Weather in Riviera Maya in September

How September compares

September is the 3rd warmest month of the year in Riviera Maya. Within Mexico it is 2nd of 5 (Mexico in September). Against London's average high of 18.6°C in September, Riviera Maya is 11.0°C warmer by day and 14.4°C warmer at night.

Daytime and night-time in September

The typical September day in Riviera Maya peaks at 29.6°C, but that is an average: the warmest 10% of days reach 30.9°C or more. About 100% of days top 25°C and 1 in 2 pass 30°C. Nights average 25.6°C; one night in ten drops to 24.4°C or lower, so pack a layer for evenings. Between 1991 and 2020 the hottest September day here reached 34.8°C (2016-09-11) and the coldest night 22.6°C (2001-09-30).

Rain in September

Wet (more than 8 rainy days): about 24 days with 1 mm or more, 192 mm in total. Year to year it varies a lot - the wettest September was 2013 with 519 mm, the driest 2012 with 67 mm. Humidity averages 84%, which makes the heat feel heavier than the thermometer suggests.

Sea temperature in September

The sea averages 29.2°C - warm enough to swim (22°c+). Depending on the year it ranges from 28.8°C to 29.7°C. This is the warmest the sea gets here all year.

Sunshine and daylight

Around 4.3 hours of sunshine a day (estimated from cloud cover), 12.1 hours of daylight: the sun rises about 06:36 and sets about 18:52 local time in mid-September. Average cloud cover is 64%.

Is September a good time to visit Riviera Maya?

It is a reasonable choice: hot days but expect showers. The best months for Riviera Maya on our scoring are March, April, February; months averaging 25°C or more: Jan, Feb, Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct, Nov, Dec.

Hot days, sticky evenings and warm seas

The heat is consistent rather than occasional: every day reaches 25°C, and humidity of 84% can make outdoor time feel sticky. Keep midday plans gentle, favour shade and pack loose, breathable clothes. Nights average about 26°C, so do not expect evenings to bring much cooling; air conditioning is a sensible accommodation priority if you struggle to sleep in warmth. The sea averages 29.2°C, making swimming appealing if you dislike a chilly entry, although it will offer less cooling than you might hope. This is a good fit for travellers comfortable with humid heat, rather than those who prefer fresh evenings or energetic days outdoors.

Plan around rain, not guaranteed sunshine

Rain is the main catch in September. About 24 days receive measurable rain, so wet weather should be part of your plans, not treated as an unlikely interruption. That does not mean it rains continuously, but there is no basis for assuming showers will always clear quickly or arrive at a convenient time. Average sunshine is about 4.3 hours within 12.1 hours of daylight: plenty of daylight does not translate into clear skies throughout the day. Pack a light waterproof and keep outdoor plans movable, with somewhere sheltered to spend wet spells. September is less suitable if your holiday depends on long, uninterrupted sunbathing sessions or a tightly planned schedule outdoors.