places to visit in mexico in august

Mexico in August: Weather Info & Best Places to Visit [2024]

Planning a trip to Mexico in August?

You’re in the right place for info because I live in Mexico , and I’m going to share everything I know about visiting Mexico in August with you!

As a year-round destination, you can visit Mexico anytime, but August is only ideal for certain places — which you’re about to discover.

In this article, you’ll learn about some of the common places to visit in Mexico in August , including Cancun, Mexico City and Cabo San Lucas (Los Cabos).

The destinations highlighted include info about the weather in Mexico in August , and other special events in August.

Ready to learn all about traveling to Mexico in August? Let’s get to it!

Mexico in august Weather

Typical mexico august weather.

You’re likely wondering, What is the weather like in Mexico in August? — so you can plan the best trip possible.

I hate to be the bearer of bad news, but Mexico weather in August is less-than-ideal, though that shouldn’t deter you from traveling to Mexico in August.

August is smack dab in the middle of the rainy season in Mexico.

In fact, if there’s one thing you can expect from Mexican weather in August — it’s rain. Now, some areas are less rainy than others, and since the weather isn’t great, prices tend to come down a bit.

• When is the Mexico rainy season? The rainy season in Mexico runs from about May to October.
• When is the Mexico busy season? The busy season in Mexico runs from about November to April. If you don’t mind some rain, the rainy season is also the slow season in Mexico — which means fewer crowds and lower price tags.

Average temperatures in Mexico in August

There is no set temperature in Mexico in August, because temperatures fluctuate a lot from one part of the country to the other.

In general, expect a lot of precipitation and high temperatures — as you would with any tropical destination in August. The beaches in Mexico on the coast are much hotter than the cities in Central Mexico, like Mexico City , Guadalajara and San Miguel de Allende .

However, the cities are still on the hotter side, and you can expect afternoon showers on most days in Central Mexican cities.

Mexico Travel Tips : If you hate the heat, head indoors and soak up the air conditioning during the hottest parts of the day, from about 11am-2pm. To enjoy the low temperatures, do all your indoor activities in the afternoons.

Visiting Mexico in august

10 best places to visit in mexico in august.

Wondering where to go in Mexico in August?

Provided you don’t mind a little rain, you can really visit anywhere you’d like. Below you will find a list of the Top 10 places to travel in Mexico in August , with some information about what to expect in each one.

1. Cancun in August

For more information on visiting Cancun Mexico, check out this Cancun Travel Guide .

Cancun is the top travel destination in Mexico, and even though the weather isn’t ideal in August, that doesn’t stop people from visiting.

You will want to make sure you’re staying hydrated , because as you’ll see below that the weather in Cancun in August can be brutally hot 🥵

Summers in Cancun are popular with families, because they bring the kids during summer break — so book your family-friendly Cancun all inclusive resorts early.

If you want to visit when there are less families and small kids, opt for the last two weeks in August, when kids are back in school.

☀️ Looking for the best things to do in Cancun in August? Don’t miss swimming in the Cancun cenotes , and the Mayan Ruins in Cancun .

What’s the average humidity in Cancun in August?

There is no way to sugarcoat this, so I won’t try. The Cancun humidity in August averages about 80% — so put clothing that doesn’t show sweat on your Mexico packing list !

It is quite muggy in Cancun in August, so plan for water activities during the day to escape the heat.

Wondering, What’s the average temperature in Cancun in August?

You can expect about 95°F (35°C) during the day, and 80°F (29°C) at night. In short: It’s hot! Don’t forget to stay hydrated with this Water-To-Go bottle , and even this misting fan to cool your skin.

Swim With the Whale sharks in Cancun

Whale sharks are sharks , but they are a docile and harmless variety, similar to a nurse shark. They are also the largest fish in the sea at about 40- to 50-feet-long (12m-15m)!

Cancun Whale Shark Season runs from about June to September, but July and August are the best months — so book your Cancun Whale Shark tour now, because they do sell out.

