Travel time: Year-round
Cozumel operates under a tropical savanna climate, characterized by high temperatures and significant humidity throughout the year. The island experiences two primary seasons: a dry, slightly cooler season from November to April and a muggy, rainy season from May to October. Because it is an island situated roughly 12 miles off the coast of the Yucatán Peninsula, it benefits from consistent sea breezes that can make even the hottest days feel more manageable than on the mainland.
A typical day in Cozumel starts with clear, bright mornings. As the sun climbs, the humidity rises, peaking around mid-afternoon. During the rainy season, this buildup often results in a quick, intense afternoon shower or thunderstorm that lasts 30 to 60 minutes, providing a temporary drop in temperature before the sun returns. Evenings are generally mild and balmy, though winter nights can feel surprisingly crisp when the wind picks up.
This is the most popular time for visitors due to the lower humidity and moderate temperatures. Daytime highs typically range from 78°F to 84°F (25°C - 29°C). While technically the “dry” season, sporadic rains can still occur, particularly in December and January. This period is also defined by the Nortes (Northers), where cold fronts from North America bring stronger winds and cooler evening temperatures.
Humidity levels surge during these months, often reaching over 85%. Daytime highs frequently hit 90°F (32°C), but the "feels like" temperature can exceed 100°F (38°C) due to the moisture. June and September are historically the wettest months. Despite the rain, this is a vibrant season with lush foliage and the warmest sea temperatures, often reaching 84°F (29°C).
Specific to the winter months (mid-November to March), a Norte is a weather event triggered by cold air masses moving south. While they rarely drop temperatures as low as they do in the north, they can bring sudden wind shifts from the north/northwest, choppy seas, and temperatures that dip into the 60s°F (15°C - 20°C) at night. Locals refer to this as the island's version of winter, and it can occasionally cause the closure of the western ports (where cruise ships and dive boats dock) due to swell conditions.
Cozumel is located within the Atlantic hurricane belt. The official season runs from June 1 to November 30, with peak activity typically occurring in September and October. While direct hits are historically infrequent, the island has a deep historical context with storms like Hurricane Wilma (2005), which transformed the coastline. Modern infrastructure on the island is highly adapted to these events, with strict building codes and sophisticated early-warning systems.
Cozumeleños (locals) have a high tolerance for the heat but treat the Nortes with great respect. You will see locals donning light sweaters and scarves as soon as the temperature dips below 75°F. In the summer heat, daily life often slows down during the peak sun hours (noon to 3:00 PM), with more activity occurring in the early morning and late evening when the ocean breeze is most refreshing.
Due to its flat topography, Cozumel does not have dramatic inland microclimates, but there is a distinct difference between the West Coast and the East Coast (the "Wild Side").