

Pro Travel Tip : While in Mexico City, be sure to sample some traditional holiday treats, such as bunuelos (deep-fried pastries) and ponche (warm fruit punch).

5. Guanajuato

Next on our list is Guanajuato, a charming city that looks straight out of a vibrant postcard. With its colorful houses nestled into the hillside and narrow, winding streets, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is nothing short of enchanting. And with the mild December weather (average highs around 20 degrees Celsius or high-60s Fahrenheit), you can comfortably explore all its wonders.

A visit to Guanajuato is a walk through Mexico’s rich history and culture. The Mummies of Guanajuato, a collection of naturally mummified bodies, offer a fascinating, albeit slightly eerie, glimpse into the past. The annual Festival Internacional Cervantino, one of the most important arts and culture festivals in Latin America, fills the city with music, dance, and theater.

Pro Travel Tip : Take a ride on the funicular for a panoramic view of the city. The sight of the sun setting over the colorful houses is truly mesmerizing.

Our cultural journey continues to Oaxaca, a city that is often referred to as the culinary capital of Mexico. In December, the city’s weather remains pleasant with average temperatures around 27 degrees Celsius (low-80s Fahrenheit), making it an ideal time to indulge in its gastronomic delights.

Oaxaca’s rich cultural tapestry extends to its attractions too. The Monte Alban archaeological site, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, showcases the grandeur of the ancient Zapotec civilization. The vibrant local markets are the perfect place to sample the city’s famous cuisine, which includes delicacies like mole and tlayudas.

Pro Travel Tip : While in Oaxaca, take a trip to Teotitlan del Valle, a nearby village famous for its traditional Zapotec rug weaving.

7. Puerto Vallarta

As we journey back towards the coast, our first stop is Puerto Vallarta. This Pacific paradise is a nature lover’s dream, with its lush jungles, pristine beaches, and abundant wildlife. In December, Puerto Vallarta enjoys a respite from the rainy season, with temperatures around 31 degrees Celsius (high 80s Fahrenheit) – ideal for outdoor exploration.

There’s plenty to do in Puerto Vallarta, but one experience you should not miss is whale watching. From December to March, humpback whales visit the bay’s warm waters, making for a spectacular sight. For those seeking tranquility, the quaint villages of Yelapa and Majahuitas offer peaceful beaches and a laid-back vibe.

Let’s not forget about Zona Romantica, the city’s historic heart, known for its cobblestone streets, charming architecture, and vibrant arts scene.

Pro Travel Tip : Try to visit the El Eden Canopy Tour, where some scenes from the movie “Predator” were filmed. The tour offers zipline adventures through the verdant jungle.

8. Cabo San Lucas

Perched on the southernmost tip of Mexico’s Baja California Peninsula, Cabo San Lucas is a destination like no other. This desert meets the sea paradise is a perfect December getaway, with temperatures around 27 degrees Celsius (low 80s Fahrenheit) and practically zero rainfall.

Cabo’s natural beauty is its biggest allure. The El Arco, a stunning rock formation emerging from the sea, is a sight to behold and an iconic symbol of the town. Medano Beach, with its golden sands and calm waters, is perfect for swimming and sunbathing. And for the adventurous souls, Cabo offers some of the best sport fishing opportunities in the world.

Pro Travel Tip : Take a boat ride to Lover’s Beach, a hidden beach nestled between dramatic rock formations. Be mindful of the tides, though, as high tides can make the beach inaccessible.

9. San Miguel de Allende

Our nature retreat continues to San Miguel de Allende, a city renowned for its well-preserved colonial architecture and enchanting natural surroundings. December sees San Miguel in a festive mood, with pleasant weather (average high around 22 degrees Celsius or low 70s Fahrenheit) and numerous Christmas festivities.

There’s much to love about San Miguel de Allende. The Parroquia de San Miguel Arcangel, with its gothic façade, is the city’s centerpiece and a must-visit. A dip in one of the local hot springs is a relaxing experience. Art enthusiasts would love exploring the numerous art workshops and galleries around town.

Pro Travel Tip : Attend a traditional posada, a Mexican Christmas procession that reenacts Mary and Joseph’s search for shelter.

10. Chichen Itza

Finally, we round off our list with a visit to one of the world’s most famous archaeological sites – Chichen Itza. Located in the Yucatan Peninsula, this ancient Mayan city is a testament to a civilization that was far ahead of its time. December is a great time to visit, with mild temperatures (around 28 degrees Celsius or low 80s Fahrenheit) and lesser crowds.

Chichen Itza is home to several remarkable structures. El Castillo, also known as the Pyramid of Kukulcan, is a marvel of ancient architecture and astronomy. The Great Ball Court, the largest known ancient sports field, is another intriguing sight. Just a short drive away is the Cenote Ik Kil, a beautiful natural sinkhole ideal for swimming.

Pro Travel Tip : Arrive early to beat the crowds and the midday heat. And don’t forget to bring a hat, sunglasses, and plenty of water.

So there you have it – the top 10 best places to visit in Mexico this December. Whether you’re looking for sun-kissed beaches, vibrant cities, serene retreats, or glimpses into ancient civilizations, Mexico has something for everyone. And there’s something uniquely magical about experiencing it all in the festive month of December.

I hope this guide has given you a taste of what awaits you in Mexico this December. Remember, every journey begins with a single step. So why not take that step today and start planning your Mexican adventure? After all, the world is a book, and those who do not travel read only a page. Here’s to turning the page and starting a new chapter. Hasta pronto, amigos!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the weather like in mexico in december.

In December, the weather in Mexico is typically mild and pleasant. Coastal regions like Cancun and Puerto Vallarta maintain warm temperatures ideal for beach activities, while cities like Mexico City and Guanajuato might have cooler, yet comfortable, weather.

Do I Need a Visa to Visit Mexico?

For many countries, a visa is not required for a tourist stay of up to 180 days in Mexico. However, it’s always best to check the current visa policies for your specific country before planning your trip.

Is it Safe to Travel to Mexico?

While Mexico does face some safety issues, millions of tourists safely visit every year. It’s important to research and stay updated on travel advisories, use common sense, and take precautions similar to those in any major city.

are there COVID-19 Travel Restrictions in Mexico?

COVID-19 travel restrictions can change frequently, so it’s crucial to stay updated. As of now, Mexico is open for tourists, but it’s recommended to check the latest government advisories and health guidelines before your journey.

What are the Must-Try Foods in Mexico?

Mexico’s culinary scene is vast and vibrant. Do not miss out on trying tacos, enchiladas, tamales, and mole. For sweets, try churros or flan. Each region also has its own specialties that are worth tasting.

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Mexico Weather in December

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Late winter is the traditional tourist season in Mexico and in the big resorts like Acapulco and Cancún, the months from December through to April are the busiest. Mountain areas, though, can get very cold then; in fact, nights in the mountains can be extremely cold at any time of year. Between December and April, thousands of grey whales also come to mate in the lagoons of Guerrero Negro and San Ignacio. Keep reading so you know all about the weather in Mexico in December.

What is the weather like in Mexico in December?

Is mexico warm in december, is december a good time to visit mexico, average rainfall in mexico in december, festivals and events in mexico in december, visit mexico in other months, travel ideas for mexico, created by local experts.

17 days  / from 1590 USD

The Magic of the Yucatan and Mexico City

Explore the magic of the Yucatan Peninsula: from colonial towns like Merida to Archaeological sites like Uxmal and Calakmul, close to the Guatemala border, to beaches in Bacalar and Tulum, this itinerary shows you the real Yucatan before heading out to explore Mexico City.

15 days  / from 1430 USD

Mexico City, Oaxaca & the Yucatan

Explore Central Mexico with its ever-busy capital Mexico City, visiting Teotihuacan and the famous museums in the city. Further on to Oaxaca City, the gateway to the Archaeological Site Monte Alban. Afterwards, continue to the white beaches of the Yucatan: Cancun and Isla Holbox await.

18 days  / from 1735 USD

Fascinating Mexico: From Guanajuato to the Yucatan

Discover Mexico from fascinating San Miguel de Allende over busy Mexico City all the way to the Yucatan Peninsula. This itinerary combines public transportation with domestic flights to ensure you can make the most of discovering fascinating Mexico within two weeks.

The weather in Mexico in December is generally characterized by clear skies and minimal rainfall. It also marks the onset of the dry season in many parts of the country, making it an attractive time for travellers to visit and enjoy comfortable weather.

Coastal regions, such as Cancun , Puerto Vallarta , and Riviera Maya, typically offer warm and pleasant temperatures in December. Daytime averages range from 25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F). The evenings may bring cooler temperatures, making it enjoyable to take leisurely strolls along the shore or dine al fresco.

Inland cities, like Mexico City and Guadalajara, boast milder temperatures during December. Daytime averages range from 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F), creating a comfortable atmosphere for exploring historical sites and museums.

Rough Guides tip: a trip to Mexico is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Do you want to get the best out of your trip? Check our Mexico itineraries .

Balandra Beach, Mexico ©Shutterstock

Yes, Mexico is generally warm in December, especially in the coastal and lowland regions.

Coastal destinations like Cancun, Puerto Vallarta, and Playa del Carmen typically experience daytime temperatures ranging from 25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F) in December. These regions offer a perfect escape for travellers seeking to soak up the sun on the beautiful beaches and enjoy water activities in the warm waters of the Caribbean Sea and the Pacific Ocean.

Even inland cities, such as Mexico City and Guadalajara, maintain relatively mild temperatures during December. Daytime averages range from 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F).

Adventure awaits you on our tailor-made trip to the Oaxacan coast , a place as spectacular as the activities you will do. From a boat trip to the beautiful bays of Huatulco to a warm horseback ride on the seashore in Puerto Escondido.

The weather in Mexico in December is great, so this a popular time to visit Mexico. As well as December having comfortable and enjoyable weather, beach destinations like Cancun, Puerto Vallarta, and Riviera Maya draw in tourists with warm temperatures.

Inland cities like Mexico City and Guadalajara offer milder temperatures, perfect for exploring cultural attractions and historical landmarks without the intense summer heat.

December is also filled with vibrant celebrations Like Christmas and many cities and towns in Mexico adorn themselves with festive decorations throughout the month.

Be aware, though, that December is a busy time for tourism in Mexico. Prices for accommodation and flights are usually higher and popular strips of sand can be crowded.

Rough Guides tip: make sure to read all about the best time to visit Mexico month by month

Tequila production in Mexico © Shutterstock

In December, Mexico experiences a relatively dry season in many regions, which means that the average rainfall is generally lower compared to the rainy season. However, the amount of rainfall can still vary depending on the specific location within the country.

Coastal areas and beach destinations, such as Cancun, Puerto Vallarta, and Riviera Maya, tend to have lower rainfall in December. The average rainfall in these regions can range from 50mm to 100mm (2 to 4 inches) during the month. These coastal areas typically enjoy clear skies and pleasant weather, making them popular destinations for winter getaways.

Inland cities, like Mexico City and Guadalajara, also experience a decrease in rainfall during December. The average rainfall in these cities can range from 25mm to 50mm (1 to 2 inches). The drier weather creates a comfortable environment for exploring cultural attractions and enjoying outdoor activities.

On this tailor-made Los Cabos Self Drive trip , you will explore the beaches and islands of Cabo. Located in Baja California Sur, Los Cabos, Todos Santos, and Cabo San Lucas do not only have excellent beaches to offer for your exploration but also fascinating wildlife.

There are several festivals and events that take place in Mexico during the month of December. This is the biggest:

• Día de la Virgen de Guadalupe (Dec 12). Celebrations everywhere, and a huge day for pilgrims at the Basílica de Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe in Mexico City, home of Mexico’s most important Virgin (a manifestation, that is, of the biblical Virgin Mary), who appeared on this day in 1551.
• Christmas ( Dec 25). A major holiday, with loads of people on the move and transport, booked solid for weeks ahead. Gringo influence is heavy nowadays, with Santa Claus and Christmas trees, but the Mexican festival remains distinct in many ways, with a much stronger religious element (virtually every home has a Nativity crib). One of the more bizarre Christmas events takes place in Oaxaca, where there is a public display of Nativity cribs and other sculptures made of radishes.

