When to visit Baja California Sur by Month and Activities

Lucy and Dan

The best time to visit Baja California Sur by month for good weather, outdoor activities, and wildlife seasons.

An aerial view of Balandra Bay in the sunshine, taken in winter, one of the best times to visit Baja California Sur.

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Nestled in the southern portion of Baja California’s paradisical peninsula, the state of Baja California Sur is a stunning ecotourism destination with incredible wildlife and stunning natural landscapes. From the Pacific Ocean to the Gulf of California, the climate here varies vastly and experiences can depend on whether you’re exploring the northern or southern regions, or even which side of the peninsula you visit. While there’s no bad time to visit, the month you choose can be influenced by seasonal wildlife, weather-dependent activities, and annual festivals. We’ve broken down all the best times to visit Baja California Sur by month, interests, and activities so you know when the good weather is, when to avoid, and when you can experience the most amount of wildlife in one trip.

When to visit Baja California Sur at a glance

  • Where: Baja California Sur.
  • Weather: A dry, sunny climate most of the year, with mild winters and hot summers.
  • Wildlife: Animals you may see include grey, blue, and humpback whales, whale sharks, sea lions, manta and mobula rays, dolphins and orca, and a variety of birds, sharks, and sea turtles.
  • Outdoor activities: Swimming in the sea, relaxing on beaches, snorkelling, SCUBA diving, kayaking, paddleboarding, surfing, windsurfing, kitesurfing, hiking, camping, stargazing, Baja California Sur on a tour and more.
  • Climate: A range from arid desert landscapes to mild humidity and refreshing coastal breezes.
  • Temperatures: Average temperatures of 15°C to 30°C (59°F to 86°F) with highs of 40°C (104°F) in summer and lows of 10°C (50°F) in winter or at elevation.
  • Language:  Spanish but English is widely spoken.
  • Currency: Mexican Peso ($MX) but the US dollar ($) is widely accepted.
A blue whale diving down under the calm waters of Baja California Sur.
When to visit Baja California Sur depends on your interests

More from Baja California Sur

When is the best time to visit Baja California Sur?

Generally, the best time to visit Baja California Sur is between December to April. This period offers lovely weather and great wildlife watching opportunities.

We visited in February and March and found this to be a great time with pleasant weather and the most amazing whale encounters.

However, the best time for you to visit Baja California Sur will depend on the area you plan to visit and the activities you’d like to enjoy.

Overall, there’s no bad time to visit Baja California Sur – it’s a year-round destination. But we’ve put together this comprehensive guide to visiting Baja California Sur at different times of year, factoring in weather and activities, so you can make a fully informed decision.

Dan and Lucy in snorkel gear relaxing in the water and smiling for a photo together as sea lions play behind them.
There’s no bad time to visit Baja California Sur

Baja California Sur Weather

Weather patterns and microclimates can greatly influence what wildlife you can see in an area or which activities in Baja California Sur are on offer. The weather in Baja California Sur is generally warm and sunny year-round with a dry climate.

The east side of Baja California Sur is protected and sheltered from most of the worst of the weather. The stunning Sea of Cortez (Gulf of California) is generally calm with pleasant sea breezes and plenty of sunshine. The west side of Baja California Sur, where the Pacific Ocean lies, is more rugged with cooler temperatures and stronger winds.

Rain is rare in Baja California Sur. The state has an average annual rainfall of less than 200 mm (about 8 inches). La Paz, the state capital, has been known to go an entire year without a single drop of rain!

Read our Ultimate Guide to Travelling Baja California Sur
El Arco in Cabo Bay - a small arch in the middle of a line of rock formations.
Baja California Sur has sunny weather year-round

Baja California Sur Climates

Baja California Sur experiences a mix of desert, coastal, and mountainous climates.

There is a desert climate along the inland areas like Loreto, Mulegé, and El Vizcaíno Biosphere Reserve. This area tends to be hot and arid with very little rainfall, especially during summer.

Baja California Sur’s backbone is made up of a huge mountain range, the Sierra de la Giganta, with the highest peak being Sierra de la Laguna. These regions receive more rainfall compared to the surrounding desert regions, creating a cooler environment.

