Best Time To Visit Holbox Island, Mexico

By Daria Bachmann. This guide sharing when to visit Holbox Island contains affiliate links to trusted partners!

Trying to figure out the best time to visit Holbox Island, Mexico?

You’ve come to the right place!

Holbox Island is a popular vacation spot off the northern coast of the Yucatán Peninsula in Mexico. Part of the Yum Balam Nature Reserve, Holbox is a perfect spot for wildlife watching, basking on white sand beaches with shallow waters, and enjoying a laid-back beach lifestyle.

But what is the best time to go to Holbox Island?

The island has a humid tropical climate similar to the rest of the Yucatán Peninsula, and while you can enjoy the island most of the time, there’s always a chance of rain.

I’ve traveled all over Mexico, including visits to Holbox several times during rainy and dry seasons. Because of this, I have first-hand knowledge of how different the weather can be on this island depending on the time of the year.

This guide will tell you about the best months to visit Holbox so you can enjoy a fun vacation with the best weather and the most sunshine.

Note: This guide uses the names “Holbox Island”, “Isla Holbox,” and “Holbox” interchangeably. They all refer to the same island destination in Mexico.

Short on time? My top recommendations for visiting Holbox Island Mexico include:

Hotel: Hotel Casa Bárbara Holbox. You can also click here for a Holbox hotel map.

Airport Transfer: Along with taking the ADO Bus (also bookable on BusBud), you can take a shared shuttle or a private shuttle

Tours: Viator and GetYourGuide

Recommended Excursions:
–Classic Three Island Tour
–Isla Holbox Mangrove Kayaking Tour
–Whale Shark & Snorkeling Adventure from Isla Holbox

Getting Around: You can walk or bike to most of the main things to do on Holbox Island

Travel Insurance: SafetyWing (budget-friendly) & World Nomads (more comprehensive)

Staying Connected: Airalo eSIM

Free Resources For Visiting Holbox Island

But first, before we go over when to visit Holbox, I invite you to grab my free Ultimate Travel Planning Kit—which includes 40+ travel resources from printables to quizzes to itineraries—all meant to help you explore the world beyond the guidebook!

Some highlights of the kit include:

Free “Where Should You Travel Next?” personality quiz
Budget travel calculators for vacations, road trips, backpacking & more
Pre-plotted Google Maps for 45+ destinations
Printable travel journal with writing prompts
Packing lists for different types of trips
And more!

Once you’ve grabbed your copy, keep reading for tips on deciding when to book your trip to Isla Holbox!

Where Is Isla Holbox?

Holbox is located along the Gulf of Mexico, right off the coast of Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula. Specifically, it belongs to the Mexican state of Quintana Roo and lies within the municipality of Lázaro Cárdenas.

This location allows it to have some of Mexico’s most beautiful beaches. In fact, along with Playa Santispac in Baha California and the beautiful beaches in Campeche, Holbox has some of my favorite stretches of sand in Mexico!

woman in an orange bathing suit walking along a white sandbar near Mosquito Point on Holbox Island, Mexico in the dry season — The beaches in Holbox are stunning, especially in the dry season. Photo via Jessie Festa.

What Is The Weather Like In Holbox?

The weather in Holbox is warm and tropical year-round, but the island has distinct seasons.

The dry season—which runs from December to April—has generally clear skies with little to no rain and less humidity, making it an excellent time for beach activities and outdoor exploration.

The wet season from June to October sees increased rainfall, occasional storms, and higher humidity; however, even during the wet season, you can still experience some sunny days.

Best Time To Visit Holbox Island

High season vs shoulder season

The best time to visit Holbox is from December through March when the island has perfect sunny weather and minimal chance of rain.

It’s also the busiest time on the island when the prices of hotels and tours tend to be the most expensive.

If you want to avoid the crowds and save money, visit Holbox during November or May, which are shoulder months. Both months to visit Holbox mark the transition between dry and rainy seasons.

Winter crowds usually die down in May, because the weather on Holbox Island becomes hotter and more humid.

Additionally, you’ll have the opportunity to book a whale shark tour in late May, as the whale shark season runs from mid-May to mid-September. Just note that May only sees occasional sightings, with peak season being July and August.

On the other hand, November is usually a quiet month after the hurricane season when you can enjoy pleasant sunny weather and take advantage of lower prices before the busy winter season kicks in.

tourists visiting a Holbox sandbar during the dry season — December through March is the best time to visit Holbox. Photo via Daria Bachmann.

Cheapest time to visit Holbox

The cheapest time to visit Holbox is during the hurricane season from late August through October. While you will save on accommodations and activities, the inclement weather can negatively affect your travel plans, making it difficult to enjoy this destination.

Least busy time to visit Holbox

The least busy time to visit Holbox is from June through the end of October when tourism on the island dies down because of more frequent rain.

Hurricane season in Holbox

August marks the beginning of the hurricane season in Holbox and the rest of the region. This is the worst time to visit Holbox when the island experiences rainstorms and inclement weather that can disrupt your plans.

Holbox has dirt roads, which get washed out during the rainy season, making it challenging to get around without getting covered in mud.