For more practical guidance that will help you make the most of your Italy trip, have a chat with our local experts , who can help you plan your dream trip or browse our Mexico itineraries and find the best option to suit your tastes.

The Rough Guides to Mexico and related travel guides

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• Best time to visit Mexico

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Where to Vacation in Mexico in December

Author: Jessica S.

October 22, 2012

As December approaches, the vibrant traditions of Mexico come to life in new ways. In a country with strong historical ties, cultural celebrations dating back to colonial times and beyond take the forefront in communities all over Mexico. Everywhere you go, the holiday season is marked by robust flavors, colors and aromas. Seasonal food and goods become available, offering fresh experiences even to veteran travelers. The spirit of Mexico in December is enchanting and an opportunity to enjoy unforgettable festivities.

Mexican Celebrations in December

For nine days stretching from December 16th to the 24th, the Mexican Posadas take place. Singing processions travel the streets with candles, reenacting St. Joseph and the Virgin Mary’s trek through Bethlehem in search of shelter. Residents in nearby homes play the roles of innkeepers who refused to help the travelers until Joseph and Mary are received at a designated area. In many places, the procession is beautifully detailed with angels, pilgrims, shepherds and children carrying poinsettias. The entire scene is performed in song and at the final location the participants share prayers of thanks before enjoying a marvelous feast.

Throughout the month, visitors are sure to see Nativity scenes decorating homes, churches and several public venues. Scenes of Jesus’ birth in a manger are carefully laid out with ceramic figures often representing the Biblical characters. Along the streets of Mexico, these scenes range from simple setups to elaborate designs with breathtaking detail. As December 24th arrives, families gather for a nourishing meal on Christmas Eve, honoring the Nativity scene with prayer and gratitude.

Holiday Markets in Mexico

If you want to experience the holiday season in Mexico, visit the colonial cities for an up-close look at the rich cultural traditions.

• Mexico City

Other Destinations

Just a few towns away, Patzcuaro lies amidst charming artisan communities where visitors can truly dive into the local cultural, from tasting traditional cuisine to checking out the artisan and copper workshops. Or if you prefer to see a UN World Heritage site, travel to nearby Morelia for authentic souvenirs from Michoacan markets and a chance to see the city’s treasured historic center. Wherever you decide to visit, the holiday season is sure to bring impressive festivities that will be remembered for years to come.

Posted in: Colonial Cities , Culture , Guanajuato & San Miguel Allende , Holidays, Fairs & Festivals , Mexico City

Tags: guanajuato , mexico city

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Mexico City in December: Weather, Events & Travel Tips 

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Visiting Mexico City in December ? Here’s what you need to know!

Mexico City is a vibrant and exciting destination to visit at any time of the year, but December is a particularly special time to experience the city’s unique culture and festive spirit. 

With a range of events, traditions, and attractions to enjoy, Mexico City in December is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the best of Mexican culture and holiday cheer.

I may be biased because it is my city but, it is indeed beautiful.

As a local, I put together the ultimate guide to everything you need to know about visiting Mexico City in December, including what to expect weather-wise, what to wear, and where to go.

Mexico City in December: What is it Like?

👉🏽 is december a good time to visit mexico city.

Yes, December is generally a good time to visit Mexico City as the weather is mild and comfortable during the day and there are many festive events and celebrations taking place throughout the month (you’ll really feel the Christmas spirit throughout the city!).

The holiday season brings a festive atmosphere to the city, with colorful decorations, traditional foods, and lively street performances.

Additionally, many museums and attractions offer special exhibits and events during this time of year. 

With that said, keep in mind that the city gets pretty busy during December, and prices for accommodation, flights, and even Uber have risen in Mexico City.

👉🏽 Is it Cheaper in Mexico City in December?

Early December is a relatively inexpensive time to visit Mexico City, but flight and accommodation prices rise from mid-December to early January (holiday season).

👉🏽 Is Mexico City Safe to Travel to in December?

Yes, Mexico City is safe year-round as long as you take normal precautions as you would in any city such as not walking in dark alleys late at night, not getting involved with sketchy people, etc.

Make sure to watch out for pickpocketers in the Centro Historico (although this is a year-round tip!).

👉🏽 Mexico City Weather in December

Exploring Mexico City in December is perfect due to the great weather conditions.

The days are typically sunny, with comfortable temperatures that are not too hot or too cold.

It is rare for rain to occur, and while the evenings can be chilly, it’s still a great time to be outside.

👉🏽 Mexico City Temperature in December

The temperature in Mexico City in December can vary, but it is generally mild and comfortable. 

During the day, temperatures usually range from the mid-60s to low 70s °F (around 18-22 degrees °C).

Temperatures can sometimes drop below 50°F (around 10 degrees °C) at night.

👉🏽 What Season is December in Mexico City?

December is considered the winter in Mexico City in Mexico City. 

👉🏽 Is December Rainy in Mexico City?

December is the dry season in Mexico City and rain is not usually expected.

While it’s not impossible for rain to occur, it’s relatively rare and you can usually expect sunny and dry weather this time of the year.

👉🏽 How Do People Dress in Mexico City in December?

December sees mild, sunny days and pretty cold evenings, so people usually dress in layers to brave the drastic change in temperatures. Moreover, people dress more elegantly during December, especially in the evening.

Best Places to Visit in Mexico City in December

1. centro historico.

The Centro Histórico, also known as the Historic Center, is a significant area in Mexico City and is considered one of the largest and most important historic centers in the world. 

This UNESCO World Heritage site is home to many iconic landmarks such as the Palacio de Bellas Artes, Templo Mayor, Zocalo , and more.

2. Frida Kahlo Museum

The Frida Kahlo Museum , also known as the Casa Azul or Blue House, is a museum that pays tribute to the life and artistic accomplishments of the Mexican artist Frida Kahlo. 

The Frida Kahlo Museum is located in the house where Kahlo was born and spent most of her life, and it houses not only a large collection of her artwork but also personal belongings such as her clothing, jewelry, and other cherished items.

3. Chapultepec Park

Chapultepec Park is a sprawling urban park located in the center of Mexico City, spanning more than a whipping 1,600 acres (which makes it four times the size of Central Park!). 

The park boasts a diverse range of attractions, such as museums, gardens, and the only authentic European castle on the American continent.

4. Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe

The Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe is one of the most famous religious sites in Mexico and a significant pilgrimage spot for millions of Catholics annually.

The compound comprises numerous structures, including the Old Basilica and the New Basilica, where the celebrated image of the Virgin Mary is located.

5. Mexico City Metropolitan Cathedral

The Mexico City Metropolitan Cathedral is one of the most important landmarks in Mexico City and one of the most famous religious and historical buildings in the Americas.

Even if you’re not religious, the site is an absolute work of art and a great example of baroque architecture in Mexico. 

6. National Museum of Anthropology

The National Museum of Anthropology is one of the best places to visit in Mexico City in December, especially during chilly days.

The museum is humongous and contains a vast collection of pre-Columbian art and artifacts that showcase the history and culture of Mexico’s indigenous peoples throughout the centuries.

7. Palacio de Bellas Artes

The Palacio de Bellas Artes is an exquisite Art Deco structure located in the center of Mexico City, serving as both a theater and art museum.

Aside from its beautiful architecture and stunning murals, the palace is host to plenty of artistic events.

Mexico City Holidays and Events in December 

🎊 día de la virgen de guadalupe (december 12th).

Día de la Virgen de Guadalupe, or the Day of Our Lady of Guadalupe, is a religious holiday in Mexico that commemorates the appearance of the Virgin Mary to Juan Diego, an indigenous Mexican, in 1531. 

According to legend, the Virgin Mary appeared to Juan Diego on the hill of Tepeyac and asked him to build a church in her honor.

She left behind an image of herself on his cloak, which is now enshrined in the Basilica of Guadalupe in Mexico City.

🎊 Día de los Inocentes (December 18th)

Día de los Inocentes means “Innocents Day” and it’s pretty much the same as April Fools in the United States.

On this date, you can prank just about everyone but here’s the catch: if you lend money to Día de los Inocentes, don’t expect to get it back! 

🎊 Christmas Eve (December 24th)

Christmas Eve is when Mexicans officially celebrate Christmas.

You’ll find this day is super hectic with people doing last-minute shopping all over. In the evenings, you’ll feel peace and calm as families gather to have dinner together and share gifts.

🎊 Christmas Day (December 25th)

Christmas Day is usually super calm in Mexico City.

Most businesses close on this day and everyone stays home to spend time with family.

If you walk around Mexico City on this day, don’t be surprised if you don’t run into a single person on the streets!

What to Pack for Mexico City in December

Make sure to bring t-shirts or lightweight tops, along with sweaters or cardigans that can be layered.

Long pants or jeans are also a good idea and comfortable walking shoes are a must.

The weather in Mexico City during December can change significantly throughout the day, so make sure to bring a light jacket or coat for cooler evenings.

If you plan on going to formal restaurants or events, it’s also a good idea to bring dressier outfits.

Mexico City in December Travel Tips

📌 Expect things to move slower in Mexico City during December.

Most people are in “holiday mode” and plenty of businesses slack a lot during this time of the year.

It’s actually a great time to be in the city if you like calm, as things are usually very fast-paced the rest of the year.

📌 Book accommodations and activities in advance, as December is a busy time for tourism.

📌 Pack layers of clothing, as the weather can be mild during the day but cooler in the evenings.

📌 A must: Eat all the traditional Mexican holiday foods such as tamales , ponche, and buñuelos. 

📌 Make sure to schedule a walk through Reforma Avenue as it gets blanketed in red poinsettias.

📌 Visit the many Christmas markets all over the city (the Palacio de Hierro Mercado de Navidad is my favorite)

📌 If you like theme parks, Six Flags has a super cool Christmas festival going on throughout December which is definitely worth checking out!

Frequently Asked Questions

Is mexico city warm in december.

While it’s not warm like other parts of Mexico, Mexico City has mild temperatures with cooler evenings during December. 

Typically, the average daytime high is around 22°C (72°F) while nighttime lows can dip to 7°C (45°F).

Although it’s considered one of the cooler months, you can still enjoy pleasant and comfortable weather during your visit.

How Hot is Mexico City in December?

In December, Mexico City enjoys mild and pleasant temperatures.

You can expect the average daytime temperature to be around 20-22°C (68-72°F).

Don’t worry, it doesn’t get too hot but don’t expect to experience freezing cold either.

Is it Cold in Mexico in December?

Mexico City in December can be quite mild and pleasant, with temperatures cool enough to make you wear a light jacket, particularly in the evenings. 

Does Mexico City Get Cold at Night in December?

Yes, it can get quite chilly at night in Mexico City during December. Due to its high altitude, the city experiences cooler temperatures compared to other parts of the country. Average nighttime temperatures in December usually hover around 6°C (43°F), although they can occasionally drop to near freezing.

Does it Snow in Mexico City in December?

No, snow isn’t really a thing in Mexico City and the last time it snowed in the city was in January during the late 60s.

If you want to see snow, you might find it in nearby mountains like Nevado de Toluca or Iztlaccihuatl. 

Is Mexico City Dry in December?

Yes, December is dry in Mexico City and rainfall is very rare, although it can happen.

What is a Popular Celebration in Mexico City in December?

Christmas is huge in Mexico City in December but you’ll also find plenty of other celebrations taking place. 

Las Posadas is a popular event for religious people in the city.

It’s held from December 16th to 24th and commemorates the journey of Mary and Joseph searching for a place to stay in Bethlehem.

Is Mexico City Fun During Christmas?

Absolutely! Mexico City has a lot to offer during the Christmas season.

