Summer in Mexico: Weather and Top Destinations

Summer in Mexico runs from mid-June through mid-September. But as the country has diverse climate zones, the weather and temperature during summer can vary depending on the region you are visiting. In general, summer in Mexico is considered the rainy season, with high humidity and occasional thunderstorms. The coastal regions can also experience hurricanes during this time.

In the northern regions of Mexico, such as Baja California and Sonora, summers are hot and dry, with temperatures averaging between 32°C and 38°C. The central highlands, including Mexico City, experience mild temperatures in their low twenties with frequent afternoon showers.

Popular destinations such as Puerto Vallarta and Acapulco on the Pacific Coast have high temperatures averaging around 32°C, with occasional thunderstorms in the afternoons. In the Yucatan Peninsula and Caribbean coast, including Cancun and Playa del Carmen, temperatures are typically in their upper twenties with high humidity and occasional rainfall.

	June	July	August	September
Avg high	24°C (76°F)	22°C (72°F)	23°C (74°F)	23°C (74°F)
Avg low	12°C (54°F)	12°C (54°F)	12°C (54°F)	12°C (54°F)
Rainfall (mm)	40	60	40	90

For a more detailed seasonal overview, check out our guide on the best time to visit Mexico.

Related articles:
Mexico in June
Mexico in July
Mexico in August
Mexico in September

Summer is a fantastic time to enjoy Mexico’s beautiful landscapes, rich history, and mouthwatering cuisine. Below are some of the major reasons for you to take a trip to Mexico in summer:

• Festivals and celebrations: Summer is a festive time in Mexico when you can get a taste of the country’s rich culture. Guelaguetza, Feria Nacional de San Marcos, International Mariachi Festival, and Carnival of Veracruz are some of the popular events and festivals that are held during summer.
• Adventure: If you are looking for an adventure, summer is a great time to visit Mexico. You can hike in the mountains, explore ancient ruins, or try surfing or kayaking.
• Low-season perks: Summer is considered the low season in Mexico, which means you can often find great deals on flights and accommodations, particularly in areas popular with tourists during the winter months, such as Cancun and Los Cabos.
• Beaches: Mexico has some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, and summer is the perfect time to enjoy them. Whether you go on a trip to Cancun, Cozumel, or Puerto Vallarta, Mexico’s beaches offer plenty of water sports during summer.

If you are considering a trip to Mexico, we recommend looking at our Mexico guide for a clear overview of the country to help you plan your journey.

Summer is a fantastic time to explore Mexico’s diverse natural, cultural, and culinary landscapes. Here are the top three places you should not miss on your Mexico trip during the summer months:

1. Cancun

Cancun is known for its turquoise waters, white sandy beaches, and lively nightlife. It is a popular spot to relax, soak up the sun, and enjoy water activities such as swimming, snorkeling, and diving.

Major attractions: Beautiful beaches, Chichén Itzá, Xcaret Park, Isla Mujeres, and Cancun Underwater Museum.

Pros:

• Summer is the off-season in Cancun, so hotels, resorts, and local attractions are more affordable than during the peak season. There are also fewer crowds compared to the high tourist season.
• Summer is a great time to experience some of Cancun’s cultural events and festivals, such as the Cancun Jazz Festival and the Cancun Summer Festival.

Cons: 

• Thunderstorms are fairly common in Cancun during the summer season. So there is a risk of travel disruptions or cancellations due to bad weather.

2. Oaxaca

Oaxaca is a beautiful colonial city in southern Mexico. It is known for its rich cultural heritage, colorful markets, and traditional crafts such as pottery and weaving. Summer is a great time to tour Oxana if you want to explore the nearby ruins of Monte Alban and the ancient Zapotec city of Mitla.

Major attractions: Monte Albán, Santo Domingo de Guzmán Church, Mercado de Benito Juárez, Jardín Etnobotánico de Oaxaca, and Museo de las Culturas de Oaxaca.

Pros:

• Oaxaca enjoys a year-round temperate climate, making it an excellent destination for outdoor activities. In the summer months, you can go hiking, mountain biking, and exploring the natural wonders, such as Hierve el Agua and the surrounding mountains.
• Summer is a great time to experience some of Oaxaca’s cultural events and festivals, such as the Guelaguetza, one of the region’s most important festivals celebrating the indigenous cultures of Oaxaca.

Cons: 

• Mosquitoes and other insects thrive in warm and humid conditions of summer, which can be a nuisance if you are sensitive to insect bites.

3. Cabo San Lucas

Cabo San Lucas has many attractions, from natural wonders like El Arco and Land’s End to cultural experiences like the San Jose del Cabo Art Walk. Located on the southern tip of the Baja California Peninsula, it is also home to beautiful beaches, crystal-clear waters, and world-class golf courses. It is a great place to spend your summer vacation, enjoying activities like fishing, boating, and water sports.

Major attractions: Playa del Amor, El Arco de Cabo San Lucas, Medano Beach, Land’s End, San Jose del Cabo Art Walk, Cabo Pulmo National Park, and whale watching. 

Pros:

• The summer months coincide with the annual arrival of whale sharks to the area around Cabo San Lucas. These gentle giants can be observed on snorkeling and diving trips.
• Cabo San Lucas hosts various festivals and events throughout the summer, including the San Jose del Cabo Art Walk, the Cabo Marine Show, and the Los Cabos Open of Surf.

Cons: 

• Cabo San Lucas can be very hot and humid during summer, which can be a bit uncomfortable for some visitors.

 Mexico is a fantastic summer destination, with plenty of natural and cultural landmarks, beautiful beaches, and adventure activities to enjoy. Below are the top things to do in Mexico during summer:

• Enjoy water sports: Mexico is a paradise for water sports enthusiasts, and the summer months offer excellent conditions for activities like snorkeling and scuba diving. Popular sites to explore the brightly colored coral reefs and incredible marine life in Mexico are Cozumel, Cabo San Lucas, and the Sea of Cortez.
• Witness the whale shark migration: If you are a nature lover, do not miss the chance to witness the annual whale shark migration that takes place off the coast of Cancun, Isla Mujeres, and Holbox Island from May to September. Be a part of a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to swim with these gentle giants in their natural habitat.
• Explore the ancient ruins: Mexico is rich in history and boasts some of the world's most impressive ancient ruins and historical sites. Take a trip to Tulum, Chichen Itza, or Palenque, or visit the cities of Guanajuato or San Miguel de Allende to admire the Spanish architecture and learn about the country’s colonial past.

• The summer months in Mexico can be pretty hot, so staying hydrated is essential. Make sure to drink plenty of water, especially if you are outside or engaging in physical activity. To keep cool, you can also try refreshing drinks like aguas frescas or coconut water.
• Mexican food is popular around the world, but certain dishes are especially refreshing in the summer. Ceviche, agua chile, and esquites are particularly tasty and refreshing when you have them during summer.
• While many people in Mexico speak English, knowing a few basic Spanish terms can be helpful when navigating the remote parts of the country.
• Mexico is known for its warm, sunny weather and beautiful beaches, but that also means you will need to protect your skin from the sun. Some parts of Mexico can be prone to mosquitoes and other insects, so an insect repellent can be a lifesaver.

Visiting Mexico in summer can be a fantastic experience. Take advantage of the low tourist crowds and off-season discounts to explore the country’s many beautiful beaches, natural wonders and cultural heritage.

If you need help planning a customized trip to Mexico, you can always contact our travel experts, who can devise a tailored itinerary to suit your needs.