How Cold Does Cabo Get? The Truth About The Cooler Months Ahead

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If you’re eyeing a winter getaway and wondering “does Cabo actually get cold?”, we’ve got you. As we at The Cabo Sun hear every fall, the memes say endless sunshine—but locals know there is a gentle cool-down with crisp mornings, breezy evenings, and refreshingly mild days.

Here’s the real-world breakdown so you can pack right, plan smart, and still live at the beach.

The short answer: mild days, cool nights

Cabo’s coolest stretch runs roughly mid-December through mid-March. Average daytime highs hover around 79°F (26°C) in January—the coldest month—while overnight lows settle near 61°F (16°C), according to Weather Spark. Translation: you’ll tan at lunch and want a light layer at dinner.

Water temps lag the air by a few weeks. Expect the sea to dip into the low-to-mid-70s°F (21–24°C) through winter, as detailed by SeaTemperature, warmest again by late summer/early fall. If you run cold, a thin spring suit can stretch your swim time.

Why it feels cooler (and sometimes breezier)

Two factors add to the winter vibe: lower humidity and seasonal northerly breezes. On Baja’s East Cape (think Los Barriles), “El Norte” winds are a winter staple—great for kite surfers, and a nudge to pack a light windbreaker.

What about rain and storms?

Good news: winter is Cabo’s driest time.

The big rain makers concentrate in late summer/early fall, with September typically the wettest month. By December, hurricane season is over (officially ends November 30), shifting the region into stable, sunny patterns.

If you’re traveling earlier in the shoulder season, our hurricane explainer has practical tips on alerts, airport ops, and flexible planning. We break it down here in our hurricane season guidance and what to avoid after a storm guides.

Peak winter perks most travelers miss

• Whale season: From December 15 to mid-April, Cabo turns into a whale superhighway—peak sightings in January–February (bring a hat and that light layer on morning boats).
• Beach quality: With a record 27 Blue Flag beaches certified this season, you’ve got more safe, swimmable options than ever for those sunny winter afternoons.
• Crowd-smart timing: Winter is high season, but we’ve pinpointed a repeat-traveler “golden week” that nails great weather with fewer compromises—worth a peek if you’re flexible.

What to pack (so you’re comfy from sunrise to tacos)

Think dual-purpose wardrobe: breezy daytime outfits + light layers for mornings/evenings. A light sweater or jacket and long pants will earn their place in your carry-on. If you plan sunrise hikes, whale tours, or rooftop dinners, those layers are clutch. We’ve laid out a complete winter packing cheat sheet here.

Extra winter add-ons we love:

• Windbreaker (for East Cape or boat days).
• Reef-safe sunscreen (UV is still strong).
• Closed-toe shoes for desert outings.
• Light rain shell if you’re visiting late fall during the very tail end of tropical moisture surges.

Where to beach it when it’s “cool”

Midday still delivers classic Baja warmth—especially on swimmable, lifeguarded beaches like El Médano, Chileno, and Palmilla.

Bring the layer for the walk to your sunset dinner, but plan to be in the water after lunch. Our breakdown of the busiest (and best-equipped) beaches can help you pick your spot.

Bottom line

Cabo winter isn’t “cold”—it’s comfortable. Expect sunny 70s by day, low 60s at night, lighter crowds than peak holidays (outside select windows), great whale action, and calm, dry conditions. Pack a layer, time your beach sessions to midday, and you’ll see why many regulars prefer these months.

Planning a trip in late fall? Skim our fall vibe guide and 5 surprises about visiting in the fall to dial in expectations around surf, showers, and flexible itineraries. Then lock flights early for peak holiday weeks.

At-a-Glance: Winter in Cabo

• Daytime highs: ~79°F (26°C) in January
• Nighttime lows: ~61°F (16°C)
• Sea temp: ~70–75°F (21–24°C)
• Dry season: Yes (rainfall lows mid-Dec–Mar)
• Hurricane season: Ends Nov 30
• Bonus: Whale watching mid-Dec to mid-Apr

Save this, pack that extra layer, and we’ll see you on the water—just in time for the whales.