Best Time to Go to Tulum: Month-by-Month Guide to Tulum Travel(2024)

While the name “Cancun” may be more recognizable to tourists, further down the coast the beautiful beach town of Tulum is slowly gaining popularity. This gorgeous beach destination is a must-visit in Mexico’s Riviera Maya and has lots to offer.

But what’s the best time to go to Tulum? We spent almost a year living in Playa del Carmen which is a stone throw away from Tulum.

In this article, I am going to give you an overview of the best times to go to Tulum as well as let you know which months to avoid.

So if you’re planning a trip and wondering when you should go to Tulum, keep on reading to learn more!

Quick Answer: When’s the Best Time to Go to Tulum, Mexico?

• The best time to go to Tulum is from November and December. This is after hurricane season, and the temperature is not too hot. Plus, it’s just before the hoards of tourists descend from December to April, which is the busiest period. 
• The peak season in Tulum is December to April. You can expect the resorts and hotels to be full, attractions to be crowded, and tourists everywhere. 
• If you prefer to avoid the crowds completely, the off-season in Tulum is from May to September. There are good accommodation deals to be had but be prepared for some rain during your stay. 
• October in Tulum is hurricane season, so it’s best to avoid visiting during this time if possible. 

Scroll below to learn more about Tulum’s travel seasons and get a month-by-month breakdown of what you expect when visiting Tulum!

Best Local Tours in Tulum

Insider Tip: Check out our latest articles on the best Tulum Beach Clubs and Tulum Cenotes

What are Tulum’s Travel Seasons?

The great news is that Tulum, Mexico has pretty awesome warm weather year-round, so there’s never really a bad time to visit this town. The climate here is generally sunny and tropical, with daily highs in the 70s and 80s.

Related: Is Tulum Safe to Visit?

High Season in Tulum

The high season in Tulum is during the winter months and beyond, from December to April. December, January, and February attract the most tourists. This is when tourists from the U.S. and Canada tend to plan their trips in order to get some sunshine and avoid the colder weather up north. 

Spring Break and Easter also tend to be super busy periods in Tulum! 

If you love a more lively atmosphere and don’t mind being around crowds, the high season is a fun time to go to Tulum. The weather is fantastic during this period, with comfortably warm weather, clear blue skies, and warm water to swim in. 

With lots of people visiting during high season, it’s a good idea to book your accommodations well in advance. Attractions will also tend to be crowded, so if you’re like to take any tours, do also plan and book them early.  

To maximize savings during your travels, we recommend checking out WayAway+ subcription. Aside from getting cashbacks from flights, activities, and hotels, you also get access to a literal travel concierge service, available 24/7 to help you out with any issues.

Low Season in Tulum

During the low season in Tulum, which is from May to October, you’ll find fewer crowds in general. Accommodations will be easier to find and the vibe is a bit less hectic. 

Two things to note weather-wise:

• May is typically the hottest month, so it can get uncomfortably hot especially if you’re inland. 
• October is hurricane season and not the best time to visit Tulum. This is also the peak of the sargasso or seaweed season) which often leaves the beaches unswimmable.

From June to October, you can also expect some rain in Tulum. The good news is that the rain is mostly short showers that quickly pass, and you can enjoy warmth and sunshine the rest of the time.  

In our opinion, November and early December are the best times to go to Tulum. It’s just after hurricane season and before peak season begins. The weather is great and it isn’t too crowded! 

A Month-by-Month Guide to Visiting Tulum

Still not sure when you want to visit Tulum? Here’s a month-by-month breakdown of what you can expect so that you can plan the absolute best trip ever! 

Tulum in January

Average Temperature: 62 – 82°F
Highlights: Cool weather | Lively atmosphere | High season in Tulum
Festivals: New Year’s Day | El Día de Los Reyes (Kings’ Day) | Sound Tulum | Arena Festival Internacional

Welcome to the height of the high season! Tulum in January is lively and full of activity, as tourists flock to this beach town to escape the cold winter up north. The weather in Tulum in January is pretty balmy with an average of 70°F and lots of warm sunshine. 

In January, you can expect loads of people everywhere in Tulum, with everyone just in the mood for a beach getaway. It’s a good idea to book your accommodation early as the popular hotels and resorts can fill up way in advance. 

Aside from celebrating the New Year, Tulum also celebrates Kings’ Day on 6th January where gifts are exchanged. January in Tulum is also great for nightlife since it’s the peak season. There are also music festivals like Sound Tulum and Arena Festival International that attract music-lovers and partiers to the city. 

Tulum in February

Average Temperature: 63 – 85°F
Highlights: Clear days & warm weather | Lots of tourists
Festivals: Carnaval

We’re well into high season in Tulum once February rolls around. The weather in Tulum in February continues to be favorable, with clear skies and warm, dry weather. If you want to see what the general weather in Mexico is in February, check out our full guide.