As you stroll through the city, you’ll enjoy the festive decorations and lively atmosphere.

Zócalo, the city’s main square, turns into a winter wonderland with an ice rink, holiday lights, and vendors selling festive treats like buñuelos .

What is the Best Month to Visit Mexico City?

This can vary depending on your interests and travel style, but weather-wise, March, April, May, and September through December are the best months to visit Mexico City .

March and April are favorite months to visit as this is when jacarandas bloom throughout the city, and October is another favorite for all things Day of the Dead.

What Part of Mexico is Best in December?

It’s really all up to your interests, but if you’re searching for tropical and warm destinations, coastal cities such as Cancun , Playa del Carmen, Tulum, Puerto Vallarta , and Los Cabos are great.

If culture is what you’re after, places like Oaxaca , Guanajuato , and Mexico City are top choices.

Moreover, if a white December is what you’re after, you’ll find snow in northern towns such as Creel in Chihuahua.

Final Thoughts: Mexico City in December

Whether you’re interested in exploring the Mexican capital’s rich history and cultural heritage, or simply want to soak up the festive atmosphere and enjoy the holiday season, visiting Mexico City in December is a great idea.

From the stunning Christmas lights and decorations to the traditional food and drink, Mexico City in December is a truly magical experience.

Before You Go…

Here are some useful posts that you may be interested in:

• 19 Amazing Day Trips from Mexico City in 2023
• The 23 Best Boutique Hotels in Mexico City (2023)
• Is Mexico City Worth Visiting in 2023?
• 23 Fun Things to Do in Mexico City at Night- The Ultimate Guide [2023]
• A Guide to Mexico City Street Food 2023: 41 Must-Try Street Food and Where to Find Them

Dani is a travel write and blogger from Mexico City who traveled all over the world for 5 years before returning to Mexico. After visiting and living in so many different countries, she realized how lucky she is to call Mexico her home.

The 15 best places to visit in Mexico

Oct 9, 2023 • 14 min read

Explore Mexico's stunning landscape and see the best the country has to offer © Thomas Barwick / Getty Images

Cantinas and cathedrals. Art and archaeology. Mariachis and mountains. Ruins and rainbow reefs. Mexico makes a mesmerizing escape for lovers of adventure, romance, history, culture, food, and fiery festivals .

Then there are the much-lauded  beaches with clear, blue waters you’ll want to step right into and silent paradise islands without a soul in sight. From the deep canyons of Chihuahua to the peaks of Veracruz, these are the best places to visit in Mexico .

1. Mexico City

Best place for art and vibrant culture

Wondering where to go for your first trip to Mexico? Start in the bustling capital that brims with skyscrapers, markets, gardens and parks , awe-inspiring museums and more than 22 million residents.

Top Mexico City sights include “Casa Azul,” better known as Museo Frida Kahlo , where the celebrated artist lived and died. High-spirited high jinks and chihuahua-sized micheladas are on offer when catching a lucha libre (Mexican wrestling) match at the sprawling Arena México .

For artsy folks, Mexico City is where many of the country's top muralists left behind their most important works. Peruse Diego Rivera's cinematic murals in the Palacio Nacional and the social-realism work of José Clemente Orozco in the Palacio de Bellas Artes .

For a taste of culture, float along the ancient canals of Xochimilco with a mariachi band serenade, or savor piping-hot tacos from the many street-food stalls in the downtown areas before catching a show at one of the city’s 160-odd theaters. You might be lost for words, but you’ll never be short of things to do in Mexico City.

Planning tip : Couple your Mexico City stay with a trip to see the pyramids at Teotihuacán . This archaeological site is located 50km (31 miles) northeast of Mexico City, and it was one of the largest in the Americas in the pre-Columbian era. Visit during the vernal equinox to celebrate spring.

2. Isla Holbox

Best island for bioluminescence and flamingos

For its size, Isla Holbox packs a strong biodiversity punch. Only a mile wide and 26 miles long, this is one of the best places to visit in Mexico to see bubblegum-pink flamingos in the wild (head to Punta Mosquito), catch a glimpse of whale sharks (between mid-May and mid-September), and witness the mesmerizing show of bioluminescent phytoplankton glimmering in the water. Comparable to sparkling underwater fireworks, these glowing micro-organisms are best seen on moonless nights.

Holbox (pronounced hol-bosh) is a laid-back dream of an island off the northern coast of the Yucatán Peninsula .

With no vehicles to disturb the peace (cars are banned), sandy streets lead to endless beaches with warm, inviting water that’s waist-deep at most for adults. The island’s one alleged drawback? Questionable wi-fi, which encourages travelers to disconnect.

3. San Miguel de Allende

Best place for craft shops and folk art

This Mexican beauty has it all: a fantastic spring-like climate, extraordinary light, breathtaking architecture, superb handicraft shopping, and well-attended art workshops. With a high gallery-to-resident ratio, San Miguel de Allende is one of the best places for creative types to visit in Mexico.

The cobbled city has been luring retirees and bewitching artists since the first art institute opened in a former convent back in the 1930s. It then enticed Jack Kerouac, Allen Ginsberg, and Neal Cassady, who came to drink, write and read poetry in the 1960s (the latter stayed there until his death).

Today, San Miguel de Allende’s narrow, sloped streets house boutiques and cafes that dangle multicolored ribbons from wrought iron window bars, and its vibe is akin to a sepia-toned postcard from the past.

Buildings in the historic district adhere to a color code of saffron, rusty orange, ochre, terracotta, and mustard yellow. Grab a birdseye view of them from one of the city’s numerous rooftops, like Luna Rooftop Tapas Bar at Rosewood San Miguel de Allende, a firm favorite.

Planning tip : San Miguel de Allende is a three-hour drive north of Mexico City in the state of Guanajuato . Visit in spring to see the purple jacaranda trees in full bloom.

Best place for lagoon living and Maldives vibes

Everything about Bacalar is magical. Not only was it recognized by the Mexican government as a Magic Town ( Pueblo Mágico ) in 2006, but it’s also known for its ethereal jewel-toned lagoon, serene spas offering Mexican healing rituals and a distinct bohemian vibe.

Diners enjoy live music sessions beside bright indoor murals at tropical restaurant-meets-gallery El Manati , and wellness-minded travelers experience temazcal sweat ceremonies and copal cleansings at Casa Hormiga boutique hotel.

The prized activities in Bacalar are kayaking, paddleboarding and boating on the 26-mile Bacalar Lagoon , which is known as the Lagoon of Seven Colors (Laguna de Los Siete Colores) due to its mesmerizing gradient of blues and greens.

The town also has a 90m-deep (295ft) cenote (freshwater pool) and an old Spanish fortress . Nicknamed “the Maldives of Mexico,” unhurried Bacalar is one of the best places to visit in Mexico to get away from it all.

Planning tip : Bacalar is in the state of Quintana Roo, close to Mexico’s border with Belize. To get there using public transportation, take the ADO bus from Cancún, Playa del Carmen or Tulum.

5. Guadalajara

Best city for mariachi music, tequila and fine dining

Guadalajara , Mexico's second-largest city, is a dynamic cultural hub in the state of Jalisco. This is the tequila-producing region where Mariachi music was born, as well as charrería , Mexico’s national sport (don’t miss September’s annual International Mariachi and Charrería Festival).

Must-sees in Guadalajara include a lienzo (a charrería arena), the vivid frescoes of the Instituto Cultural de Cabaña – a testament to the genius of one-handed muralist José Clemente Orozco – and the three-story Mercado San Juan de Dios , Latin America’s largest indoor market.

Despite being deeply rooted in tradition, Guadalajara has recently gained recognition for its modern gastronomic excellence with multiple appearances on the coveted World’s 50 Best lists. Delight in upscale, globalized Mexican cuisine and cocktails at Alcalde and El Gallo Altanero.

Planning tip : Guadalajara's allure extends beyond its city limits. Use it as your gateway to Lake Chapala (one of the largest freshwater lakes in the country), the agave-clad fields of Tequila, or other charming Magic Towns like Tlaquepaque or Tapalpa.

6. Puerto Vallarta

Best place for sand, adventure and LGBTIQ+ events

With climactic and wild scenery, Puerto Vallarta is a popular vacation destination for Mexicans and foreign travelers alike. Framed by the Sierra Madre Mountains and the Bahía de Banderas (Bay of Banderas), it's a place where thrill seekers conquer rugged terrain and rappel down waterfalls, and families frolic on sun-kissed beaches – Playa Conchas Chinas , Playa Las Gemelas and Playa Mismaloya are noteworthy sandy spots.

The city is also popular among LGBTIQ+ travelers; there are gay-friendly Puerto Vallarta hotels, beach bars, restaurants, and nightlife establishments. Lovers take to the Zona Romantica (Romanic Zone) for alfresco meals, and strolling along the picturesque Malecon boardwalk, with its numerous bronze sculptures and street performers, is one of the best free things to do in Puerto Vallarta.

There's also plenty going on in the ocean, where you can see humpback whales breaching on the horizon, pods of dolphins rising from the waves, and mother turtles arriving to lay their eggs.

Planning tip : The best time to visit Puerto Vallarta to witness a baby turtle release is between July and December. Selected hotels like Marriott Puerto Vallarta Resort & Spa host newborn turtle release ceremonies.

7. Playa del Carmen

Best place for beach-meets-city vibes

Playa del Carmen is the best of both worlds: a thriving city with a bounty of enticing restaurants and pinch-me-please white sand beaches (one is even connected to a cenote). The palm-lined Quinta Avenida is the city's bustling artery with an eclectic mix of shops, lively street performances, and gourmand-pleasing international eateries.

In this versatile beach destination, families build sandcastles alongside digital nomads and solo travelers seeking spirited adventures, while night owls congregate around Calle 12 (12th St) for throbbing nights at Mandala, La Vaquita and Coco Bongo. Another Playa del Carmen accolade is the variety of rooftop bars, from the sleek UMI Rooftop and Tokyo Kitchen to the laid-back BeRoof .

From Playa (as locals call it), day trips to Riviera Maya towns like Akumal (known for turtle encounters) are all within easy reach using colectivos (minivans). There is also a direct ferry to Cozumel with Winjet or Ultramar .

8. Chichén Itzá

Best place to see pre-Columbian architecture

If you’ve always wanted to see one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, Chichén Itzá is one of the best places to go in Mexico. With origins dating back to the 5th century, this is undoubtedly the most popular of Mexico's ancient sights.

From the imposing, monolithic El Castillo pyramid (where the shadow of the plumed serpent god Kukulcán creeps down the staircase during the spring and autumn equinoxes) to the Sacred Cenote and curiously designed El Caracol observatory, Chichén Itzá is spectacular.

Planning tip : Book a Chichén Itzá tour with an English-speaking guide to learn about the mind-blowing legacy of Maya astronomers . Note that the heat, humidity and crowds in Chichén Itzá can be fierce, so try to explore the site either early in the morning or late in the afternoon, though keep in mind that the 5pm closing is a hard exit. There is also a post-sunset sound-and-light show .

9. Zihuatanejo

Best place for an Old-Mexico feel

Zihuatanejo benefited from the fortunes of neighboring resort town Ixtapa, which Mexico’s tourism body carefully developed in the 1970s. This was a direct attempt to replicate the Caribbean splendor of Cancún on the Pacific coast.

Ixtapa’s hotspot status trickled 6.5km (4 miles) south to Zihuatanejo, which feels like a sleepy fishing village elevated by a handful of relaxed seaside sanctuaries like Thompson Zihuatanejo on Playa La Ropa .

In this blissed-out traditional Guerrero town, there are storied, curiously named beaches that are great for surfing, diving, fishing and seafood-feasting in the presence of crashing waves.

Take a walk on Playa Las Gatas (Cat Beach), reportedly named after land wildcats or the whiskered nurse sharks in Zihua’s waters, or make a dash for the aforementioned Playa La Ropa (Clothes Beach), the town’s most popular beach, which incorporates a legend of a Spanish shore wreckage containing washed silk clothes.