Much of the mountainous regions in the state are made of volcanic rock, flattening out to vast coastal plains where the earth meets the sea. These coastlines have a Mediterranean-like climate, especially near the Sea of Cortez (Gulf of California) and the Pacific Ocean. This can increase humidity in areas like La Paz, Loreto, Todos Santos, and Los Cabos, although this is balanced with a more temperate climate due to ocean influences like sea breezes.

Microclimates (small areas with distinct sets of atmospheric conditions) play an important role in creating niches for plants and animals to thrive.

Browse Baja California Sur Tours here!
Shrub-covered hills lining the edge of Balandra Bay as the water shimmers in the sunshine.
Baja California Sur has a warm, dry climate

Baja California Sur Seasons

Baja California Sur has four main seasons:

  • Winter: December to February
  • Spring: March to May
  • Summer: June to August
  • Autumn: September to November

These seasons can be generalised into two seasons: a hot summer from May to October and a mild winter from November to April.

The average annual temperature in Baja California Sur is around 24°C–28°C (75°F–82°F).

Summer temperatures are typically between 34–36°C (93–97°F) and winter temperatures are usually between 20–25°C (68–77°F). Inland, temperatures in desert areas can exceed 40°C (104°F) and it’s possible for cooler areas to drop below freezing at night in the winter.

The best time to visit Baja California Sur for weather

  • Winter in Baja California Sur is mild to warm with cooler evenings and nights, especially in desert areas.
  • Spring in Baja California Sur is warmer as temperatures start to increase.
  • Summer in Baja California Sur has the hottest temperatures with higher humidity in the coastal areas.
  • Autumn in Baja California Sur is pleasant with cooler evenings and nights but stronger winds.
A turkey vulture with a bright red head standing on a palm tree branch in the afternoon sun.
Baja California Sur receives little rain

Baja California Sur Extreme Weather

Baja California Sur is vulnerable to several types of extreme weather due to its geographic location on the Pacific Ocean.

Monsoons

Baja California Sur can experience monsoonal rains in the summer months, especially from July to September. These rains typically come in the form of thunderstorms and can bring brief but intense showers that can lead to flash floods.

Hurricanes

The hurricane season in Baja California Sur falls between June and November with an increased frequency of storms between August and October. Hurricanes form in the Pacific Ocean and can impact both the western and eastern sides of the peninsula, bringing strong winds, heavy rainfall, and the possibility of flooding.

Tsunamis

The convergence of the Pacific Ocean and the Sea of Cortez at Baja California Sur means it is susceptible to tsunamis, especially if there is an underwater earthquake. Though rare, these events can cause significant damage in coastal areas, bringing rapid, powerful surges of water that can flood the coast, damaging infrastructure, beaches, and coastal communities.

Flash flooding

Flash flooding is often triggered by monsoon rains or tropical storms during the summer and autumn months. Baja California Sur’s desert landscape has very little vegetation to absorb rain and water tends to run off quickly.

Heatwaves

Hot and dry areas of Baja California Sur like La Paz and Loreto can experience extreme heatwaves during the summer months, typically from June to September. Temperatures can regularly exceed 38°C (100°F). Heatwaves can cause dehydration, heat exhaustion, and heatstroke, especially for people who are not accustomed to extreme heat.

Wildfires

Heat also increases the risk of wildfires in dry areas and can make outdoor activities like hiking, biking, or off-roading dangerous without proper precautions. Wildfires can spread quickly, causing destruction to vegetation, wildlife habitats, and communities.

Read our Baja California Sur Backpacking Itinerary
The mountains of Cabo Bay illuminated in the dying orange light of sunset.
June to November has the least predictable weather in Baja California Sur

Baja California Sur Wildlife Watching Seasons

Baja California Sur’s climates create unique conditions for both plants and animals. The combination of varying altitudes, proximity to the ocean, and seasonal temperatures results in distinct ecosystems, from desert areas dotted with cacti, succulents, and drought-resistant shrubs to coastal zones of mangroves, sea grasses, and palm trees. These habitats offer unique opportunities for biodiversity to flourish.

A table of wildlife watching seasons for different species throughout Baja California Sur. The table has each month of the year against each species.
Baja California Sur has multiple wildlife watching seasons

Winter is the best time for whale watching in Baja California Sur as this period sees grey whales, blue whales, and humpback whales migrate from their Arctic feeding grounds to the warmer breeding grounds off Baja California Sur. This is also a great time for swimming with whale sharks, as they are attracted to an area near La Paz by seasonal blooming plankton. Other animals you can see in winter include sea lions, rays, turtles, and sharks.

