The Best Time to Visit Tulum (And When I’d Go Again)

With Tulum, timing is everything. As beautiful as it is, the wrong season can really throw off your trip with seaweed covering the beaches, hurricane season storms, or spring break crowds that completely change the vibe.

I’ve been to Tulum a few times now in different seasons, and honestly, picking the right time to visit makes all the difference. From my experience, there are definitely some months I’d avoid and others I’d happily go back for.

So here’s my personal guide on the best time to visit Tulum, season by season, and when I’d recommend going.

The Best Time to Visit Tulum – My Experience & Quick Answer

I’ve been to Tulum a few times by now, both as a budget backpacker and on a splurge-y beachfront resort trip and honestly, timing makes a huge difference here.

On my very first visit, I went in October. The weather was decent, there was one small storm while I was there, but the beaches were completely covered in seaweed, and since my hotel didn’t have a pool, it was a bit of a letdown. 

After that trip, I promised myself I’d only come back to Tulum (and really anywhere along the Riviera Maya) between December and March. On my more recent visits during that window, I had nothing but blue skies and picture-perfect beaches.

Of course, people sometimes get lucky in the shoulder months October, November, April, or May can work out just fine. But personally, I don’t like taking chances when it comes to my vacation. 

For me, avoiding the seaweed season (April to October) and steering clear of hurricane season (mainly October and November) is non-negotiable. Outside of that, you’re usually in the clear.

Tip: Check Out My Where to Stay in Tulum Mexico Guide to Lock In Your Next Vacation

When to Visit Tulum by Season

Winter (High Season)

Winter is Tulum’s busiest time, especially in December and January when everyone flocks here for sunshine. Prices definitely climb, but I think it’s still worth it to be honest. 

I’ve visited in January twice now and had an amazing experience both times. The beaches never felt overcrowded to me and most beachfront hotels keep a fairly private vibe, which makes it feel exclusive. The only catch: book early if you want a good hotel at a decent price, because this is the time everyone wants to be here.

Spring (Shoulder Season + Spring Break)

I’m usually a big fan of shoulder season because you can often score lower prices and still enjoy great weather and that can definitely be true in March, April, and May. 

I went to Tulum last year after my brothers wedding in May and the seaweed was pretty bad, but with all the fresh water cenotes around, I got to explore a side of Tulum I hadn’t seen before and it was still pretty amazing.

You’ll likely get sunny skies, warm water, and fewer seaweed issues. That said, I’d personally avoid visiting during peak spring break weeks. The party crowds aren’t really my thing, and Tulum gets pretty wild at that time. But honestly, I don’t think this is a bad time to visit Tulum.

Summer (Low Season + Rainy Season)

I’ll be honest, summer is a no-go for me in Tulum. The seaweed is usually at its worst, and the humidity makes lounging on the beach less fun. Since Tulum’s charm is so much about the boutique beachfront vibe, it loses some of its magic if the beaches aren’t great. 

If you still want a Mexican getaway in summer, I’d suggest picking a big Riviera Maya resort with a nice pool and good facilities, so you’re not relying on the beach.

Fall (Quiet, Rainy, and Hurricane Risk)

Fall is another time I personally wouldn’t book Tulum. Seaweed season and hurricane season collide around October, which doesn’t sound like much of a vacation to me.

On my first trip, I actually was there during a small storm and all of downtown flooded. Obviously, this is super unlucky. Seaweed alone is just so frustrating to me, pair that with storms, and I’ll happily wait for December.

If you’re super keen on visiting in October/November for Dia de Muertos, I recommend visiting Oaxaca or Mexico City!

The Worst Time to Visit Tulum Mexico

Seaweed Season in Tulum

I know I’ve mentioned it a few times already, but honestly, the seaweed in Tulum is such a big deal that it deserves its own spotlight. Every single year I see Instagram posts like “Go to Tulum, they said… it’ll be fun, they said…” and the photo is just a beach covered in brown seaweed. 

I’ve been during seaweed season myself, and I can confirm: it’s not fun. On the public beaches, no one really cleans it up, and even though beachfront hotels usually clear it in the mornings, you’ll still find it in the water. It doesn’t smell great either, so overall it just kills the vibe.

Seaweed season usually runs from April or May until October or November (it shifts a bit from year to year). Personally, I always avoid these months and book trips in December or January instead. Yes, it’s more expensive, but for me it’s 100% worth paying more to enjoy crystal-clear, seaweed-free beaches.

Hurricane Season in Tulum

The other season I’d stay away from is hurricane season, which typically peaks around October. If you’ve lived in Florida or anywhere along the US east coast, you’ll know the drill and Tulum is in the same hurricane belt. I was one of the few that got caught in a storm a few years ago, and we had to hunker down for a night. Overall it wasn’t that bad, but I can’t imagine if the storm would have been worse.

That said, there is a silver lining: flights and hotels are often significantly cheaper during this season. And technically, you could get lucky with no seaweed and no hurricanes. If you’re trying to save money and don’t mind gambling with the weather, it might be worth it for you. For me though, I’ll stick to December and January every time.

FAQs About When to Visit Tulum Mexico

Is Tulum in November worth visiting?

Honestly, I think December or January is a safer bet, but you might get lucky in November and avoid both the seaweed and hurricane season. It’s a bit of a gamble, but not impossible.

When should I go to Tulum?

For me, it’s always December, January, or even February. Yes, that’s high season, but it’s also when you get the biggest chance of beautiful tropical conditions with clear turquoise water, white sand beaches, and blue skies.

When is the best time to visit Tulum without seaweed?

From my experience, December and January are the sweet spot. No seaweed, stunning beaches, and perfect swimming conditions. Just keep in mind it’s also the busiest (and priciest) time to be in Tulum and hotel rates and travel is getting more expensive.

What is the best month to visit Tulum, Mexico?

Personally, I’d say December or January, since that’s when I’ve had the best weather. But if you’re looking to save some money, the shoulder months like April and May can be good too, just know there’s a bit more risk of running into seaweed.

Final Thoughts on Visiting Tulum

To wrap this up: Tulum is one of those destinations where timing really makes or breaks the trip. Every time I go, I plan for a dreamy beach resort vacation under the palm trees and the water, the beaches, and the weather are a huge part of that picture.

I don’t like taking chances, so I always aim for December or January. From my experience, that’s when you get the bluest skies and the clearest ocean. I’ve also been to Tulum during seaweed season, and I don’t want to sound dramatic, but it really does ruin things a bit. So now, I’d rather play it safe.

I hope this little guide helps you figure out the best time to book your own Tulum trip!

Check Out My Other Tulum Travel Guides

Is Tulum Worth Visiting? My Honest Review

How to Get Around in Tulum: My Taxi & Bicycle Guide

Where to Stay in Tulum Mexico: The Top Areas & Hotels

Best Time to Visit Tulum: How to Avoid the Seaweed

How to Get to Tulum Mexico: Cancun Airport to Tulum

Cafes in Tulum: The Best 7 Cafes Tulum