Traveling to Tulum in December: Weather, Events, and Things to Do
Tulum’s weather in December is one of the best in the year, but if you’re planning a trip, there are definitely more things to consider than the weather.
I’ll tell you all there is to a Tulum trip during December in this article.
Part of Mexico’s Riviera Maya, Tulum is a small fishing town located on the Caribbean Sea coast of the Yucatan Peninsula.
The town is home to some of Mexico’s most stunning beaches, luxury resorts, brimming nightlife, culture, and well-preserved Maya archeological sites.
Natural beauty is also abundant here, the most prominent of which is the mystical cenotes and lush jungles of Tulum.
If you want to experience the best of Tulum Mexico, December is the perfect time to visit.
The weather is warm and sunny, making it ideal for spending time outdoors and enjoying the many water activities that Tulum has to offer.
From swimming and snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters of the Caribbean Sea to explore the ancient Mayan ruins, there is something for everyone in Tulum.
December is also a great time to take advantage of the many cultural activities and events that take place in Tulum.
From art galleries and music festivals to traditional events, there is always something going on in Tulum.
So whether you are looking for a relaxing vacation or an adventure-filled getaway, Tulum in December is the perfect destination, especially if you are planning to spend Christmas in Tulum. It will be a very unique Christmas.
Weather in Tulum in December – At a Glance
Tulum in December is a great time to enjoy the warm weather.
The average temperature ranges within the low 80s, and with only about 3 inches of rain, it’s also one of the driest months of the year.
This makes it a great time to enjoy activities such as swimming, sunbathing, and exploring the ruins.
Without the worry of rainy days spoiling your plans, you can explore Tulum and all its surroundings.
For starters, the ancient Mayan ruins and the nearby Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve are popular tourist destinations.
You can also enjoy the area’s many beaches and cenotes (natural swimming holes).
December is also a good time to take exciting day trips to places like Chichen Itza, Coba Ruins, Playa del Carmen, and Valladolid.
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Temperature in Tulum in December
December in Tulum means perfect weather—not too hot and not too cold.
The average temperature is 82 degrees Fahrenheit (27 degrees Celsius).
The average maximum temperature is 88 degrees Fahrenheit (31 degrees Celsius) and the average minimum temperature is 77 degrees Fahrenheit (25 degrees Celsius).
If you’re looking to escape the winter chill, Tulum is the perfect place to do it. With its warm days, turquoise waters, and white sand beaches, it’s no wonder this Mexican town is a popular destination for winter sun seekers.
Precipitation in Tulum in December
December is one of the drier months in Tulum. The average rainfall is only about 3 inches (78mm) during the month.
This makes December an ideal time to visit Tulum for its many activities and attractions.
With just almost no days of rain (except maybe a rare and quick shower), December has the best weather of the year in Tulum.
Sunshine in Tulum in December
From mid-December to late January, the sun shines almost every day. You can expect some rain showers, but they’re usually short-lived.
This means that sunshine in Tulum in December is pretty much guaranteed. You can expect clear skies with around eight hours of sunshine each day, and the days get sunnier as the month progresses.
Sea water temperature
The average sea temperature is also a pleasant 77°F (27°C) during December, so it’s perfect for swimming or snorkeling.
Although December is one of the most popular months for tourism in Tulum, you can still enjoy your beach days with pleasant ocean temperatures, great weather, and lots of watersports.
Sargassum Seaweed In Tulum in December
Sargassum seaweed is a problem on the Riviera Maya beaches (including Tulum), but the sargassum season is long gone when it’s December.
So if you’re looking for an unforgettable beach vacation here and sargassum is a concern, rest assured—you won’t encounter any.
Events in Tulum in December
🙏 Dia de la Virgin de Guadalupe
Day of the Virgin of Guadalupe is a religious feast celebrated on the 12th of every December in Mexico.
The day honors the appearance of the Virgin Mary to Juan Diego and is considered as one of the most important national holidays.
As you’d expect from a huge religious holiday, the celebrations are grand everywhere and Tulum is no exception.
The day begins with a relay race in which runners carry a torch all the way Downtown. The feast begins when these runners reach their destination and involves lots of music, food, and dancing.
👼 Dia de Los Santos Inocentes
Day of the Holy Innocents is another huge holiday in Mexico and quite a unique one at that.
The day was originally celebrated to honor the babies killed by King Herod, but it has turned into a kind of Mexican April Fool’s day over time.
It’s celebrated every 28th of December with a large variety of pranks and borrowing items with the intention of never returning them.
🎛🎚🎶 Zamna Fest Tulum
Zamna is an international EDM festival that takes place in Tulum as well as Barcelona and Israel.
In fact, it’s one of the largest EDM events in the world.
The celebration in Tulum takes place between late December and mid-January.
