Cancun Weather in February: 22 Facts You Can’t Ignore for 2023

Are you considering a trip to Cancun in February? It’s wise to check the weather and upcoming events beforehand. 

I’ve gathered valuable information from locals and online sources about the weather in Cancun during February. 

So, get ready with your sunglasses, and let’s explore!

👉 Don’t hesitate to read our Cancun guide to plan your vacation and not make any more mistakes. You will find all our articles about this destination.

Cancun weather in February: The Takeaway

February is the middle of the dry season in Cancun.

It doesn’t rain much, the sky is mostly clear, the average temperature is quite comfortable, and the humidity is at its lowest.

You will avoid the trouble of mosquitoes.

February is one of the coldest months of the year in Cancun, and the nights are relatively cool. 

If you hate sleeping with air conditioning, this is perfect!

It’s also one of the windiest months, so if you’re not keen on waves or subject to seasickness, choose your beach and avoid sailing on a too-windy day.

Although the sea is the coldest in February, you will appreciate the clear waters and the absence of Sargasso.

Even if the rush of the beginning of January is over, February is a crowded month. 

You won’t be alone in the main touristic sites and expect high prices.

👉 Learn when it’s the best time to go to Cancun.

How is the weather in Cancun in February

You’re probably like most of us; when you go on a trip, you want to know the weather.

Well, confess that the questions that interest you the most are: “Is it going to be sunny?” and “Is it the best month to visit Cancun?”

Let’s have a look at some data on Cancun weather in February.

In general

Cancun is in the tropical climate zone with an average annual temperature of 27.1°C (80.8°F).

This climate is defined by high temperatures all year round, with a narrow thermal range and a high level of sunshine.

However, in Cancun, the upper temperatures do not usually exceed 36°C (97°F) thanks to the influence of the sea breezes brought by the Caribbean Sea.

Two seasons characterize the tropical climate of Cancun.

🌞 A dry season that lasts from December to April, with moderate climatic conditions under the influence of the alizés (average daytime temperature below 28 °C – 83°F).

The sky is generally clear, rainfalls are not frequent, and the humidity level is the lowest (65%).

The coolest temperatures are recorded in January (min 67°F – max 81°F).

🌧️ From May to the end of October, temperatures rise (average daytime temperature above 31°C – 88°F), the sky is often heavy, rainstorms are sudden and short, but they can be strong, and the rate of humidity can reach 100%. 

This is the wet season.

With temperatures ranging from 25°C/77°F to 32°C/89.6°F, July is the hottest and wettest month of the year.

Rain 

February is in the dry season, but you can still get a few drops of rain.

The average rainfall in February is 41 mm (1.6 inches), and there are about 4,5 days of rain in a typical month.

Nothing to worry about, especially as the showers are short and the probability of having successive rainy days is zero. Or maybe you’re not a lucky guy!

Moreover, believe me, you will appreciate the feeling of comfort brought by these few drops.

Sunshine

In February, Cancun’s sky is most often clear (76% of the time).

The sun rises a little earlier (around 7.19 am in the middle of the month), and the day lasts, on average, 11.5 hours. 

The daily average sunshine rate is 7.5 hours per day.

So you will enjoy the sun. Don’t forget your hat!

Temperature

In Cancun, in February, the temperature rises to 28°C (82°F) at the warmest hours of the day, and the average temperature is 24°C (75°F).

With the light wind blowing most of the time, you shouldn’t be beaten down by the heat.

The average low temperature is 20°C (68°F).

In short, you will be able to fully enjoy your water activities and excursions in the Riviera Maya, and you will sleep like a baby.

Humidity

Be happy!

February is the driest month of the year in Cancun.

This month counts 19 “muggy” days, and the average relative humidity is about 66%.

Quite bearable if you compare it to July’s oppressive 31 days and 100% humidity.

Great! You won’t be sponging your forehead every five minutes.

Hurricane

Cancun is in a geographical area exposed to hurricanes and tropical storms.

The hurricane season runs from June to November; the riskiest months are between August and October.

So you can relax, in February the sky will be kind to you.

And if you’re really anxious, you should know that in 35 years, Cancun has only suffered two not-so-nice hurricanes.

How is the sea in Cancun in February

Now that you know more about Cancun Weather in February, put on your swim trunks; I’ll tell you a bit more about the marine weather of Cancun at this time of the year.

Water temperature

In Cancun, the Caribbean Sea is cooler from the end of December to mid-April (average water temperature below 26.6°C / 80°F).

And I’m sorry to tell you that it is the coldest in February; don’t start shivering, it’s not the North Sea!