Does it rain all day in Cancun in August?

Usually, no. It will typically rain for an hour in the afternoon, and then the sun will come back out. You should expect daily rain, but regular storms pass quickly.

If you happen to be visiting during a tropical depression, tropical storm, or even hurricane, then yes, it might rain all day. 

RELATED ARTICLE 🏖️ Cancun in August: Weather Info and Travel Tips

Atlantic Hurricane Season begins on June 1 (it runs June 1 to November 30), so there’s definitely a possibility of a hurricane in August. However, direct hit hurricanes inn Cancun are rare.

By no means is August the wettest month in Cancun, but there’s always a chance of rain anywhere on the Mexican coast.

Cancun Weather in August

2. Mexico City in August

For more information on visiting Mexico City, check out this Mexico City Travel Guide .

Considering a Mexico City August trip?

Not many know this, but the winters in Mexico City are on the colder side, so if you don’t like the cold, August is a great month to visit Mexico City. You can expect some afternoon showers on most days, but it rarely rains all day.

One of the world’s biggest cities, right up there with New York City, there are plenty of indoor things to do in Mexico City when it rains.

Start the day with a nice breakfast or brunch, then head to some of the best museums in Mexico City in the afternoons. From the museum, enjoy some tacos at the best restaurants in Mexico City .

By then, the rains should have passed, and you’ll enjoy the Mexico City nightlife in peace. Looking for the best things to do in Mexico City at night?! You must see a Lucha Libre wrestling match!

What’s the best time to visit Mexico City?

This will depend on your preferences, but the rainy season is from about April to October, so many want to avoid that.

It doesn’t usually rain too much in Mexico City, but if you want sunny days everyday on your trip, visit in the dry season from November to March.

🦋 Monarch Butterfly Season in Mexico: One of the best experiences is visiting the Piedra Herrada Butterfly Sanctuary during the annual butterfly migration in Mexico, from late-November to March.

Book a Mexico butterfly tour to see millions of butterflies in the mountains near Mexico City. On a personal note — I lived in Mexico City for a while, and my favorite time to visit is March during jacaranda season, when all the purple jacaranda flowers are in bloom.

The winters are too cold for my liking, so months like August are nice because you get warm days and mild, cool nights.

Weather in Mexico City in August

Visiting Mexico in August

3. cabo san lucas in august.

For more information on visiting Cabo San Lucas, check out this Cabo Travel Guide .

Cabo San Lucas and nearby San Jose del Cabo are located in the Los Cabos Municipality. In Spanish, los cabos means “the capes,” (as cabo means “cape”). These are the top two destinations in Los Cabos Mexico.

Cabo San Lucas is the more popular of the two Cabos, though the airport you’ll fly into is in San Jose del Cabo, about 40 minutes away.

With a more relaxed vibe, San Jose del Cabo offers a nice alternative to lively Cabo San Lucas , so some travelers stay there.

With warmer weather all year, Cabo is a great place to visit year-round — with the exception of two months: August and September.

Being a beachy desert, it may not rain all that much, but you will likely have cloudy gray skies instead of sunny blue skies. If that will ruin your trip, plan your Cabo vacation for October.

Besides the rain and clouds, August is on the hotter side in Cabo, and daily average temperatures hover around 92°F (33°C); but it’s a beach town, so you can just hop in your Cabo beach resort pool for a refreshing swim.

Cabo Weather in August

4. Tulum in August

For more information on visiting Tulum Mexico, check out this Tulum Travel Guide .

Once a sleepy beach town, Tulum is now one of the most popular and best places to visit in Mexico . In recent years, it has also become one of the most expensive .

Since August is one of the Tulum slow season months, you will find some of the best deals on Tulum resorts in August.

Weather-wise, it will likely rain for a bit each afternoon. However, if you’re planning to travel to Tulum on a budget , your money will stretcher further in the summer.

