Mexico › Los Cabos › Cabo in March
Updated: April 11, 2026
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March is one of the busiest and most vibrant months in Los Cabos. It serves as a transition point where the dry desert winter begins to warm up into spring. While the weather is almost universally sunny, March is a month of high energy, peak prices, and a few environmental quirks like the coolest ocean temperatures of the year that can catch unprepared travelers by surprise. It is a fantastic time to visit if you know where to stay to avoid the college crowds or where to find the best whale sightings.
Is March a Good Time to Visit Cabo?
The short answer is yes, provided you have the right expectations. I find March to be the best month for travelers who prioritize active days and a lively atmosphere over total seclusion and bathtub-warm water.
- Best for: Whale watching, reliable sun, golf, and vibrant nightlife.
- Great fit for: Families on spring break, active travelers, and wildlife enthusiasts.
- Less ideal for: Travelers on a strict budget or those seeking the absolute quietest version of Baja.
- The Verdict: It is high season for a reason. You get beautiful air temperatures and the grand finale of the whale season, but you must plan ahead to secure the best spots.
March Weather: The Great Warm-Up
In March, the air begins to warm up significantly compared to the mid-winter months, but it remains very dry. You can go the entire month without seeing a drop of rain.
- Daytime: Expect highs to average around 81°F (27°C). It is warm enough for the beach but not so hot that hiking or golf feels like a chore.
- Evening: Temperatures drop to about 63°F (17°C). The desert air loses its heat quickly once the sun sets, so you will still want a layer for dinner.
- The Wind Factor: March is known for afternoon breezes, often called “El Coruel” winds. This breeze is refreshing on land but can make the Pacific side of the peninsula feel much cooler.
- Visibility: The air is crisp and clear, providing excellent visibility for spotting whales from the shore or for photography at Land’s End.
Can You Swim in Cabo in March?
Yes, you can swim, but you should be aware that the ocean is at its annual low temperature. The water typically averages 70°F to 71°F (21°C). This feels refreshing for a quick dip but can be chilly for extended sessions.
Ocean Swimming: Stick to the protected coves of the Sea of Cortez. Medano Beach is the busiest but safest for swimming. Chileno Bay and Santa Maria are the best for snorkeling, though I recommend wearing a rash guard or a 2mm shorty wetsuit if you want to stay in the water for more than twenty minutes.
Pool Swimming: In March, a heated pool is mandatory. Even though the air is warm, unheated pools have not yet had the chance to warm up from the winter. Most luxury resorts reliably heat their pools to 84°F, which makes all the difference for a relaxing afternoon.
Whale Watching: The Peak for Calves
While the season begins in December, March is a spectacular time for whale watching because the calves are now older and much more active. Humpback and Gray whales are the primary species you will see breaching and playing in the water.
I suggest booking morning boat tours whenever possible. The morning seas are generally much calmer than the afternoons when the March winds pick up. If you are staying in a beachfront resort along the Corridor, keep your binoculars nearby as it is very common to see whales from your balcony throughout the day.
Spring Break and Semana Santa
March crowd levels are driven by two major events: U.S. and Canadian Spring Break, and the Mexican holiday of Semana Santa (Holy Week).
The “party” scene is concentrated almost entirely in downtown Cabo San Lucas and on Medano Beach. If you want to avoid the college crowds, simply stay in San José del Cabo or at a resort in the Tourist Corridor. During Semana Santa, which occasionally falls in late March, beaches become much busier with local families. During this window, restaurant reservations are a must for every single night of your trip.
Best Areas to Stay in March
- San José del Cabo: Best for couples and families who want a sophisticated, authentic vibe. The Thursday Night Art Walk is a major highlight in March.
- The Tourist Corridor: Best for those who want peace and quiet. The resorts here are self-contained and offer the best vantage points for whale watching.
- Cabo San Lucas: Best if you want to be in the heart of the action, close to the marina, and within walking distance of the most swimmable beaches.
What to Pack for March
- Evening Layers: A denim jacket, a hoodie, or a light sweater. You will need this for outdoor dinners and early morning boat trips.
- Sun Protection: The March breeze is deceptive. The sun is intense even if the air feels cool. Use high-SPF broad-spectrum sunscreen and reapply often.
- Moisturizer: The desert air is incredibly dry this month. Bring extra lotion and lip balm.
- Motion Sickness Medication: If you plan to be out on a whale watching boat, the March winds can make the water a bit lively.
Common March Mistakes
- Waiting to Book: Because of the high demand from spring break and domestic travelers, the best captains and restaurants sell out weeks in advance.
- Underestimating the Water Temp: Don’t expect the ocean to feel like a warm bath. It is brisk. If your hotel doesn’t have a heated pool, you will likely spend very little time in the water.
- Ignoring the Pacific Side: The beaches on the Pacific side of Cabo are beautiful for sunsets but are never swimmable due to dangerous rogue waves and undertows.
- Packing Only Beachwear: You will be shivering at dinner if you don’t bring a real jacket for the evenings.
March vs. Other Months
- March vs. January: March is warmer and more energetic. January is quieter and slightly cooler at night.
- March vs. February: March is slightly warmer during the day and offers longer daylight hours, but the water is a degree or two cooler.
- March vs. April: March offers the peak of the whale calf sightings and higher spring break energy, while April sees the whales begin their migration north but rewards travelers with slightly warmer water and calmer afternoon winds.
