When is rainy season in Cancun? If you are planning a trip in 2026, it usually runs from May to October with the heaviest rain between July and September. But don’t worry, most mornings are sunny and perfect for you to enjoy the beaches, explore the city, or even hop on a catamaran tour. A quick tropical shower in the afternoon won’t ruin your plans. Knowing when the rain is likely helps you pick the best days so you can make the most of your time in Cancun.
Cancun’s Climate at a Glance
You can plan a beach vacation in Cancun almost any time of year because it stays warm all year. Knowing what the seasons are like can help you choose the best time to go.
Dry Season November to April
- Most days are sunny, and it only rains a little, about 50 to 70 mm a month.
- Great for going to the beach, seeing sights and doing things outside.
- It’s more comfortable to spend a lot of time outside when the humidity is lower.
Rainy Season May to October (sometimes into November)
- The rain is heavier, with amounts ranging from 129 mm in July to 224 mm in September.
- Most showers are short, tropical bursts.
- The mornings are usually bright and clear, which is great for swimming, exploring, or taking a catamaran tour.
- Afternoon rain showers are short and don’t last all day very often.
If you plan your days around the weather, you can still have fun outside and in the water even in the Cancun rainy season.
Want to know the best time to visit Cancun for sun, beaches, and outdoor fun? Check out our full guide on the best time to go to Cancun for tips on planning your perfect trip.
When Is Rainy Season in Cancun in 2026?
In Cancun, the rainy season is expected to last from May to October in 2026, with the most rain falling from July to October. This schedule can help you plan your trips, activities and even tours like catamaran rides.
May
- May is the start of the Cancun rainy season.
- The average amount of rain is 100 mm, but it is getting less frequent.
- The weather is still warm, so mornings are great for outdoor activities.
June to August
- Afternoon showers happen all the time.
- Most of the time, rain only lasts an hour or two, so there is a lot of sun.
- Average rainfall: June 183 mm, July 129 mm, August 149 mm
- The best time to see the sights, go to the beach, or take a catamaran tour is in the morning.
September to October
- Rainfall is at its heaviest.
- Average rainfall: September 224 mm, October 185 mm
- You can still enjoy sunny spells between showers.
Want a closer look at what October in Cancun really feels like? Check out our detailed guide on Cancun weather in October, including rainfall, sunny spells, and tips for planning your activities.
November
- Rain can stick around in early November.
- Marks the start of the dry season.
- Rainfall on average: 70 mm
- The weather gets more stable over time, making it better for outdoor activities.
This month-by-month breakdown tells you what to expect so you can plan your trip to Cancun with as few weather surprises as possible.
Want to see how Cancun feels even during the rainy season? Book your shared catamaran tour and plan a fun morning on the water while enjoying sunny breaks.
Rain Pattern and Trends from 2025
In 2025, Cancun rainy season began in early June and lasted until October. In June, it rained about 183 mm over 11 days; in July, it rained about 129 mm over 12 days; in August, it rained about 149 mm over 13 days; in September, it rained the most, with 224 mm over 14 days; and in October, it rained about 185 mm over 12 days. There were hurricanes in the Atlantic, which made it rain more in some parts of Quintana Roo. These patterns show that rain usually comes in short bursts. This will help you plan your trip to 2026 with realistic expectations.
These patterns show that rain often comes in short bursts. You can explore past and historical rainfall data on AccuWeather to plan your 2026 trip more accurately.
What “Rainy Season” Really Means in Cancun
When people talk about the rainy season in Cancun, you might think of storms that never stop, but that’s not usually the case. Most of the rain falls in short, tropical showers that don’t last long. The rest of the day is usually sunny.
The mornings are usually bright and warm. Which is the best time to go to the beach, see the city or take a catamaran tour. Rain can be light drizzles or heavy but short downpours, even in the wettest months. With a little planning, it doesn’t often stop you from having fun on your trip.
Worried about storms during Cancun’s rainy season? Understand the real impact of hurricanes and plan your trip safely in our Cancun hurricane guide.