Since the Tulum weather in August isn’t perfect, less people visit, so there will be smaller crowds.

With the money you can save visiting Tulum in the slow season, you may even want to extend your trip beyond Mexico and into Central America.

Just a few hours south of Tulum, you can do a land crossing into Belize near Lake Bacalar, Mexico . 

Tulum Weather in August

5. Oaxaca in August

For more information on visiting Oaxaca Mexico, check out this Oaxaca Travel Guide .

🗣 Before we talk about visiting Oaxaca in August, let’s clear up the Oaxaca pronunciation. If you’re wondering, How do you pronounce Oaxaca? , it’s waa-haa-kah. With that cleared up, let’s continue!

Oaxaca State is one of the most culturally-rich places in Mexico and all Latin America.

Oaxaca City, the capital of Oaxaca State, is well known as the Foodie Capital of Mexico thanks to its delicious Oaxacan cuisine . There’s also and colorful festivals, like Day of the Dead and the Guelaguetza .

When most people say “Oaxaca,” they are referring to Oaxaca City (AKA Oaxaca de Juarez) , in the central part of the state.

The beaches of Oaxaca , like Puerto Escondido , Mazunte , Zipolite and Huatulco , are also popular, but they are located on the Pacific Coast.

Oaxaca City weather is more of a desert-like climate, versus the beaches that are quite tropical. Though a desert, Oaxaca City does have a rainy season that runs from about May to September. It shouldn’t rain too much, but expect afternoon showers.

Oaxaca Weather in August

6. Riviera Maya in August

The Riviera Maya is located between Cancun and Playa del Carmen, in the Yucatán Peninsula.

It is the most posh area in Yucatan, where you’ll find many of the best resorts in Mexico and even the nicest Mexico overwater bungalows .

Given its location, you can expect similar weather to Cancun, Tulum and Playa del Carmen, which is to say: hot!

Of course, you’ll be right on the Caribbean Sea, so you’ll likely have a nice breeze from time to time, but you can also jump in the sea to cool off.

🏝 Costa Maya Mexico Weather in June : Located about 3.5 hours south of Riviera Maya, you’ll be in the beach town of Mahahual, Mexico on the Costa Maya. The weather will be similar to Riviera Maya, but the vibe is much more laid back.

Besides the Caribbean, there are so many other places to cool off and swim near Riviera Maya.

From the cenotes in Tulum and cenotes near Cancun , both close to Riviera Maya, you also have water parks like Xcaret and Xel-Ha , and underground rivers, like Rio Secreto .

For a truly memorable experience, head about 40 minutes south to the beach town of Akumal .

It’s just south of Tulum, and one of the more up-and-coming Mexico resort towns. However, the real claim to fame is that you can swim with the turtles in Akumal Beach .

riviera maya weather in august

7. Puerto Vallarta in August

For more information on visiting Puerto Vallarta Mexico, check out this Puerto Vallarta Travel Guide .

Puerto Vallarta is one of the safest cities in Mexico , and best beach towns in Mexico.

It appeals to all types of travelers, from solo travelers to honeymooners, families and LGBTQ+ travelers — as Puerto Vallarta is the gay capital of Mexico, or the San Francisco of Mexico.

If you’re looking to go on a cruise to Mexico in August, see if there are any to Puerto Vallarta. A top destination for cruises in Mexico, there’s no shortage of things to do in Puerto Vallarta when you venture off-boat.

🏝 Sayulita in August : Located about one hour from Puerto Vallarta, many visit or even take a day trip to Sayulita, Mexico . This bohemian beach town has the same weather as Puerto Vallarta in June, and it’s absolutely worth checking out.

On one side of the city, there’s Bahía Banderas (Bay of Banderas), a tranquil inlet off the Pacific Ocean great for swimming, snorkeling , and whale watching (winter only).

The Sierra Madre mountains are located just behind the beach, so you really get the best of all worlds.

