Quick verdict
Peak season: Jan–Apr, Nov–Dec. Shoulder: May, Oct. Low: Jun–Sep.
Cabo has a hot desert climate (BWh in Köppen classification) — abundant sunshine (340+ sunny days/year), minimal rain (180 mm/year, virtually all in August-October), and a strong seasonal cycle.
What's the weather like in Cabo San Lucas by month?
Each month classified as peak (best balance of weather and value), shoulder (a step in either direction), or low season.
Why visit Cabo San Lucas during Jan–Apr, Nov–Dec?
The optimal window — daytime 23-27°C, cool nights (15-18°C), abundant sun, and reliably no rain. The whale-watching season runs December-April.
Shoulder season (May, Oct) trades a small weather concession for noticeably smaller crowds and softer prices — often the sweet spot for travelers who want flexibility.
Low season (Jun–Sep) is when prices fall hardest. Expect weather extremes (heat, humidity, cold, or rain depending on the destination) and reduced hours at some seasonal businesses, but the trade-off can be worth it if budget or solitude matters more than perfect conditions.
What festivals and events happen in Cabo San Lucas?
- Bisbee Black & Blue Marlin TournamentLate October
The world's richest sportfishing tournament — $5+ million in prizes, attracts the global sportfishing elite. The town fills with serious fishing money for the week; spectators welcome. The associated Bisbee's Los Cabos Offshore (early October) is also major.
- Sammy Hagar's Birthday BashOctober
The Cabo Wabo Cantina (Sammy Hagar's tequila-themed bar) hosts the annual celebrity birthday bash with multiple concerts — a Cabo institution since 1990. Tickets sell out months ahead.
- Whale Watching SeasonDecember - April
Not a single festival but a 4-month window of unmatched marine mammal viewing — grey, humpback, blue, and orca whales all visible from boat tours. Peak February-March. The defining seasonal experience of Los Cabos.
- Festival de Día de los Muertos (San José)November 1-2
The Day of the Dead celebration in San José del Cabo — far more authentic and less commercial than Cabo. Marigold altars, candle processions, the Catrina makeup competitions. The cultural counterweight to the resort tourism.
- Sabor a Cabo Food FestivalDecember
A 3-day food festival featuring 70+ Los Cabos restaurants — the chefs serve tasting plates outdoors at the Cuadra San Francisco Equestrian Center. Tickets $80-150; a great way to sample the Cabo food scene in one evening.
Cooler & warmer in North America this November
If Cabo San Lucas's November weather isn't your match, here are the closest North America alternatives at different temperatures. Distances are from Cabo San Lucas.
Cooler
See the full ranked list: All North America destinations in November →
Frequently asked
When is the best time to visit Cabo San Lucas?
The best time to visit Cabo San Lucas is Jan–Apr, Nov–Dec. Cabo has a hot desert climate (BWh in Köppen classification) — abundant sunshine (340+ sunny days/year), minimal rain (180 mm/year, virtually all in August-October), and a strong seasonal cycle. These months balance comfortable weather, manageable crowds, and prices that haven't yet hit peak-season highs.
When is the cheapest time to visit Cabo San Lucas?
Low-season months in Cabo San Lucas run Jun–Sep. Flights and hotels typically run 20-40% cheaper than peak. The trade-off is weather (which is why these months are off-peak) and some businesses operating shorter hours, especially in smaller seasonal destinations.
What's the weather like in Cabo San Lucas year-round?
Summer averages around 30°C (86°F) and winter averages around 23°C (73°F) in Cabo San Lucas. Cabo has a hot desert climate (BWh in Köppen classification) — abundant sunshine (340+ sunny days/year), minimal rain (180 mm/year, virtually all in August-October), and a strong seasonal cycle. October-May is the peak window with comfortable temperatures (23-29°C); June-October is hot (28-34°C) with a brief rainy season and tropical storm risk. Water temperatures in the Sea of Cortez range 20°C (winter) to 28°C (summer) — swimming is comfortable year-round.
What festivals or events are happening in Cabo San Lucas?
Notable events in Cabo San Lucas: Bisbee Black & Blue Marlin Tournament (Late October); Sammy Hagar's Birthday Bash (October); Whale Watching Season (December - April). The world's richest sportfishing tournament — $5+ million in prizes, attracts the global sportfishing elite. The town fills with serious fishing money for the week; spectators welcome. The associated Bisbee's Los Cabos Offshore (early October) is also major.
How many days do I need in Cabo San Lucas?
Most travelers spend 3-5 days in Cabo San Lucas, which covers the main neighborhoods, top attractions, and a half-day day trip. Add a day if you're visiting during peak season when crowds slow you down, or if you're combining Cabo San Lucas with nearby destinations.
More peak-season picks for Cabo San Lucas's best months
See every destination at its peak in each of Cabo San Lucas's best months.
Full guide
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