What December feels like in Cancun
December sits between Cancun's dry and wet seasons. Days are warm enough for short sleeves, and time outdoors is easy. Little changes after sunset — nights stay warm, only slightly below the daytime level. Thick, humid air means clothes cling and the heat feels stronger than the number.
Rain in Cancun in December
Rain is part of normal life this month, falling on about one day in 2. A rainy day brings about 5.2 mm (0.2 in) on average — steady rain rather than a passing shower. That is lighter than the city's yearly norm of about 7 mm per rainy day.
Daylight and sunshine in December
On 15 December the sun rises at about 7:17 am and sets around 6:08 pm local time, giving 10 h 51 min of daylight. Compared with mid-November, the day has lost 17 min. Measured sunshine covers about 89% of the daylight — skies are mostly clear.
How December compares to the rest of the year
In Cancun's temperature order, December sits as the 3rd coolest month. Against November, the average high is 0.7°C (1.3°F) lower, with 27 mm less rain. Temperatures keep falling into January. By January, typical highs are 25.7°C (78.3°F).
Who December suits
- Sightseeing: a good fit — comfortable enough to explore on foot all day.
- Parks & outdoor: less ideal — afternoons are too warm to linger outside.
- Beach: less ideal — too many rainy days.
Tips for visiting Cancun in December
Rain Protection
A packable rain jacket saves the day on showery afternoons.
Sunglasses
Plenty of sun, so bring sunglasses and a cap.
Quick questions
How warm is Cancun in December?
Expect around 26.5°C (79.7°F) in the afternoon and 22.8°C (73°F) at night, which most visitors would call warm.
Does it rain a lot in Cancun in December?
It does: about 13 rainy days bring roughly 68 mm, so plan some indoor options.
What should I wear in Cancun in December?
The numbers point to rain protection and sunglasses. Evenings feel similar to the day, so the same clothes work from morning to night.
Is December or January better for visiting Cancun?
On our 12-month climate ranking, January comes out ahead (#4 of 12 vs #5). January has fewer rainy days.