As with all Mexico beaches in August, you can expect hot, humid weather, and rain showers in the afternoons.

The showers usually pass quickly, and then you can go back to enjoying all the Old World charm, beautiful nature, and best beaches Puerto Vallarta has to offer.

Puerto Vallarta Weather in August

8. Playa del Carmen in August

For more information on visiting Playa del Carmen Mexico, check out this Playa del Carmen Travel Guide .

Though some call Playa del Carmen the mini-Cancun, it’s a destination in its own right. Now, to get there, you do have to travel from Cancun to Playa del Carmen (or just “Playa,” as the locals call it), but it’s just a one hour drive.

Once you arrive in Playa, it’s much more of a beach town than Cancun, which is a resort town.

Now, there are some beautiful resorts in Playa del Carmen , but it has a small town feel. It’s much more walkable than Cancun, which is great because there’s no Uber in Playa del Carmen .

What these two places do share, being so close to one another, is their weather .

Much like Cancun, you can expect hot, humid days, and rain in the afternoons. The best plan of action when traveling to Playa del Carmen in August is to be indoors, or in water, in the afternoons.

If you want to visit any of the nearby Mayan Ruins in Mexico , arrive early in the morning when they open, and you’ll be done touring the site by the time the rain rolls in.

When in the Yucatan Peninsula, don’t miss Chichen Itza Pyramids — one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.

Playa del Carmen Weather in august

9. Puerto Escondido in August

For more information on visiting Puerto Escondido Mexico and all the best beaches of Oaxaca, check out this Oaxaca Beaches Travel Guide .

Located on the Pacific Coast of Mexico, Puerto Escondido is the most famous of all Oaxaca Beaches.

It is popular with surfers, artists, backpackers, and solo travelers in Mexico , but there’s really something for everyone in “Puerto,” as the locals call it.

🏄‍♀️ Want to learn to surf in Puerto Escondido? Book some surfing lessons in August, one of the best months for waves in Puerto Escondido.

Many visitors start in the city, then make the Oaxaca to Puerto Escondido journey, for a complete Oaxaca state trip. There are so many things to do in Puerto Escondido , however, that you can easily spend your whole trip there.

While you might have afternoon rain showers in the city, it’s almost a guarantee in Puerto Escondido. The good news is there’s so many water activities that the rain may not even put a damper on your trip.

When in town, spend some time at each of the best beaches in Puerto Escondido , like Playa Zicatela, Playa Bacocho, Playa La Punta, Playa Puerto Angel and Playa Carrizalillo .

Take a Puerto Escondido boat tour out to see the dolphins that hang out just off-shore. When the sun is going down, join a baby turtle release experience to send these adorable creatures into the sea for the first time.

At night, head to Manialtepec Lagoon to see the bioluminescence.

Puerto Escondido Weather in August

10. Cozumel in August

🚢 Planning to take a Mexico cruise in August? Cozumel Island is one of the best Mexico cruise ports, especially for snorkelers and divers.

Cozumel is a Mexican Caribbean island, located about 30 minutes by ferry from Playa del Carmen. There are also flights to Cozumel, and you can land right on the island at Cozumel International Airport.

It’s also quite easy to travel from Cancun to Cozumel .

Some say Cozumel is the best place for snorkeling in Mexico, and the best place for diving in Mexico as well. Just off-shore, there’s the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, the second largest coral reef in the world, after the Great Barrier Reef.

There are plenty of ways to see the reef, even if you don’t want to swim.

That’s right, the Cozumel Submarine Tour is an unforgettable experience to see these coral reefs in an actual submarine. Cozumel also has beautiful beaches, and Mayan Ruins as well.

Of course, you will likely get rain when traveling to Cozumel in August. However, the vast majority of all the best things to do in Cozumel involve being in, on or near the Caribbean Sea, so that makes the afternoon showers tolerable.  

Cozumel Weather in August

Weather in Mexico in August: FAQs

What’s the best time of year to visit mexico.