Best place for quiet beaches

La Paz , the capital of Baja California Sur, has something for every kind of beach lover. The city is a delightful springboard to adventures on the Sea of Cortez, home to 39% of the world’s marine mammals.

Around 40 minutes from La Paz, Playa El Saltito feels tranquil and isolated during the sweltering days, and its crystal waters come alive with bioluminescence at night. Though competition is tough, Playa Balandra , with its unique mushroom-like rock formation, is heralded as one of Mexico’s most beautiful beaches.

The impossible-to-miss destination in the region is the Unesco-listed Espíritu Santo  island, where you can camp under a canopy of stunning stars, snorkel with playful sea lions and even peek at congresses of clumsy blue-footed boobies. A number of operators run activities here, including kayaking and snorkeling.

Best place for wellness and boho vibes

Over the years, Tulum shed its former name (Zama), and its position as a secluded and sleepy beach-meets-jungle town in Riviera Maya and subsequently ripened into a world-famous pilgrimage for honeymooners, hedonists and holistic tourists. The spirituality-focused traveler will find a host of things to do in Tulum ranging from cacao ceremonies to pre-Hispanic sound healing and open-air rooftop yoga classes.

Tulum is a well-rounded destination with scrumptious restaurants and bars, and accommodations for all budgets, from waterfront shacks to top-end resorts and thatch-roofed boutique boltholes like La Valise Tulum .

The beaches are postcard-ready, the most celebrated stretch being Playa Ruinas with its strikingly well-preserved Maya ruins perched on a cliff overlooking the Caribbean Sea. There are also numerous attractions in the surrounding area, such as the massive Reserva de la Biosfera Sian Ka’an , the secluded fishing village Punta Allen and the ruins of Cobá .

Planning tip : Tulum Pueblo (the town center) is where the really cheap eats and sleeps are found, but it’s a 20-minute bike ride or 12-minute taxi to the beach. Plan ahead to find well-priced beach accommodations if that’s where you’d prefer to stay.

12. Los Cabos

Best place for glitz, glamor and parties

Sister cities Cabo San Lucas and San José del Cabo need no introduction. The former is notorious among party-hearty North American crowds, while the latter is more sedate with art galleries, celebrity-frequented luxury resorts, upscale boutiques and over-the-top decadent tequila tasting rooms.

Together, these perennially sunny spots on the southernmost tip of the Baja California Sur peninsula have become two of the top places to see in Mexico.

Under the blazing Cabo sun, golfers chase their dreams on emerald greens designed by legendary champion Jack Nicklaus, and surfers tackle world-class surf breaks.

Not many beaches are safe for swimming, but other outdoor pursuits like deep-sea fishing, spotting sea lions and whale watching (from mid-December to mid-April) keep water babies coming back.

13. Pico de Orizaba

Best place for a superlative trek

Pico de Orizaba is a symmetrical, snow-capped volcano on the border of Puebla and Veracruz states. Also called Citlaltépetl, it’s the highest peak in Mexico and the third-highest mountain in North America, with a summit elevation of around 5636m (18,491ft) above sea level.

Dormant but not extinct, the last recorded eruption was in 1846, and it is one of the most popular places to visit in Mexico for serious climbers – professionals prep there before taking on Mount Everest. Treks start from the small village of Tlachichuca, and the ascent requires some technical skills – Pico de Orizaba is the ultimate trekking and climbing challenge in Mexico.

If sea-level thrills are more to your liking, there's plenty on offer in the town of Orizaba, including a beautiful riverside walk, a couple of impressive museums and galleries and a unique "Iron Palace. " The perfect introduction to Veracruz state's most appealing town is to hop into the cable car up to the park atop 1240m (4068ft) Cerro del Borrego.

From this lofty, green perch, you can admire the domes and bell towers of the city's many historic churches and the surrounding mountainous terrain, including the snowcapped summit of Pico de Orizaba.

14. Copper Canyon Railway

Best train ride

The Ferrocarril Chihuahua Pacífico (Copper Canyon Railway) remains one of Latin America’s best rail trips. Also known as the Chepe Express (from the “Ch” of Chihuahua and “P” of Pacífico), trains climb from sea level at Los Mochis to the town of Creel via the sensational rocky landscapes of the rust-hued Copper Canyon (the “Grand Canyon of Mexico”).

Vistas from your window during the train journey include alpine forests, subtropical valleys, Tarahumara villages and glimpses of some of the world’s deepest canyons.

Overnight en route at cinematic lodges overlooking the canyon's edge, or stay for days of exploring, hiking, horseback riding and even zip-lining in one of the best places to see in Mexico.

15. Oaxaca City

Best place for mezcal and cultural celebrations

Once the capital of the Zapotec Civilization, the state of Oaxaca is now better known as Mexico’s primary mezcal-producing region. Fine mezcals distilled around the state make their way to low-lit, atmospheric establishments in Oaxaca City like La Popular, El Destilado and La Mezcalerita, and savvy locals guide thirsty patrons on popular tours to experience the city one smoky sip at a time (check out Mezcouting and Oaxacking ).

The frequent colorful fiestas in Oaxaca City also win smiles from cultural travelers. The city’s population swells at the start of November during Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) festivities, when Mexican families honor and celebrate their lost loves with round-the-clock vigils, joyful offerings, and parades.

One of the most unique things to see in Oaxaca City is the merrymaking during Noche de Rábanos (Night of the Radishes) on December 23. During this competition dating back to 1897, the young and old carve radishes into scenes that are displayed in Zócalo to much fanfare.

Planning tip : Venture two hours outside of Oaxaca City to reach Hierve el Agua , a jaw-dropping petrified waterfall-like formation. You can take a bus, rent a car or hire a driver to take you to these mineral-rich infinity pools.

This article was first published Jun 24, 2021 and updated Oct 9, 2023.

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• Mexico Tours
• Mexico Travel Guide
• When to Visit Mexico

Mexico in December: A Summery Winter

• ~ mins read

The weather in Mexico in December is superb, both for those looking forward to a dream beach vacation and for travelers planning to cover all the top sights of this exciting country. This month is part of the so-called dry season in Mexico, even though winter is not over yet. However, you will hardly feel cold if you are coming from the more northern parts of the hemisphere. This is because most parts of the country experience mild, pleasant weather during this time of year with plenty of things to do . So, laze on beautiful beaches, go surfing in the sea, experience the magical sight of millions of migrating butterflies and enjoy the pre-Christmas festivities (called posadas by locals) during your Mexican vacation .

• Deborah Munganga

Mexico Weather in December

Rains are over as winter sets in and Mexico’s temperature in December is near-perfect for exploring the entire length and breadth of this beautiful country. While temperatures in coastal areas are mostly mild, the minimum temperature in the interior can hover between 5°C to 6°C at night. The white sandy beaches of Cancun are characterized by the maximum average temperature of around 28°C, while the minimum is still a balmy 21°C. The average highs in Mexico City in December are in the range of 21°C, while the average minimum is 6°C.

For a seasonal overview, browse through our travel guide on the best time to visit Mexico .

Weather in Mexico in December - Rainfall and Temperatures

Why visit mexico in december.

Bright days and pleasant weather conditions are not the only reason to travel to Mexico in December . Below are a few perks of traveling to the country during this time of year.

• Mexican winter: Unlike winter in the colder parts of the world, Mexican winter is characterized by sunny days and pleasant weather. In other words, December is one of the best months to travel to Mexico.
• Beach holiday: Hundreds of miles of coastline and some world-class beaches are waiting to be discovered during your trip to Mexico in December. And the weather is near-perfect for relaxing on the beach or taking a dip in the sea.
• Whale-watching: Hop on a boat and head out into the Pacific to spot these magnificent creatures. Cabo San Lucas is regarded by many as the best place in the country to see these magnificent creatures. Whales pass through this area between mid-December and April every year.
• Butterfly swarms: Listen to the humming sound of a million monarchs fluttering their tiny wings as you wander among the fir forests of Mexico’s central highlands. These butterflies stay in the country until March when they begin their journey north.
• History lesson: Given pleasant weather conditions, December is one of the best times to discover Mexico’s Maya and Aztec ruins. This country is home to 3,000 archaeological sites, which means you have plenty to choose from.
• Festival season: In addition to heady Christmas and new year celebrations, numerous other events are celebrated throughout Mexico in December. These include posadas, a series of pre-Christmas festivities characterized by traditional food, punch, candy, and lots of fun; the Day of the Virgin of Guadalupe; the quirky Night of Radishes, an event in Oaxaca where artisans create various shapes out of radishes and sell them; and the Chiapas Fair, which features bullfights, concerts, games and horse races.

Where to go and what to do

Do not miss out on the chance to see millions of butterflies wintering out at Monarch Buttery Biosphere Reserve , a UNESCO World Heritage site. A trip to the charming resort town of Puerto Vallarta , located on the Pacific coast, offers everything from jungle trips and snorkeling to world-class restaurants and an eclectic art scene. If you want to ride the high waves in winter, then head for Zicatela Pipeline in Puerto Escondido, one of the world’s most iconic surf spots. Another popular surfing site is Sayulita.

There are many excellent whale-watching destinations in Mexico, including Puerto Vallarta for humpback whales and the Baja Peninsula for gray whales. These places should be part of the itinerary of anyone heading for the country in winter. The somewhat remote island of Cozumel, part of Riviera Maya, makes for an idyllic December destination, with plenty of swimming, diving, and snorkeling opportunities. The waters around the island are home to the world’s second-largest coral reef.

The weather in Mexico City in December is just about right for a walking tour. Go on food and art walks and visit the museum dedicated to Frida Kahlo. You might also want to see Diego Rivera’s masterpiece, the History of Mexico, a grandiose mural housed in the National Palace, and soak up the sensory explosion at La Merced, one of Mexico City’s busiest and liveliest markets.

What to bring

Mexico’s weather in December is ideal for walking, which means you will need a good pair of walking shoes. A light jacket will also come in handy if temperatures dip in the evening.

December is part of Mexico’s high tourist season, so it is a good idea to plan your trip well in advance to make it glitch-free. Our travel experts in Mexico can design a personalized itinerary based on your requirements so feel free to reach out to them if you are interested. If you are looking for more details, make sure to give our travel guide on  how many days to spend in Mexico  a look. Ideally, we recommend a  10-day stay  but if you have a more restrictive schedule, you could opt for a  7-day itinerary  as well.

So,  book a trip to Mexico in December  and make the most of reduced prices and few travelers. 

Our other similar travel guides that may interest you: Mexico in November Mexico in January Mexico private tours Mexico group tours

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Best places to visit in december 2024.

Planning a vacation in December can feel overwhelming alongside holiday shopping and year-end festivities. But you'll thank yourself later if you squeeze in time for a trip before the new year. U.S. News considered prices, events, accessibility and seasonal crowds to decide the best places to visit in December. Whether you're seeking a warm-weather hideaway or want to experience the holiday spirit in a snow-covered town, you'll find it in these destinations. Vote for your favorite spot below to help decide next year's list.

London, England

U.s. virgin islands, french alps, torres del paine national park, hawaii - the big island, new york city, rio de janeiro, quebec city.

London is abuzz with holiday-themed activities in December. Holiday pop-ups transform attractions like Hyde Park and the London Zoo, while Christmas ballets and concerts take over the city's legendary entertainment scene. What's more, "Harry Potter" fans can opt for a festive tour during the Hogwarts in the Snow event at Warner Bros. Studio Tour London. Chilly temperatures in the 40s and rainy conditions mean it's the perfect time to don your coziest jumper. Plus, London's rainy day standbys like the Tower of London and the British Museum are typically less crowded at this time of year.

