Los Cabos is a desert-by-the-sea destination with over 320 sunny days a year and little rain outside September. Daytime highs range from the high 70s°F in winter to the low 100s°F in peak summer. Pack breathable clothing, swimwear, reef-safe sunscreen, a hat, and a light layer for cool evenings and air-conditioned restaurants.
Los Cabos sits at the southern tip of the Baja California peninsula, where the Sonoran Desert meets the Sea of Cortez and the Pacific Ocean. The climate is dry and sunny almost year-round, a sharp contrast to the humid tropics of Cancun and the Riviera Maya. Rain is rare outside the late-summer hurricane season, and the air feels dry even at the beach. This guide covers the two real seasons — dry (winter/spring) and hot (summer/fall) — plus a packing list that covers the desert, the beach, and the resort.
Climate & Seasons
Los Cabos has two distinct seasons rather than four. The dry season runs roughly from November through April, with daytime highs in the high 70s to mid-80s°F and cool, comfortable evenings that can dip into the 60s. This is peak travel season, and the weather is near-perfect: low humidity, sunny skies, and almost no rain. The hot season runs from May through October, with daytime highs regularly climbing into the 90s and occasionally past 100°F in July and August. Humidity rises in late summer, and September is the peak month for tropical storms and hurricanes. The ocean is warmest in late summer and fall, which is also when the water turns clearest for divers. May, June, and October are sweet spots — fewer crowds, warm water, and manageable heat.
Hurricane Season
The official Pacific hurricane season runs from May 15 through November 30, with the highest risk concentrated in September and early October. Los Cabos is more exposed to Pacific hurricanes than Caribbean destinations are to Atlantic storms — major storms have hit the area in 2014 (Odile) and 2023 (Hilary). Direct hits are rare in any given year, but heavy rain, wind, and power outages can occur. Most resorts are built to modern hurricane standards and have backup generators. Travel insurance with hurricane coverage is a smart buy if you're traveling in September or October. If a storm is forecast, follow hotel staff instructions and stay indoors — flooding in arroyos is dangerous because desert ground doesn't absorb water quickly. Most years, you'll see nothing more than an afternoon cloud burst or a few humid days.
Clothing Packing List
Los Cabos calls for lightweight, breathable clothing — think linen, cotton, and moisture-wicking synthetics. Pack at least two swimsuits so one is always dry, plus a couple of cover-ups for walking between the pool and restaurants. Bring 4-6 t-shirts or casual tops, 2-3 pairs of shorts, and one pair of long pants or a maxi skirt for cooler evenings. A light sweater or jacket is essential even in summer — restaurants and shops blast air conditioning, and winter evenings on the Pacific side can be breezy. For footwear, pack flip-flops or sandals for the pool, comfortable walking shoes for excursions, and water shoes if you plan to snorkel or visit rocky beaches like Lover's Beach. Add a wide-brimmed hat and UV-protective sunglasses. Dress at resorts is casual; a polo or sundress covers most dinners, with smarter outfits only at fine-dining venues.
Beach & Sun Gear
The Cabo sun is intense — the latitude is tropical and the desert air doesn't filter UV the way humidity does. Reef-safe sunscreen is mandatory at many tour operators and is the right choice everywhere; standard sunscreens damage coral and are restricted in some marine parks. Pack SPF 30 or higher and reapply every two hours, especially on boat tours. A wide-brimmed hat, polarized sunglasses, and a rash guard for snorkeling will save your trip. Bring a reusable water bottle — most resorts have refill stations — and stay ahead of dehydration, which creeps up fast in dry heat. A small dry bag protects phones and passports on boat tours, whale-watching trips, and ATV rides. A waterproof phone pouch lets you take photos in the water without risking your device. Don't forget a good beach bag or daypack for pool and beach days.
Electronics & Documents
Pack a universal power adapter — Mexico uses the same Type A/B outlets as the US and Canada, but adapters help for international travelers. A portable charger is essential for long days of photos at the Arch, whale-watching tours, and wandering downtown Cabo San Lucas. Bring a dry bag or waterproof case for your phone if you're doing any boat tours. For documents, carry your passport, a printed copy of your hotel reservation, return flight details, and travel insurance info. Keep a separate photo of your passport on your phone and a paper copy in your luggage. If you plan to use your cell phone, check with your carrier about Mexico day passes, or buy an eSIM before you fly (Telcel and AT&T Mexico both have tourist eSIM options). A small amount of pesos — about 500-1000 — is useful for tips and small purchases before you find an ATM.
FAQ
What is the hottest month in Los Cabos?
July and August are typically the hottest months, with daytime highs regularly in the 90s°F and occasionally past 100°F. September is humid and the peak of hurricane season; October is the sweet spot for warm water and fewer crowds.
When is the best weather in Los Cabos?
November through April offers the most comfortable weather, with sunny skies, low humidity, and daytime highs in the high 70s to mid-80s. December through March is peak whale-watching season.
Do I need a jacket in Los Cabos?
Yes, a light one. Evenings in winter can dip into the 60s, and restaurants and shops run air conditioning hard year-round. A sweater or light jacket is worth the suitcase space.
Does it rain a lot in Los Cabos?
No. Los Cabos averages fewer than 10 inches of rain per year, with most of it falling in September. Outside of late summer, you're unlikely to see more than a brief afternoon shower.
Is the sun stronger in Los Cabos than at home?
Yes. The tropical latitude and dry desert air mean UV exposure is intense year-round. Use SPF 30+ sunscreen, wear a hat, and reapply every two hours, especially on the water.
Can I drink the tap water in Los Cabos?
No. Stick to sealed bottled water for drinking and brushing teeth. Resorts provide bottled water in rooms, and ice at restaurants and bars is made from purified water.
Still have questions? Ask a local.
Our Los Cabos experts answer questions like yours every day. Book your trip through us and get personal advice — no service fees.