If you are looking to book a vacation to the Cancun/Riviera Maya then its safe to say that you are planning on some significant sun, beach and/or pool time. So what if it rains? Is everything ruined? I guess it will depend on the type and length of the storm but normally a forecast of rain along the Riviera Maya is in no way a recipe for a failed vacation.
The Yucatan and Caribbean coast line is a semi-tropical jungle (rain forest) region with a warm and humid climate and the area receives rain year round. June through September are considered the rainy months while October through March historically have been a drier and April – Maya starts the transition to the rainier period. However, thunderstorms can be found all year round. Many times these storms will only “blow in, blow up and blow out” with only a relatively short … though many times intense… rain periods. Then the sun is back out and things dry out quickly in the heat. In fact, most of the activities at the resorts and around the area (ruin excursions, centoes, eco parks, adventure parks, etc..) will not stop during the rain unless the storm is very intense and/or there is significant lighting happening. At those times, activities will be suspended until the storm has passed.
Basic rule of thumb for a Riviera Maya vacation: do not be surprised if you have some rain and also do not worry too much if the forecast shows rain as it may likely only mean a short rain shower. or two. Its good to keep in mind what the qualifying terms that weather sites/apps use actually mean. When they state a 10-20% chance of rain; it generally means there could be isolated showers. A 30-50% chance of rain means likely scattered showers and 60-70% means there will probably be numerous showers. However, also keep in mind that the chance of rain doesn’t necessarily dictate the coverage area of the showers. So there could be showers in Cancun and nothing in Playa Del Carmen. See this post for average rain fall and temperatures for each month during the year.
Important to note, if you are traveling during the “hurricane season”, which is technically June 1 – November 1, then it is always prudent to keep an eye on official weather centers for any big storms brewing during the time you’ll be traveling. Click HERE to get information regarding current storm systems in the Atlantic Basin that could affect the Caribbean.
So don’t fret if it rains on your Riviera Maya vacation.. there will still be plenty to do for the short periods of rain. If the rain persists and you staying in or near Playa Del Carmen then check out this out this helpful article.
One last helpful tip; if you are worried about the rain and having something to do, you may want to consider booking at a larger resort complex. At the larger resorts there are more lobby, bar, restaurant and activity choices so that you won’t have to be stuck in your room.
