Tulum in December: Weather & Festival Info 2025

As the high season shifts into gear, Tulum in December offers a perfect blend of warm weather and festive energy. Here’s our guide on what to expect on your December trip to Tulum.

For those who are hoping to escape the cold winter at home, Tulum is the place to be. It’s sunny and warm, and the water is always just the right temperature.

But December is also the high season in Tulum, with more crowds descending upon the beach town. So, if you want an intimate experience, plan your Tulum trip for early December before the revelers get here for the holidays.

If you are in Tulum for the Christmas festivities then brace yourself for a unique experience. Forget Christmas trees—Tulum knows that the real stars of December are its swaying palm trees. The Christmas holiday in Tulum also offers a unique blend of optimism with a Mayan twist. In this article, we shall talk about the weather in December, what Christmas is like here, other festivals and holidays, and top things to do.

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Tulum Weather in December

Tulum in December offers a perfect blend of warm and sunny days, making it an ideal escape from winter’s chill. With daytime highs around 28°C, you can expect hot afternoons with clear skies. The humidity hovers at 79%, lending a mildly tropical feel without being overwhelming. 

Light and breezy clothing will keep you comfortable as you enjoy Tulum’s tropical charm. At night, temperatures dip to around 20°C and the humidity is much better than during the day. I recommend you carry a light jacket or sweater for those chilly nights.

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Christmas in Tulum

Christmas in Tulum is a vibrant affair, echoing the festive spirit that Mexico is known for. Starting as early as December 8th, the celebrations are marked by lively music, dancing, and delicious Mexican food. While locals in Tulum often celebrate Christmas with their families in private gatherings, the town doesn’t skimp on holiday cheer for visitors. 

Many restaurants and venues host special events, offering a chance to experience the warmth of Mexican hospitality and the joy of the season in a tropical paradise. Here’s how Tulum celebrates the Christmas holidays;

Día de la Inmaculada Concepción

Celebrated on December 8th, Día de la Inmaculada marks the official start of the Christmas season in Mexico. This day is dedicated to honoring the Virgin Mary, with Catholics attending special masses and making pilgrimages to shrines devoted to her. 

The feast commemorates the belief that Mary was conceived without original sin, a central tenet of Catholic doctrine. Celebrations are infused with Mexican tradition, featuring a variety of festive foods that bring families and communities together in reverence and joy.

Las Posadas

One of Mexico’s most cherished Christmas traditions is Las Posadas. This vibrant 9-day celebration begins on December 16th and culminates on Christmas Eve with a grand fiesta honoring the birth of Jesus. The nine days represent the nine months of the Virgin Mary’s pregnancy, and the festivities are a blend of religious devotion and community spirit. 

Locals host parties crammed with food, music, fireworks, and piñatas. You’ll also glimpse some donning shepherd and angel costumes as they escort a couple dressed as Mary and Joseph through the streets, re-enacting their journey to Bethlehem. With songs and symbolic stops at houses, the procession captures the essence of seeking shelter. 

The journey often concludes at a local house, where a traditional dinner is served. This is followed by Ponche Navideño (Christmas Punch) and the sweet crunch of Buñuelos (fried dough with sugar) to end the night on a festive note.

Christmas Day in Tulum

On the 25^th of December, the town transforms into a haven of family togetherness and festive joy. Families visit friends and relatives, exchanging gifts and sharing laughter, while the air buzzes with the sounds of singing and dancing. 

The day is reserved for rest and quality time with loved ones, with most local shops closing their doors. However, Tulum’s vibrant dining scene ensures that the celebrations continue, with restaurants like La Zebra and La Taqueria hosting Christmas-themed events. To learn more, explore these must-see Christmas traditions in Mexico during the festive season.

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How Warm is Water in December?

In December, Tulum’s water is a delightful 81°F (27°C), making it warm and inviting for all your aquatic adventures. Whether you’re snorkeling, swimming, or scuba diving, the Caribbean Sea and cenotes remain consistently pleasant, ensuring you enjoy the water without a shiver. It’s the perfect temperature for immersing in Tulum’s underwater wonders, even as the rest of the world bundles up for winter.

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Is There Rain in Tulum in December?

Tulum in December offers a delightful escape from the dreary winter weather, with minimal chance of rain to dampen your plans. Expect only a few occasional showers throughout the month, with an average of just 28mm of rainfall. 

Averaging around 7.9 hours of sunshine daily, most days are dry with clear skies, so you’re more likely to enjoy perfect beach weather. In fact, there’s a 59% chance of a perfectly sunny day and only a 41% chance of seeing some clouds, making Tulum an ideal winter escape.

