Best Time to Visit Tulum: Month-by-Month Guide

Planning a trip to Tulum but not sure when to go? You’re in the right place. This guide breaks down the best time to visit Tulum month by month, including weather patterns, seasonal trends, and when to avoid the crowds (or the rain).

The best time to visit Tulum is December through April. This is the dry season in Mexico’s Riviera Maya, with sunny skies, lower humidity, and perfect beach weather for swimming, snorkeling, and exploring Tulum’s famous ruins.

On the flip side, the rainy season runs from June through October, bringing higher humidity, afternoon showers, and the occasional tropical storm. While you can still enjoy the region during this time, you’ll need to plan around unpredictable weather and mosquitoes.

Here’s something worth knowing: this guide applies to the entire Riviera Maya region, not just Tulum.

So if you’re also visiting Playa del Carmen, Puerto Morelos, Cozumel, Isla Mujeres, or Cancun, the weather, seasonal trends, and tips in this article are exactly the same.

These destinations are just a short drive or ferry ride from Tulum and share the same Caribbean climate, so knowing Tulum’s transportation options will make planning a multi-stop itinerary much smoother.

Best Time to Visit Tulum by Month

November — Start of the Dry Season

November is the beginning of Tulum’s best weather window. Humidity starts to drop, rain becomes less frequent, and daytime temperatures hover around 28°C (82°F) with cooler evenings.

This is also when the Caribbean Sea calms down, making it perfect for snorkeling at cenotes or swimming at Playa Paraiso.

Early November can still see occasional showers, but by the second half of the month, conditions are reliably sunny.

If you’re looking to avoid peak holiday crowds but still enjoy great weather, late November is an ideal time to visit.

December — Peak Season Begins

December marks the true start of Tulum’s high season, with warm days, clear skies, and minimal rainfall.

Average temperatures range from 25°C (77°F) at night to 29°C (84°F) during the day, creating perfect beach weather.

Holiday season crowds start arriving mid-December, so hotel rates rise. Christmas and New Year’s are extremely busy in Tulum, especially along the beach hotel zone. If you’re visiting in December, book hotels well in advance.

January — Sunny, Warm & Busy

January is prime Tulum weather: sunny, dry, and comfortably warm without excessive humidity. Average highs reach 28–29°C (82–84°F), and evenings are pleasantly cool.

This is one of the best months for outdoor activities like cycling to cenotes, exploring Mayan ruins, or enjoying Tulum’s beach clubs.

The Caribbean waters are calm, making it perfect for snorkeling trips to Cozumel or swimming in Tulum’s cenotes like Gran Cenote or Dos Ojos.

February — Ideal for Beach Days

If I had to pick the single best month to visit Tulum, February would be a strong contender. It’s dry, sunny, and slightly warmer than January, with average highs around 29–30°C (84–86°F) and low rainfall.

Seaweed (sargassum) is usually minimal this month, and the ocean is clear for diving and snorkeling.

The vibe in Tulum is energetic without feeling overwhelmingly crowded, especially after the holiday rush.

March — Hotter Days, Still Great Weather

March brings slightly hotter and longer days to Tulum, with highs reaching 30–31°C (86–88°F).

Humidity is still manageable, and rainfall is low, making it a perfect month for beach lovers.

Spring Break starts to bring more visitors, but Tulum remains more relaxed than Cancun. Cenotes and nearby Mayan ruins like Coba and Chichen Itza are perfect to visit in the mornings before the midday heat.

April — Hot & Approaching the Wet Season

April marks the tail end of the dry season. Temperatures rise to 31–32°C (88–90°F), and humidity starts to creep in.

Rainfall is still minimal, so this is a great month for swimming, diving, and exploring the Riviera Maya.

If you’re visiting during Semana Santa (Easter Week), expect larger crowds and higher hotel rates. April sunsets over Tulum Beach are spectacular, making evenings at a rooftop bar or beach club especially memorable.

Worst Time to Visit Tulum by Month

May — Hot, Humid & First Showers

May is the transition month into the wet season. Days are hotter (around 32°C / 90°F), and humidity spikes, making midday beach walks feel intense.

Short tropical showers begin, usually in the late afternoons. This is also the start of Tulum’s sargassum season, when seaweed can wash up on beaches.

Resorts and beach clubs usually clear it daily, but it’s something to keep in mind.

The upside? Lower hotel prices and fewer tourists compared to the high season.

June — Rainy & Humid

June marks the first full month of Tulum’s rainy season, with frequent showers and sticky humidity.

Average highs hover around 32–33°C (90–91°F), and the evenings remain warm.

