Cancun is one of the most popular destination wedding locations for Canadian couples — but when should you go?

Choosing your wedding date in the Mayan Riviera isn’t just about your schedule. The season affects weather, crowds, resort availability, and even how your photos will turn out.

Here’s a month-by-month breakdown of what to expect in Cancun — plus when to plan for the best light, comfort, and guest experience.

Cancun destination wedding

Quick Summary: Best Months for a Destination Wedding in Cancun

Season Months Pros Cons
Dry Season (Best) Nov–April Comfortable temps, clear skies Higher cost, more tourists
Shoulder Season May–June Good prices, fewer crowds Start of seaweed season, rising temps
Rainy Season July–Oct Low rates, lush greenery Rain, humidity, hurricane risk

 

If you're still deciding on the region, see Why Choose the Mayan Riviera for Your Destination Wedding for a deep dive into the area's strengths.

Photography by Bennett Murphy-Mills
Photography by Bennett Murphy-Mills

Month-by-Month Breakdown

November – December

Best mix of weather + availability
– Dry season begins
– Pleasant temperatures (25–28°C)
– Great for golden hour portraits
– Resorts start to fill up mid-December → book early

January – February

Peak weather, popular with Canadians
– Cool evenings, minimal rain
– Resorts busy (especially with family groups)
– Higher pricing for travel and packages

March – April

Still dry, more sun hours
– Easter holidays bring crowds and surges
– Great light and ideal for outdoor ceremonies
– Beginning of seaweed season (varies by year)

Read next: Sandos Playacar Horror Story — a real-life reminder why asking resorts about seaweed maintenance matters.

May – June

Hotter, but manageable
– Early summer deals
– Start of seaweed season + higher humidity
– Good window for smaller weddings

July – October

Risky but budget-friendly
– Rainy season and hurricane potential
– Fewer tourists = better privacy
– Excellent resort rates
– Consider symbolic ceremony only (flexible weather backup required)

Planning tip: How to Plan an All-Inclusive Destination Wedding includes advice on booking during shoulder seasons and negotiating flexibility.

Photographer Insight

“I always recommend golden hour shoots in winter months — the light is cooler, clearer, and less intense than summer.”

If you’re worried about light or timeline issues, consider adding a day-after session for more flexibility and better lighting.

Wedding Photography by Cojo Photo
Photography by Cojo Photo

What About Seaweed Season (Sargassum)?

– Peaks April through August
– Varies by year and resort maintenance
– Some beaches remain clear, others don’t
– Consider off-beach photo sessions or inland cenotes

You can avoid disappointment by asking the right questions before booking. Here’s what to ask your resort before you sign that contract.

How the Season Affects Your Photos

  • Winter months: Soft, flattering light and cooler tones
  • Summer months: Brighter light, deeper shadows, and more sweat (you’ve been warned)
  • Cloudy/rainy days: Moody, romantic images — if you have a skilled photographer

Why You Should Bring a Canadian Photographer explains why hiring someone experienced with Cancun conditions is worth it.

Wedding Photography by Black & Gold Photography
Photography by Black & Gold Photography

Tips for Choosing the Right Date

  • Cross-check your date with Canadian long weekends (travel surges)
  • Check resort blackout dates or event minimums
  • Avoid spring break crowds if you want privacy
  • Use historical weather data, but plan for flexibility

For help organizing all of this, our Destination Wedding Timeline Guide walks you through what to do, when.

Choosing the right date = better photos, happier guests, and fewer surprises.

Want expert help timing your wedding around light, weather, and travel?
Hire a Canadian photographer who knows the Cancun wedding calendar inside and out.