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The best time to visit Mexico and the exotic shores of the nation’s enchanting Caribbean coastline is really a question of personal preference.
Holidays in Cancun and the exceptional resorts dotted along the pristine shores of the Riviera Maya are a dream come true for anyone seeking to escape from everyday life and enjoy the delights of this mesmerising utopia. Whether you yearn for paradise beaches, non-stop activities, cultural connections or a party in paradise, you’ll find it all in this tropical wonderland and we’ll tell you when to visit to get the most out of your holiday.
If you’re craving lazy days relaxing on the sands or having fun in Caribbean waters, the best time for a beach holiday in Mexico is from December to April. During this period, you can expect plenty of sunshine, calm seas, low humidity and temperatures from around 24°C to 30°C. Take advantage of the warm seas and excellent visibility to enjoy snorkelling and scuba diving adventures, or simply step out into the surf to cool off with a leisurely swim. If you do plan your holiday for this time of year, it’s worth noting that prices will be higher around Christmas, New Year and when spring break takes place in the US. You should also expect larger crowds.
The best time for an activity holiday in Mexico can vary depending on what you hope to get up to. If you dream of exploring some of the spectacular freshwater cenotes that can be found around Cancun, Tulum, Akumal and Playa del Carmen, the choice of when to visit is completely up to you. The temperatures of these underground sinkholes remain comfortable all year round, meaning you can experience them at any time of year. For snorkelling and diving, booking your holiday during the period from November to May will generally mean the Caribbean waters are calm and visibility is excellent. Prime spots for aquatic adventures during these months include the seas off Cozumel and Akumal, as well as amidst the colourful coral gardens of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, otherwise known as the Great Mayan Reef.
The waters and beaches along Mexico’s Caribbean coast are visited by a host of spectacular wildlife. If you time your holiday right, there’s more than a chance that you might be able to spot one of two spectacular species. Seek out the sight of sea turtles nesting along the sandy shorelines from May to October, or keep a look out for hatchlings making the perilous journey to the sea between July and November. Whale sharks provide aquatic enchantment from June to September, when the waters close to the islands of Isla Mujeres and Holbox provide a popular feeding ground for these mesmerising creatures.
If your holiday plans revolve around discovering epic party nights, the best time to visit Mexico is during spring break season. This takes place from March to April and is when students from universities across North America take advantage of a hiatus in learning to seek out daytime sun and nightlife fun. Partying peaks in Cancun’s hotel zone and in Playa del Carmen during this period, with an array of pulsating events drawing the crowds. If you would prefer to sample the lively atmosphere without the crowds of spring break, other good times to visit Mexico include the months of January, February and November.
The weather can make or break a holiday, so if you want to avoid a wash out, the best time to visit Mexico is from January to April. Expect warm, dry, sunny conditions, with temperatures rising as the months pass. The good weather does attract the crowds, so if you would prefer a quieter holiday, consider planning your visit for May or June when things start heating up and the humidity increases. There are deals to be had during this time of year, so it could be worth the compromise. Peak summer and the rainy season arrives in July, with high humidity and temperatures of around 32°C to 34°C. Holiday prices are routinely low at this time of year, so if you don’t mind the weather, you could really bag a bargain. Try to steer clear of September and October, though, as these months usually have the highest risk of tropical storms and hurricanes.
Exploring ancient Mayan temples, discovering fascinating archaeological sites and shopping for souvenirs in bustling local markets are activities best enjoyed when the weather is fine and the conditions won’t drain your energy reserves. The months from January to March offer just that, providing sunny, dry days without the humidity and heat of later in the year. If festivals and cultural celebrations are more to your liking, you’ll find a few windows of opportunity for your Mexico holiday. The colour and commotion of Carnival can be enjoyed in Cancun, Cozumel and Playa del Carmen, with events usually taking place in February or March, before the start of Lent. Resorts across Mexico’s Caribbean coast also host lively celebrations to mark Day of the Dead, with parades, music and concerts among the events to enjoy from around October 31 to November 2.
Is it time for your Mexico holiday? Take a look at our sensational Cancun hotels and resorts and book online today.
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