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Cancun in September: Is it a Good Time to Visit?

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Is September a good time to go to Cancun?

While Cancun weather in September can be a bit unpredictable, there are still many reasons to consider a trip to this popular vacation spot during the month of September. From the beautiful beaches and crystal clear waters to the exciting nightlife, Cancun has something for everyone.

In this blog post, you will learn more about the weather in Cancun in September, including temperature, humidity, and rainfall, as well as any potential impacts from the hurricane season. In addition, I will also cover events and seasonal attractions in Cancun during September to help you decide if it’s the right time for you to visit.

By the end of this post, you’ll have a better understanding of what to expect in Cancun during September and can make an informed decision about your trip. So, let’s dive in!

Luxury under Budget aims at helping you get the best deals by maximizing the value of your time and money. My recommendations are based on first-hand experiences and a full analysis of costs vs. benefits. This post may contain affiliate links, which means that I may get a small commission when you make a purchase, at no extra cost to you. This helps support my blog and enables me to provide more free and helpful content. Now, let’s go get you that luxury travel while staying under the budget!

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Cancun Weather in September

While the hurricane season officially runs from June to early November, it is uncommon for hurricanes to actually hit Cancun. In fact, it’s been over a decade since the last hurricane hit the area.

September is also the rainiest month of the year, with about 10 days of rain, but most of the rain comes in the form of short showers that pass quickly. Plus, the weather is still warm, with average temperatures hovering around 28C (82F) and humidity levels above 60%.

If you can handle the heat and humidity and are willing to adjust your plans occasionally due to rain, you can still have a great time. Just be sure to pack some extra cooling sunscreen and consider booking accommodations with air conditioning to beat the humidity.

☀️Don’t let the heat and humidity of Cancun in September ruin your vacation! Protect your skin and fight the heat with Banana Boat Sport Cooling Sunscreen Spray. Don’t wait until you get to Mexico to buy sunscreen – it is three times more expensive there.

All in all, a little rain and heat shouldn’t stop you from having an incredible time in Cancun during the month of September.

Does it rain all day in Cancun in September?

Although rain showers in Cancun in September seem intense, they generally don’t last very long. When I was in Cancun during September, even when the weather forecasts said that it would rain for the whole week, it was only raining twice for 20-30 minutes. For the rest of the week, the sky was a bit gloomy in the morning but got much clearer in the afternoon.

What is the average temperature in Cancun in September?

The average temperature in Cancun in September is 28°C (82F). The days are warm with an average high of 33°C (91F) and the nights are cool with an average low of 25°C (82F).

What’s the average wind speed in Cancun in September?

September is considered to be one of the calmest months in Cancun, with an average wind speed of 8.9 mph (14.4 kph). The wind speed can affect the weather condition like a heat index, air humidity or even cold, depending on the direction of the wind.

Is it cloudy in Cancun throughout the month of September?

September in Cancun is characterized by heavy cloud cover, so you should be prepared for overcast skies and periods of rain. It’s not uncommon for cloud cover to be present for several days, or even an entire week during September. The heavy cloud cover can affect the water visibility and also the air temperature and humidity, which can make the days feel more humid than they would otherwise.

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Events in Cancun during September

There is no shortage of things to do in Cancun any time of the year, from exploring ancient ruins to soaking up some sun on the beach or enjoying the lively nightlife. But more than that, there are several events that take place in the city during September, making it a special time to visit.

1. Mexican Independence Day (El Grito)

Mexican Independence Day is a festive occasion celebrated on September 16th. It commemorates the day when Mexico broke away from Spanish rule and became an independent nation. For Mexicans, this day is a time to reflect on their country’s history and culture.

There are large street parties, parades, and a variety of entertainment options ranging from fireworks displays and rodeos to brass band and mariachi performances and traditional folk dancing in the streets (bailes folclóricos). During this time, places like downtown Cancun, Hotel Zone, Fifth Avenue (Playa del Carmen) and Cozumel de San Miguel become alive with music, dance, and laughter.

Celebrations typically begin in the afternoon on September 15th, the day of the Cry of Dolores (El Grito de Dolores) in downtown Cancun near City Hall with street performances and food stalls. On this night at 11:00 PM, there is a ceremony called grito or cry for independence with bells ringing and fireworks. After that, the big party begins and goes on till the end of September 16th – the actual Independence Day.