In February, the average sea temperature is 26°C / 79°F.

Well, feel better?

Just bring a light diving suit so that the cool ocean temperatures won’t prevent you from spending time underwater if you are a scuba diving fan.

Visibility

For good visibility, you mainly need sunny skies.

The water is very clear in February, so it is ideal for snorkeling on the coral reefs.

If you go diving in the shallow waters around Playa del Carmen, you may also encounter bulldog sharks. They are around at this time of the year.

Wind

The wind blows in Cancun almost all year, especially between October and May (average wind speed is over 8 mph/13 km/h during this period).

With an average of 8.8 mph (14 km/h), February is one of the windiest months.

At this time of the year, it is mostly east winds with occasional north winds that blow.

So, if you plan to initiate yourself to kitesurfing during your stay in Cancun, February is a great month. 

Playa Chac Mool is a good spot.

Waves

As you know, February is windy, so there can be waves depending on where you are.

If you want calm waters, I advise you to choose Costa Mujeres in the north of Cancun or the horizontal bar of the “7” of the Cancun hotel zone. 

The waters are shallow, and the sea is quiet.

The middle zone is often rougher.

You will enjoy waves if you are a surfing fan but stay careful. If you are a beginner, go to Playa Delfines; the waves usually are smaller.

What to wear in February?

Now that you know more about February weather in Cancun, I’ll help you to prepare your suitcase.

An average high temperature of 28°C (82°F) is quite pleasant, especially if you take off your down jacket just before getting on the plane; you can pack light!

The cloud cover is low, and you are in the tropics, so it’s best to avoid getting sunburnt; I advise you to take one or two loose long-sleeved shirts and your hat.

Also, I told you that the early mornings could be a bit cool (20°C/68°F), so don’t forget a light sweater or a cardigan. You won’t regret being the first one to the Mayan ruins.

Festivals & events in February

Maybe you like to combine swimming, adventures, and shows during your holidays, or you want to discover the local festivities.

I will give you information about some of the events in Cancun in February.

Carnival

February is Carnival month!

It’s one of the most significant events of the year in Mexico. This festival is joyfully celebrated in the Yucatan Peninsula and, therefore, in Cancun.

Colorful and lively parades follow one another almost day and night for five days in a crazy and fun vibe. The festivities end with Ash Wednesday, which marks the beginning of Lent.

You will surely be dazzled by the tanks and the costumes of the many bands that demonstrate and fascinated by the ardor of the musicians who lead the rhythm.

Island Time Music and Fishing Festival

Every year Isla Mujeres hosts the Island Time Machine & Fishing Festival, which gathers amateurs of fishing and music lovers.

Artists give concerts in intimate spots on the island, and fishermen cruise the surrounding waters hoping for some excellent catch of Sailfish that abound between January and April.

All the proceeds benefit the Little Yellow Schoolhouse, a school that helps the kids of Isla Mujeres.

In 2024, this event will take place from 21 to 24 February.

Spring Break

Although it most often takes place in March – early April, depending on the year, Spring Break can start in late February.

Expect a flood of excited American students coming to celebrate the end of their exams.

Live music

Various resorts and famous clubs in Cancun organize live music concerts with international and local artists.

You can buy a ticket even if you are not a guest at the hotel.

Check the program calendar.

Tips for Travelers coming in February to Cancun

You are fully aware of the Cancun weather data in February.

Now, let me give you my ultimate recommendations.

Avoid the big Waves

If big waves are not your cup of tea, I suggest you stay in Costa Mujeres, north of Cancun.

The waters are shallow and calm. They don’t have the postcard-blue Caribbean of the middle hotel zone, but the long white sand beaches are beautiful.

The waters of the south hotel zone around Punta Nizuc are calm too.

Be aware that, in this area, the beaches are annexed by the resorts.

Finally, if you plan to swim in paradise, I advise you to take the ferry from Puerto Juarez or Playa Tortugas to Isla Mujeres. 

If you are an early bird, you will be almost alone in enjoying Playa Norte, one of the most amazing beaches in the world.

Furthermore, It’s an excellent opportunity to visit this little paradise by driving a golf cart. 

Prices

February is in the middle of the tourist season, and you know that touristy times mean higher prices.

I advise you to make all your reservations as soon as possible. You’ll have more chances of getting better prices and more choices within the budget you fixed for visiting Cancun.

Tourists

Even though the year-end tourist rush has passed, you probably won’t be alone in Cancun in February.

If you plan to visit highlights such as the Mayan ruins or explore the best cenotes of the Riviera Maya, I advise you to forget about the lazy mornings.

