While most of North America shivers through freezing temperatures, Cabo’s December weather offers a perfect sun-drenched alternative with average highs in the comfortable 80s and nearly endless blue skies. The pleasant climate creates ideal conditions for everything from whale watching to beach lounging without the summer crowds or humidity.
Those looking to escape from the cold in Los Cabos find not just warm temperatures, but also a sanctuary for mental wellbeing. Furthermore, the opportunity to escape from winter in Los Cabos comes with practical benefits—you can pack light with just swimwear and light clothing, rather than bulky winter gear. Additionally, December brings the start of whale migration season, adding natural spectacle to your getaway.
This guide explores why Los Cabos stands out as the ultimate December destination, from its perfect weather conditions to the wealth of outdoor activities available during this prime winter month.
Why December Weather in Los Cabos Feels Just Right
December in Los Cabos offers the perfect balance of warmth without the scorching heat of summer, creating ideal vacation conditions when much of the world faces harsh winter weather.
Average temperatures and sunshine hours
The temperatures in Los Cabos during December create that “just right” feeling that vacationers seek. Daily highs typically range between 79°F and 82°F (26-28°C), rarely dipping below 74°F. Nighttime brings pleasant cooling with lows between 60°F and 65°F (15-18°C), perfect for evening strolls or outdoor dining. The overall average temperature hovers around 75°F (24°C), making it comfortable for all-day outdoor activities.
What truly sets Los Cabos apart is its remarkable sunshine quota. With approximately 7-9 hours of direct sunshine daily in December, visitors can enjoy consistently bright days. In fact, Los Cabos boasts an impressive average of over 350 sunshine days annually, practically guaranteeing good weather for your winter escape.
Low humidity and minimal rainfall
Unlike many tropical destinations that combine heat with stifling humidity, Los Cabos maintains comfortable moisture levels. December humidity averages around 60-67%, creating a pleasantly dry atmosphere that feels refreshing rather than oppressive.
Rainfall becomes nearly non-existent during this time, with December firmly established as part of the dry season. Most years see merely 4-6mm of total precipitation throughout the entire month, typically spread across just 1-2 days. This remarkable consistency means you can confidently plan outdoor activities without weather concerns.
Los Cabos enjoys this weather pattern thanks to its unique arid desert climate. This characteristic creates the region’s signature combination of warm days with refreshingly cool evenings—ideal conditions for travelers seeking to escape from the cold in Los Cabos.
How Cabo compares to other winter destinations
When comparing winter getaway options, Los Cabos stands distinctly above many alternatives. Consider that while much of Mexico offers warmth, many coastal destinations like Puerto Vallarta experience higher humidity levels than Cabo’s drier desert climate.
Even more significant for water enthusiasts, December sea temperatures remain invitingly warm at 24-25°C (75-78°F)—comfortable enough for swimming, snorkeling, and other water activities that would be unthinkable in northern climates during winter.
Moreover, December sits safely outside hurricane season, eliminating a concern that affects summer and early fall travelers to many coastal destinations. This timing delivers the perfect sweet spot: warm enough for beach enjoyment, yet with pleasantly cool evenings that make sleeping comfortable without requiring air conditioning.
For those planning to escape from winter in Los Cabos, December delivers exceptionally reliable weather conditions. The consistent sunshine, minimal precipitation, moderate humidity, and comfortable temperatures create what many consider the ideal climate profile—warm enough for beach days yet never oppressively hot, with cool evenings perfect for enjoying Los Cabos’ renowned outdoor dining scene.
Top Outdoor Activities You Can Enjoy in December
Los Cabos transforms into an outdoor enthusiast’s playground in December, offering perfect conditions for activities that would be impossible in northern climates. The region’s unique geography—where desert meets sea—creates exceptional opportunities for adventure and exploration during the winter months.
Whale watching season begins
December marks the official start of the whale watching season in Los Cabos, with tours running from December 15th through April 15th. This spectacular natural migration brings thousands of humpback and gray whales from Arctic waters to the warm Baja California coastline.