While Downtown Cancun has many street performances, the biggest parties for travelers on Mexican Independence Day take place at the nightclubs and bars in the Hotel Zone (Zona Hotelera). No matter where you choose to celebrate, Independence Day in Mexico is sure to be a memorable experience.

things to do in cancun nightlife

⭐Useful Tips: To avoid paying extra and waiting in line for nightclubs on Mexican Independence Day, it’s best to book your tickets in advance. These are some of the most popular nightclubs and bar hopping options in Cancun:

🎉Coco Bongo Cancun Gold Member VIP Night Out: Coco Bongo is Cancun’s most famous nightlife venue, and a VIP Gold Member admission ticket is your key to experiencing it like a celebrity. With skip-the-line and early entry included in your VIP pass, you’ll save hours of waiting in line and be able to enter the club one hour before it opens to the general public. Throughout the evening, take advantage of an open bar featuring premium spirits and a front-row seat for the show.

🎉Mandala Club Cancun – Golden Personal Pass: The golden pass allows you to skip the line at Mandala Club Cancun – featuring oriental style, an open facade, a great atmosphere, and a live DJ playing electronic, reggaetón, hip-hop, pop, and dance music. The pass also comes with $50 USD of credit to buy delicious food and beverages from the menu – which pays for the pass itself and practically makes it free!

🎉VIP Nightclub Tour in Cancun: Don’t want to stick with one night club in the Hotel Zone? This six-hour evening tour will take you to skip the long lines and enjoy unlimited drinks at three of Cancun’s top clubs such as Congo Bar, Mandala Disco, Dady’o, La Vaquita, Palazzo and The City Nightclub.

2. Fall Equinox at Chichen Itza

The fall equinox (autumn equinox), happening between September 22nd and 23rd, is an important event in the Mayan culture. On this day, when day and night are of equal measure, the sunsets align perfectly with the main staircase of the Temple of Kukulcan (El Castillo pyramid) at Chichén Itzá, creating an illusion of a snake coming to life and slithering down the stairs.

The Chichén Itzá Serpent Shadow slowly descends from the top until reaching the enormous stone head in the pyramid’s base that represents Kukulkan God, which is considered a manifestation of a deity in the Mayan culture.

This incredible phenomenon exemplifies the extraordinary accuracy of the Mayan architecture and makes the Pyramid of Chichén Itzá one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.

⭐Useful Tips: While there are a lot of Chichen Itza tours from Cancun, these tours typically visit during the day and leave before sunset. If you book a regular day group tour, you will most likely miss the Chichén Itzá Serpent Shadow. In order to visit Chichen Itza and witness the phenomenon during the equinox, consider the following options.

Chichen Itza Private Tour for Fall Equinox

A full-day private tour allows you to customize your itinerary and make the most of your time at the archaeological site of Chichen Itza. Unlike regular tours which will take you to Chichen Itza at midday, your private guide can take you to visit the cenote and Valladolid before Chichen Itza, so you can stay later at Chichen Itza and witness the late afternoon light revealing the serpent shadow.

Check Price & Availability for Chichen Itza Private Tour

Drive to Chichen Itza & Stay the Night

Renting a car in Cancun can sometimes be tricky because of the Mexican car insurance scam. If you don’t buy insurance in advance, the car rental agencies will upsell insurance when you come for pick up.

Even if you have a Collision Damage Waiver with your credit card company, you will be required to buy Mexican car rental liability insurance. In order to avoid the upsell, I recommend booking through Discover Cars, which offers not only cheap car rental rates but also full coverage insurance for only $7 a day.

Discover Cars offers the cheapest car rental rates in Mexico and full coverage insurance for as low as $7 per day. ✔️BOOK NOW

Since you will be staying at Chichen Itza after dark, it would be safer to stay in Chichen Itza than to drive back right away. If you stay the night in Chichen Itza area, you can come back to tour the Mayan ruins at night and watch the Nights of Kukulkan, a sound and light show that helps bring the pre-Colombian city to life.

The best hotel to stay in the area is the Mayaland Hotel and Bungalows. The hotel is located in the middle of the Mayan jungle right next to the ruins of Chichen Itza, making it extremely convenient for you to visit the archaeological ruins. There are rooms and spots throughout the property with a gorgeous view of the ruins at Chichen Itza, which makes this hotel a very special place!

Even if you can’t make it to the fall equinox, Chichen Itza is still a place you must visit when you’re in Cancun. It is one of the most popular archaeological sites in Mexico and is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Chichen Itza was once the center of the Mayan civilization and is now one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.

cancun top things to do
Nights of Kukulkan Tour

Seasonal Attractions and Activities in Cancun in September

3. Swimming & Snorkeling with Turtles

Thousands of vacationers flock to the beaches of Cancun in search of sun, sand, and sea every year, but what they may not know is that some of these beaches are also home to a wide variety of wildlife, including sea turtles.

Adult sea turtles begin nesting on the beaches in May, and they continue to lay eggs until October. The baby turtles then begin hatching in July and continue their journey into the sea through mid-December.