Also, if you want to enjoy a sunbed on the beach in the shade of a palapa, try to put your towel down as early as possible.

You know that the future and the best places belong to those who get up early!

You can also choose to stay in quieter areas such as Puerto Morelos, a fishing village south of Cancun, or in the southern Hotel Zone around Punta Nizuc.

If you have to move around by car, avoid rush hour (8-9 am & 5-7 pm), it’s a pity to get caught up in traffic instead of creating unforgettable memories.

There is no sargassum in February

Have you ever met Sargasso?

If so, I’m sure you remember it!

This brown seaweed mentioned more and more for the last ten years, is carried by currents over thousands of kilometers across the Atlantic Ocean.

These large, thick slicks are a perfect shelter for many marine organisms and, therefore, a food source. Still, they have the regrettable habit of ending their days washed up on the shores of the Caribbean between April and September.

The crystal-clear waters turn brown, and the seaweed dries out with a repulsive smell.

In short, you don’t want to swim anymore!

There are times when the amount of seaweed washed ashore is so massive that beach clean-ups are ineffective.

I can hear you sighing at ease; yes, February is a month without Sargasso!

Don’t trust your weather forecast

In Cancun, February is the third driest month of the year, with the least rain, and the month with the highest ratio of clear skies.

Furthermore, the tropical climate is a bit tricky; it changes its mind very quickly, so forget about your mobile phone and the weather website!

And remember, if it rains, it won’t last long.

Heated pool

As I told you, the sea is coldest in February (26°C/79°F).

If I can’t convince you of the benefits of fresh water, I advise you to choose a hotel with a heated pool.

In Cancun, you will find resorts with pools where you can float without shivering.

The Live Aqua Beach Resort Cancun is a beautiful all-inclusive resort for adults only, with a superb pool from which you can admire the Caribbean Sea while sipping a cocktail.

Located in the middle of the Cancun hotel zone, in a beautiful setting, the very chic Secrets The Vine Cancun is an adults-only all-inclusive resort with 3 heated infinity pools.

The all-inclusive Fiesta Americana Condesa Cancun will delight families with its two beautiful outdoor swimming pools and the kids’ pool with its pirate ship.

Located in Punta Nizuc in an idyllic and peaceful place, the all-inclusive Nizuc Resort & Spa has a beautiful swimming pool overlooking a sheltered bay.

​Fewer mosquitoes! 

Be happy. Mosquitoes don’t like the Cancun weather in February.

Too much wind, not warm enough, not enough rain, so not enough humidity; in short, everything they hate!

So they’ll let you explore the jungle of the Yucatan Peninsula, whether you fly over the canopy on a zip line or walk through the forest to explore a mysterious cenote hidden in the vegetation. 

Nor will they bother you when visiting epic Mayan ruins such as the stunning site of Tulum overlooking the Caribbean Sea.

Things to do if it’s rain

It might rain in February in Cancun, but only briefly, as you know now.

And even though it’s raining, it doesn’t mean you can’t do anything!

So I suggest a few activities to keep you from grumbling while looking at the sky.

1# Visit a museum

You can take advantage of these few raindrops to learn more about the Mayan civilization by visiting El Museo Maya in Cancun.

In less than 2 hours and taking your time, you will discover a beautiful collection of objects excavated throughout the Yucatan Peninsula.

Under your raincoat hood, you can also walk through a lovely outdoor area with incredible ruins.

2# Explore an underground river

If you are adventurous or just curious about geology, explore one of the many underground rivers in the Yucatan.

You’ll forget the rain as you wander through the galleries and caves of Rio Secreto south of Playa del Carmen with an experienced guide.

#3 Shopping

If you like shopping on rainy days, go to the giant mall of Kukulcan Plaza in the Cancun Hotel Zone. 

You can also enjoy a snack or wait for the rainfall to stop drinking a coffee or a cocktail in a bar.

I recommend the Mercado 28 de Noviembre in downtown Cancun for a more authentic atmosphere.

You will find your souvenirs within the many shops selling handicrafts and clothes. You will learn how to bargain with the vendors, as it is the tradition in this colorful flea market.

4# A Spa session

If you’re more the kind of guy who likes to cocoon on rainy days, why not go for a wellness session at your resort’s spa with your lover while you wait for the rain to stop?

Pick another month to visit Cancun

Become Mr. Weather in just a few minutes:

• Cancun in January
• Cancun in March
• Cancun in April
• Cancun in May
• Cancun in June
• Cancun in July and August
• Cancun in September
• Cancun in October and November
• Cancun in December

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