During the summer, the heat can be intense in the interior desert, causing many animals to be more nocturnal. But warm sea temperatures and clearer visibility make this a great time for snorkelling and diving where you’re more likely to see an array of marine life.

Read our Ultimate Guide to Whale Watching in Baja California Sur
A close up view of a humpback whale showing its nostrils open as it comes up for air.
Whale watching season coincides with winter in Baja California Sur

Find detailed breakdowns of the best time to visit Baja California Sur for each species in our ethical animal encounter guides:

Ultimately, December to April is the absolute best time to visit Baja California Sur for wildlife, with whales, dolphins, whale sharks, sea lions, and more being commonly spotted in the region during this period. We’d specifically recommend booking a trip in February or March as this is the peak of most wildlife seasons and gives you the highest chance of seeing the most variety of animals.

The best time to visit Baja California Sur for wildlife

  • Grey whales: December to March.
  • Blue whales: January to March.
  • Humpback whales: December to April.
  • Whale sharks: October to April.
  • Sharks: Year-round, but peak sightings are in summer and autumn.
  • Dolphins: Year-round.
  • Orca: December to April.
  • Mobula rays: May to October with occasional sightings in winter.
  • Manta rays: June to September.
  • Sea lions: Year-round, but breeding season forbids swimming from June to September.
  • Sea turtles: Nesting from July to December and hatching from August to October.
Browse Ethical Animal Experiences in BCS here!
A blue whale showing off its fluke as it dives down beneath the water's surface.
Whales visit Baja California Sur between December and April

Baja California Sur Activities

As we’ve mentioned, winter is best for whale watching and other epic marine animal encounters. But it’s also the busiest period with the highest prices. If you’re looking to experience the natural beauty of the region without the crowds and high prices of the winter season, here are the best times to visit for specific outdoor activities.

A table showing the best time of year to visit Baja California Sur for different activities. The table has each month of the year against each species of animal to see, as well as which activities like hiking, fishing and diving are good in each month.
Certain activities are best at different times of the year

Spring is great for outdoor activities like hiking in mountainous areas like the Sierra de la Laguna and exploring desert landscapes.

Summer is perfect for water activities like swimming, snorkelling, diving, kayaking, and paddleboarding but is the hottest period with the most humidity.

If you don’t deal well with heat, consider visiting in autumn when temperatures are slightly cooler. This is also a lovely period for water-based activities as the seas are calm.

The best time to visit Baja California Sur for activities

  • Snorkelling and SCUBA diving: May to October.
  • Kayaking and paddleboarding: March to May and September to November.
  • Surfing, windsurfing, and kitesurfing: June to October or December to March.
  • Hiking and camping: March to May and September to November.
  • Sport fishing: March to May and September to November.

Snorkelling and SCUBA diving

Water temperatures are warmest during spring, summer, and autumn, especially in areas like Cabo San Lucas and La Paz. This warmer water attracts a variety of marine life, from sharks to sea turtles, tropical fish, and manta rays.

Visibility is also best in the summer months giving you better chances of sightings. This is great for diving in Cabo and around the region where visibility is limited in the winter months.

Summer (June to August) and autumn (September to November) are considered the best periods for diving in specialised areas like Cabo Pulmo National Park.

Kayaking and paddleboarding

Spring and autumn are best for kayaking and paddleboarding as the weather is typically warm but not unbearably hot. October to early December is a good time for sea kayaking in locations like the stunning Isla Espíritu Santo and Isla Coronado because the waters are calm and the wind drops.

Surfing, windsurfing, and kitesurfing

Baja California Sur is home to some excellent surfing spots, with consistent winds and swells in the summer and autumn months between June and October. The weather is also warmer, which makes for more comfortable surfing conditions. The ‘El Norte’ wind is a strong thermal-driven wind that blows most intensely during the winter months and is also a great time for wind sports.

Todos Santos and Scorpion Bay are great surfing spots while consistent winds at La Ventana make it a popular windsurfing and kitesurfing location.