Weather-wise, the best time to travel to Mexico is from November to March.

This is during the dry season, when you’ll see very little (if any) rain, low humidity, and few mosquitoes . This is also the high or busy season in Mexico, when most people visit.

For travelers who want to escape the crowds, the summer months will give you the most bang for your buck.

In August, you’ll see flight prices drop and get deals at many hotels. If you want to treat yourself to a fancy resort in Mexico, you’ll likely find the best deals in August.

When is the shoulder season in Mexico?

The shoulder season is a magical time when the weather is still nice, but the crowds have died down, and the prices have as well. It takes place just as the busy season is about to begin, and right after it ends.

For my money, this is the best time to visit Mexico! The Mexico shoulder season includes the months of October to November and April to May; though May is the hottest month in Mexico.

You may still find great Mexico travel deals in other months, but you likely won’t find low prices or small crowds anytime during the busy season.

How hot is it in Mexico in August?

You might want to know, Is it too hot to go to Mexico in August?

This answer is a matter of preference, but in short: It is pretty hot in Mexico in August. If you don’t like tropical weather, Mexico in November will be a much more enjoyable month for you.

❄️ Mexico Fun Fact : The coldest city in Mexico is the small pueblo of Ciudad Madera, Chihuahua, located in North Mexico. Ciudad Madera sees a few inches of snow each year.

August is one of the hottest months in Mexico, especially if you’re visiting the Mexico beach towns . Average temperatures in Mexico in August hover around 90°F (32°C) on the beaches, but it can feel a few degrees hotter because of the humidity.

Is it sunny in Mexico in August?

Yes — It tends to be sunny in Mexico year-round, summers included.

Since summer is the rainy season in Mexico, the sun will come and go, depending on if there’s a storm or not. Do know that even if a storm rolls in, the sun usually comes back out in an hour or so. 

What is the average temperature in Mexico in August?

If you’re wondering what to expect from the average weather in Mexico in August, it’s likely to be hot, humid and rainy.

If you’re visiting Mexico City and/or Central Mexico, the temperatures will cool down considerably at night, but this isn’t the case on the beaches.

For Mexico beaches , you can expect 95°F days (35°C) and 85°F nights (29°C). With the humidity factored in, it might even feel hotter.

Inland, the cities of Mexico are considerably cooler, so plan for 80°F days (26°C) and 65°F nights (18°C).

When is Mexico Hurricane Season?

Mexico has about 5,800 miles (9330 km) of coastline, so there’s a lot of places susceptible to hurricanes.

⛈ Atlantic Hurricane Season runs from June 1 to November 30 , and with so many popular beach towns, you’ll want to be aware when visiting Mexico beaches in August.

What are the best beaches in Mexico in August?

I hate to be the bearer of bad news, but all beaches in Mexico will have about the same weather in August — hot, humid, rainy, and buggy .

That’s not to say people still don’t visit Mexico in August; they absolutely do. The thing you must do, however, is manage your expectations.

The Pacific Coast beaches (Puerto Vallarta and Sayulita ), Caribbean beaches (Cancun, Riviera Maya, Tulum and Playa del Carmen) and Yucatan beaches (Progreso, El Cuyo) will be much more humid than the beaches in Baja California .

Now, August is the rainy season in Los Cabos, but you still usually have the best guarantee of sunshine there.

Baja California is a peninsula located on Mexico’s west coast. It has two states, Baja California and Baja California Sur, and some of the best beaches in Mexico.

Besides Cabo San Lucas, some other great Baja beach towns include La Paz, Todos Santos, Loreto, San Jose del Cabo and Rosarito.

Should I go to Mexico in August?

It Depends — As long as you know you will likely get rain, maybe even daily showers, your Mexico August trip won’t be ruined.

The beaches are still a bit crowded the first two weeks of the month, but the last two are much less busy because most kids have gone back to school.

Can you go to Mexico in August?

