December–February
Winter
- Best for
- Whale watching, golf, sightseeing, desert trips, and outdoor dining
- Pack
- Layers, long pants, and a wind-resistant jacket for the water

Choose your perfect season
Compare monthly air and water temperatures, seasonal activities, wind, tides, summer heat, fishing, and whale-watching season.
See weather by month ↓Live forecast
The short answer
October is one of the strongest all-around choices because the water remains warm while evenings become more comfortable. Spring is popular for beach trips and events, winter is best for whales and mild sightseeing, and summer is best for travelers who prioritize very warm water and resort pools.
Month-by-month planning
These are rounded climate-planning averages, not a forecast. Individual days, marine conditions, and water temperatures can be warmer or cooler.
| Month | Average high | Average low | Sea temperature | Good for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 71°F / 22°C | 46°F / 8°C | 63°F / 17°C | Whales, sightseeing, golf |
| February | 73°F / 23°C | 49°F / 9°C | 61°F / 16°C | Whales, golf, fishing |
| March | 77°F / 25°C | 52°F / 11°C | 63°F / 17°C | Spring break, boating |
| April | 82°F / 28°C | 56°F / 13°C | 66°F / 19°C | Beach days, off-road tours |
| May | 87°F / 31°C | 62°F / 17°C | 70°F / 21°C | Fishing, beaches, boating |
| June | 91°F / 33°C | 68°F / 20°C | 73°F / 23°C | Fishing, swimming |
| July | 95°F / 35°C | 75°F / 24°C | 79°F / 26°C | Warm water, early tours |
| August | 97°F / 36°C | 75°F / 24°C | 82°F / 28°C | Swimming, resort pools |
| September | 96°F / 36°C | 72°F / 22°C | 82°F / 28°C | Warm water, fishing |
| October | 88°F / 31°C | 63°F / 17°C | 79°F / 26°C | Excellent all-around month |
| November | 79°F / 26°C | 53°F / 12°C | 73°F / 23°C | Rally, golf, outdoor dining |
| December | 71°F / 22°C | 47°F / 8°C | 66°F / 19°C | Holiday trips, sightseeing |
Rounded averages compiled for general vacation planning. Always check a current forecast and marine report before travel or boating.
Four different experiences
Your best month depends on whether you want whales, warm swimming water, cooler desert weather, major events, or fewer crowds.
December–February
March–May
June–September
October–November
What is in season?
Most tours operate throughout the year, but comfort, wildlife, water temperature, and marine conditions vary by season.
January through mid-March
Seasonal sightings cannot be guaranteed; January and February are often the heart of the season.
View guide →Year-round; especially spring through fall
March–May can be strong inshore, summer brings variety offshore, and fall can be productive for snapper and grouper.
View guide →May–October
The water warms through spring and is usually warmest from July through October.
View guide →Year-round
Evenings are cooler in winter; summer cruises provide relief from daytime heat. Wind can affect any departure.
View guide →Most of the year
Choose a day with suitable marine conditions; the long crossing can be affected by wind and waves.
View guide →October–May
Cooler desert temperatures are more comfortable. In summer, choose the earliest available departure.
View guide →October–May
Morning and late-afternoon rides are best when temperatures rise.
View guide →October–May
Mild weather makes fall through spring the most comfortable period for a full round.
View guide →Sunshine does not mean calm water
Rocky Point can be sunny while the Sea of Cortez is windy or rough. The Port Captain may restrict departures, and responsible operators may delay, reschedule, or cancel trips when conditions are unsafe.
A dramatically changing shoreline
Puerto Peñasco is known for large tidal changes. Low tide exposes broad flats, tide pools, and rocky areas; incoming water can quickly cover the route you used to walk out.
Check the day’s local tide table before tide-pooling, kayaking, fishing, or exploring exposed flats.
Never drive onto exposed tidal flats, even when the surface looks dry and firm.
Watch the time and return before rising water separates you from shore.
Supervise children around tide pools, rocks, currents, and rapidly changing water.
June through September
Summer heat and humidity can make the temperature feel more intense than the number shown in a forecast.
Choose by trip style
Use these quick recommendations to match your dates to the experience you want most.
Warm sea, hot but more manageable days, and comfortable evenings.
The core of the local whale-watching period.
The warmest Sea of Cortez water of the year.
Cooler temperatures for off-road riding, hiking, and El Pinacate.
Outside major holidays and special events; whale season still attracts visitors.
Spring-break periods, Semana Santa, and Rally season are especially active.
Match your tour to the season
Compare sunset cruises, fishing trips, whale watching, Bird Island, water activities, and land adventures.
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