Hiking and camping

Spring and Autumn are best for hiking in Baja California Sur. The cooler temperatures during these months make outdoor exploration and camping much more enjoyable.

In the summer months, temperatures can soar, making hiking more challenging and the winter months can be chilly at night.

Balandra Beach is one of the best places for hiking near La Paz and has frequently been voted Mexico’s most beautiful beach.

Sport fishing

While marlin can be found year-round, spring and autumn offer the best chances for sport fishing as the warmer months also bring tuna, dorado, and sailfish to the waters off Baja California Sur.

Lucy in snorkel gear laughing as a sea lion jumps into the water, making a splash in Baja California Sur.
There’s something to enjoy all year round in Baja California Sur
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What is the best month to visit Baja California Sur?

Baja California Sur offers diverse wildlife with varying seasonal patterns due to its unique ecosystem. With a warm and arid climate year-round, distinct variations make each month unique. Seasonal shifts in temperatures, water conditions, and wildlife activity create a dynamic environment with different pros and cons for each month.

Baja California Sur in January

Baja California Sur is warm and dry in January, making it the perfect getaway destination for those in chilly North America or Europe.

Water temperatures are bearable but not always warm, but an increase in plankton can attract large marine species (although this also makes visibility worse). Cooler temperatures make this a great time for outdoor activities like hiking.

Strong winter winds attract windsurfers and kitesurfers in locations including La Ventana and Los Barriles.

January is one of the busiest months in Baja California Sur with high prices and limited accommodation and car rentals.

Weather
  • Highs of 22°C (72°F).
    Lows of 12°C (54°F).
  • The coolest month with plenty of sunshine and low rainfall.
  • Irregular passing storms.
Wildlife
  • Grey whales birthing in the three calving lagoons on the west coast.
  • Humpback whale babies are born at the southern tip of the peninsula near Cabo.
  • Blue whales begin to arrive in Loreto Bay National Park.
  • Juvenile whale sharks feed near La Paz.
  • Sea lions are active in colonies like Los Islotes.
  • Migratory birds like sandpipers, eagles, and pelicans can be found in coastal areas.
A large whale shark filter-feeding on phytoplankton in murky waters of Baja California Sur.
January is a great time for wildlife in Baja California Sur

Baja California Sur in February

February remains mild and sunny, with cooler sea temperatures.

This is the peak season for grey, humpback, and blue whales, as well as swimming with whale sharks and sea lions.

On land, the temperate climate is perfect for exploring trails, kayaking along the coastline, or exploring the desert.

We travelled to Baja California Sur in February and found it to be the perfect month for wildlife encounters and whale watching.

Weather
  • Highs of 22°C (72°F).
  • Lows of 12°C (54°F).
  • Cool and mild with plenty of sunshine.
  • Irregular passing storms.
Wildlife
  • Blue whales have arrived in Loreto Bay National Park.
  • The peak of the great whale season on the west coast. Males begin to migrate northwards.
  • Humpback whale babies gaining strength and heat runs occurring at the southern tip of the peninsula near Cabo.
  • Juvenile whale sharks feed near La Paz.
  • Sea lions feed in the waters of coastal islands.
  • Shorebirds like plovers and godwits are common.
A close-up look of a friendly grey whale in Magdalena Bay. Its back is covered in barnacles and white scars. In the distance, the orange mountains of Baja are gleaming in the sunshine.
Baja California Sur in February is peak whale watching season

Baja California Sur in March

March offers warmer days and slightly rising water temperatures, optimal for the peak of whale watching and swimming with whale sharks and sea lions. Warm and calm seas make March a pleasant month for snorkelling.

The desert blooms with occasional spring flowers after winter rains, providing stunning scenery for hikers.

Spring Break attracts hordes of partiers to resorts in Baja California Sur. We visited Cabo San Lucas in March and were a bit overwhelmed by the crowds of people, loud clubs, and countless boats on the water. We’d recommend avoiding this time if partying’s not your thing.