Rain usually comes in bursts rather than all-day storms, so you can still enjoy the beach and cenotes.

If you plan to visit in June, pack a light rain jacket and plan some indoor or shaded activities during the hottest part of the day.

July — Hot & Humid

July continues the wet season pattern: hot, humid, and occasional afternoon storms. Average temperatures remain 31–32°C (88–90°F).

Despite the weather, summer is still popular with families since school holidays drive tourism.

If you visit, plan early morning excursions to avoid peak heat and schedule cenote swims to cool off midday.

August — Peak of Wet Season

August is very humid and often rainy, with highs around 32°C (90°F). The seaweed season is typically active, and swimming conditions can be less ideal due to rougher water.

The silver lining? Hotel rates are at their lowest, and some travelers enjoy the quieter beaches despite the weather challenges.

September — Rainiest Month

September is the rainiest month in Tulum and also the peak hurricane season. Rainfall is heavy, and the chance of tropical storms or hurricanes is higher than in any other month.

Unless you’re chasing off-season prices and don’t mind unpredictable weather, September is the worst month to visit Tulum for the beaches.

October — Transition Back to Dry Season

October is still wet but marks the transition back to better weather. Rain and humidity gradually decrease, and by the second half of the month, you can get stretches of sunny days.

If you’re looking for low prices and fewer tourists without the heavy September rains, late October can be a great shoulder-season pick.

High Season in Tulum

Tulum’s high season runs from December through April, lining up with the dry season and offering the most reliable beach weather of the year.

During these months, you can expect sunny skies, lower humidity, and warm but comfortable temperatures that make exploring ruins, swimming in cenotes, and long beach days effortless.

High season also coincides with holiday travel and winter escapes from colder countries. Around Christmas, New Year’s, and spring break, Tulum experiences a surge of visitors.

Beach clubs fill up, boutique hotels along the beach road sell out months in advance, and prices for accommodation and flights rise to their yearly peak.

If you’re looking to visit during the best weather but want to avoid peak crowds, aim for early December or late January. Mornings are ideal for exploring Tulum Ruins or biking to nearby cenotes, while afternoons are perfect for lounging on the beach with calm Caribbean waters.

This is also the best time for diving trips, snorkeling excursions, and island day trips from Tulum to Cozumel or Isla Mujeres, as the sea is at its clearest.

Shoulder Season in Tulum

Tulum’s shoulder season arrives during November and May, months that act as transitions between dry and wet weather.

These months can be an excellent balance of good conditions and lower prices, making them a favorite for travelers who want the Tulum experience without the peak-season cost.

In November, the rainy season is ending, and the region begins its shift into dry, sunny days. Beaches are quieter, cenotes are crystal clear from recent rains, and you might find small seasonal discounts at hotels and eco-lodges.

By the second half of the month, humidity drops, and the Caribbean breeze makes evenings along the beach road feel perfect for outdoor dining.

In May, Tulum begins to warm up, with higher humidity and the first signs of seaweed season, when sargassum washes onto some beaches. Rainfall increases slightly, usually as short afternoon showers that pass quickly.

This is a great month for cenote swimming and inland exploration, since the water is refreshing, and the crowds have thinned after Easter and spring break.

Shoulder season is ideal for photographers, remote workers, or long-stay travelers looking to enjoy Tulum with a calmer vibe.

Off Season in Tulum

The off-season in Tulum runs from June through October, bringing the rainy season, hurricane risk, and peak summer humidity.

This is when you’ll find the lowest hotel and flight prices, but it comes with trade-offs that you need to plan around.

Weather can be unpredictable, with frequent afternoon downpours and sticky daytime highs around 31–33°C (88–91°F).

September is the rainiest month, and it’s also the peak of hurricane season, which can cause temporary beach closures or canceled excursions. Beaches may also experience heavier sargassum seaweed, especially in summer, though some resorts and beach clubs clean their stretch daily.

For travelers willing to embrace the off-season, there are perks: empty beaches, uncrowded cenotes, and heavily discounted luxury stays.

Plan your activities early in the day to avoid afternoon storms, and consider indoor options like Tulum cooking classes, wellness retreats, or museum visits in nearby Valladolid if rain rolls in.

Best Areas & Hotels in Tulum

Choosing where to stay in Tulum will shape your trip experience, since the town is divided into distinct areas with their own vibe.

Whether you want beachfront luxury, nightlife, or local charm, here are the best areas in Tulum to consider:

Tulum Beach (Zona Hotelera)

This is the iconic stretch of Tulum you’ve seen on Instagram: eco-luxury resorts, beach clubs, boutique hotels, and direct Caribbean access.