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When is the Hurricane Season in Tulum? 

The hurricane season in Tulum runs from May to October. During this window, the weather is more humid and there is a higher chance of rain. Don’t be put off by the weather forecast though (it’s never accurate); even if it rains, it never lasts too long and chances are the sun will come out right after the rain. This fall for instance has been mostly sunny with very few rainy days.

If you do decide to visit Tulum during the hurricane season, there are plenty of things to do in Tulum that don’t entail going to the beach. You can hit the shops in town, chill in the many vegan cafes or visit the ruins and cenotes (where there’s shade).

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Is Tulum Safe During the Hurricane?

Yes, Tulum is generally safe during hurricanes, though precautions should still be taken. Hurricanes are intense tropical storms with high winds, torrential rainfall, and storms that can cause significant harm to coastal regions. 

However, the likelihood of Tulum experiencing significant devastation from a hurricane is quite low. The city would need to take a direct hit, which is a rarity. But just to be sure, stay informed about weather updates and heed any evacuation warnings issued by local authorities.

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Is There Seaweed in Tulum in December?

There is no seaweed in Tulum in December. The sargassum season typically runs during the sweltering and wet months. By December, the rainy season is long gone and temperatures are only mild. These conditions don’t favor sargassum growth. 

The brown algae originates from the Great Atlantic Sargassum Belt and floats in isolated formations in the warm Caribbean before landing on the shore. The seaweed is propelled by buoyant bladders that prevent it from sinking, allowing it to form extensive mats on the ocean’s surface. While it can be a bit of a nuisance, local efforts often keep the beaches clean, ensuring you can still enjoy the beautiful coastline. 

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When is the Tulum Seaweed Season?

The Tulum seaweed season typically spans from April to October. This period sees an influx of seaweed along Tulum’s picturesque beaches. The peak sargassum season is during the humid and rainy months (from May to October). Please note that the exact duration and intensity of the seaweed varies from year to year due to several natural factors. For more information on seaweed season, check out my guide on how to avoid seaweed in Tulum.

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Tracking the Seaweed Levels

If you have a strict vacation schedule that coincides with the seaweed season, then I have a pro tip that might help. There are several Facebook pages and groups dedicated to keeping travelers informed on the current status of Tulum sargassum. The seaweed situation changes now and then.

So, getting regular updates will help you avoid areas plagued with seaweed and ultimately keep an upbeat on your vacation. After my 2021 debacle, I have made it a point to check these sites regularly before visiting Tulum. These have proved helpful in helping me know which beaches to avoid. Here are some of the sites I continually check for these updates;

• Red de Monitoreo del Sargazo de Quintana Roo (this is a page so you don’t have to join it to see its updates.)
• Sargasso Seaweed Updates Riviera Maya (This is a group. So, you must join before getting updates.)
• Sargassum Seaweed Updates (Cancun, PDC, Tulum) (Also a group.)

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Tulum Holidays & Festivals in December

Sound Tulum Music Event

This event is the ultimate winter escape for electronic dance music enthusiasts. The annual event transforms this bohemian paradise into a pulsating party haven from December through January. The festival brings the best of EDM to Tulum, with a line-up of world-renowned DJs spinning every two nights in unique venues scattered across the city. Read more about the festival here.

Christmas

Christmas in Tulum is a charmingly intimate affair. While locals typically reserve the holiday for family gatherings, there’s no shortage of festive cheer for visitors. Many of Tulum’s restaurants and venues embrace the season with special events, offering a delightful array of Christmas dinners, themed parties, and live entertainment.

New Years

New Year’s Eve in Tulum is an exclusive affair, as locals typically reserve the night for intimate family gatherings. However, for those eager to join in the revelry, Tulum’s party scene offers a dazzling array of options. 

New Year’s eve is one of the most coveted in Mexico’s party calendar. Tulum is known for the most exhilarating New Year’s celebrations unfolding in the lush jungle, vibrant nightclubs, enchanting cenote clubs, and chic beach clubs. 

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Top Things to Do in Tulum in December

Tulum is a beautiful beach town with simply so much to offer. To help you make the most of your December trip, here are the top things to do in Tulum;

Visit a Christmas Market near the Municipal Square

If you’re still ticking off items from your Christmas list or simply have a passion for handcrafted art, don’t miss the vibrant Christmas Market in downtown Tulum. The Christmas Market is held annually just next to the Palacio Municipal Square. This festive haven is a treasure trove of beautiful crafts from across the country.