Weather
  • Highs of 24°C (75°F).
  • Lows of 14°C (57°F).
  • Warmer temperatures but still with cool evenings.
  • Irregular passing storms.
Wildlife
  • Grey whale mothers and calves begin to leave the three calving lagoons on the west coast.
  • Humpback whale babies gaining strength and heat runs occurring at the southern tip of the peninsula near Cabo.
  • Blue whales begin to leave Loreto Bay National Park.
  • Juvenile whale sharks feed near La Paz.
  • Sea lions begin to gather in larger groups as food becomes more plentiful in the warming waters.
  • Migratory birds like ospreys, herons, and frigatebirds on the coast.
A blue whale tail disappearing under the water. In the background are the colourful mountains of Loreto Bay National Park.
March is a great time to see whales in Baja California Sur

Baja California Sur in April

April brings sunny skies and warm air and water temperatures.

Plankton blooms attract schools of mobula rays, which often breach dramatically and congregate in large groups.

Outdoor adventurers can enjoy hiking in pleasant weather and mild evenings for camping or stargazing.

Weather
  • Highs of 26°C (79°F).
  • Lows of 16°C (61°F).
  • Rising daytime temperatures.
Wildlife
  • Humpback whales begin to migrate northwards.
  • Groups of mobula rays begin to arrive.
  • Whale sharks begin to leave La Paz.
  • Male sea lions start to stake claims on breeding territories.
  • Nesting season for birds like the blue-footed booby and brown pelican.
  • Sightings of bighorn sheep are common as they traverse rocky terrains in search of water.
Two whales breaching in front of the Arch of Cabo making large splashes.
April has stunning weather in Baja California Sur

Baja California Sur in May

May sees rising air and sea temperatures.

This month is the peak for massive gatherings of mobula rays and is great for snorkelling and diving. Kayaking and paddleboarding are also popular as it’s not too hot.

The dry desert heats up during the day but remains cool at night, making it a good time for hiking.

Weather
  • Highs of 29°C (84°F).
  • Lows of 19°C (66°F)
  • The beginning of the dry season, temperatures are still hot but bearable.
Wildlife
  • Humpback whales have almost completely left Cabo.
  • Olive ridley and black turtles begin their nesting season on beaches.
  • The peak of mobula ray season, where they can be seen leaping out of the water in large groups.
  • Groups of sea lions spend more time hauled out on beaches and rocky shores, basking in the sun.
Sleepy sea lions relaxing lazily in the sunshine.
Baja California Sur in May is quieter than in winter

Baja California Sur in June

Baja California Sur transitions into summer in June, with daytime temperatures climbing.

The Sea of Cortez becomes a hub for marine life, with manta rays, mobula rays, and dolphins being spotted. Warm seas are inviting for swimming, snorkelling, and diving.

Early mornings and evenings are best for exploring inland areas to avoid the heat.

It is prohibited to swim with sea lions in June as it’s their breeding season.

Early summer deals make June an affordable time to visit Baja California Sur.

Weather
  • Highs of 33°C (91°F).
  • Lows of 22°C (72°F)
  • Hot, especially inland, but coastal areas have a nice sea breeze.
Wildlife
  • Sea turtle nesting activity increases along the coastline.
  • Dolphins are more frequently spotted.
  • Mobula rays continue their acrobatic migrations, forming large groups.
  • Manta rays are more commonly observed in warmer waters.
  • Male sea lions show heightened aggression as they defend their territories from rivals.
  • Local birds like Gila woodpeckers and white-winged doves are active near desert oases.
A lone bottlenose dolphin swims through waters calm as glass in Baja California Sur.
June in Baja California Sur is great for wildlife

Baja California Sur in July

July is hot and humid. Occasional tropical storms can disrupt plans toward the end of the month but also bring winds that make kitesurfing and windsurfing possible.

This is a great time for budget travellers as prices drop as crowds disperse. You can find great deals on beachfront hotels in Cabo which would normally be very expensive in the tourist season.

It is prohibited to swim with sea lions in July as it’s their breeding season.

Weather
  • Highs of 34°C (93°F).
  • Lows of 23°C (73°F).
  • Hot, especially in desert regions, while humidity can increase along the coast.
  • Occasional storms can occur.
Wildlife
  • Baby turtles begin hatching and making their way to the sea.
  • Sea lion breeding season begins.
  • Peak plankton blooms attract manta rays, which feed near the surface and along nutrient-rich currents.
  • Warmer waters bring an increase in tropical fish.
  • Bats are active, especially in cave systems, as they hunt for insects.
The sun high above Monumentos Beach. A wave is breaking in the blue waters of the sea.
July in Baja California Sur is hot, hot, hot!