You will find different parties at different venues throughout Tulum during this festival.
Each one features renowned DJs from around the world, and you can either purchase tickets for the whole event or individual DJ nights.
🎧 💃 Tulum Winter Beach Festival
Dos Equis Winter Beach is a music, dance, fashion, and entertainment festival.
Featuring famous DJs from around the world, it takes place at the Papaya Playa Project and goes on for three days straight.
If you like all-night parties in the jungle, you can definitely head here—you won’t be disappointed.
🎄 Christmas in Tulum
Christmas is also celebrated in Tulum, but it’s not a very big event. The celebration mostly takes place inside homes with just friends and family, so you won’t find any parades, feasts, or live music and dance.
However, as a traveler, you can have the time of your life by spending Christmas in Tulum and making your Christmas a very unique and special occasion.
Spending Christmas in Tulum is an enchanting experience that diverges from the traditional holiday setting.
Instead of a snowy Christmas you can enjoy Tulum white sand, and cold breezes for warm, gentle waves lapping at your feet—a tropical Christmas in the heart of the Riviera Maya.
Tulum during the holiday season is a blend of relaxation and celebration. The town retains its laid-back vibe but with a festive twist.
Palm trees are strung with lights, and local boutiques and restaurants add touches of holiday decor, creating a festive yet understated atmosphere.
Christmas Day could start with a sunrise yoga session on the beach, followed by a leisurely breakfast at one of the eco-chic cafes, such as Raw Love or Matcha Mama, which specialize in healthy, organic fare.
Spend your afternoon exploring the breathtaking Tulum Ruins or take a bike ride to one of the many cenotes nearby, like Gran Cenote, for a refreshing dip in its crystal-clear waters.
For Christmas dinner, Tulum offers a variety of dining experiences that highlight local cuisine with a gourmet twist.
Hartwood and Arca are excellent choices for a memorable meal, where the focus is on fresh, locally-sourced ingredients prepared with traditional techniques. Prepare to stay in line to get your seat as they don’t accept reservations.
Alternatively, RosaNegra and Gitano provide lively dining atmospheres with live music and a festive vibe that can carry you late into the night.
After dinner, the celebration can continue at one of Tulum’s beach clubs, where the sound of the ocean pairs beautifully with local and international tunes, or simply enjoy a tranquil walk under the stars along the beach.
With its unique blend of serene natural beauty, warm weather, and a relaxed yet festive atmosphere, spending Christmas in Tulum is truly a magical holiday escape.
📆 🥂 New Year’s
All the festivities of December are topped off with a bang on New Year’s Eve with a huge celebration.
Tulum is a famous party town and New Year’s is a grand party, so you can already guess how hard the partying would be.
You will find fireworks and parties on the beachfront, as well as in most of the nightclubs and some restaurants like the Papaya Playa Project and Jaguar Tulum.
Pros of Visiting Tulum in December
✅ December through April has the best weather in Tulum. So you can expect lots of sunny days and pleasant temperatures during your trip in the month of December.
✅ Despite coming just a few months after the hurricane season (also called rainy season) and the rainiest months in Tulum, December sees little rain, so you won’t have to worry about downpours spoiling the day.
✅ Tulum has some of the most beautiful beaches in Mexico, and December is an ideal time to visit here for a beach vacation. The pleasant weather is perfect for beach days, as there is plenty of sunshine and almost no cloudy days, so you can enjoy your evenings on the sand and in the water.
✅ The Tulum nightlife is really amazing this time of year. In fact, December is one of the best months to enjoy the nightlife in Tulum.
✅ The winter months (including December) bring with them low humidity, warm sea temperatures, and pleasant days to make your exploration and activities really enjoyable and more fun.
✅ December is the last month to watch baby sea turtles hatch from their eggs and make their way into the sea.
✅ You won’t have to worry about sargassum seaweed spoiling your beach days during December.
Cons of Visiting Tulum in December
👎 December is a very popular month for tourists to visit Tulum. This is when you will encounter the biggest crowds and the highest prices.
👎 As you’d expect in one of the busiest months, Tulum hotels are mostly full, so you will have trouble finding rooms unless you made your reservations ahead of time.
👎 If you’re looking for great deals and fewer people, the high season isn’t the time for those. The low season or even shoulder season is a better period to visit for a budget or intimate vacation. However, it’s worth mentioning that early December is still part of the shoulder season, so looking for discounts in the first week of it is still a good idea.
👎 Whale sharks leave Tulum shores by the end of September, so you won’t be able to see any during December.
Things to Do in Tulum in December
► Enjoy the beaches
Although Tulum is a year-round destination, December is a particularly magical time to visit.
This is when you can head to the beach for some relaxation and fun in the sun, as it is a great time to catch some waves or simply soak up the rays on the sand.