You find stalls selling the unique artistry of regions like Michoacán, Oaxaca, Puebla, Estado de México, and Yucatán, among others. Open for just a short period each year, this market typically wraps up around the 17th of December. So, ensure to visit the market before ticking off other activities on your itinerary.

Join a Food Tour in Tulum

There’s no better way to embrace Tulum’s vibrant lifestyle in December than by joining a food tour. As you venture into tucked-away eateries, you’ll discover the heart and soul of Tulum through its flavors. From sizzling tacos at a hidden taquería to sampling rich, velvety mole in a family-owned restaurant, each bite is a journey into the local culture. 

I recommend the Mexican Cooking and Mezcal Tasting tour. I did this tour in 2023 and it really stood out for me. This intimate experience immerses you in the vibrant flavors and ingredients that define Aztec, Mayan, and Mexican cuisine. Under the guidance of your host, you’ll cook a three-course meal; a main course, and a dessert, all accompanied by salsa and freshly pressed tortillas. 

The adventure doesn’t stop at cooking; you’ll also delve into the world of mezcal, learning the traditional methods of tasting this distinctive spirit. Check out the tour here.

Visit the Mayan Ruins

Seeing the ancient Mayan ruins is a staple on every Tulum itinerary. The closest and most popular ruins include the Tulum ruins, Ek Balam, Muyil Ruins, and Coba Ruins. Perched above the Caribbean, the Tulum Ruins have stunning structures like Castillo and the Temple of Frescoes, making you feel like you’re on sacred grounds. 

On the other hand, Ek Balam offers a much quieter experience. Its well-preserved structures, such as the Acropolis, offer breathtaking panoramic views of the jungle canopy. For an intimate adventure, head to the lesser-known Muyil Ruins just south of Tulum. Though small, these ruins feature a nature trail leading to a serene lagoon and serve as a starting point for the Muyil river float, a truly unique experience. 

Lastly, the Coba ruins, with their towering pyramids and hidden treasures, provide a fascinating glimpse into the mystique of ancient Maya civilization. Visiting any of these sites is sure to create unforgettable memories for your vacation.

Here are some affordable guided tours to consider:

• Tulum & Coba ruins with cenote swim tour from Playa del Carmen
• Ek Balam, Chichen Itza, cenote & buffet lunch tour
• Tulum archaeological site & Sian Ka’an Muyil tour from Tulum

Head to Tulum Beach

Your Tulum vacation wouldn’t be complete without a trip to the beach. All Mexican beaches are open to the public, so technically you can lie out on the beach anywhere and not spend a single cent! Going to a beach club will however give you access to beach benches, food, and even a pool.

Most of these beach clubs charge a minimum consumption of around US$30 to 80 per person. Ahau Beach Club is rather cool and it has a pool and a vegan café and restaurant. The beach club at Amansala has laidback vibes, a gorgeous beach and great cocktails. 

Bagatelle Tulum is more upscale, with an all-white-and-blue decor and fancy French grub. La Zebra is family-friendly with lots of swings and fun amenities for the little ones. For more options on beachfront stays, check out my guide to the best beachfront hotels in Tulum.

Check out Tulum’s Cenotes

When a deadly asteroid slammed into the sea floor off the coast of the Yucatan Peninsula 66 million years ago, it created over 6,000 fresh-water sinkholes and caves called cenotes. The ancient Mayans used these groundwater pools as sacred wells and performed offerings and spiritual rituals here. Today, these cenotes are open to the public for exploring, swimming, and scuba diving. 

There are countless sinkholes in Tulum worth visiting (like Cenote Azul, Cenote Jardin del Eden, and Cenote Calavera) but the following are my best. Grand Cenote is a breathtaking escape to paradise. From its crystal-clear waters to the verdant backdrop, you will not want to leave this place. The cenote is open from 8 am to 4 pm and charges an entrance fee of 300 MXN.

Cenote Cristal and Cenote Escondido are other wonderful alternatives. These two stunning open cenotes located just south of Tulum are surrounded by lush tropical plants, making them the perfect spots for sunbathing and swimming. A single entrance fee of 120 MXN grants access to both, making it a great deal for budget-conscious travelers. Book your Cenote Cristal and Cenote Escondido tour here.

For those seeking a touch of luxury, cenotes like Vesica and Buuts Ha offer upscale amenities similar to beach clubs. You’ll find day beds, gourmet cuisine, and live entertainment. You will pay about 300 MXN to access either cenote, but the experience makes it all worthwhile.