Baja California Sur in August

August is hot, hot, hot! Humidity and temperatures increase and can be too extreme for some.

This is a great month for diving, but land-based activities are best scheduled for early mornings or late evenings due to the intense heat. Consistent swells make this a good month for surfing.

It is prohibited to swim with sea lions in August as it’s their breeding season.

August is a great time for budget travellers to visit Baja California Sur as prices are lowest in the off-season.

Weather
  • Highs of 37°C (99°F).
  • Lows of 23°C (73°F)
  • Hot and humid. The height of the hurricane season.
Wildlife
  • Sea turtle hatchlings continue to emerge from nests.
  • The peak of sea lion pup season.
  • Frequent sightings of giant mantas, especially in the Sea of Cortez near La Paz, Cabo Pulmo, and the Gordo Banks.
  • Bird species like blue-footed boobies and brown pelicans are seen hunting offshore.
A pair of blue-footed boobies perch together on a large rock that is covered in guano.
Baja California Sur in August is great for budget travellers

Baja California Sur in September

September remains hot and humid, but is a quieter time for travellers, offering lower prices and uncrowded attractions.

This is a good month for water-based activities like windsurfing, kitesurfing, snorkelling, diving, surfing, and kayaking.

Tropical storms are more common, so visitors should leave flexibility in their itineraries and keep an eye on weather forecasts.

Weather
  • Highs of 33°C (91°F).
  • Lows of 22°C (72°F).
  • Hot but cooler towards the end of the month.
  • Rain and tropical storms are more common.
Wildlife
  • Whale sharks begin to arrive in the waters near La Paz.
  • Sea lions are less active as males and females focus on feeding.
  • Manta and mobula rays are still active but less common.
  • Early migratory birds like grebes and warblers return.
The empty white sands of Playa Hotelera stretch down the sunny coast of San José del Cabo.
September in Baja California Sur can sometimes be rainy

Baja California Sur in October

October sees the transition from summer to autumn, with cooler temperatures during the day and night.

The warm sea attracts whale sharks and giant manta rays are frequently seen. Taking a boat tour in Cabo is great in October as the seas are calmer and less crowded.

This is a prime month for outdoor activities like hiking as the weather becomes less intense.

Weather
  • Highs of 30°C (86°F).
  • Lows of 20°C (68°F).
  • Cooler temperatures and lower humidity.
  • Occasional storms can occur.
Wildlife
  • Sea lions become more active as the weather cools.
  • Whale sharks are still arriving in the waters around La Paz.
  • Manta rays are still active but less common.
  • Adults and juvenile sea lions increase their hunting efforts as prey becomes more abundant.
  • Migratory bird species return.
The Isla Espiritu Santo Frigatebird Colony perched on branches and in bushes surrounding a lagoon.
October in Baja California Sur is great for weather and low prices

Baja California Sur in November

November is mild and pleasant, but water temperatures begin to drop. This creates ideal conditions for diving in places like Cabo Pulmo with excellent visibility.

The dry desert air makes this a great time for exploring trails and cultural sites on a day trip from Cabo or wherever you’ve based yourself.

November is the beginning of the tourist season with prices increasing.

Weather
  • Highs of 26°C (79°F).
  • Lows of 15°C (59°F).
  • Mild, dry, and pleasant with cooler evenings.
Wildlife
  • Whale shark feeding activity continues in the nutrient-rich waters near La Paz.
  • Social groups of sea lions stabilise.
  • The first sightings of early grey and humpback whales.
  • Migratory waterfowl like teals and wigeons populate wetlands.
A sea lion in the waters of Los Islotes, sticking its flippers and tail out of the water.
November has nice weather and wildlife watching on offer

Baja California Sur in December

December in Baja California Sur is sunny and mild, with little rain. Nutrient-rich upwellings attract marine life, including Baja’s grey whales and humpbacks. On land, the weather is perfect for hiking, birdwatching, or exploring charming colonial towns like San José del Cabo.

December is one of the busiest months in Baja California Sur with high prices and limited accommodation and car rentals. It’s important to book everything in advance if you are visiting over the Christmas and New Year period.