As a result, the best time to see turtles in Cancun is from July to September, when all of the turtles are present and active. You may even get to enjoy watching the turtles hatch and make their way into the water for the first time! If you plan to go to Cancun in September, be sure to include some time for turtle-watching on your itinerary.

things to do in cancun september turtles

🤿Book a 5-in-1 Cancun Snorkeling Tour: Swim with Turtles, Reef, MUSA, Shipwreck and Cenote

This 5-in-1 kid-friendly snorkeling tour takes you to explore the underwater world in five different areas, each with its own unique attractions. First, you’ll snorkel on a coral reef teeming with fish and marine life. The water is warm and relatively calm, making it ideal for beginners or first-time snorkelers.

Next, you’ll explore MUSA (Museo Subacuático de Arte), a unique underwater museum located in the National Marine Park in Cancun and the Isla Mujeres area. There are over 500 sculptures with coral reefs and colorful fishes. This is a very popular attraction and suitable for all ages.

Then it’s time to find some turtles! The chances of seeing turtles during season are very high, so keep your eyes peeled. After that, you’ll explore a shipwreck covered in coral and vibrant fish. Finally, you’ll visit a cenote – a natural pit or sinkhole formed by the collapse of limestone bedrock.

4. Swimming & Snorkeling with Whale Sharks

One of the most popular activities to do in Cancun is swimming with whale sharks! These gentle giants can be found in the waters off of Cancun from May to September. Swimming with whale sharks is an unforgettable experience and something you definitely don’t want to miss while you’re in Cancun.

Under the professional guidance of an expert guide, you’ll have the opportunity to swim with whale sharks in their natural habitat while also looking out for dolphins, manta rays, and turtles.

Is September a good time to go to Cancun? Yes for whale sharks

🐋Book Small-Group Eco-Friendly Whale Sharks Tour in Cancun/Riviera Maya

This small-group tour provides an intimate whale shark encounter in Mexico’s magnificent waters. In addition to swimming with whale sharks, you’ll enjoy a lunch stop on the boat at Isla Mujeres, one of the world’s most beautiful beaches. Round-trip transportation from your Cancun or Riviera Maya hotel is included for your convenience.

Reasons Why September is a Good Month to Go To Cancun

Even though the weather in Cancun in September can be unpredictable, there are many reasons why September is a good time to visit Cancun!

👍 Less crowd

The best time to avoid crowds in Cancun is during the rainy season, from June through October, especially in September. During this time of year, Cancun sees far fewer international tourists, making it the perfect time to enjoy all the city has to offer without having to contend with large crowds.

The beach will likely be the most comfortable spot to relax most days, though it’s a good idea to have a few rainy day activities planned, just in case. With fewer people around, you’ll be able to enjoy Cancun without having to fight for space on the beach or in the city’s popular attractions. So if you’re looking for a quiet getaway, it’s a good idea to plan your trip in September.

Travel Tips to ask for a Free Hotel Room Upgrade

👍 Lower Prices & Great Travel Deals

September marks the end of the summer, making it an ideal time for budget-conscious travelers to visit Cancun. Although there is a risk of hurricanes during the wet season, which runs from June to November, storms are relatively rare in Cancun. In fact, only two hurricanes have made landfall in the area in the past 30 years.

The vast majority of days during the wet season are hot and humid, with occasional showers. However, these rain showers are typically short-lived, and they often occur at night or early in the morning. For travelers who don’t mind a little heat and occasional rain, September is the perfect time to visit Cancun.

Hotel rates are significantly discounted during this time of year, and deal-hunters will also find cheaper fares on flights and excursions. So if you’re looking for a bargain getaway, put Cancun at the top of your list for September!

👍 Warm Water Temperature

September is a good month to visit Cancun for swimming and snorkeling because the water temperature rises slightly from the previous summer months. The warm water temperature in Cancun in September also makes it ideal for scuba diving.

👍 Seasonal Attractions & Activities

September is a great time to visit Cancun for some unique seasonal attractions and activities, such as swimming with sea turtles or snorkeling with whale sharks.

September 16th is Mexican Independence Day, so visitors can expect to see festive parades and celebrations taking place.

On September 22nd or 23rd, visitors to Chichen Itza can see the amazing Serpent Shadow. Every year on the fall equinox (autumn equinox), the sun sets in perfect alignment with the main stairway of the Temple of Kukulkan (El Castillo pyramid), creating the illusion of a giant snake descending the steps.

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Cancun Weather and Travel Season FAQs

When is the peak season in Cancun?

The peak season in Cancun is from December through April – the driest and sunniest months of the year, with low humidity and temperatures in the low 80s. As anyone who has ever been to Cancun during the winter months can attest, there is truly no better place to escape the cold than this paradise on the coast of Mexico.

