Cozumel in December: what to expect

Want to know everything about cozumels weather in December before you arrive? Is December a good time to go to Cozumel? Well look no further, in this blog I answer that and summarize all the important info regarding average temps, chances of rain, crowds and prices. I finish up with recommendations for the best things to do during this time of year.

Most of North America and Europe is freezing so let’s focus on your tropical getaway. So, what is the weather like in Cozumel in December? Let’s dive into the details and uncover what you want to know before getting here.

 

December Weather Info:

  • Avg Temp: 80°F
  • Rainfall: scarce
  • Humidity: 70%
  • Water temps: warm
  • Prices: Highest
  • Crowds: Very busy
  • Sunshine: 8 hrs

 

Is December a good time to go to cozumel?

December is considered a great time to visit Cozumel because of the high temps and dry weather. The month of December is the start of dry season immediately following the cozumel hurricane season. In Cozumel, December is winter, but there’s no cold, chilly weather. That’s what makes this month the start of peak travel season.

Tourists in downtown Cozumel walking for frew

The island holds a steady tropical climate, making it a fantastic choice for a winter escape. During the day, temperatures soar to around 83°F, creating the perfect setting for bumming at one of the cozumel beach clubs and exploring the city streets of Cozumel.

Cozumel is not rainy in the month of December. Rainfall is scarce that for sure, but storms do pass through every now and then. Good news is the move through quickly (30 min – 1hr). Then the skies open back up to sunshine. It rains maybe 6 days a month in Cozumel mexico during December.

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Chart showing cozumel weather in December as it pertains to rain

You won’t be sweating buckets which means you can wear the same clothes during the nighttime. Temps drop to a comfortable 72°F which means you still can enjoy pleasant night exploring the best local street food without heavy sweaters. December in Cozumel truly is a great time the essence of a perfect vacation.

 

Is it warm enough to swim in December

These water in Cozumel is beautifully warm and the water visibility is excellent for scuba diving or snorkeling. Water Caribbean isn’t like other places, the water temps in cozumel and adding the equator average 77°F to 80°F (25-27°C).

 

Cozumel weather in December shown in a graphical image

ReadWhat not to do in cozumel in 2026

 

Yes, the water is almost the same temperature as the air! Sometimes with the north winds it can feel a little cooler when your wet and you feel the wind, but it’s very comfortable for water activities.

You can walk into the water without a hint of cold shock because it’s very warm and inviting. The average water temps are 71 degrees in December.

We went out on a snorkeling tour with a group of 12 other people. We spent the entire time in the water stopping at two reefs before anchoring at place where we got to see sting rays!

As your can see above the water is incredibly clear and comfy. The captain and instructor prepared fresh pico while we swam with insanely bright colored wish. My girlfriend even got scared they came so close!

Man holding a sting ray

The water temperature is just right, which means it’s absolutely perfect for swimming at a Cozumel beach club or booking a all inclusive snorkeling tour to El Cielo. You can expect to see Eagle rays because they migrate at this time. I highly recommend this snorkel tour for everyone. Couples and families, just click the image below.

A girl in the water snorkeling with goggles showing a peace sign

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What to wear in December

 

A image showing clothing's ideas for cozumel in december

A few pudding ideas for a December in cozumel

The trick to packing for a trip to cozumel in December is to thin layers. I’m from the north so it always feels like spring to me, but if your from down south it with feel chilly. I focus on packing light layers for warm days and breezy nights. This is the exact list I packed myself

Daytime Essentials
  • Swimwear (multiple)
  • Light cotton t-shirts
  • flip-flops 
  • Thin long sleeve

Sun Protection: Sunglasses are a must so interest in a good pair, and SPF 50 sunscreen.

Nighttime Essentials
  • Comfy: light sweater or cardigan
  • Formal Layer: Thicker button-down shirt

Remember, he nights can get breezy but it’s not for sure. It’s always better to have layers and not need them and be chilly. If your reading in town it will be much warmer than a romantic dinner by the water.

 

Crowds in December

This is considered the official start of peak season, meaning more crowds and higher prices, especially around the holidays. The high prices don’t stop people from booking their trips in anything more people come!

Downtown during peak time

Cozumel can get up to 7 cruise ships in one day, which means close to 40,000 people from ships alone. The island is festive, decorated for Christmas, with cultural events. I suggest you bring a light sweater for potentially breezy evenings or cooler ‘Norte’ winds that aren’t always the case but can happen.

 

Top Activities in December

  • Snorkeling (popular)
  • Punta Sur Eco Park
  • Scuba diving
  • Jade Cavern ATV tour (our best seller)

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With December being the peak months you can expect cozumel tours and excursions to be booked. Prices will be higher with less negotiating power. Don’t think you will be able to simply book a jet ski tour on the same day.

If you’re an adventure seeker, December is your time to shine in Cozumel. The winds start picking up again after the summer lull, predominantly blowing from the northeast and north. The chances of windy days are about 29% on average, meaning it’s a good time to visit the best public beach in Cozumel Chen Rio.

Chen Rio Restaurants beach in december

The the water is a dream come true in December. It’s an excellent time for snorkeling, swimming. Expect crystal-clear waters and calm seas, providing impeccable underwater visibility for an unforgettable aquatic adventure.

Punta Sur Eco Park

Cost: $16 person

When people ask me for the one thing they absolutely must do on the island, I always tell them to visit Punta Sur Eco Beach Park. Honestly, there’s no better way to escape the cruise ship crowds than heading down to the southernmost tip of Cozumel. There are great places to take beautiful photos like this. She wouldn’t let me leave until we got the perfect pic on this swing

Photo of lighthouse from beach at punta sur eco park

The lighthouse at Punta Sur Eco Park

I didn’t pay to climb the Celarain Lighthouse, but you can definitely see the entire coast! But the real magic is spotting the wildlife. You can stop off before you get there as walkout onto a spotting deck to see huge crocodiles in the Columbia Lagoon.

The gator spotting tower at Punta Sur

Punta Sur was a really cool experience. There isn’t a whole lot to the tower it’s mainly a beach and Eco Park so don’t have super high expectations.

 

Jade Cavern ATV Jungle Tour

Price: $75

With the sun rising around 7:07 AM and setting at 6:06 PM, Cozumel gifts you approx 11 hours of sunshine each day. Whether you’re an early riser or prefer sunset strolls, there’s lots of time to explore. For travelers who want to see the island in a unique way and this time of year is perfect for a four wheeler excursion tour that stops at the Jade Cavern Cenote.

Jade cavern cenote from above

Our tour started at the beach club and headed down the city streets and Into the back woods. I was surprised Cozumel had a jungle, I thought it was all beaches! Abut 30 minutes through the ride we arrived at the cenote and got to see the bats. The stairs walking down gave a really cool experience.

US before we head back

We stayed here for some cool pictures and headed back to the beach club where we spent the rest of our day at the beach and drinking margaritas! The chairs and amenities are all included when you book so that was cool.

Contextual.cta for ATV tours.

Note: Jade Cavern charges $15 extra and wasn’t included in our ATV tour. So expect $75 + $15 if you want to go.

 

Continue Your Cozumel Weather Planning

December is the perfect start to Cozumel’s peak season, but the magic continues! Check out our guides for the months surrounding your trip:

⬅️ Previous Month: Cozumel Weather in November

➡️ Next Month: Cozumel Weather in January

 

 

Learn More About Cozumel!

Continue exploring value travel info about Cozumel with my helpful blogs. Check out these articles:

 

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Poe Sinclair Reservations Director

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