Yes — For Mexico budget travelers, it’s actually one of the best times to visit, because August is the off-season, or slow season, when you can find cheap Mexico travel deals.

If you’ve had your eye on any posh, 5 Star Mexico resorts, you should find great promotions in August.

Are there any major Mexico holidays in August?

While there are a lot of holidays in Mexico , there aren’t any major Mexican holidays in August.

In smaller towns and pueblos magicos (which means “magical small towns”), you’ll find minor celebrations like the Feast of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary on August 15.

Are there mosquitoes in Mexico in August?

Yes — The mosquitoes are at their worst in Mexico in the summer months.

You’ll want to pack insect repellent and wear it all day; I recommend this eco-friendly mosquito spray from Repel, or this combo reef-safe sunscreen/mosquito repellent from Bullfrog.

Final Thoughts: Traveling to Mexico in August

If you’re going to Mexico in August, just be prepared for some afternoon showers and higher temperatures, and you’ll do just fine.

The great thing about August Mexico weather is that though you’ll have rain, the storms tend to pass quickly, and the sun comes back out.

What’s the best place to visit in Mexico in August? In my opinion, Mexico City would be best. If you like venturing a bit off the beaten path, there’s also Guanajuato City .

Another one of the best things about summer in Mexico is that you’ll likely have smaller crowds, since it’s the off-season.

Mexico in August weather is definitely hot, but if you plan to be indoors in the afternoon, or in the water swimming, the weather won’t bother you too much.

If Mexico in August isn’t for you…

After reading this, you might have come to the conclusion that visiting Mexico in August just isn’t for you.

If so, check out these other articles about visiting Mexico during other months of the year — though know the weather in Mexico in July and September isn’t much cooler.

• Mexico in January
• Mexico in February
• Mexico in March
• Mexico in April
• Mexico in May
• Mexico in June
• Mexico in July
• Mexico in August
• Mexico in September
• Mexico in October
• Mexico in November
• Mexico in December

Mexico Travel Planning Guide

Should i buy mexico travel insurance.

YES — With basic coverage averaging just $5-10 USD per day, enjoy peace of mind with a plan from Travel Insurance Master , one of the biggest names in travel insurance. ( Read more )

Can you drink the water in Mexico?

No — You’ll want to buy this Water-To-Go Bottle , which filters your drinking water so you don’t get sick from drinking water in Mexico.

Also, it helps keep you hydrated while traveling Mexico. ( Read more )

Is it safe to rent a car in Mexico?

Yes — Renting a car in Mexico is one of the best ways to see the country! I always rent with Discover Cars , which checks international companies and local Mexican companies, so you get the best rates. ( Read more )

Will my phone work in Mexico?

Maybe — It depends on your company, so check with your provider. If you don’t have free Mexico service, buy a Telcel SIM Card . As Mexico’s largest carrier, Telcel has the best coverage of any Mexico SIM Cards. ( Read more )

What’s the best way to book my Mexico accommodations?

For Mexico hotels, Booking.com is the best site , but for hostels, use Hostel World . If you’re considering a Mexico Airbnb, don’t forget to check VRBO , which is often cheaper than Airbnb.

What do I pack for Mexico?

Head to the Ultimate Mexico Packing List + FREE Checklist Download to get all the info you need on packing for Mexico.

What’s the best site to buy Mexico flights?

For finding cheap Mexico flights, I recommend using Skyscanner .

Do I need a visa for Mexico?

Likely Not — U.S., Canadian and European Passport holders don’t need a visa for Mexico; but check here to see if you need a Mexico travel visa. Most travelers will get a 180-Day FMM Tourist Visa passport stamp a upon arrival.

Journey To Mexico

Your Travel Guide To Mexico

Mexico In August: Weather, Things To Do And Travel Tips

August is a great month to visit Mexico on a budget. Mexico’s slow season, which begins this month, is a great time to take advantage of lower rates for travel there. During August, you should be able to find great deals on luxurious, 5-star Mexico resorts .