If you're seeking palm-fringed festivities without the need for a passport, look no further than the U.S. Virgin Islands. December is the start of the dry season in this Caribbean island chain, and average temperatures in the 70s and 80s are perfect for lounging on beautiful white sand beaches like Magens Bay or snorkeling in Virgin Islands National Park. Plus, you'll get a taste of the islands' vibrant culture during the Crucian Christmas Festival, which takes place on St. Croix at the end of the month. Partake in the merriment with parades, music competitions and more.

Snow-capped mountains, quaint villages and mouthwatering cuisine (much of which involves some form of melted cheese) make the French Alps a classic winter getaway. Most ski resorts open by early December, so you can get an early start on the slopes for the season, or just take part in the lively après-ski experience in iconic destinations like Val d'Isère and Chamonix. What's more, many villages like the châteaux-studded Annecy amp up the charm with cozy Christmas markets throughout the month. Winter in the Alps is never cheap, but try visiting earlier in the month before school holidays for the best room rates.

Make the trek to the Finnish Lapland for the ultimate Arctic experience. Finland's northernmost region promises a deep layer of snow all winter, perfect for skiing or sledding down the longest toboggan run in Europe. Most flights to this region land in Rovaniemi, home to Santa Claus Village, where you can meet the man in red, step across the Arctic Circle or embark on a reindeer sleigh ride. Though you'll only see about four hours of daylight, this makes for prime conditions to view the dazzling aurora borealis from the comfort of one of the glass hotels in the region.

December is one of the most popular months to visit the Bahamas – and for good reason. By the time this month rolls around, the threat of hurricanes has passed, making it terrific time to enjoy the outdoors. Spend your days lounging on one of the Bahamas' many beaches, snorkeling or diving in the crystal-clear water or taking a boat tour to a private island . What's more, if you're visiting around the holidays, you'll catch the travel-worthy Junkanoo festival , which celebrates Bahamian culture with parades and festivities on Boxing Day and New Year's Day.

Although Phuket, Thailand, offers a consistently warm climate year-round, its dry weather and calm water in December make this month a great time to visit. Plan on spending most of your time sunbathing, swimming, scuba diving and more at beautiful beaches like Nai Harn and Kata Noi. But remember, December falls within Phuket's peak tourist season, so you won't find many deals for flights and accommodations during this month. Avoid a holiday visit in late December for slightly better rates.

Located in the eastern Himalayas, Bhutan is a backpacker's dream due to its breathtaking landscapes and unmatched preservation. The remote kingdom's focus on cultural and environmental sustainability means heritage sites like the cliff-clinging Paro Taktsang and the riverside Punakha Dzong are never overcrowded. But cooler winter temperatures (averages range from the 30s to the 60s, depending on elevation) mean you'll encounter even fewer tourists. While a trip to this intriguing destination won't be cheap, a low-season visit can drive down the price of lodging and tours.

Nestled in southern Chilean Patagonia, this national park offers travelers a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Hailed among hikers as one of the most scenic destinations in the world, the park is home to turquoise lakes and dense forests, plus massive Grey Glacier and the towering granite of Cuernos del Paine. December offers up to 17 hours of daylight, allowing plenty of time for extensive hikes. But even though December is part of Patagonia's peak summer season, temperatures drop dramatically after nightfall, so visitors will want to pack layers.

This Hawaiian paradise is the perfect place to escape winter's onset. Weary travelers can thaw on colorful beaches like Punalu'u Beach (which has beautiful black sand ) and Papakolea Beach (a unique green sand option), while more adventurous types can go for a hike in 'Akaka Falls State Park or catch a glimpse of the more than 4,000-foot-tall Kilauea volcano at Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park. You'll likely contend with other snowbirds in December, but you'll find that hotel prices on the Big Island are still consistently lower than those on neighboring isles.

If Old Man Winter has you dreaming of warming things up, consider a trip to the Spice Island. Grenada, a tiny island in the Caribbean known for its aromatic spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, boasts steady temps in the 80s. And since December sits just between the rainy season and high tourism season, it's the perfect time to catch some rays without the crowds (or cost) of the months to come. Spend your days lounging on Grand Anse Beach or sampling the island's rich flavors at local markets or the House of Chocolate.

It's not surprising that dozens of holiday movies are set in New York. Dazzling sights like the iconic Christmas tree and ice skating rink at Rockefeller Center, decked-out window displays at Macy's and horse-drawn carriages in Central Park conjure up holiday cheer throughout the city. And while this metropolis offers plenty to do throughout the year, festive shows, Christmas-themed pop-up experiences and even the nip in the air make December one of New York's most magical months. Just be prepared for a bit of sticker shock; the holiday season is also one of the most popular (and expensive) times of year to visit.

If you're willing to brave the cold, travel to Prague for a fun and festive winter vacation. The city turns into a winter wonderland in December, with snow-dusted buildings and Christmas markets selling everything from locally made jewelry to toys to Christmas ornaments. Those with little ones in tow should try to arrive in early December when the annual St. Nicholas Eve event takes place. During this traditional celebration, you'll see Czechia's version of St. Nick, along with his angel and devil guides, hand out candy and other treats as they walk around the city.

While the Northern Hemisphere transitions to winter in December, Rio de Janeiro enters its peak summer season. And although this is one of the wettest times of the year here, you'll still enjoy optimal warmth and mostly sunny conditions. As such, there will be plenty of opportunities to see must-visit sights like the Christ the Redeemer statue or Sugarloaf Mountain. If you're keen on experiencing Rio's lively party scene during your visit, be sure to time your trip around Réveillon. This popular New Year's Eve celebration on Copacabana Beach draws millions of people annually with its music, dancing and fireworks.

The holiday season in Germany's fourth largest city can only be described as magical. Cologne hosts a handful of Christmas markets, including the popular Advent village at Cologne Cathedral, which boasts 150 stalls. When you're not taking in the city's imposing architecture or getting into the jovial spirit with a glass of Kölsch beer (a Cologne original), pop into Museum Ludwig to view modern art or the Chocolate Museum for tasty samples. Combat the dreary weather – average highs are in the low 40s and rain is common – by soaking away the chill at a thermal spa such as Neptunbad or Claudius Therme.

It's easy to fall in love with this Canadian destination, especially when it's covered in fresh snow. You'll be enchanted by Old Québec's sights and sounds as it transforms into a Christmas village. Shop for gifts (or for yourself) in Quartier Petit-Champlain, home to one of the oldest shopping streets in North America. Plus, with its 17th- and 18th-century architecture, French-speaking Quebec City allows you to soak up European culture without dropping the cash for a flight across the pond. Just be sure to bundle up; temperatures can drop to the single digits in December.

Vote to Add these Destinations to the Rankings

St. Augustine

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Leavenworth

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• Christmas In Mexico

On This Page

• Key takeaways

When is Christmas in Mexico?

• Mexican Christmas traditions How does Mexico celebrate Christmas?

Best places to spend a Mexican Christmas

Mexico city, mexico, san miguel de allende.

• Yucatan Peninsula Cancun, Cozumel, & more

Cabo San Lucas & San Jose del Cabo

Other considerations when traveling to mexico around christmas, related topics.

Best Places to Spend Christmas in Mexico this December

• December is a great time to visit Mexico as there are less international tourists and it is outside of the hurricane season, meaning you can usually get great weather.
• Our tips for the best places to visit in Mexico in December include Mexico City, San Miguel de Allende, resorts on the Yucatan Peninsula, and Los Cabos in Baja California.
• Mexico comes alive with street processions, live music, fireworks, street food, expansive and elaborate nativity scenes and more during the holiday season.
• Mexican Christmas traditions are rich with cultural significance and make for a fun and immersive way to spend your holiday season.
• Regardless of where you go, the weather in Mexico in December is milder than many parts of the U.S. making it an optimal place to escape to while avoiding the harsh northern Winters.
• We recommend opting for a basic travel insurance plan since Mexico has areas with heightened levels of unrest.

Our top picks for the best christmas in mexico

• Seven Corners: Best Overall
• Generali Global Assistance: Best for Trips Within North America
• Tin Leg: Best for "A Bit of Everything"

Our top picks for travel insurance

Seven corners, generali global assistance.

When does Mexico celebrate Christmas? For the most part, Mexicans celebrate the holiday on the same date as everyone else — December 25th. As a largely Christian nation, Mexicans follow many of the same traditions as Americans when it comes to celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ.

However, unlike the US and Canada , Mexico’s holiday celebrations tend to stretch out longer, and even more than a month from start to finish. First off, many Mexican families celebrate the Virgin of Guadalupe on December 12th each year with Christmas carols, elaborate feasts, and other celebrations Second, Las Posadas is a holiday event that takes place from December 16th to December 24th (nine days) in order to celebrate the nine-day pregnancy of the Virgin Mary.

Many Mexican families also celebrate the 12 days of Christmas, which stretch from December 25th to January 6th. A final Mexican Christmas celebration takes place on February 2nd, exactly 40 days after the holiday itself. Día de la Candelaria (Feast of the Presentation of Jesus Christ or the Feast of the Holy Encounter) is a Catholic holiday that celebrates the day the Virgin Mary brought Jesus to the Temple in Jerusalem. You can find the historical context for this holiday in the Book of Luke (chapter 2, verse 22-23) in the New Testament.

Mexican Christmas traditions: How does Mexico celebrate Christmas?

Mexican Christmas traditions are largely centered around religious beliefs, parades, huge feasts, and celebrations of all kinds. Each region and town has its own unique traditions, but in general, there are 2 stand-out cultural points to see in Mexico if you visit in December.

Parades & parties (“Las Posadas”)

Christmas in Mexico is similar to in the U.S. in the sense that it’s a time for gathering with loved ones to celebrate. In Mexico, las Posadas happen from December 16th to 24th. Las Posadas are social gatherings that typically include parades and processions in which people take to the streets to re-enact Mary and Joseph’s search for shelter during their pregnancy with baby Jesus. You typically light candles and sing Christmas songs and carols with neighbors while “asking them for shelter”.

These re-enactments always end with a fiesta filled with holiday foods and alcoholic drinks like Ponche. Festivities and games (including piñatas) mean participating in a posada is fun for the entire family.

The Nativity (“Nacimientos”)

As mentioned, nativity takes center stage as part of Mexican Christmas traditions. Mexico is known for its skilled artisans and craftsmen, and expansive hand-crafted nativity scenes made of various local materials can be found displayed in homes, schools, and other public places to mark the birth of Jesus. They take the nativity several steps further and build entire replica villages (similar to Christmas villages in the U.S.) in the style of traditional nativity scenes. Typically, baby Jesus will be added to the display starting on the 25th, the day of his birth. Needless to say, purchasing a handcrafted nativity scene is a must should you decide to spend Christmas in Mexico.

Christmas food in Mexico

Almost all Christmas traditions in Mexico incorporate lavish meals, street foods, and traditional Mexican dishes Here are some of the most popular foods you’ll find if you plan a Christmas in Mexico:

“Ponche” translates directly to punch. As in America, Christmas punch in Mexico often contains alcohol and in this case, is served warm. Traditional recipes include guava, a Mexican fruit known as “tejocote”, plum, sugar, and cinnamon.

“Pozole” is a classic Mexican dish with the consistency of a soup or stew. It has a base of hominy and meat and contains fresher flavors like lime, radish, lettuce, etc.

“Bacalao” is cod in Spanish and during Christmas in Mexico, it’s typically eaten in a variety of ways.

“Buñuelos” are similar to donut holes in shape with the consistency of a funnel cake. They consist of fried dough with cinnamon and sugar.

Rosca de Reyes:

“Rosca de Reyes” is a dish that references the Three Wise Men, also known as the three kings or “Reyes”. This dish is eaten as dessert or breakfast and is a large donut-shaped cake with dried fruit on top. It’s typically eaten around Three Kings Day on the 6th of January.

“Romeritos” are eaten around Christmas time and are a stewed plant from central Mexico almost resembling collard greens. They are typically served with protein and black mole.