If your goal is sunrise beach walks and sipping cocktails by the sand, this is where to stay. Keep in mind that prices are highest here, and transportation is limited mostly to biking or walking.

• Azulik Tulum — An Iconic eco-luxury resort with treetop villas, private decks, and a world-famous spa experience.

• Nomade Tulum — A beachfront boho-chic hotel offering yoga, wellness programs, and stylish dining.

Aldea Zama

A modern residential and vacation rental area between Tulum Beach and Tulum Town (Pueblo). It’s quiet, safe, and central, with stylish condos, a few cafes, and bike paths that make it easy to reach either the beach or downtown. Ideal for digital nomads or longer stays.

• Naay Tulum Boutique Hotel — Modern, cozy boutique stay with a rooftop pool and easy beach access by bike.

• Kimpton Aluna Tulum — Sleek, resort-style hotel with a pool, rooftop lounge, and free shuttles to the beach.

Tulum Pueblo (Town Center)

The heart of local life in Tulum, with budget-friendly hotels, authentic restaurants, and easy access to colectivos and taxis. It’s great for travelers who want a more authentic, affordable experience, especially if you plan to rent a car or bike to the beach each day.

• Hotel Tiki Tiki — Retro-inspired boutique hotel with a jungle pool vibe and stylish mid-century design.

• Hotel Posada 06 Tulum — Centrally located, budget-friendly hotel with a pool and clean, comfortable rooms.

La Veleta

This is a trendy, up-and-coming area behind Tulum Pueblo, filled with Airbnbs, boutique villas, and small eco-hotels.

It has a growing restaurant and coffee scene and attracts digital nomads and long-term visitors looking for a balance between local life and comfort.

• Little Gem Hotel Tulum — Boutique eco-hotel with serene jungle views and wellness-focused amenities.

• Aloft Tulum — Modern, vibrant hotel with a rooftop pool and great nightlife access.

Tankah Bay (North of Tulum)

If you want peace and quiet, Tankah Bay offers secluded beachfront villas and boutique resorts, just a short drive north of Tulum. It’s perfect for honeymooners or anyone seeking a private escape with easy access to snorkeling and kayaking.

• Casa Cenote Hotel — Rustic beachfront hotel with direct access to a calm bay and nearby cenote snorkeling.

• Mezzanine Hotel — Waterfront boutique hotel offering kayaks, paddleboards, and romantic ocean-view rooms

Final Thoughts: Tulum Weather by Month

Tulum is one of those rare destinations where timing truly shapes the experience.

While the Caribbean sun and turquoise waters are beautiful year-round, the magic of Tulum comes alive during the dry season, when the skies are clear, the beaches are vibrant, and the nightlife pulses with energy.

This is when Tulum becomes the place you’ve seen in your dreams: sun-kissed beaches by day, jungle parties and rooftop DJs by night, and a calendar full of festivals and beach club events that attract travelers from all over the world.

If you’ve ever seen photos of those candle-lit beach dinners or wild techno sets deep in the jungle, know that they mostly happen between January and February, with November, December, and even early March also offering excellent conditions.

It’s also the season when many travelers are willing to pay a little extra for the full Tulum experience. Between higher hotel rates and trendy beach clubs, costs can creep up, but the trade-off is being here when Tulum feels alive.

Planning ahead for hotels and transportation options from Cancun Airport to Tulum will make the trip smoother and help you enjoy more of the experience once you arrive.

If you’re curious about what that actually looks like for your budget, check out my guide on what it costs to enjoy Tulum.

If you’re flying in from far away, timing your visit is worth the effort. The difference between prime-season Tulum and the quieter, rainier months is night and day, literally.

If you’re flying in from far away, timing your visit is worth the effort. The difference between prime-season Tulum and quieter months is huge, and travelers often compare it to visiting Playa del Carmen or Tulum in the wrong season, which is night and day different.

In peak months, you’ll get those epic sunrises over the Caribbean, poolside afternoons with mezcal cocktails, and nights where the music doesn’t stop until dawn.

Even if you’re more of a laid-back traveler than a party-seeker, these months offer Tulum at its most iconic: calm seas for swimming and cenotes, sun-drenched days for bike rides through town, and just enough nightlife to remind you you’re in one of the most unique beach towns in the world.

In short: if you want the Tulum you’ve always imagined, plan for the dry season, know what to expect, and check the official Tulum visitor information and seasonal highlights as your roadmap to the perfect trip.