See Tulum on Two Wheels

Having lived in Mexico since 2021, I’ve spent several long weekends and holidays scouring Tulum on a bike. Biking is undeniably the best way to get around the town, especially up and down the beach road. It’s also a great way to reach the cenotes just outside town but should be done before the sweltering afternoon sun kicks in. 

The terrain in Tulum Pueblo, Playa, and the surrounding areas is mostly flat with only a few slight inclines. The bike ride between the town and the beach takes about 20 to 35 minutes, depending on your starting and stopping points. Car traffic along the beach road often comes to a standstill for 5-15 minutes, particularly in the high season. 

On a bike, you can easily sail past the traffic, enjoying the freedom of not being stuck in a car. Bikes are everywhere in Tulum and cost about 150 pesos a day, with discounts for multiple-day rentals. The best bike rental shop in Tulum is Ola Bike Tulum located in the Pueblo along the road to the beach. For example, you might enjoy this bike-guided tour, where you can ride through tranquil Mayan jungle trails and cool off with swims in two or three stunning cenotes.

Visit an Eco Adventure Park

Tulum’s adventure parks are an exhilarating journey into nature’s playground, perfect for thrill-seekers and outdoor enthusiasts. There are three adventure parks around Tulum to get your adventure groove on. These include; Xcaret, Xplor, and Xel-Ha. 

Xcaret is an unforgettable destination where you can immerse in different activities such as swimming and exploring underground rivers. The adventure park also offers captivating shows that celebrate Mexican traditions. For nature enthusiasts, the aviary, butterfly farm, and Jaguar Island offer glimpses into diverse wildlife and ancient Mayan ruins. Get Xcaret entry tickets here.

Meanwhile, Xplor offers adrenaline-pumping adventures such as zip-lining above treetops, jungle expeditions in amphibious vehicles, and serene rafting through winding rivers. For a unique experience, go to the park in the afternoon or at night to experience Xplor Fuego, a spectacle of light and adventure. Booking a day trip is the easiest way to get to Xplor Park if you don’t have your own transportation.

Lastly, Xel-Ha promises aquatic wonders, from thrilling slides at the lighthouse to vibrant snorkeling experiences and even opportunities to swim with dolphins. These three adventure parks offer distinct experiences that shouldn’t be missed. So, if you can, set aside a day to visit each park. Get your Xel-Ha admission tickets here.

Enjoy Tulum’s Delicious Street Food

Eating street food in Tulum is a rite of passage. As the sun blazes overhead, the air is filled with the irresistible aroma of sizzling meats and fresh tortillas. Vendors set up colorful stalls, offering several local favorites like tacos, elote (grilled corn with tangy toppings), and spicy tamales. Check our pick of Tulum’s best restaurants.

The tropical heat adds a refreshing contrast to the cool, zesty flavors of freshly squeezed juices and tangy salsas. But when it comes to street food in Tulum, I’ve always been drawn to tacos. Most taco stands offer an array of offerings, from succulent white fish drizzled with zesty garlic aioli to tender pulled pork marinated specials. My favorite taco shop is Antojitos la Chiapaneca in the heart of Tulum Pueblo. 

Munching on the town’s culinary specials is a culinary adventure you simply can’t afford to miss. However, covering all the street food stands in Tulum requires a special conviction because there are so many. But I recommend you join this local Tulum walking food tour to give you a fighting chance.

Head to Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve

The Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve perfectly sums up Mexico’s natural splendor and ecological significance. The UNESCO World Heritage Site spans about one million acres (4,046 km²) and is one of the most protected in Mexico. In the reserve, you will find diverse wildlife such as dolphins, manatees, turtles, and several bird species, all thriving in their natural habitats. 

The easiest way to visit Sian Ka’an is on a boat trip through its ancient canals dug out by the Mayans centuries ago. A 2-hour boat tour with a Mayan local costs a fixed price of 1,000 MXN ($50) per person. The speed boat will whisk you through two lagoons before dropping you in one of the ancient canals for a relaxing 40-minute drift along crystal-clear waters.

While here, make sure to try the once-in-lifetime Muyil river float experience. This tranquil journey through the natural canal of Chunyaxché provides a unique and serene way to connect with the untouched wilderness. It’s an experience that lives with you long after you leave Mexico. You can opt for a full-day adventure by booking this boat tour.