Initially, adult humpbacks begin arriving in mid-November, with the population reaching its peak by mid-December. For visitors hoping to witness these magnificent creatures, the timing couldn’t be better—sighting chances exceed 95% during the season.
What makes December especially remarkable is witnessing the beginning of new life. Late December through January introduces the first sightings of newborn humpback calves. By February, these babies become increasingly playful, creating unforgettable displays of breaching and tail slapping visible even from shore.
Snorkeling and diving in warm waters
Winter in Los Cabos presents ideal conditions for underwater exploration. Despite being December, water temperatures remain invitingly comfortable at approximately 72°F (22°C), allowing for extended underwater adventures without discomfort.
Visibility conditions are particularly favorable early in winter, often exceeding 50 feet (15 meters). This clarity, combined with warm waters, creates perfect conditions for exploring the vibrant marine ecosystem.
December through May stands out as prime time for encountering larger marine species. Divers and snorkelers might be serenaded by the mesmerizing songs of humpback whales, which can sometimes be heard underwater. Especially fortunate visitors may spot:
- Humpback and gray whales
- Schooling mobula rays
- Playful sea lions
- Occasionally even orcas and blue whales
The most accessible snorkeling spots include Santa Maria Bay and Chileno Bay, featuring calm, clear waters and abundant marine life. For those willing to venture further, Cabo Pulmo (about a 2-hour drive) offers an extraordinary experience as the only living coral reef in the Sea of Cortez.
Hiking trails with ocean views
December’s pleasant temperatures create the perfect backdrop for exploring Los Cabos’ diverse hiking terrain. The region’s unique landscape combines desert, mountains, and coastline, offering trails suitable for various experience levels.
Mt. Solmar Trail near Cabo San Lucas provides breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and the iconic El Arco rock formation. Although moderately difficult, the stunning vistas make every step worthwhile.
For those seeking coastal perspectives, the trail from Palmilla Beach to Santa Maria Beach offers beautiful ocean views with opportunities to spot marine life. This relatively easy path can be completed in a few hours, making it perfect for casual hikers.
Nature enthusiasts should consider the Sierra de la Laguna Biosphere Reserve, located northeast of Cabo San Lucas. This protected area showcases diverse flora and fauna through trails that wind through desert landscapes, oak forests, and canyons.
Golfing in perfect conditions
December through February delivers the most comfortable daytime temperatures for enjoying Los Cabos’ world-class golf courses without excessive heat. The region has established itself as a premier golf destination with multiple championship courses designed by legends like Jack Nicklaus, Tiger Woods, and Greg Norman.
The winter months provide the ideal golfing window with minimal wind and immaculately maintained courses. Many courses feature dramatic ocean views, desert landscapes, and challenging holes that capitalize on the natural terrain.
The combination of consistent sunshine, low humidity, and moderate temperatures creates the perfect environment for spending hours on the links—precisely why many northern golfers choose Los Cabos as their winter escape destination.
Consequently, December stands as the ideal month to experience Los Cabos’ outdoor treasures—from witnessing the majestic arrival of migrating whales to exploring underwater worlds, hiking scenic trails, and playing world-class golf courses. Each activity benefits from the region’s perfect winter climate while offering a refreshing alternative to cold-weather destinations.
Beach Days Without the Crowds
One of the biggest perks of visiting Los Cabos during December is the opportunity to enjoy pristine beaches with significantly fewer tourists compared to peak seasons. The lower visitor numbers create a more relaxing atmosphere for those looking to escape from winter in Los Cabos.
Best swimmable beaches in December
Not all beaches in Los Cabos are suitable for swimming due to strong currents and powerful waves. Fortunately, several beaches offer safe swimming conditions during December, when water temperatures remain refreshingly comfortable at 72-75°F (22-24°C).
Medano Beach stands as the main swimming beach in Cabo San Lucas, offering a two-mile stretch of golden sand with gentle waves and warm waters perfect for swimming. The beach is protected by the natural breakwater of Cabo San Lucas Bay, making it one of the few places where you can swim comfortably year-round.