Weather
  • Highs of 23°C (73°F).
  • Lows of 12°C (54°F).
  • Cool, dry, with plenty of sunshine.
Wildlife
  • Grey whales arrive in the three calving lagoons on the west coast.
  • Humpbacks begin to arrive in Vabo.
  • Sea lions remain active near coastal islands.
  • Wintering bird species like herons, egrets, and ospreys are common.
  • Cool temperatures bring out desert foxes, jackrabbits, and nocturnal predators.
Mountains covered in red and orange shrubbery slope down to the beachside glamping campsite on Isla Espiritu Santo.
December is the start of peak season in Baja California Sur

Baja California Sur Festivals

Baja California Sur is home to an array of vibrant festivals, cultural traditions, and events. These annual attractions reflect the state’s rich cultural heritage, love for the sea, and stunning natural landscapes. Here’s a month-by-month guide to some of the region’s most notable annual festivals and events:

  • Late January/Early February – La Paz Carnival
  • Late February – Festival of San Antonio de Padua
  • Late February/Early March – The Blue Whale Festival (Festival de la Ballena Azul) in Loreto
  • Early March – Grey Whale Festival in Guerrero Negro and San Ignacio
  • March 19th – San José del Cabo Festival (Saint Joseph’s Day)
  • Late March – Spring Break, especially busy in Cabo San Lucas
  • April – Holy Week (Semana Santa) / Easter
  • May – Festival of the Pitahayas (cactus fruit) in Miraflores and Santiago
  • May 5th – Cinco de Mayo (commemorating the Mexican victory over the French empire)
  • June – Todos Santos Mango Festival
  • July 14th – La Paz Independence Day
  • Late August – Sea Turtle Festival in Loreto or Punta Chivato
  • September 16th – Mexican Independence Day
  • Late October – Gastrovino (Food) Festival in Todos Santos
  • November 1st to 2nd – Day of the Dead (Día de los Muertos)
  • December 12th – Virgin of Guadalupe Day
  • December – Christmas and New Year’s Eve
Browse Baja California Sur Activities here!
A parade float decorated with animal paintings and a large snake sculpture as part of the San Jose del Cabo Festival.
There’s always a festival on in Baja California Sur

When to visit Baja California Sur FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions to further help you decide when to visit Baja California Sur.

What is the hottest month in Baja California Sur?

The hottest month in Baja California Sur is typically August, with daytime temperatures often exceeding 37°C (99°F). This period also sees high humidity but coastal breezes can offer a refreshing respite from the intense heat.

What is the coldest month in Baja California Sur?

The coldest month in Baja California Sur is usually January, with average daytime highs around 24°C (75°F) and cooler nights dropping to 12–14°C (54–57°F). There is still plenty of sunshine during this time with little rain but evenings can feel chilly, especially in desert areas.

What is the driest month in Baja California Sur?

Baja California Sur gets little rain year-round but April and May are the driest months in Baja California Sur, sandwiched between infrequent winter storms and the summer hurricane season.

What is the wettest month in Baja California Sur?

The wettest month in Baja California Sur is September, with infrequent tropical storms and occasional hurricanes bringing heavy rainfall. Storms are often short-lived or characterised by intense but short downpours.

What is the rainy season in Baja California Sur?

The rainy season occurs during the late summer and early autumn in Baja California Sur, from July to September, peaking in August and September.

What is the windiest month in Baja California Sur?

December, January, and February generally experience the strongest ‘El Norte’ winds, the primary wind responsible for the windiest conditions in Baja California Sur. It is particularly strong in coastal areas like La Ventana and Los Barriles, where strong northerly winds attract kiteboarders and windsurfers.

When is hurricane season in Baja California Sur?

Hurricane season in Baja California Sur runs from June to November, with the highest risk of storms occurring in August and September. While direct hits are rare, tropical systems can bring significant rain and wind.

Three dolphins coming up for air, the brown hills of Baja California Sur are in the distance.
There’s never a bad time to visit Baja California Sur!

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Lucy and Dan are travel writers, photographers, content creators, and founders of Thoroughly Travel. They're on a mission to help others travel for less money, with less environmental impact. You'll find them whale watching, wildlife spotting, road-tripping and seeking authentic experiences around the world. After quitting their 9-5s to backpack Mexico and Central America, they travelled New Zealand for a year on working holiday visas. They're currently Digital Nomad-ing their way around Europe.