Go Paddleboarding at Kaan Luum Lagoon

Paddleboarding in the afternoon is an invigorating experience. With the sun shining brightly and temperatures balmy, the turquoise Caribbean offers a refreshing escape. As you glide across the gentle waves, you can marvel at the stunning coastal views and the lush mangroves that line the shores.

Located only 10 minutes from Tulum, Kaan Luum Lagoon is the best place to go paddleboarding. This unique spot is actually a cenote found within a lagoon, creating a breathtaking mosaic of blues visible from an aerial view. The water’s color transitions from a light green near the shore to increasingly vibrant and intense shades as it approaches the dark blue cenote. 

You can rent a SUP paddle board and a life jacket at the lagoon. Paddleboard rentals cost about 120 MXN per hour. For an unforgettable experience, I recommend you join this guided tour.

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Tulum Travel Tips to Beat the Heat

While December offers the best weather conditions, the sweltering afternoons remain a thing in Tulum. Tulum’s afternoon heat can sneak up on you especially if you aren’t used to it. I was shell-shocked at how hot it gets when we first moved here but have found practical solutions. 

Here’s how I beat Tulum’s afternoon heat;

Hydrate Regularly

Carry a reusable water bottle everywhere. Having a water bottle with you will ensure you have fluids ready anytime you need them. A reusable water bottle is also good for the environment. I have been using the Philips GoZero Everyday water bottle for the last two years and it has served me right. 

Please do not fill up on tap water even when it’s seemingly purified. Mexico’s tap water isn’t safe for drinking. Most hotels provide large jugs of water for you to fill up your bottle.

Wear Breathable Layers

On a hot day in Tulum, the right fabric can make all the difference. Ditch synthetic materials like leather and opt for light, breathable fabrics like linen or cotton. Lightweight fabrics offer a cooling embrace that synthetics simply can’t match. Their natural fibers allow air to circulate freely, wicking away moisture and keeping you comfortably dry, while also preventing that dreaded sticky feeling. 

Do Water Activities

Tulum is blessed with several natural cooling spots for you to cool off on a hot day. Spend your afternoons swimming in the cenotes – these magical freshwater sinkholes are refreshing on a hot day. Tulum also has countless beaches with modern amenities and resort staff ready to guide you on your snorkeling adventure. 

Carry Portable Fan

A portable fan can be a lifesaver on a hot afternoon in Tulum. Keep it in your bag ready for when the heat gets unbearable. For the last two years, I have relied on the TriPole Misting Fan. The portable device is rechargeable and has a 40ml water tank for the misting function making it a reliable companion for those hot days.

Plan out Your Day Wisely

Lastly, plan out your day wisely. Plan your trip to the ruins in the morning (as early as 8 am) before the afternoon’s hot sun kicks in. This will also help you beat the mid-morning tourist rush, allowing you to score some incredible photo ops with golden-hour lighting. Also, go to the beach early in the morning or late in the afternoon when exposure to the sun isn’t as severe.

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Traveling to Tulum in December: FAQ

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Packing for Tulum in December

While December largely experiences mild temperatures, the afternoons can get unbearably hot if you are new to Tulum. So, you should pack light, focusing on essentials that prioritize your comfort and style. Here’s what to pack for Tulum in December;

• Reef-safe sunscreen
• Straw bag for the beach
• Mosquito repellent
• Snorkel mask and fins
• UPF50+ rash guard swim shirt
• Water-resistant dry bag
• Quick-dry towels
• KEEN covered sandals
• GoPro for waterproof photos/videos
• Quick-dry t-shirts

For a smoother and more comfortable trip, be sure to check out my guide on what to pack for Mexico—it’s packed with helpful tips to make your journey easier!

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Further Reading on Tulum

I hope you’ve found this guide on Tulum in December to be useful. Feel free to leave a comment below if you have any questions. For those who are planning to see more of the town, check out other articles I’ve written on Tulum:

• Best Time to Visit Tulum 
• Tulum in January 
• Tulum in February 
• Tulum in March
• Tulum in April
• Tulum in May
• Tulum in June
• Tulum in July
• Tulum in August
• Tulum in September
• Tulum in October
• Tulum in November
• Where to Stay in Tulum 
• Tulum Travel Guide 
• My Guide to Ek Balam Ruins 
• My Guide to Coba Ruins 
• My Guide to Cenote Calavera 
• How to Get from Cancun to Tulum 
• Punta Allen: The Gateway to Sian Ka’an

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links i.e. if you book a stay through one of my links, I get a small commission at NO EXTRA COST to you. Thank you for your support!

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