Best Months for Outdoor Activities and Catamaran Tours
Knowing the best months for outdoor activities can make a big difference if you’re planning a trip to Cancun. Some of the most popular things to do in the area are going to the beach, snorkeling, and taking catamaran tours. Knowing how the weather affects these activities will help you have the best trip possible.
Dry Season (December to April)
- There isn’t much rain during these months, and there is a lot of sun.
- The ocean is calm, which makes it great for swimming, snorkeling and sailing.
- Catamaran tours are great during this time because you can spend whole days on the water without worrying about sudden rain.
- It’s easier to plan and enjoy outdoor activities like going to the beach, visiting cenotes, or walking around the city.
Want to make the most of Cancun’s sunny season? Check out things to do in Cancun and plan your beach, snorkeling, and catamaran adventures.
Rainy Season (May to October)
- Even though it rains more often, mornings are usually sunny and great for being outside.
- Usually, afternoon showers are short and can be a nice break from the heat.
- The short rain doesn’t usually change the water conditions or visibility for snorkeling, so catamaran tours are still a lot of fun.
- Rain can make the tropical scenery look better by making the ocean and the land around it look more colorful.
- If you plan things to do in the morning and keep your schedule open, you can enjoy the rainy season without missing any important events.
You can get the most out of your time in Cancun no matter what time of year it is if you know these patterns and plan your outdoor activities and catamaran tours around them.
Want to make your Cancun trip unforgettable on the water? See everything you need to know about a private catamaran tour to Isla Contoy, from routes to tips for the perfect day.
Catamaran Tours During the Rainy Season
Don’t worry if you’re worried that rain might ruin a catamaran tour in Cancun. Most mornings during the Cancun rainy season are sunny, which is the best time to sail, snorkel or just relax on the deck.
Most of the time, afternoon showers don’t last long, so you can still enjoy the water. A short tropical shower can actually make the ocean look brighter and the landscape look even more lush. You won’t miss out on anything if you plan your tour for the morning, no matter what time of year it is.
Ready to enjoy a sunny morning on the water? Book your private catamaran tour and sail, snorkel, or relax even during the rainy season.
Tips for Travelers Visiting During Rainy Season
The rainy season in Cancun doesn’t have to ruin your plans. You can still enjoy everything the city and the ocean have to offer if you plan ahead. To get the most out of your trip, here are some tips:
- Bring a light rain jacket or umbrella in case of sudden showers.
- Plan important outdoor activities like going to the beach or taking a catamaran tour for the morning.
- Book tours that can change with the weather.
- Check the weather reports in your area often for hurricane warnings.
- Keep in mind that short rain showers usually don’t last long and leave a lot of sunshine for the rest of the day.
Final Thoughts
When is rainy season in Cancun in 2026? It runs from May through October, with the heaviest rain between July and October. Most of the time, mornings are sunny and showers are short, so you have plenty of time to go to the beach, see the sights or go on outdoor adventures.
Catamaran tours work well in both the wet and dry months. Most of the time, morning trips are clear and even short rain showers can make the scenery look better. To get the most out of your trip to Cancun, book your tours ahead of time and check the weather.
Even during Cancun’s rainy season in 2026, mornings are often sunny, making catamaran tours a perfect choice. Message us on WhatsApp to pick the best tour and plan a fun, relaxing day on the water.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does it rain all day in Cancun in October?
No, it doesn’t rain all day. October is one of the wettest months, but showers are usually brief. You can still enjoy sunny periods for the beach, sightseeing, or a catamaran tour.
What is the rainiest month in Cancun?
September is usually the month with the most rain. Afternoon showers will happen more often, but mornings are usually clear and great for being outside.
Is there always a chance of rain in Cancun?
Yes, there is always a small chance of rain, even when it is dry. Most showers are short and happen in the afternoon, so they don’t usually mess up your plans.
What’s the cheapest month to go to Cancun?
The cheapest months to visit Cancun are typically May and September, during the rainy season, when hotel rates and tours are lower and crowds are smaller.