February in Tulum is a great time not just for the beach but also for exploring Mayan ruins in the Riviera Maya. Aside from the Tulum ruins, head inland to discover other ancient Maya ruins and find some hidden cenotes. 

The party atmosphere in Tulum also continues with Carnaval happening in this month. Celebrations take place throughout the Riviera Maya on different dates but Tulum typically hosts the closing party. Enjoy live music, dancing, lots of drinks, tacos, and never ending good times! 

Tulum in March

Average Temperature: 63 – 87°F
Highlights: Great beach weather | Spring Break
Festivals: Alborada Maya | Spring Equinox at Chichen Itza | Food & Wine Festival 

Hello Spring Break! While Cancun hosts the bulk of Spring Break festivities, there’s some spillover to Tulum so that you can expect a celebratory atmosphere here as well. 

The weather in Tulum in March starts to heat up a bit, making it absolutely perfect beach weather so bust out your swimwear and slather on the sunscreen!

If you’re in Tulum in March, check out the Alborada Maya festival which is unique to Tulum and an intriguing mix of Maya and Catholic traditions. Chichen Itza also hosts Spring Equinox celebrations in March. 

For food and wine lovers, you’ll want to check out the Food & Wine Festival that takes place during this time. 

Tulum in April

Average Temperature: 66 – 90°F
Highlights: Tourist crowd starts to thin out | Good weather
Festivals: Children’s Day 

After the highs of peak season in Tulum, the tourist crowd starts to thin out in April. This is a good time to visit to enjoy the warmer weather, without the massive crowds earlier in the year. If you’re lucky, you can score a great deal on accommodations during this month. 

Tulum in April is one of the best times for families traveling here. It’s not as crazy during high season and the weather is still good enough for beach days and exploring everything Tulum has to offer. 

Plus, Children’s Day is celebrated in April and you’ll be able to enjoy special discounts at some attractions on April 30th. 

Tulum in May

Average Temperature: 69 – 92°F
Highlights: Less crowded | Hot weather with short showers | Nesting sea turtles
Festivals: Festival de Cultura del Caribe

May marks the start of the low season in Tulum as the weather heats up and the days get a bit wetter. Because it can get pretty hot in Tulum in May, there are definitely fewer tourists during this time… which is great cos it’ll be easier to find a place to stay!

The hot weather also means that the ocean is warm, making it an especially awesome time for snorkeling and diving. May also is the time when you can catch some nesting sea turtles.

While you’re here, check out the Festival de Cultura del Caribe, an eight-day festival that celebrates Mexican, Mayan, and Caribbean culture. 

PS: Cinco de Mayo isn’t really a thing in Tulum but you’ll be able to find some drinks deals at bars nonetheless! 

Tulum in June

Average Temperature: 71 – 90°F
Highlights: Lowest hotel rates | One of the rainiest months | Whale shark season
Festivals: La Fete de la Musique

Low season truly begins in Tulum in June; this is time to visit if you want few crowds, the best hotel deals, and a more quiet holiday. 

One thing to note is that the weather gets wet in June as it’s one of the rainiest months. That said, these showers tend to be short-lived and you can enjoy warmth and clear skies most of the time. 

If you’re looking for an unforgettable experience in the water, June is one of the best times to visit Tulum as you can swim with whale sharks! 

Music-lovers, you may want to head to nearby Playa del Carmen for the music festival La Fete de la Musique.

Tulum in July

Average Temperature: 70 – 90°F
Highlights: Low season | Hot weather with short showers
Festivals: –

Summer in Tulum is in full swing once July rolls around. Expect high temperatures and also some rain. Humidity is high this month so while it’ll feel all right by the coast, be prepared for muggy weather when you head inland. 

July is low season, with less tourists, so enjoy the chill vibes. If you’re in Tulum in July, it’s a good time to spend by the beach and taking part in activities like diving, snorkeling, and other water fun. 

In July, the baby sea turtles are ready to hatch and head back into the ocean. This is definitely something awesome to experience so don’t miss it!

Tulum in August

Average Temperature: 69 – 90°F
Highlights: Hottest month | Great time to see marine life
Festivals: ZoukMX

It’s hot hot hot in Tulum in August, so come with your summer clothes, big floppy hats, and lots of sunscreen. And don’t forget to stay hydrated! Tulum in August is peak summer vibes with scorching hot sun, broken up with short rain showers. 

You’ll want to cool down in the water, so seek out those cenotes that stay refreshingly cool even during the height of summer. It’s also a good time to get up close and personal with marine life, as this is also the height of the whale shark migration and sea turtles mating and nesting. These Tulum cenotes are some of the best which we personally recommend visiting!

If you’re looking for a good party, head over to Playa for ZoukMX. This ten-day music and dance festival takes place on the beach and in the jungle, for the ultimate summer celebration.

