The climate of Playa del Carmen
Playa del Carmen, located in
Mexico, exhibits a tropical wet and dry climate, more commonly known as "savanna". This climate type is most notably identified as Aw in the Köppen climate classification. Throughout the year, weather in Playa del Carmen consistently exhibits warm to hot temperatures coupled with meaningful seasonal rainfall.
Monthly averaged temperature values highlight a range of warmth from 21.8°C (71.2°F) to 31.1°C (88°F). The peak of this warmth is around mid-year, from
May to
August, with respective high temperature values of 29.9°C (85.8°F), 30°C (86°F), 30.9°C (87.6°F), and 31.1°C (88°F). Not to be outdone, the lowest temperatures, while maintaining a tropical feel, bottom out at 21.8°C (71.2°F) and 22.6°C (72.7°F), and occur at the beginning of the year, in
January and
February.
Monthly rainfall ranges from a scant 24mm (0.94") to a pronounced 169mm (6.65"). The heaviest rainfall reveals itself in
June and continues to pour freely until
October, spanning 81mm (3.19") to 169mm (6.65"). Conversely, February and
March experience noticeably less rainfall with only 29mm (1.14") and 24mm (0.94"). This dry period aligns with the weather pattern typical of a savanna climate, exhibiting a clear dry season.
The ratio between hours of sunshine to daylight is an intriguing aspect of Playa del Carmen weather. Sunshine, varying from 8.4 to 9.2 hours, fills a major part of daylight duration that lasts from 10.9 to 13.4 hours monthly. A unique feature of this Mexican seaside city remains in its consistent 10km (6.2mi) visibility alongside a relatively narrow range of atmospheric pressure from 1012.4mb to 1017.6mb.
The best time to visit Playa del Carmen
Ideal times for visiting
Playa del Carmen fall between
December and
April. This period boasts more manageable temperatures which range from 21.8°C (71.2°F) to 28.9°C (84°F). Visitors will find these months inviting as humidity levels remain relatively low with less excessive rainfall to interrupt plans, only receiving between 29mm (1.14") and 54mm (2.13"). The added bonus is an abundance of sunshine, with sunlight hours ranging upwards to 8.9 hours.
The worst time to visit Playa del Carmen
Travelers might want to avoid visiting
Playa del Carmen between
June and
October. These months can be challenging for those not accustomed to intense tropical conditions. High temperatures push the mercury towards 30.9°C (87.6°F), and a surge in rainfall reaches at 169mm (6.65"), marking this period as the wettest phase of the year. Reduced sunshine hours and increased cloud cover can further dim the holiday mood during this season.
Spring weather in Playa del Carmen
Spring ushers in steadily climbing temperatures in
Playa del Carmen, ascending from 26.1°C (79°F) in
March to 29.9°C (85.8°F) by
May. The arrival of spring also indicates a gradual increase in humidity, moving from 74% relative humidity in March to 77% in May. These transition months bring about a modest increase in rainfall, with values elevating from 24mm (0.94") to 86mm (3.39"), setting an intro for the wettest part of the year.
Summer weather in Playa del Carmen
Summer lavishes
Playa del Carmen with heat, humidity, and yes, rain. A steady increase in temperatures is observed from
June to
August with values hovering near 30°C (86°F) and 31.1°C (88°F). Rising heat is complemented by persisting humidity lingering around 79% to 77%. Predictably, rainfall is substantial during these months, particularly in June, recording as high as 169mm (6.65"). Despite these conditions, sea temperatures are invitingly warm, fluctuating between 28°C (82.4°F) to 29°C (84.2°F).
Autumn weather in Playa del Carmen
As autumn settles in
Playa del Carmen, temperatures maintain their warmth but begin their gradual descent. Highs of 30.5°C (86.9°F) are observed in
September, gently cooling to 27.8°C (82°F) by
November. Rainfall, while reduced from summer peaks, is still significant during early fall, with 130mm (5.12") in September and 154mm (6.06") in
October. By November, precipitation decreases to 82mm (3.23").