Precipitation during the hurricane season is usually more intense than during May and June when rains tend to be more sporadic and happen in the afternoon.

washed out roads in Isla Holbox, Mexico — Washed out roads on Holbox Island. Photo via Jessie Festa.

Holbox Weather By Month

Here is a look at the Isla Holbox weather by month. The information is based on analyzing the AccuWeather calendars as well as the Climate Data website.

Isla Holbox weather in January

January is a popular month for visiting Holbox because of the sunny weather and clear blue skies. It’s also one of the busiest months on the island when many travelers visit to escape the cold weather up north.

However, it’s also the coldest month in Holbox, with temperatures fluctuating between just below 55°F to 86°F (13°C to 30°C).

Isla Holbox weather in February

February is another popular month for visiting thanks to the dry and mild climate on Isla Holbox.

The first half of February is chillier with temperatures getting down to 57°F (14°C); however, the second half of the month is warmer with temperatures ranging from 63°F to 86°F (17°C to 30°C).

Isla Holbox weather in March

March is when temperatures in Holbox start to increase gradually. Expect temperatures of about 59°F to 90°F (15°C to 32°C).

The high season in Holbox begins to wind down in March, and it’s a good time to score better deals on hotels and tours, especially in the second half of the month.

Isla Holbox weather in April

April is the transition month between winter and summer in Holbox. Temperatures continue to rise during this month to about 70°F to 93°F (21°C to 34°C). April is the last month before the island starts to get very hot and humid.

woman learning on a palm tree on Playa Holbox in Isla Holbox, Mexico — Enjoying sunny days and billowing palms on Holbox Island. Photo via Jessie Festa.

Isla Holbox weather in May

May marks the transition to low season in Holbox. Temperatures continue the upward trend, and you can expect a range of about 74°F to 93°F (23°C to 34°C).

May is also the beginning of the seaweed season in Holbox. Also known as “sargazo” in Spanish or “sargassum”, seaweed is a smelly algae that washes up on many Caribbean beaches from late spring through fall.

Holbox escaped the seaweed issue for awhile; however, in recent years, it started showing up on Holbox beaches.

Isla Holbox weather in June

Check the Holbox Island weather forecast before heading out, as June is the beginning of the rainy season. While temperatures fluctuate from about 74°F to 93°F (23°C to 34°C), humidity and precipitation increase significantly compared to May.

Isla Holbox weather in July

Holbox continues to see rain in July, although it’s typically more occasional than continuous. If you come to Holbox during this time of the year you can still enjoy your trip; but, be prepared for increased chances of showers and muddy roads.

The temperature in Holbox Island at this time ranges from 74°F to 93°F (23°C to 34°C).

Isla Holbox weather in August

The weather in Isla Holbox, Mexico during August is sticky, with humidity levels continuing to rise throughout the month.

Additionally, hurricane season officially kicks off at the end of August—which is also the hottest month of the year in Holbox, with temperatures ranging from 75°F to 93°F (24°C to 34°C).

woman swimming in the clear turquoise waters of the Gulf of Mexico off Playa Holbox in Mexico — Enjoying a swim in Holbox’s warm turquoise waters. Photo via Jessie Festa.

Isla Holbox weather in September

September is the first hurricane month in Holbox when the island experiences drastic changes in weather with heavy rainstorms, gusty winds, and limited opportunities for activities.

During this time, the precipitation averages about 31 inches of rain, and temperatures fluctuate from about 73°F to 91°F (23°C to 33°C).

Isla Holbox weather in October

October is the rainiest month in Holbox, with an average of 48 inches of precipitation. It’s the worst month to visit as many places close down because of the constant rain and lack of visitors.

Temperatures during October in Holbox tend to be between 66°F to 90°F (19°C to 32°C).

Isla Holbox weather in November

November is the end of the rainy season in Holbox when you still see some precipitation; but, there’s more sun and tourism starts to pick up slowly.

Precipitation decreases in November with an average of about 26 inches per month. Temperatures range from about 68°F to 88°F (20°C to 31°C).

In my opinion, this is possibly the best time to visit Holbox, as it’s a shoulder month, meaning you can score deals and the weather is still pleasant.

Isla Holbox weather in December

December is one of the colder months in Holbox and it marks the beginning of the busy winter season. The weather is mostly dry and sunny and temperatures range from about 64°F to 88°F (18°C to 31°C).

Seasons In Holbox

Like the rest of the Yucatán Peninsula, Holbox has two seasons: the dry season and the wet season.

a bird sitting in the mangroves of Holbox Island, Mexico — Rainy season in Holbox offers good opportunities for wildlife watching. Photo via Daria Bachmann.

Holbox rainy season

Pros & cons

The rainy season in Holbox is from June through October. During these months, the island experiences increased precipitation and higher humidity.

If you visit Holbox from June through early August, you can still enjoy outdoor activities, as rains tend to be more sporadic than continuous and usually occur in the afternoon.

Pros:

Lower prices. The rainy season in Holbox is the best time to save money on accommodations, tours, and even street food. Many vendors on the island are willing to haggle at least a bit during this time as there is a limited number of visitors (though try to be mindful of this, too).