Other notable foods to mention are more closely related to foods in America:

• Lomo de Puerco (lean cut of pork loin )
• Stuffed turkey
• Pierna (pork leg resembling ham)
• Tamales (common during Mexican festivities and at street vendors)
• Ensalada Navideña (creamy Christmas fruit salad)

If you’re up for it, enjoying these foods can make your trip especially memorable and festive.

Christmas vacation in Mexico is without a doubt time well spent. Not only are there fewer tourists but visiting Mexico in December offers a stunning look into a different part of Mexican Culture.

That said, where you stay and the activities you take part in can play a huge role in the type of holiday you have.

For example, you can head to Mexico City or San Miguel de Allende to experience Mexican holiday traditions that have been around for hundreds of years, or you can plan a trip to Cancun or Los Cabos for a Christmas vacation at the beach. There’s no right or wrong way to plan a Mexican Christmas getaway, so get started planning a unique holiday celebration you’ll never forget.

So, what are the best places to visit in Mexico in December?

Below we have compiled some of the most popular destinations to visit in Mexico in December where you can plan a festive Mexican Christmas vacation.

The most popular places to spend Christmas in Mexico are:

1. Central Mexico:

• Mexico City

2. Yucatan Peninsula

• Playa del Carmen

3. Baja California

• Cabo San Lucas
• San José del Cabo

Here is a look at these in greater detail and why they make the list of the best places to visit in Mexico in December.

The Capital of Mexico, known as Mexico D.F. or Mexico City, has grown in popularity with travelers in recent years. Spending Christmas in Mexico City is a great way to immerse yourself in the heart of Mexican culture and traditions.

It’s a thriving cosmopolitan metropolis with an incredible culinary scene but still holds true to its cultural traditions. With its mild winter weather, convenient transportation options, and welcoming atmosphere, Mexico City is a fantastic destination for a memorable Christmas vacation.

It’s located in central Mexico making it a great hub for short trips to other regions. The Mexico City International Airport also has daily flights to and from many destinations in the U.S.

What to see in Mexico City at Christmas?

From the enchanting Zócalo Square to the lively posadas and festive markets, the city is alive with the spirit of Christmas.

Mexicans travel to Mexico City from all over the country to the Basilica of Guadalupe (a church) in order to pay a visit to la Virgen Morena – the Virgin Mary. This part of Mexican celebrations for the holiday always includes parades, fireworks, and live performances, as well as plenty of traditional Christmas foods. Therefore, Mexico City is one of the top places on our list for visiting Mexico in December.

In Mexico City, Christmas starts with t he feast day of the Virgin of Guadalupe on December 12th, which is a day filled with religious celebrations, meals, and family time. As many as 3 million people also visit the Basilica of Guadalupe that day, which makes for an incredible spectacle and party throughout the streets of this famous city.

Mexico City also celebrates Las Posadas until Christmas Day. Other holiday celebrations in Mexico City include family parties and meals, fireworks, and parades.

Mexico City is known for its food scene, which includes amazing street food as well as high-end restaurants. Note that most restaurants and stores will be closed on Christmas Eve and Christmas Eve, then reopen again on December 26th.

How is the weather in Mexico City in December?

Since Mexico City is located in Central Mexico, it has temperate winters.

If you visit Mexico City in December or January, the weather will likely be pleasant but not overly warm. Mexico City highs in December are typically in the low 70’s Fahrenheit, and lows can sometimes drip to the 40’s.

Keep in mind that if you plan to go to any nearby towns or cities, such as San Miguel de Allende , you may be headed into the mountains where altitude can play a role in temperatures.

San Miguel de Allende is another of our top recommendations for places to visit in Mexico in December. It lies about 4 hours outside of Mexico City and is a UNESCO World Heritage site brimming with cultural influences and incredible traditions all year long.

It boasts charming architecture and a small-town feel, which is even more prominent over the holidays.

What to see in San Miguel de Allende?

Apart from its stunning traditional architecture, the city is known for having some of the most spectacular holiday decorations and Christmas scenes on display, which you can enjoy as you dine and shop during your Mexican Christmas holiday.

The San Miguel de Allende Cathedral and its adjacent square also bring in tourists in droves due to the lavishly decorated (and huge) Christmas tree on display. Many locals dress up in Christmas costumes throughout the holiday season making it feel truly magical. If you are looking for authentic Mexican traditions, San Miguel de Allende is where to go.

How to get there:

The closest airports to San Miguel de Allende are the Guanajuato International Airport in Guanajuato and the Querétaro Intercontinental Airport in Querétaro, yet both make visiting this unique cultural hub a breeze. However, it’s also only around a 4-hour drive from Mexico City if you prefer to stop in both places.

How is the weather in San Miguel de Allende in December?

The weather in San Miguel de Allende over the holidays will be cooler than you’ll find in beach destinations or even in nearby Mexico City. Although average highs in December can be in the mid 70’s Fahrenheit, average lows are often in the 40’s.

San Miguel de Allende is also nestled into the mountains where the higher altitude means it can be colder and breezier than other locales. That said, the weather is temperate and will likely be better than most areas of the U.S. in December and January.

Yucatan Peninsula: Cancun, Cozumel, & more

If you aren’t interested in traditional Mexican culture over the holidays and prefer to kick back with a drink in hand and toes in the sand, the Yucatan peninsula offers Caribbean waters and warmer weather – perfect for escaping the cold North American winters.

What to see in Cozumel & Cancun in December?

In this part of Mexico, the resort towns are all relatively close together making it possible to visit several towns in a short amount of time.

Cancun, Cozumel, Playa del Carmen, and other cities in this region have festive Mexican Christmas celebrations with parades, fireworks, street parties, and feasts. Many hotels in and around Cancun offer special activities for visitors as well. These can include lavish resort meals and parties, live music, and other festive performances.

Weather in Cancun in December

Thanks to its warm weather and stable climate, the best time to go to Cancun is between November and April – when there are fewer tourists and no risk of hurricanes.

Weather in Cancun in December will still be warm and tropical, and you’ll find many of the country’s best all-inclusive resorts and luxury hotels along the coast of Riviera Maya south of Cancun. Cozumel is also a quick ferry ride off the coast of Playa del Carmen in the Riviera Maya region of Mexico, and it boasts some of the best snorkeling and diving opportunities throughout the country. Of course, this area of Mexico is also known for its proximity to famous Mayan ruins, including those found in Tulum and Coba.

Getting there:

Cancun International Airport is one of the busiest in the country and is the main gateway for visitors to not only Cancun but also destinations like Cozumel, Playa del Carmen, and Tulum. Cancun International Airport has flights to most major cities in the U.S.

In fact, it brought in the largest number of international visitors to the country of Mexico last year, and it’s easy to see why. This part of Mexico is both safe and fun, and it has some of the best resorts and beaches in the country.

Los Cabos or “Cabo” as it’s often called is located in Baja California on the Western coast of Mexico. If you live along the West Coast of the United States, flights to Cabo San Lucas can be both fast and inexpensive. It also has great weather which adds to the allure of visiting this area of Mexico year-round.

Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo are two different destinations in an area collectively known as Los Cabos. Each is conveniently located close to Los Cabos International Airport which has flights to many U.S. cities.

What to do in Cabo in December

Cabo has spectacular hotels and beaches that are perfect for a little rest and relaxation during the holiday season.

If you are looking for an alternative way to spend the holidays, you may want to check out one of the many all-inclusive Cabo San Lucas resorts, luxury hotels, and vacation rentals that dot the coastline in this area.

Cabo in December can include a gamut of Mexican Christmas celebrations from street parties to parades and festivals, live music and events, and incredible holiday decor. The hotel or resort you book may also offer special events with Mexican Christmas traditions on display, so make sure to inquire.

Weather in Cabo in December

Cabo San Lucas’ weather in December will be comfortable and tropical as it stays this way almost all year long. This makes this part of Mexico an ideal destination for a Mexican Christmas vacation – or one at any other time of the year.

Visiting Mexico in December comes with many of the same considerations and risks as any other time of the year. Consider these tips to ensure you have a festive and relaxing Christmas in Mexico with minimal hassle and stress.

Driving comes with its share of risks

First, you should know that driving in Mexico can be risky with a rental car or your own car. This is true whether you plan to drive once you get to your Mexican holiday destination, but it’s even more true if you plan to cross the border into Mexico in your own vehicle.

Check the U.S. Government’s website for travel alerts

The U.S. Department of State issues a range of warnings and alerts for all destinations around the world, and they say that some destinations in Mexico are not safe to visit due to the prevalence of kidnappings and other crimes. Check Travel.State.gov for warnings on your Mexican Christmas destination, and exercise caution when traveling within the country.

Travel insurance is never a bad idea

We always recommend getting travel insurance for vacations to Mexico as you never know when it may come in handy, and Mexico has its own unique set of security risks and health risks – including drinking the water. Some of the best travel insurance plans can cost as little as $1 per day, so we recommend purchasing comprehensive coverage. If you need some recommendations, we have a full article on the Best Travel Insurance for Mexico .

Ensure you have medical coverage while abroad

Most health insurance doesn’t cover you while you are outside of the U.S. – including Medicare. For this reason, we also want to highlight the importance of ensuring you have emergency medical coverage in case you need to be treated while away. As mentioned above, most travel insurance will have medical insurance included. It may also include emergency evacuation coverage in case you need to be sent home for treatment, or COVID-19 illness coverage .

Shop around for last-minute deals

Traveling anywhere over the holidays can be expensive, and this is just as true for visiting Mexico in December as it is elsewhere. Look at a range of travel dates and destinations as you compare prices, and consider traveling right before or after Christmas Day to save on your trip. New Years day is also one of the cheapest days to fly.

Holly D. Johnson is an award-winning personal finance writer who covers topics like insurance, investing, credit and family finance. As a leading voice in the travel and loyalty space, Johnson has traveled with her family to more than 50 countries over the last decade.

The author has also written extensively on the power of household budgeting, and she even co-authored a book on the topic. Zero Down Your Debt: Reclaim Your Income and Build a Life You’ll Love was originally published in 2017, and it teaches families how to use zero-sum budgeting to reach their financial goals. She is also the co-owner and founder of the family finance and travel website, ClubThrifty.com.

Johnson’s 10+ years of writing have focused on helping families make important financial decisions at each stage of their lives. The author also applies the financial principles she teaches to her own life, and she is currently on track to retire in her late 40’s with her partner. She currently lives in Central Indiana with her husband and children, and she is a regular contributor for Bankrate, CNN, Forbes, U.S. News and World Report Travel and many other notable publications.

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• Winter Vacations

11 Best Places to Travel in December

These are the best places to visit in December in the U.S. and around the world.

rusm/Getty Images

The end of the year is incredibly busy with gift shopping, decorating for the holidays, and family gatherings. So before you run out of open days, take some time to book that winter vacation — even if it’s just a weekend getaway. Whether you’re looking for a warm-weather escape to end the year or a festive destination brimming with holiday cheer, we’ve got you covered. From ski towns to beach resorts, here are 11 of the best places to travel in December.

Lake Tahoe, California

Don Eim/Travel + Leisure

Snowfall usually begins in late November in Lake Tahoe, so you can be one of the first to hit the slopes when you visit in December. The destination’s sapphire blue lake, pine forests, and snow-covered peaks are gorgeous this time of year. Stay on the south shore at Edgewood Lake Tahoe , which hosts holiday festivities throughout the month; the resort’s new multi-bedroom Villa Suites are perfect for families or groups. On the north shore, Ritz-Carlton Lake Tahoe features ski-in/ski-out access and a mountainside concierge. Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe and Edgewood Lake Tahoe were both among Travel + Leisure’s Best Resorts in the Western United States in 2022. Nearby Reno Tahoe offers a wide range of winter activities and a convenient airport with flights from many major cities.