Chileno Beach offers clean sand and calm waters without the crowds found at Medano. It’s especially popular among locals and provides excellent snorkeling opportunities with its rocky reef extending from south to north.
Santa Maria Beach sits in a sheltered, natural cove that creates ideal conditions for swimming and snorkeling. As a protected marine sanctuary, you’ll encounter colorful fish in its clear waters.
Palmilla Beach features a crescent-shaped shore with plenty of swimming opportunities in San Jose del Cabo. Though it requires a car to reach, many consider it worth the trip for its quieter atmosphere.
Why Medano Beach is a favorite
Medano Beach earns its popularity first through location – situated in the heart of Cabo San Lucas, close to the marina and downtown. This central position offers stunning views of the famous Land’s End rock formations, including El Arco.
The beach curves inside Cabo San Lucas Bay, which shields swimmers from the powerful Pacific surf. This natural protection creates reliably calm waters with a gentle sandy slope that lacks sudden drop-offs, making it family-friendly.
Beyond swimming, Medano Beach offers abundant amenities. Visitors find restaurants, beach clubs, bars, and vendors offering everything from jet skis to parasailing. For those seeking a vibrant social atmosphere alongside swimming, establishments like The Office, Mango Deck, and Baja Cantina provide beachfront dining and entertainment.
Tips for finding quiet beach spots
For travelers seeking tranquility away from December crowds, several strategies work effectively:
First, visit beaches early in the morning between 7-11 AM, when most tourists haven’t yet arrived. Weekdays generally see fewer visitors than weekends when locals also frequent the beaches.
Second, explore these less-visited beaches:
- Cabo Pulmo: Located about 40 miles north of San José del Cabo, this secluded paradise offers pristine nature far from civilization
- Playa Anonima: Just 6.5 kilometers from San José del Cabo, this mysteriously unnamed beach stays under the radar because it lacks signage
- Migriño Beach: 24 miles up the coastline from Cabo San Lucas, this empty beach offers wide, flat sand perfect for horseback riding
Third, if staying at Medano Beach, the section beyond Hotel Riu Sante Fe remains undeveloped – any footprints you see might be your own. Similarly, the area near Tobasco restaurant offers a quieter part of Medano with lounge chair rentals and fewer crowds.
Local Food and Festive Vibes
Beyond the perfect weather and outdoor adventures, December in Los Cabos offers a feast for the senses through its vibrant culinary scene and festive atmosphere.
Fresh seafood and seasonal dishes
As part of Los Cabos’ growing culinary reputation, several local restaurants have recently been included in Michelin’s first-ever guide for Mexico. The region’s food scene shines brightest in December with an abundance of fresh seafood harvested from the Sea of Cortez.
Visitors should sample traditional holiday specialties like bacalao (salt cod), festive tamales, and warm ponche navideño—a spiced fruit punch that captures the essence of Mexican Christmas. For culinary enthusiasts, the Sabor a Cabo Gastronomic Festival held annually during the second week of December showcases the region’s finest chefs and restaurants.
Holiday events and cultural celebrations
December transforms Los Cabos into a holiday wonderland with streets adorned in twinkling lights and decorations. The town sparkles with a spirited atmosphere as local traditions take center stage.
Alongside conventional celebrations, Los Cabos offers unique events like the Nautical Christmas Parade—a mesmerizing spectacle featuring yachts and sailboats bedecked in lights gliding across the bay. Travelers can immerse themselves in authentic Mexican traditions through Las Posadas, a nine-day celebration commemorating Mary and Joseph’s journey. This event features candlelight processions, community gatherings, and colorful piñatas filled with treats.
On December 12th, the Feast of the Virgin of Guadalupe brings religious processions, ceremonies, and fireworks honoring Mexico’s patron saint.
Where to eat with a view
Los Cabos boasts numerous restaurants offering spectacular vistas alongside exceptional cuisine. Sunset Monalisa stands out with its direct view of El Arco, providing a Mediterranean-inspired culinary experience against the backdrop of the Pacific Ocean.