Great weather with beautiful sunshine, comfortable temperatures, and low cloud coverage during this dry season months make it the best time to visit Cancun. Although prices for flights and hotels are at their highest during this time, many people consider the extra expense to be worth it for the best weather conditions of the year.

When is the shoulder season in Cancun?

For those looking forward to avoiding crowds but also enjoying some sunny days, the shoulder season between the high and low seasons in Cancun is the perfect time to visit. From April to May, temperatures are slightly higher than during peak season and can sometimes climb up to the low 90s. From October to November, the temperatures are lower, but humidity is higher and there are more chances of rain showers.

During this time, visitors can enjoy all that Cancun has to offer without having to fight for space on the beach or at popular tourist attractions. And with an abundance of flight and hotel deals, shoulder season is an affordable time to visit this Mexican hotspot.

When is the low season in Cancun?

The low or off-season in Cancun is from June to November. Although there are more chances of rain showers, the rates for flights and hotels are significantly lower than during the high season.

During the summer months, the beaches may still be busy with domestic travelers but the crowds thin out by August-September. This is also when you can find the best deals on airline tickets and hotel rates. So if you’re looking to escape the crowds and save some money, the low season after the summer months is the ideal time to travel to Cancun.

When is the hurricane season in Cancun?

The hurricane season or rainy season in Cancun runs from June to November, with the highest average rainfall of the year. However, there have only been two hurricanes over the past 30 years. It can be humid, hot, and rainy – all in one day – but the benefit is that beaches and attractions are mostly empty. You have the peace of fewer crowds during hurricane season, just be sure to plan around a few rain showers!

While you may expect rain showers in Cancun during the wet/rainy season, they tend to be short-lived. Most of the time, they consist of quick, heavy downpours that pass as quickly as they come. However, there are also times when tropical storms can bring prolonged periods of rain. The rains usually eventually let up and the sun comes out again. While the rains can be a nuisance, they are typically not a major problem in Cancun.

When it does rain, you can retreat to the luxury and comfort of your resort activities. For instance, Hotel Xcaret Arte has several workshops, yoga classes, and activities on-site to entertain their guests.

🏨Check out my reviews of 20 Best All-Inclusive Resorts vs Non All-Inclusive Hotels in Cancun!

When should you avoid Cancun?

Peak travel times in Cancun include Christmas, New Year’s, and Semana Santa Holy Week (Easter Week), but most people try to avoid Cancun during spring break (March-early April).

If you travel during this peak time and want to avoid the spring breakers, you may want to consider staying off the main streets in Cancun’s hotel zone.

One great option is Puerto Morelos, a beach town located just 20 minutes away from Cancun International Airport. If you’re looking for even more relaxation, Isla Mujeres is a small island located just off the coast of Cancun that is perfect for snorkeling, swimming, and simply taking in the incredible views. Akumal is another option that is well known for its serene beaches and turquoise waters – it’s perfect for those who want to spend their days lounging on the sand or exploring the underwater world.

Summary: Is September a good time to go to Cancun?

Cancun is a renowned beach destination, attracting hordes of tourists from all over the world. However, the crowds can be overwhelming, particularly during the peak season. If you are looking for a more relaxed vacation where you can save money with great deals on airline tickets and hotel rates, the low season is a perfect time to visit Cancun.

September is one of the best times to visit Cancun, not only for warm weather, fewer tourists, and great travel deals but also because of the unique events and seasonal activities. From the exciting opportunity to swim with whale sharks and sea turtles to the music and celebrations for Mexican Independence Day or the incredible equinox phenomenon at Chichen Itza, there is something for everyone in Cancun during September!

So if you’re planning a trip to Cancun, September definitely worth considering. Just be sure to pack your sunscreen, an umbrella, and a light jacket or raincoat! I hope you have a fantastic time in Cancun!

Cancun Travel Resources

  1. Travel Insurance:
    • No one wants to think about what could go wrong on a vacation, but the truth is that accidents can happen anywhere, at any time. That’s why it’s always a good idea to have travel insurance, so you can relax and enjoy your trip knowing that you’re covered if something does go wrong. Don’t take the risk when you can be covered for cheap.
    • Safety Wing is a great option for budget-conscious travelers, as policies start at just $40 USD for a whole month! Basic policies cover travel emergencies, medical costs, and medical expenses while you’re in Mexico as well as transportation back to your home country under circumstances.
  2. Getting around Cancun
  3. Car Rental Scam
    • Don’t fall for car rental scams in Mexico! Make sure you have full coverage when you make the reservation so car rental agencies can’t upsell their insurance.
    • Discover Cars offers the cheapest car rental rates in Mexico and full coverage insurance for as low as $7 per day. 
  4. Best Places to Stay in and near Cancun
  5. Best Attractions & Activities in Cancun

Bonus: 61+ Best Cancun Quotes for Instagram & Social Media Captions!