Let’s get one thing out of the way: you don’t have to have kids for school breaks to impact your travel. If the rest of the country’s out for spring break or winter vacation, you’ll still feel it—in your flight price, your resort rate, and the overall vibe of your trip. Timing is everything in Riviera Maya.
Here’s what I tell my clients when we’re mapping out the best time to go…
High Season: December to April
This is peak season for a reason. Riviera Maya is cooler, less humid, and (usually) dry this time of year. The ocean’s calm, the sun is out, and everything feels postcard-perfect.
Expect:
• Perfect beach weather
• Crystal-clear snorkeling conditions
• Premium rates at most 4.5-star and 5-star resorts
• Big crowds around the holidays and Spring Break
My take: If you’re planning a destination wedding or honeymoon during this stretch, book early and prepare to dig deeper in your wallet—especially if your dates overlap with Christmas, New Year’s, President’s Week, or March/April break. Even if you’re child-free, those school calendars will find you.
► Planning a wedding during high season? Read this next: What’s Included in Destination Wedding Packages
Low Season: May to June, September to November
Low season comes with a tradeoff: fewer people and lower prices, but higher temps and a chance of rain. It’s technically hurricane season from June to November, with August through October holding the most risk. That said, major storms are rare… and plenty of couples still plan unforgettable trips during this window.
Expect:
• Hot, humid afternoons
• Scattered showers (especially late summer/fall)
• Significant savings on flights + resorts
• Fewer crowds at excursions, cenotes, and ruins
My take: This is my go-to window for flexible honeymooners or small group trips looking for value. The jungle looks extra lush after a summer rain, and many resorts run shoulder-season specials that feel like a steal.
► Looking for a luxury honeymoon with fewer crowds? Browse my Honeymoon Resort Picks
Shoulder Season Sweet Spots: May + November
If you want a little bit of everything—good weather, decent rates, and fewer people—these two months tend to hit that sweet spot.
Expect:
• Warm but manageable weather
• Whale shark season starts in May
• Sea turtles begin nesting in November
• Fewer kids around (unless it’s Thanksgiving week)
My take: I love May and November for destination weddings. Your guests won’t be battling spring break prices or holiday chaos, and you’ll still get beautiful ceremony weather without the peak-season premium.
► See my expert picks for Best Resorts for Destination Weddings in Mexico
Bonus Considerations: What Most People Don’t Tell You
1. Group Travel Has Its Limits on Holidays
If you’re traveling with a group—for a wedding, birthday trip, or milestone getaway—be extra cautious around U.S. holiday weekends. Most resorts black out group perks like:
• Free room credits
• Private events included in your contract
• Complimentary upgrades or comp stays
So even if your group is large, you could end up paying more and getting less if you choose a peak holiday weekend.
► Read more here: Planning Group Travel to an All-Inclusive Resort
2. Weekend Dates Will Cost You More
Most resorts price their rooms based on demand—and demand spikes Friday through Sunday. That means:
• If you’re planning a destination wedding, Monday–Thursday ceremonies are usually more cost-effective for you and your guests.
• Honeymooners and smaller groups can often get better rates and upgrades by arriving mid-week and avoiding the weekend surge.
It’s a small shift that can make a big difference in your budget.
3. Traveling During a Mexican Holiday? Go For It.
You don’t need to avoid all holidays. In fact, some of Mexico’s cultural celebrations can add a beautiful layer to your trip.
• Cinco de Mayo: While it’s not a major holiday across all of Mexico, many Riviera Maya resorts celebrate with themed dinners, tequila tastings, or mariachi music.
• Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) November 1-2: Though it’s more prominent in central Mexico, many properties in Riviera Maya set up traditional ofrendas (altars) and host special activities to honor the tradition.
It’s a unique way to connect with local culture—without leaving the resort.
So When Should You Go?
It depends on what matters most to you:
• For weather and energy: Go in February or early March (but book early)
• For savings: Late April, May, or October
• For weddings: May and November win for balance
• For honeymoons: Anytime… as long as you don’t follow the crowd
And always, always ask this: “What’s happening on the school calendar that week?” You’d be surprised how many hidden surges are driven by other people’s children.
Planning a trip to Riviera Maya? Let’s find the right week—and the right resort—for you.
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