El Farallon offers dramatic sea-to-table dining where guests can hear waves crashing below while selecting from the daily catch displayed on shaved ice. For marina views, several restaurants along the walkway provide front-row seats to watch fishing boats and yachts come and go.
Essentially, these dining experiences combine Los Cabos’ perfect December weather with world-class cuisine, creating memorable holiday moments impossible to replicate in colder climates.
The Emotional Escape: Beating the Winter Blues
Research shows that escaping to somewhere warm in winter brings meaningful mental health benefits. Cabo’s December environment offers more than just a physical escape—it provides powerful emotional rejuvenation.
Sunlight and vitamin D benefits
The scientific impact of sunshine extends far beyond comfort. UVB rays trigger your skin to produce vitamin D, essential for bone health, immune function, and mood regulation. This crucial nutrient helps reduce risks of various health issues, yet many people lack sufficient levels, primarily during winter months.
Studies reveal that your brain produces more serotonin—the “happiness chemical”—on sunny days versus cloudy ones. Soon after arriving in Cabo’s consistent sunshine, visitors experience this biochemical mood lift firsthand. Afterward, these benefits continue, as research shows physical complaints, sleep quality, and overall mood remain improved up to five weeks after vacation.
Mental health boost from nature and warmth
Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) affects 4-6% of Americans, with up to 20% experiencing milder winter blues. Whatever your situation, winter’s shorter days disrupt melatonin production, causing sleep problems and mood swings.
A warm escape creates what researchers call “moments of awe,” generating immediate mood improvement. The ocean’s negative ions help reduce stress while boosting energy levels. Undeniably, this natural environment promotes relaxation—the rhythmic waves and calming presence of water specifically reduce anxiety.
Why Cabo is a top choice for winter wellness
Los Cabos’ perfect 75-80°F December climate enables outdoor wellness activities impossible elsewhere. Unlike many tropical destinations, the region’s desert-meets-ocean setting creates unique advantages: stable temperatures allow outdoor meditation anytime, water warm enough for extended swimming, and clear skies supporting sunrise-to-sunset activities.
The consistent sunshine helps regulate circadian rhythms—especially beneficial for visitors adjusting to new time zones. Accordingly, Los Cabos has naturally attracted a vibrant wellness community offering sound healing sessions, sunrise hikes, and specialized retreats.
Conclusion
Los Cabos stands out as the ultimate December destination for those seeking refuge from winter’s grip. The region’s perfect balance of warm days and cool nights creates ideal conditions for both relaxation and adventure. Sunshine bathes the landscape for 7-9 hours daily, while rainfall remains virtually non-existent during this prime vacation period.
December visitors gain access to extraordinary experiences unavailable elsewhere during winter months. Whale watching excursions offer spectacular views of humpback and gray whales beginning their annual migration. Meanwhile, warm ocean waters invite swimming and snorkeling adventures without the discomfort of excessive heat or humidity.
Beach enthusiasts particularly benefit from December timing. Popular spots like Medano Beach provide all the amenities without peak-season crowds, though quieter alternatives exist for those seeking more solitude. The desert-meets-ocean setting creates a uniquely comfortable environment for outdoor activities ranging from hiking to world-class golfing.
Beyond physical activities, Los Cabos delivers meaningful emotional benefits. Abundant sunshine boosts vitamin D production and serotonin levels, directly combating winter blues. Additionally, the region’s holiday celebrations add cultural richness through events like Las Posadas and the Nautical Christmas Parade.
Your decision to escape from the cold in Los Cabos brings practical advantages as well. Light packing requirements replace bulky winter gear, while the consistent climate allows confident planning without weather concerns. Days filled with outdoor exploration transition effortlessly to evenings enjoying fresh seafood at restaurants with breathtaking ocean views.
The combination of perfect weather, reduced crowds, natural wonders, and festive atmosphere makes December in Los Cabos an unmatched winter escape. This unique convergence offers more than just temporary warmth—it provides a complete reset for both body and mind during the coldest time of year.