Headed to Cancun in December? You're in for a treat. Whether it's beach days, cenote adventures, or exploring ancient Mayan ruins, this place knows how to deliver. December marks the beginning of Cancun's dry season, bringing warm, pleasant days with cooler evenings and minimal rainfall—making it one of the most sought-after times to visit the Caribbean coast of Mexico.
This guide gives you the lowdown on what to expect, what to bring, and how to make the most of your trip without overthinking your packing list. Consider it your cheat sheet for showing up ready for whatever Cancun throws your way, from underwater adventures in crystal-clear cenotes to sunset sailing on the Caribbean Sea.
What to Expect from December's Weather in Cancun
Average temperatures: December brings Cancun's most comfortable weather of the year, with daytime highs reaching 27-28°C (81-82°F) and nighttime lows dipping to a pleasant 18-21°C (64-70°F). These are the coolest annual temperatures, providing relief from the intense heat and humidity of summer months.
Rainfall: December sits at the beginning of the dry season with minimal precipitation—typically 70-87mm spread across just 6-7 days of the month. Rain appears as brief, scattered showers that rarely disrupt outdoor plans or beach activities.
Humidity: Moderate to high humidity levels averaging 78-83% feel much more comfortable than summer months due to the cooler temperatures and gentle Caribbean breezes that provide natural cooling throughout the day.
Sea temperature: The Caribbean maintains a perfect 27°C (81°F) temperature, ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and water sports without any need for wetsuits or thermal protection.
Daylight hours: Expect about 11 hours of daylight with 6-8 hours of sunshine per day, though the high UV index means sun protection remains essential even during the cooler month.
Essential Packing List for Cancun in December
Some things are must-haves in Cancun, no matter the month. But each time of year comes with its own little surprises that any smart traveler would want to plan for. The goal is to bring exactly what you'll use and nothing more, though let's be honest—perfect packing is more of a dream than a science.
Travel Documents & Money
Passport (valid for 6+ months)
Physical copies of passport/ID
Travel insurance documents
Mexican pesos (cash)
Credit cards (notify bank of travel)
Emergency cash in USD
Electronics & Power
Phone charger + car charger
Portable power bank (high capacity)
Waterproof phone case
Camera + extra memory cards
Headphones/earbuds
Health & Safety
Prescription medications (extra supply)
Basic first aid kit
Insect repellent
Hand sanitizer
Sun-protective clothing
After-sun care/aloe vera
Practical Items
Plastic bags for wet/dirty clothes
Travel-sized laundry detergent
Quick-dry towel
Reusable water bottle
Clothing and Accessories
Multiple swimsuits (2-3 recommended)
Lightweight, breathable t-shirts/tank tops
Shorts and swim shorts
Underwear (quick-dry recommended)
Sleepwear/pajamas
Beach cover-ups or sarongs
Light layers for air-conditioned spaces
Dressy outfits for upscale restaurants/nightlife
Sun hat with a chin strap
Sunglasses with a strap
Footwear
Flip-flops or comfortable sandals for beach and pool
Comfortable walking shoes for exploring cobblestone streets
Sturdy, closed-toe shoes for adventure tours
Top Clothing and Footwear Suggestions for December
December's mild temperatures and low humidity make it the perfect month for lightweight, breathable fabrics that transition easily from beach to evening activities.
Warm Weather Essentials
Linen shirts, cotton sundresses, moisture-wicking tank tops, quick-dry shorts
Evening Comfort
Light cardigan or pashmina, denim jacket, long-sleeve cotton shirt, comfortable walking sandals
Adventure Ready
UPF-rated clothing, water shoes for cenotes, breathable hiking pants, moisture-wicking athletic wear
Cancun Nightlife Considerations for December
Cancun's nightlife spans beach clubs, rooftops, and local bars, so pack versatile pieces that go from casual to dressy. Bring two breathable dressy outfits, comfortable stylish shoes, and a light layer for A/C. A small crossbody bag is perfect for essentials while dancing.
December's weather affects your night plans. Pack a mini umbrella and waterproof makeup for occasional rain, a light jacket and hair ties for cool breezes, or extra deodorant for warm humid nights. Don't forget a portable phone charger and backup shoes for long nights out.
Top December Experiences & What You'll Need
In this section, we'll recommend three tours in Cancun in December and related items to participate in the experience, according to the provided tour information.
Luxury Sunset Sailing Cancun
December's cooler evenings make this the perfect month to experience Cancun's legendary sunsets from the Caribbean Sea. The comfortable temperatures and gentle breezes create ideal conditions for a romantic sailing experience aboard a French-made catamaran, where you'll witness the sky transform into vibrant palettes of red, orange, and pink while enjoying gourmet appetizers and premium cocktails.
What you'll need for this tour:
Light sweater or jacket for evening breezes, non-slip sandals or boat shoes, sunglasses for sunset glare, camera for spectacular photos, small amount of cash for photos and souvenirs.
Chichen Itza Express Tour
December's mild weather and clear skies provide the perfect conditions for exploring one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. The comfortable temperatures make walking through the archaeological site enjoyable, while the dry season ensures minimal disruption from rain. Expert bilingual guides bring the mysteries of ancient Mayan civilization to life as you explore El Castillo pyramid and learn about Mayan cosmology and rituals.
What you'll need for this tour:
Comfortable walking shoes for uneven terrain, wide-brimmed hat and high-SPF sunscreen, lightweight breathable clothing with long sleeves, insect repellent for jungle areas, cash in pesos for souvenirs.
Riviera Maya Luxury Catamaran & Snorkeling Tour
The warm Caribbean waters and excellent visibility make December ideal for snorkeling among vibrant coral reefs and tropical marine life. This luxury catamaran experience combines relaxation with adventure, offering opportunities to discover colorful coral reefs, try paddleboarding, or simply relax with cocktails while soaking in panoramic coastal views of the Riviera Maya.
What you'll need for this tour:
Multiple swimsuits and quick-dry towel, reef-safe biodegradable sunscreen, waterproof phone case, sun-protective rash guard or UV shirt, comfortable sandals that won't slip on wet decks.
Pre-Departure Preparation Timeline
2-3 Weeks Before Departure
Digital Preparation
- Download offline maps
- Create trip playlist for different moods
- Download translation apps to learn basic Spanish phrases
- Research weather patterns for the month
- Book accommodations and activities
- Reserve popular tours
Cultural & Culinary Research
- List of must-try dishes for the season
- Local festivals and events
- Learn basic Spanish phrases for food ordering
Documentation & Backup
- Verify passport expiration date
- Scan and email copies of passport, ID, travel insurance
- Print physical copies of important documents
- Travel insurance verification
- Emergency contact information
24 Hours Before Departure
- Check weather forecast updates
- Confirm offline maps are downloaded
- Charge all electronics
- Pack carry-on essentials
Airport/Travel Day
- Comfortable travel outfit
- Entertainment for flight
- Empty reusable water bottle
- Snacks for travel day
- Important documents in carry-on
You're All Set for Cancun in December
Planning ahead for Cancun in December means you'll spend less time worrying about what you forgot and more time enjoying everything this incredible place has to offer. With the right gear packed and your essentials sorted, you're set to make the most of December's unique advantages and create memories that'll last long after you're back home.
Ready to dive into Cancun's best experiences? Don't leave your must-do activities to chance – the most popular tours and attractions in December fill up fast! Book your adventures now and secure your spot for an unforgettable trip.