Palm Springs, California

Taylor McIntyre/Travel + Leisure

If you’re looking for mild weather, superb restaurants, golf, plush hotels, spas, and great shopping, put Palm Springs on your December must-visit list. And at just two hours from Los Angeles and San Diego, the Greater Palm Springs area is easy to reach. Check the concert and sports events schedule at the new Acrisure Arena , which hosted Cirque du Soleil’s new Corteo this summer — a first for the desert venue. Lodging ranges from expansive resorts like the JW Marriott Desert Springs Resort to boutique and adult-only properties. Stay just steps from downtown Palm Springs in a quiet and historic neighborhood at Auric House ; you’ll feel like a local as you stroll to restaurants, shops, and breakfast at nearby Korakia Pensione .

Charleston, South Carolina

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Charleston topped the T+L World’s Best Awards list this year for favorite cities in the United States, and it’s a perfect destination for the holidays, with gorgeous decorations adorning historic buildings, streets, and neighborhoods. Christmas markets, tree lightings, parades, and seasonal events inspire the holiday spirit during December. The Charleston Place gets decked out for the season, and the other best Charleston hotels include the Emeline , Planters Inn (a Relais & Châteaux property), and The Vendue , Charleston’s art hotel.

Newport Beach, California

Adrian Rudd/Travel + Leisure

With weather in the 60s and lots of Southern California sunshine, Newport Beach is a great December destination for hiking, cruising the harbor in a Duffy boat, whale watching, visiting Balboa Island, or strolling along the beach. The city celebrates the holiday season with the annual Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade each night from Dec. 13-17, when more than 100 decorated yachts, boats, kayaks, and canoes cruise the waterfront, along with music, fireworks, and glittering lights. Stay near the action at Lido House , an Autograph Collection hotel, or be among the first to stay at the new Pendry Newport Beach . For five-star luxury, two oceanfront golf courses, and stunning views, choose The Resort at Pelican Hill . Accommodation options here include bungalow rooms and suites with fireplaces and private terraces, as well as Mediterranean-style villas with two, three, or four bedrooms.

Branson, Missouri

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In Branson, the two-month-long Ozark Mountain Christmas celebration kicks off in early November, and it’s an incredible way to get into the holiday spirit. Known as “America’s Christmas Tree City” for good reason, Branson features more than 1,500 decorated trees, shows, parades, 6.5 million lights, drive-through displays , and photo opportunities with Santa Claus. Throughout December, there’s caroling by the fire, story times, and a candy village displayed in the lobby of the Chateau on the Lake . At Big Cedar Lodge , guests can sip hot cocoa, see twinkling holiday lights, skate at the Winter Wonderland ice rink, make wreaths, and bake gingerbread — and that’s just a few of the property’s annual Home for the Holidays activities.

Dubai, United Arab Emirates

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December is considered one of the best months to visit Dubai thanks to moderate weather that’s ideal for being outdoors exploring the city. Visitors will find a festive atmosphere and myriad seasonal events , from elaborately decorated Christmas trees and holiday markets to shopping malls decked out for the season. See public art in the Dubai Design District, lounge at the beachfront in La Mer, or visit the historic Al Fahidi District. Stay at the elegant Habtoor Palace , LXR Hotels & Resorts, or the plush Burj Al Arab Jumeirah . Welcoming guests starting Dec. 1, One&Only One Za’abeel is located in the heart of the city near the Dubai World Trade Centre. The Lana , Dorchester Collection, Dubai, will also open in December beside the Dubai Canal.

Riviera Maya, Mexico

Located on the Yucatan Peninsula along the Caribbean, Riviera Maya is 30 minutes south of Cancun and offers calm seas, sandy beaches, sunny weather, and lodging for all tastes, from boutique hotels to lavish resorts. Maya archaeological sites are fascinating to explore, and cenotes — caves or underground holes filled with cool water — are another intriguing feature of the Yucatan. Mayakoba , a private community with nearly 600 acres of lagoons, jungles, and beaches, includes El Camaleón Golf Club , luxury residences, and four resorts: Fairmont Mayakoba , Andaz Mayakoba , Banyan Tree Mayakoba , and Rosewood Mayakoba . Celebrate the new year with legendary Mexican musician Luis Miguel in concert on Dec. 31 at the nearby golf course. Also in Riviera Maya is Maroma , A Belmond Hotel, now open after an extensive renovation and redesign led by Tara Bernerd & Partners . 

Vienna, Austria

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While Vienna is lovely year-round, it is dazzling in December, with holiday decorations, lights, markets, and Christmas trees galore. Delicious Austrian food is part of the celebration, and mugs of Christmas punch (made with rum and/or brandy) keep shoppers warm as they browse or sample wiener schnitzel, sausage, apple strudel, or traditional roasted chestnuts. Or, stop into a café for coffee and Sachertorte, a famous Austrian chocolate cake. T+L readers recently voted for their favorite Vienna hotels , and The Ritz-Carlton, Vienna took the top spot. The Rosewood Vienna , which just opened last year, and The Amauris Vienna , a Relais & Châteaux property, are also fine options. Note that river cruises are a great way to see Europe’s many Christmas markets, and itineraries are offered through several companies, including AmaWaterways , Viking River Cruises , and Uniworld Boutique River Cruises .

Fort Worth, Texas

Think about this lively Texas city for an end-of-year vacation or weekend getaway, when the weather is in the comfortable high 50s and there’s so much to do. The Fort Worth Zoo features holiday decorations, lights, falling snow, and visits from Santa in December. The Fort Worth Stockyards National Historic District , where ranchers once traded cattle and cowboys drove the animals to market, is still in action with a daily longhorn cattle drive, restaurants, rodeo shows, bars, and tours of the original wooden corrals. Stay at Hotel Drover , in the heart of the District, where holiday decor and activities add to the fun. Near the downtown Sundance Square entertainment area, Kimpton Harper Hotel is set in a historic building that was once the tallest in Fort Worth. The Crescent Hotel, Fort Worth opens this autumn and features a Canyon Ranch Wellness Club with a full menu of fitness classes and spa treatments.

U.S. Virgin Islands

Lauren Breedlove/Travel + Leisure

Located in the northeastern Caribbean Sea, St. Croix, St. John, and St. Thomas make up the U.S. Virgin Islands. Whether you travel to the Caribbean for the beaches, water sports, outdoor adventures, shopping, or nightlife, these islands have myriad options. Join the fun at St. Croix’s Crucian Christmas Festival, which begins Dec. 10 and combines Caribbean, African, Spanish, and Dutch influences in traditional carnival events. The closing parade happens on Jan. 6, when thousands of masqueraders fill the streets. Among accommodation options are the waterfront King Christian Hotel in downtown Christiansted, St. Croix and The Ritz-Carlton, St. Thomas , which hosts holiday activities throughout December. Passports are not required for travel to this United States territory.

This sunny island in the eastern Caribbean is a perfect December escape, whether you’re traveling with friends or family or looking for a romantic getaway. From relaxing on the beach or by the pool to active adventures like kitesurfing, diving, or playing golf, there are lots of fun things to do on Anguilla. Places to stay include boutique hotels, resorts, villas, and apartments at a range of prices. Consider the family-friendly Four Seasons Resort & Residences Anguilla , Malliouhana Resort , and Frangipani Beach Resort , where there’s fun for everyone. Cap Juluca, A Belmond Hotel and Altamer offer private villas. Zemi Beach House on Shoal Bay Beach features a spa set in a 306-year-old Thai house.

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Best Time to Visit Mexico: Month by Month Breakdown

Mexico is a vast country and there is a huge range of seasons and climates across the different regions.

The weather can be roughly split into a wet and a dry season, although this mostly counts in the tropical regions south of Mexico City.

The north has a more arid, desert-like climate, while the central regions are at high altitude and enjoy much cooler weather than the rest of Mexico. 

Mexico also has distinct low and high seasons when it comes to tourism, especially in touristy destinations like Cancun and Puerto Vallarta. These generally coincide with the wet and dry seasons too. 

To inspire your next trip, here’s our guide on the best time to visit Mexico!

Don’t leave home without: Lonely Planet Mexico (Country Guide)

Table of Contents

Mexico Dry Season 

The dry season is the best time to visit Mexico, and it falls between November and April.

This is peak season, so you can expect things to be busy, especially over Christmas, but Mexico is such a vast country that you can always find a way to escape the crowds.

Here’s our month by month breakdown for Mexico’s dry season. 

Novem b er  in Mexico

November is the start of the dry season, and for travelers, this could be the best time to visit Mexico. 

Prices are still low and tourist numbers are still small compared to what’s going to hit the top destinations in December. This is a good time to visit popular destinations like Cancun, Playa del Carmen, and Puerto Vallarta, as you’ll find some great deals on flights and accommodation. 

As the rainy season has only just ended, it’s not the best time for diving yet, but head to Baja California and you’ll catch the start of the Whale Shark season. 

Tropical Yucatan is getting much cooler and a lot less humid, so now is the time to explore the jungles and to visit those lost Mayan Ruins without working up too much of a sweat. 

December in Mexico

Weather-wise, December is easily the best time to visit Mexico. However, everyone else has the same idea too, and December is the worst time to visit Mexico if you’re looking for a quiet vacation away from the crowds! 

In December, especially over Christmas and New Year, the resorts of Cancun and the Maya Riviera are packed out and prices are at their peak. It’s no different in other popular tourist spots either, such as Puerto Vallarta or Baja California. 

The weather is crisp, sunny and dry though, and you’re not likely to have a single rainy day. If you’re not having a beach holiday though, then take a trip to explore the indigenous culture of Oaxaca or Chiapas where you can find beautiful weather. 

January in Mexico

January is just as busy as December, at least for the first two weeks. This is peak season across Mexico, especially in Cancun and along the Pacific Coast.

Travel to Mexico towards the end of January though and you can start to get a few good deals again, as the crowds start to thin out.

Weather-wise this is a great time to explore the south, so enjoy the dry weather along the coast, and visit Mayan archeological sites like Palenque or Chichen Itza.

Mexico City is lovely in January, as are the central highlands, although it can get chilly at night. 

February in Mexico

In February the weather starts to get hotter, especially in the tropical south. Up north and in the mountains it’s still very cool, however. 

You can expect the odd rain shower across the country but for the most part, this is still a beautiful time to travel around Mexico .

You’ll get lower prices in Cancun while the diving and snorkeling off the coast of Cozumel Island is glorious, with sparkling clear water. 

This is the perfect time to visit Baja California, on the Pacific Coast, where you’ll be right in the middle of the whale watching season, and you’ll have the chance to swim with Whale Sharks. 

March in Mexico

March brings a mixed bag when it comes to crowds and the weather. This can be the middle of Spring Break, so it’s a good idea to avoid the big tourist hotspots if this isn’t your scene. If you’re looking to party though, then head straight to Cancun or Tijuana.

Equally, if Easter falls in March then it can be busy everywhere, although this is a great time to soak up the local culture during Semana Santa, the holy week. 

Weatherwise, it can be a little more unpredictable. The south sees more rain while the north is heating up and seeing a few thunderstorms too. 

April in Mexico

Like March, it can be a little unpredictable in April too, so plan your trip in advance to avoid spring break dates or Easter holidays, which can both fall this time of the year. 

April is the last month of the dry season, although you will see the weather starting to turn. The colder winter months are over and summer is on the way, which means that along with the rain it’s getting much hotter, everywhere. 

This is your last chance to see the whales and Whale Sharks in Baja California before they move on for the summer, and it’s the last chance to get really good visibility and diving conditions around Cozumel Island and along the Maya Riviera. 

As the weather heats up, this is a great time to start exploring those high altitude destinations in Central Mexico, such as Guanajuato or San Miguel de Allende, where you can escape the heat. 

Mexico Wet Season

Mexico’s wet season runs from May through to October, however, this varies across the country. The south sees the most rain, and hurricanes can lash the coastlines.

It’s cooler and drier in the north this time of the year, where the climate isn’t tropical. The wet season is not the best time to visit the south of Mexico, but there are still plenty of great deals and places to explore outside of this traditional tourist hotspot. 

