Mexico, North America
Los Cabos in May
An underrated month: still dry, water warming up, prices easing. Hurricane season technically opens mid month but May storms are uncommon.
The straight answer
May is a good month to visit Los Cabos. An underrated month: still dry, water warming up, prices easing. Hurricane season technically opens mid month but May storms are uncommon.
- Weather
- Hot and dry, highs near 88F (31C)
- Crowds
- 2 of 5
- Prices
- 3 of 5
What May is like in Los Cabos
May is the quiet value month in Los Cabos. It is hot and dry, with highs near 88F (31C), and the ocean is warming up after the cool winter. Crowds thin out, prices ease and boat tours have space. Hurricane season technically opens mid month, but May storms are uncommon. The whales have gone for the year.
This month suits couples and families who want beach, pool and snorkeling time at lower prices without real storm risk. It is not the month for whales or for anyone who struggles with heat on long days in town. For whales, come January to March. For cooler air, try November.
Make the most of May
What is especially good about Los Cabos this month.
Lower rates, same dry weather
May has most of the sunshine of winter at noticeably lower hotel prices, and far fewer people at the marina.
Warming water
The ocean is getting more comfortable each week, so snorkeling at Chileno and Santa Maria bays is more pleasant than in winter.
Easy boat trips to the Arch
With fewer tourists, water taxis past El Arco and the sea lion colony feel relaxed, especially first thing in the morning.
What to pack for May
- A wide-brim hat for strong sun
- Lightweight, breathable clothing
- Reef-safe sunscreen in a larger bottle
- Snorkel mask and fins if you prefer your own
Our timing tip
Schedule outdoor sightseeing before 11am and after 4pm, and keep the middle of the day for the pool.
Book Los Cabos for May.
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- Hotels for May
Hotels. Expedia
Hotels in Los CabosOpens a hotel search for Los Cabos in May, dates filled in. Book early for the best months: the good rooms go first.
- Rentals on Vrbo
Vacation rentals. Vrbo
Vacation rentals in Los CabosWhole homes, condos and villas. Usually the better deal for families and groups, with a kitchen and room to spread out.
- Tours and tickets
Tours and tickets. Expedia
Tours and tickets in Los CabosTimed-entry tickets, day trips and guided tours in Los Cabos for May. Popular slots sell out in the best months.
Things to do in Los Cabos
The Arch at Land's End
Take a water taxi or glass-bottom boat from the marina past El Arco and the sea lion colony. Mornings are calmer and less crowded.
Whale watching
Mid December to mid April. Go with a licensed operator; smaller boats and early departures give the best encounters.
Cabo Pulmo National Park
A long day trip or overnight up the East Cape. Snorkel from shore or dive with a local operator; access is regulated to protect the reef.
Snorkeling at Chileno and Santa Maria bays
Two of the few calm, swimmable, protected bays on the Corridor. Arrive before 10am for parking and clear water.
San Jose del Cabo Art Walk
Thursday evenings in the gallery district, running roughly November through June. The best night out that is not in a bar.
Todos Santos
An hour north on the Pacific side: galleries, surf beaches, and a slower pace. Pair it with lunch and a sunset drive back.
Beat the crowds
- Aim for late January through early March, skipping the first week of January and the middle weeks of March when US spring break peaks.
- Base in San Jose del Cabo instead of Cabo San Lucas for quieter streets, and drive in for the marina and boat trips.
- Book boat trips to the Arch and whale tours for the first departure of the day, when water is flatter and the marina is not yet a traffic jam.
- May and early June are the value secret: dry, warm, emptier, and before the hurricane-season discount crowd arrives in late summer.
Know before you go
- September and early October: a noticeable number of restaurants and some smaller hotels close for maintenance or staff vacation. The big resorts stay open.
- Hurricane season runs mid May through November, peaking August to early October. Storms can close the airport and cut power for days; always check refund terms.
- Whale-watching tours only operate during the official season, roughly mid December to mid April. Outside that window, the whales are gone.
- Many Pacific-side beaches are closed to swimming by red flags year-round due to rip currents. Swim only where locals and lifeguards do.
Los Cabos in May, quick answers
Is May a good time to visit Los Cabos?
May is a good month to visit Los Cabos. An underrated month: still dry, water warming up, prices easing. Hurricane season technically opens mid month but May storms are uncommon.
What is the weather like in Los Cabos in May?
Hot and dry, highs near 88F (31C).
Is Los Cabos crowded in May?
May is one of the quieter months in Los Cabos; most sights can be done without long waits.
Keep planning Los Cabos.
The months either side, and the best one if this is not it.
Also at their best in May
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