Winter weather in Playa del Carmen
Winters in
Playa del Carmen are mild in comparison to many regions, with the lowest temperatures experienced in
January at 21.8°C (71.2°F), subsequently warming up to 27.2°C (81°F) by the end of
February. Rainfall is at a minimal during these months, averaging between 53mm (2.09") to 54mm (2.13"). Given these conditions, winter is an appealing season with its moderate temperatures, low rainfall, and extended hours of sunshine which are consistently observed from 8.4hrs to 8.5hrs.
Weather in January
January is a period when the
Playa del Carmen experiences mild conditions and an increased amount of daylight, which adds more time to embrace outdoor activities. A blend of comparably cooler temperatures and reduced humidity sets up a favorable backdrop for touristic pursuits.
Weather in January » Weather in February
February marks the transition from the cooler months to a slightly warmer climate in
Playa del Carmen. Favorable climatic conditions persist throughout the month, aided by increased daylight hours. Despite this, visitors can experience an elevated rainfall pattern with a significant decrease from 54mm (2.13") in
January to 29mm (1.14").
Weather in February » Weather in March
March sees a further magnification of warm temperatures in
Playa del Carmen. Promising weather transforms the city into a top holiday destination. This month is distinct with its lowest recorded humidity at 74%, granting the residents and tourists an enjoyable atmosphere.
Weather in March »
Weather in April
April brings a notable increase in warm weather conditions, making it an opportune time for beach adventures in
Playa del Carmen. Expected to see longer days as a result of increased daylight hours, this period is ideal for spending more time outside and admiring the picturesque landscape.
Weather in April » Weather in May
The weather transitions into a warmer phase in
May, with the temperature and humidity indicating the onset of the wet season in
Playa del Carmen. However, the rise in sea temperature to 28°C (82.4°F) from 27°C (80.6°F) in
April allows for comfortable water activities and pleasant beach visits.
Weather in May »Weather in June
June in
Playa del Carmen is characterized by hot and humid conditions, indicating the peak of the wet season. Notably, this month registers not only the most significant amount of rain, at 169mm (6.65"), but also the highest number of rainy days.
Weather in June »
Weather in July
The trend of hot and humid weather continues in
July in
Playa del Carmen with frequent showers expected, although less than in
June. This month is remarkable for its sunniest days, with an average of 9.2 sunshine hours. This allows tourists and locals to plan outdoor activities or relax by the beach under the radiant sun.
Weather in July »Weather in August
Weather conditions in
August in
Playa del Carmen are marked by a slight drop in daytime temperatures, yet retaining the typical summertime atmosphere. One notable trend is the decrease in rainfall from 81mm (3.19") in
July to 116mm (4.57") this month.
Weather in August »Weather in September
September welcomes the start of the fall season in
Playa del Carmen, bringing with it a slight reduction in temperature. However, the sea temperature retains its warmth at 29°C (84.2°F), inviting those interested in a variety of water activities.
Weather in September »
Weather in October
October ushers in cooler temperatures and a persistent rainfall in
Playa del Carmen, marking the shift towards the tail-end of the wet season. During this month, the city sees its highest rainfall volume of 154mm (6.06"), providing a significantly moist atmosphere.
Weather in October » Weather in November
The arrival of
November signals the beginning of the dry season in
Playa del Carmen, offering tourists an increased opportunity for outdoor activities. There is a noticeable reduction in rainfall to 82mm (3.23") from 154mm (6.06") in
October, and sea temperature decreases slightly, reflecting the onset of winter.
Weather in November »Weather in December
December comes with milder weather and a decrease in rainfall, making it an ideal month for visitors to explore
Playa del Carmen. Subtle temperature shifts signal the presence of winter, with a slight increase in wind speed creating a more refreshing atmosphere.
Weather in December »