► Explore the ruins and jungles
December is one of the best times for outdoor excursions in Tulum, so you should definitely explore the ancient ruins of Tulum, which date back to the 13th century.
The site is fascinating and well worth a visit, especially early in the morning when it’s not swarming with tourists.
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► Immerse yourself in the culture and nightlife of Tulum
December is one of the months when Tulum is truly vibrant and brimming with activity. You can take this opportunity to enjoy its lively culture as well as its nightlife.
The Downtown area of Tulum is a great place for it. Also, there are lots of huge events during December that you can participate in to make the most of your Tulum experience.
Tips For Visiting Tulum in December
✔️ Tulum is a sunny destination in December. Pack light, since you’ll likely be doing a lot of walking in the heat. A swimsuit, sunscreen, and a hat are all you really need. Also, a light jacket for the occasional cold hours at night is a good idea.
✔️ The Tulum hotel prices tend to peak in December and availability is a big issue, so look for your lodging place months in advance and try to find some deals when you make a reservation for your trip.
✔️ December comes with dry weather, but it’s always a good idea to take a look at the weather forecast before planning your day.
✔️ Be sure to drink plenty of water and take breaks in the shade often to stay hydrated and avoid heat exhaustion.
✔️ The best time to visit the beach, ruins, and pretty much any other attractions is early in the morning or late in the afternoon when it’s not as hot or crowded. Similarly, wait until later in the day to enjoy exploring the town and its many shops and restaurants.
✔️ December is part of the best season to visit Tulum for good weather, so make the most of it and see and do as many things as possible to make your vacation more memorable!
Tulum packing list for the beach
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Where to Stay in Tulum
If you’re heading to Tulum and want to stay on the beach, there are many amazing options depending on your vibe and budget. For a high-end experience, I love Casa Malca—it’s artsy, super stylish, and right on the sand. It used to be Pablo Escobar’s mansion, so it’s got that mysterious edge too. BeTulum is another beautiful one if you’re going for a more polished, romantic, adults-only kind of escape.
Now, if you don’t need to be right on the beach and want to save a bit, Coyote Hotel is a great pick. It’s not beachfront, but it’s still close enough to everything and has a cool, laid-back atmosphere. You’ll get a nice room and a great location without blowing your budget. You can check out my detailed posts on the best areas to stay in Tulum and the best Airbnb and Home Rentals.
Tulum in December FAQs
What is the weather like in Tulum?
Tulum is a tropical region, so the overall weather is warm here throughout the calendar. But there are variations depending upon the time of year.
The summer months tend to be the hottest months and come with high temperatures as well as high humidity.
Among these, May is the hottest month of the year, along with August, while September is the wettest month, along with the previous month.
The mid and late summer months bring the hurricane season, but the rain comes in the form of short showers and the skies clear up shortly afterward.
The hot weather and high average relative humidity also improve after the rain. These are best for encountering marine life in Tulum like whale sharks and sea turtles.
The winter months are the coldest months, but they’re still warm compared to the winter months in the United States.
December through March is the dry season, in which January is the coldest month of the year, and March is the windiest month of the year with an average wind speed of 8 mph.
March is also the driest month of the year, but the spring is over by the end of it, so you plan an intimate family trip in the couple of months that follow, right before the rainy season.
Is December a good time to go to Tulum?
Yup! With clear skies, sunny and warm days, and lots of things to do, December is one of the best months to visit Tulum.
But this is also the start of the holiday season, which means more crowds and peak prices on hotels and flights.
If you don’t want to deal with peak prices and higher crowds, you can visit during the low season months (June through late October).
This is also when you will find fewer crowds at the beaches, restaurants, and other attractions, great deals on hotels and flights, and fewer tourists staying in the hotel zone of Tulum.
The shoulder season (April-May and November-early December) is also a good time for discounts and manageable crowds.
Does it rain in December in Tulum?
Rarely. With only 3 inches of rain and 8 days of rain on average, December is the month that sees very little rain in Tulum.
You will get lots of sunny days, clear skies, and overall the best weather during this month.
Is it safe to visit Tulum in December?
Absolutely. Tulum is a relatively safe tourist destination all year.
However, you will still need to follow some common sense safety rules like not going out alone at night, steering clear of deserted areas, and keeping an eye on your belongings, food, and drinks when you’re out and about.
As long as you do that, you won’t have to worry about your safety at all.
Traveling to Tulum in December – Final thoughts
The high season in Tulum is from December to May but I recommend visiting the beach, ruins, and pretty much any other attractions early in the morning or late in the afternoon when it’s not as hot or crowded.
The average maximum temperature is 88 degrees Fahrenheit and the average minimum temperature is 77 degrees Fahrenheit.
The beaches are seaweed-free, and dry weather is expected throughout December. The average rainfall is only about 3 inches (78mm) during the month.