Tulum in September 

Average Temperature: 70 – 89°F
Highlights: One of the rainiest months | Last chance to see whale sharks
Festivals: El Grito and Independence Day | Autumn Equinox at Chichen Itza 

Tulum in September sees a whole lot of rain. As it’s one of the wettest months of the years, you can expect rain about 50% of the time… but the good news is that the showers typically come and go, leaving you with lots of sunshine for exploring the city. 

This month marks the tail end of the whale shark migration so be sure to get into the water for your last chance to see these gentle giants up close!

September is also when Mexicans celebrate their Independence Day on the 15th so get ready for music, dancing, and lots of food. Listen out for El Grito at 11pm and get your dance on all night long!

Another event to look out for is the celebration of the Autumn Equinox at Chichen Itza. 

Tulum in October

Average Temperature: 69 – 87°F
Highlights: One of the rainiest months | End of sea turtle nesting season
Festivals: Turtle Festival | Halloween 

If you’re visiting Tulum in October, be forewarned that it’s hurricane season. October is also a wet month and the rain may derail some of your plans so it’s best to be flexible. That said, once the rain clears, you may still get some great weather for lounging on the beach. 

As scary as hurricane season sounds, the weather is not consistently bad which makes it a good time to travel for those who don’t like crowds.

As there are fewer tourists you have more accommodation options (plus great deals!) so this is a good time to visit Tulum if you’re looking for a quiet, budget-friendly getaway.

October is your last chance to spot nesting sea turtles and baby turtles hatching and returning to the sea. There’s also a three-day Turtle Festival to celebrate everything about these cute creatures. 

Halloween is starting to take off in Tulum so remember to pack a costume!

Tulum in November

Average Temperature: 66 – 84°F
Highlights: Less crowded beaches | Good weather
Festivals: Day of the Dead | Tulum Food, Spirits, and Wine Festival | Riviera Maya Jazz Festival

Things start to pick up again in Tulum in November. This month, the weather becomes cooler and there are more dry days… yet it’s not quite as crazy crowded as it is during peak season. Tulum in November is, in our opinion, one of the best times to visit Tulum!

The sunshine and slightly cooler weather make for awesome days, be it at the beach or inland, exploring Mayan ruins and cenotes. 

Tulum in November is also an awesome time to visit, thanks to the events and festivals going on. 

You won’t want to miss the famous Day of the Dead, when Mexicans honor the souls of the deceased. It’s a bit more low-key in Tulum, compared to places like Mexico City, Cancun or Oaxaca, but you can still get a taste of this local event. 

Other noteworthy events are the Riviera Maya Festival which is a free, three-day festival that celebrates jazz music, and the Tulum Food, Spirits, and Wine Festival where you can get some of the best eats in one place. 

Tulum in December

Average Temperature: 63 – 83°F
Highlights: Start of peak season | Festive, lively atmosphere
Festivals: Día de la Virgen de Guadalupe | Dos Equis Winter Beach | Christmas | New Year’s Eve | Sound Tulum 

As we roll into the start of peak season, the atmosphere in Tulum in December livens up. Early December is still a good time to visit Tulum, if you’re not fond of big crowds but as the month progresses, more and more travelers arrive to herald high season in Tulum.

And there’s a good reason that so many tourists visit in December: the weather is ideal – clear blue skies, warm sunshine, practically no rain. You can spend your days working on your tan or discover some of Tulum’s history and culture while enjoying warmth and sunshine. 

Demand for hotels and accommodations goes up in December so it’s a good idea to book in advance so that you can get your dream stay! 

In terms of events and festivals, there’s loads going on in Tulum and December. There’s Christmas and New Years’, of course. 

There’s also the major Mexican holiday, Día de la Virgen de Guadalupe, which celebrates the appearance of the Virgin Mary to Juan Diego. Tulum has a large celebration downtown so make sure you’re there!

If you’re looking for great party events, there’s the three-day Dos Equis Winter Beach at Papaya Playa and Sound Tulum, an EDM festival that takes place mid-December onwards. 

Check out our Mexico Travel Tips for more on traveling Mexico!

FAQ on When to Go to Tulum

Where to Stay in Tulum

As Tulum grows in popularity as a tourist destination, more and more accommodation options are popping up. You can choose to stay in Tulum Town or go beachside, depending on your preference and budget.

To help you out, we’ve picked out some of the best places to stay in Tulum for an awesome stay. 

Prefer to stay in an Airbnb? We do too! We love having a more independent, local stay in unique places. There is a range of Airbnbs in Tulum, with some truly unique options for an unforgettable stay! 

Check out our picks for the best Airbnbs in Tulum or browse listings below based on location. 

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Check out these articles for more on Mexico!

• Mayan Ruins
• How to get to Holbox, Mexico
• Things To Do in Holbox (+ Tips on Where to Eat and Stay!)
• Things to Do in Isla Mujeres That You Can’t Miss (+ Tips on Where to Eat & Stay!)
• Is Playa Del Carmen Safe?

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