Better opportunities for wildlife watching. One of the top things to do in Holbox is spot wild animals. Because the island tends to be less busy from June through October, you can typically spot them more easily.

Fewer crowds. If you don’t want to visit Holbox during the busy season, the summer months are a great alternative, as they are generally quiet due to the lack of crowds.

Cons:

Not much going on. On the other hand, if you are looking for a lively atmosphere, the rainy season might not be the ideal time for your trip to Holbox, because things begin to slow down when June comes around.

Higher chances of rain. If you are visiting Holbox from June through August, expect to see some rain on your visit, and if you are visiting it from September through October, be ready for the chance of a hurricane.

Not the best time to enjoy Holbox. While you can sit out an occasional rain and go back to your activities later, waiting for a hurricane to pass could take a couple of days, which is not ideal, especially if you only have limited time on the island.

double rainbow on Playa Holbox on Isla Holbox, Mexico — The good thing about rain in Holbox is it often leads to rainbows on the beach! Photo via Jessie Festa.

Places to go in Holbox during the rainy season

If you visit Holbox during the rainy season when you can’t always enjoy the beach, consider going to places on the mainland like Valladolid and Merida to explore the culture of the Yucatán.

Valladolid is a designated Pueblo Mágico, famous for its cenotes and pastel-colored architecture. It’s also a gateway to Chichen Itza and you can easily combine the two activities.

Merida is the capital of Yucatán and is known for its rich culture and history. In fact, it’s the cultural hub of the peninsula and is the second-largest city in the region after Cancun. The city boasts an ornate central plaza, several landmarks, and museums.

If you are looking to get some authentic Mexican crafts created by local artisans, there’s no better place than La Casa De Las Artesanias de Yucatan in Merida, a large gallery-style store where you can purchase goods made by Indigenous groups from across Mexico, including Yucatán.

Things to do in Holbox during the rainy season

See Holbox wildlife. While Loreto has whale watching, Holbox has swimming with whale sharks!

If you’re interested in seeing whale sharks or sea turtles, the best time to go to Isla Holbox is July and August, which is peak whale shark season.

This is when these gentle giants migrate to the area to feed on plankton. Adult whale sharks can reach up to 41,000 pounds and up to 33 feet in length.

And while they are huge, swimming next to them is perfectly safe as long as you keep your distance and don’t bother them. When booking a whale shark tour, carefully read other travelers’ reviews to make sure you support an ethical company.

While you have the highest chance of seeing whale sharks during this time of the year, there is never a guarantee. Watch out for companies that make promises or tell you that they follow whale sharks closely. Whale sharks are protected by law, and all tour operators have to maintain a safe distance.

Similarly, sea turtle nesting season occurs from May to September, with peak nesting activity usually in June and July.

Restaurant hop. Isla Holbox is home to many delicious restaurants, some offering trendy vibes and others providing a more local experience. You can even gamify the experience by challenging yourself to find the best tacos on the island.

My personal favorite for this is Barba Negra, which serves up fish and shrimp tacos packed with filling.

chefs on Holbox Island cooking a meal with food sizzling in front of them — Exploring local restaurants is one of the best things to do on Holbox Island. Photo via Daria Bachmann.

Take a cooking class. La Puerta Rosa offers morning, evening, and private cooking classes in Holbox. It’s a great way to immerse yourself in local culture on the island.

Listen to live music. Many of the bars and restaurants on Holbox host live music acts. While you can ask your hotel what’s going on that day or night, you can also simply wander around Holbox Town and let your ear be your guide.

Take a class. Holbox Island is home to a rich wellness culture, so you’ll find options for yoga and fitness classes at places like Samah Wellness and Holbox Yoga (which does yoga on the beach!).

For some cultural fun, you might also take a local salsa class at Che Holbox Hostel & Bar, the local chapter of Salsa Lovers Worldwide, or a local studio.

Get a spa treatment. Speaking of wellness, you can also relax at one of the many spas on the island. A top recommendation includes Aguas Spa, located within the luxurious Hotel Casa Las Tortugas.

Things to pack for the rainy season in Holbox

The rainy season in Holbox Island means you might need to pack some additional gear, including:

Waterproof jacket. This is a must-have in case it starts raining.

Mosquito repellent. Regardless of the season, pack mosquito repellent on your trip to Holbox to avoid bites.

Quick drying clothes. When visiting Holbox during the rainy season, bring lightweight clothes from materials that dry fast.

Swimsuit. While the rainy season brings more precipitation to Holbox, you can still enjoy some water activities and go for a swim. Personally, I love the bathing suits and beach coverups from Kenny Flowers.

Sunscreen. Especially as Isla Holbox is located within the Yum Balam Nature Reserve, it’s important to pack reef-friendly sunscreen for your trip.

brown dog at the Refugio Holbox Animal Sanctuary in Isla Holbox, Mexico — One of the most fun things to do in Holbox any time of year is also visiting Refugio Holbox Animal Sanctuary, a rescue center that takes care of and rehabilitates animals found on the island. Photo via Daria Bachmann.