May in Mexico

May is officially the start of the wet season, and you can guarantee that it’s going to be hot and it’s probably going to be rainy.

This is a good month for shoulder season travel though because you can avoid the high season crowds in places like Cancun or the Pacific Coast.

It’s fine if you don’t mind a little humidity and have a swimming pool to cool off in because you’ll only get a few hours of rain a day at most.

It’s even better in Baja California, where you can enjoy dry weather for most of May, while temperatures soar into the 30s. Mexico City has cooler weather, and it feels like it’s summer, making the capital a great option in May. 

June in Mexico

June is not the best time to visit Mexico, although you can get some cheap deals on flights and hotels.

The reason it’s cheap though is because it’s the start of hurricane season. While hurricanes are rare, it’s definitely going to rain, although if you don’t mind risking that for a few hours a day it might be worth it 

Instead of going to the coast though, stick to the central highlands, where it’s much cooler and there’s much less rain. 

July in Mexico

July is just as hot and rainy, and while you can get cheap deals at the resorts and great value flights across the country, it’s really not the best time to visit Mexico. 

Hurricanes can hit the Caribbean and Pacific Coast, while everywhere is hot, stuffy and humid. 

You get the best weather in Baja California, but make sure you have a swimming pool where you can cool off.

The other option is to stay at altitude, as you’ll find that while Central Mexico is hot, it’s not quite as hot as the coast – especially at night time.

August in Mexico

In August, it’s still going to be uncomfortably hot across Mexico, although temperatures will start to cool off slightly, especially in the higher altitude areas of the country around Mexico City.

This is still very much hurricane season, so be prepared for this if you’re traveling to Cancun or the Pacific Coast in August.

On the plus side, there are few other vacationers around in August and the prices can be very low, on both flights and hotels! 

September in Mexico

In September, things are starting to look up again when it comes to the weather. This is still the rainy season, but the worst is behind you, and September can be a great time to escape the crowds and score some good deals. 

It’s a good time to be in Mexico City, where the rain is slack anyway and the high altitude means cooler climes.

It’s also Independence day in September, so you can expect plenty of parades and fiestas. 

October in Mexico

In October, it’s the last month of the rainy season and the hurricane season, and actually this can be the best time to visit Mexico.

Rainfall will be minimal, but prices are still low, so head to the beaches and make the most of the deals before the high season crowds arrive in November and December.

As a bonus, the end of October is also when you’ll be able to celebrate Day of the Dead across Mexico.

Our Top Recommended Mexico Tours

• Mayan Adventure with G Adventures – 22 days
• Yucatan Discovery: Cenotes & Seasides with G Adventures – 7 days
• Classic Mexico Adventure with G Adventures – 14 days
• Mayan Highlights with G Adventures – 9 days
• Cultural Wonders of Mexico with National Geographic Journeys – 9 days

More on Mexico:

• Ultimate Packing List for Mexico
• Ultimate Baja Mexico Cruise: Sea of Cortex with UnCruise
•   Kayaking in Mexico: 4 Days on the Sea of Cortez
• Ultimate 3 Days in Mexico City Itinerary
• Where to Stay in Mexico City: Best Districts & Hotels
• 12 Best Day Trips from Mexico City (That are Worth Taking)
• The Amazing Mexico City Pyramids of Teotihuacan
• Manzanillo Mexico Travel Guide: A Cancun Alternative
• 8 Amazing Things to Do in Cancun
• Best Time to Visit Cancun: Month by Month Breakdown
• 8 Things to Do in the Riviera Maya for an Epic Vacation
• Celebrating 15 Years of Travel with Barcelo Maya Grand Resort
• 10 Awesome Things to Do in Playa del Carmen
• 9 Incredible Things to Do in Cozumel
• Isla Espiritu Santo in Mexico: Ultimate Planning Guide

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Travel planning resources, about david stock.

I have always been an outdoorsman so becoming an adventure traveler was just the next natural step. I love nature, I love to get off the beaten path and I like to explore. I enjoy scuba diving and cars. And yes, Lina and I have a naked dog.

1 thought on “Best Time to Visit Mexico: Month by Month Breakdown”

Such a beautiful place! Mexico’s dry season is the best for me. Thanks for sharing this Anna

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10 Best Places in Mexico to Visit on Your Next Trip

W ith centuries of Indigenous cultural history, ancient ruins , and resplendent cities, Mexico is brimming with beautiful places. But this can make choosing a place (or several places) to visit in Mexico a challenge. Do you want to spend your days stretched on a beach in the Yucatán Peninsula or in idle relaxation sitting beside a pueblo plaza? Then again, why not both?

To help you decide, here are our top picks for the best places to visit in Mexico.

• Location: Oaxaca
• Come for: a heady mix of traditional and experimental cuisine, ancient ruins, and a vibrant arts scene
• Where to stay: Hotel Sin Nombre

Tucked high up in the Sierra Madre de Oaxaca, Oaxaca is a place where overflowing baskets of spices and textiles sit beside cafés serving up artisanal coffee. Cuisine is a pillar of the city's soul, whether in the form of crispy, coal-grilled tlayudas on the street or high-brow rooftop cocktails.

A capital for mezcal artistry, Oaxaca is known for its dozens upon dozens of mezcalerias . Pull up a chair at La Mezcalerita , a veritable library of mezcal, with three downstairs rooms and an appealing rooftop patio-perfect for sunset.

How to get to Oaxaca

The most direct way to get to Oaxaca is to fly into the Oaxaca International Airport (OAX). Travelers can also connect in Mexico City for the nearly 90-minute flight.

• Location: Quintana Roo
• Come for: tranquil lagoon life that is still flying relatively far below the typical tourist radar
• Where to stay: Hotel Makaaba Eco-Boutique

Laguna de Bacalar is the second largest lake in Mexico, with colors that change from aquamarine to cobalt because of the different depths of the water, earning it the nickname "The Lake of Seven Colors." Bacalar has a reputation for eco-friendly resorts, hidden cenotes, and mangrove channels for kayaking. Life is slow-paced here-lights are usually out by 9 p.m., and that's how the locals like it.

How to get to Bacalar

Bacalar is a four-hour drive south of Cancun, which helps it retain its remote vibe. In December 2023 , the opening of the airport in Tulum will cut that drive nearly in half. Travelers can also fly into the city of Chetumal and drive for 30 minutes.

3. Puerto Escondido

• Come for: epic surf and the culture that comes with it, plus undeveloped beaches, bioluminescent bays, and hot springs
• Where to stay: Villas Carrizalillo

Mexico is in a constant state of development and some foreign investors have set their sights on coveted real estate. But in this port town, visitors can still eat fish tacos underneath shady palapas , grab an open-air collective van (a one-way ride will cost roughly 10 pesos), travel to the market downtown, and surf along windswept beaches at dawn, in large part thanks to efforts from tourists, expats, and locals to control development.

How to get to Puerto Escondido

Puerto Escondido has a very small airport. For an accessible alternative, travelers can connect in Mexico City or Guadalajara. A larger international airport is in Huatulco, which is about 90 minutes away.

4. Isla Holbox

• Come for: idyllic car-free island living with spectacular beaches, yoga, and a growing foodie scene
• Where to stay: Ser Casasandra

This island off the coast of the Yucatan peni nsula feels as much Caribbean as it does Mexican, with a blend of car-free streets and the lilt of steel drums. Though admittedly less Robinson Crusoe–esque than it used to be thanks to an infusion of boutique resorts like Nomade Holbox and NÁAY Boutique Hotel Punta Coco, this remains a place for freshly caught and grilled seafood and beaches that seem to stretch on forever.

How to get to Isla Holbox

Fly into Cancun International Airport and take a two-hour taxi, or hop on an ADO bus up for a four-hour ride to Chiquila. From there, take the 15-minute ferry to Isla Holbox.

5. Puerto Vallarta

• Location: Jalisco
• Come for: a beach-meets-city scene where locals and tourists mingle
• Where to stay: Casa Kimberly

Puerto Vallarta is a city where bars, restaurants, or shops will unlikely accept U.S. dollars, unlike in other resort towns. It buzzes with action from both visitors and locals, whether through the pulse of the Malecon boardwalk until the wee hours or lively cobblestone streets of Zona Romantica. At the end of the day, travelers can enjoy sunset above the Bay of Banderas.

How to get to Puerto Vallarta

Several U.S. airports, including New York (JFK), San Francisco (SFO), and Los Angeles (LAX) offer direct flights to Puerto Vallarta.

• Come for: all-inclusive hotels, white-sand beaches, and a lively downtown
• Where to stay: Belmond Maroma Resort & Spa

Cancún is what put the Mexican Caribbean on the map, for good reason: Few places offer better white-sand beaches or all-inclusive resorts than this spot on the Yucatán Peninsula. Cancun's once locals-only downtown is starting to gain traction from travelers who want to venture outside the Hotel Zone. Here, visitors can get another taste of the city when encountering its street art, taco trucks, and bustling markets like Mercado 28.

How to get to Cancun

With the second busiest airport in Mexico , it's one of the easiest places in the country to access.

7. Guanajuato

• Location: Guanajuato
• Come for: colorful architecture and growing wine tourism
• Where to stay: 1850 Hotel Boutique

Guanajuato is a great jumping-off point for exploring the state's growing wine route (there are more than 30 wineries in the Guanajuato Grape and Wine Association) as well as regional dishes like enchiladas mineras -head to Enchiladas de Lupe for a delicious one. The city also hosts the annual Festival Internacional Cervantino , which invites musicians, theater performers, and other artists from all over the world to showcase their culture.

How to get to Guanajuato

The main airport in the state of Guanajuato is in Leon, about an hour's drive from the city. It has a few direct flights from the USA, but travelers can get to the airport with direct flights from Tijuana, Mexico City, Puerto Vallarta, and Monterrey.

8. Mexico City

• Location: Mexico City
• Come for: world-class hotels, museums, and restaurants
• Where to stay in Mexico City: Circulo Mexicano

No visit to Mexico is complete without exploring the world-renowned restaurants , Aztec ruins, and 24/7 vibe of its capital city. Walk around Roma Norte and other vibrant neighborhoods, each one offering something different from the next. Thanks to its efficient (and cost-effective) mass transit, devouring everything from Diego Rivera murals to inventive cocktails from the top floors of luxury hotels is possible.

How to get to Mexico City

Mexico City's airport has direct flights from all major U.S. gateways.

• Location: Puebla
• Come for: mole, mole, mole!
• Where to stay: Banyan Tree Puebla

Puebla has fostered a scene that is just as proud of its heritage and tradition (it's said to have a church for every day of the year) as it is of its experimental restaurants, with eateries like Moyuelo and Áttico 303 fusing traditional Mexican ingredients with international techniques and recipes. The city's kitchens and street carts offer temptations like mole (a dried chile sauce) in every shade, overstuffed bread roll sandwiches known as cemitas , and tacos arabes stuffed into fluffy lavash-style bread.

How to get to Puebla

Puebla has its own international airport with direct flights from Houston (IAH), but consider flying into Mexico City, which has ample connections. From the Benito Juarez airport, you can hop aboard an express bus and ride two hours to Puebla.

10. San José del Cabo

• Location: Baja California Sur
• Come for: Cabo beaches and fantastic dining without the overwhelming hum of tourists
• Where to stay: Acre Baja

Los Cabos consists of Cabo San Lucas and San José del Cabo, which are connected by a long stretch of resort-lined roads known as the Tourist Corridor. As Cabo San Lucas is the more visited of the two, San José del Cabo is where travelers go to escape the crowds. Those visiting San José del Cabo can experience a thriving farm-to-table scene thanks to organic farms Flora Farms, Tamarindos, and Acre Baja that double as outdoor restaurants.

How to get to San José del Cabo

San Jose del Cabo's international airport is the gateway to Los Cabos. It has direct flights from most major U.S. hubs.