Typically, in southern Mexico , August is known for its high humidity and high temperatures while it’s hotter and drier in the north. With only two hurricanes occurring in the last 30 years, August is a safe time to visit the country.

However, be prepared for some afternoon showers and higher temperatures if you plan to visit Mexico in August. This month is still a great time to visit Mexico because, despite the rain, there are plenty of destinations to enjoy that offer a variety of activities.

Things you'll find in this article

The temperature in Mexico in August

Rain in mexico in august, wind in mexico in august, 1. visit cancun, 2. see the “petrified waterfalls” of hierve el agua, 3. snorkel in cozumel, 4. relax in playa del carmen, 5. spend a weekend in puerto vallarta, 6. sample the best mexican dishes on a food tour, travel tips and resources.

Related Read: 

• Mexico in January
• Mexico in February
• Mexico in March
• Mexico in April
• Mexico in May
• Mexico In June

Weather in Mexico in August

In August, Northern Mexico experiences high temperatures, while the remainder of the nation experiences warm temperatures and rain. Although the formal start of hurricane season was in June, the months of August and October are often the most active months for hurricanes. This is something to think about, however, it depends on the part of Mexico you’ll be visiting.

In August, the daily high temperatures in Mexico are around 74°F, while daily low temperatures are around 56°F.

The month of August is part of the wet season in Mexico and has an average rainfall of 171 millimeters (6.7in). It rains for a total of 21 days every single month on average.

During August, the average hourly wind speed in Mexico City is nearly steady, remaining within 0.1 miles per hour of 4.3 miles per hour.

Things To Do in Mexico in August

August in Mexico can be difficult to navigate due to the weather, which helps explain why tourists typically try to avoid traveling to this country during this time of year. Despite this, there are a surprising number of excellent locations and activities that may be crammed into even a short visit to this diverse and beautiful country.

The following is a list of the top tourist destinations and things to do in Mexico in August.

People continue to flock to Cancun in August although the weather isn’t particularly pleasant. This is because Cancun is the most popular tourist destination in all of Mexico .

However, make sure that you are drinking plenty of water since the temperature in Cancun in August may reach intolerable highs.

Known for its stunning beaches , diverse culinary scene, vibrant nightlife, and luxurious accommodations, Cancun is a popular destination for families during the summer months. If you plan to visit in August, you should make your reservations for an all-inclusive resort in Cancun early.

If you wish to go during a time when there are fewer families with young children, the best time to go is the last two weeks of August, when most children have already returned to school.

Related Read

• Mexico In July
• Mexico In September
• Mexico In October
• Mexico In November
• Mexico in December

Oaxaca is the state in Mexico that is home to the breathtaking natural attraction known as Hierve el Agua, which features a series of petrified waterfalls.

The natural travertine rock formations known as Hierve el Agua can be found in San Lorenzo Albarradas, Oaxaca, Mexico.

The so-called “petrified waterfalls” that are located on the cliffs that overlook Oaxaca’s Tecolutla Valley are, in reality, a collection of natural rock formations that come together to make a breathtaking panorama.

Although it could be challenging to get to Hierve El Agua from Oaxaca City without going on a tour, the adventure will be well worth it in the end.

Without a doubt, Hierve El Agua is one of the best places to visit in Mexico in August if you’re after a unique experience.

To book this tour click here.

Are you planning on taking a cruise in Mexico this August? Scuba and snorkeling enthusiasts will find Cozumel Island to be one of Mexico’s greatest cruise ports, making it one of the best things to do this time of the year.

Playa del Carmen’s ferry ride to the Caribbean island of Cozumel takes roughly 30 minutes. Cozumel is one of Mexico’s top snorkeling and diving destinations, with some of the greatest marine life to be found anywhere.

The Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, the second-largest coral reef in the world after the Great Barrier Reef, can be found just off the coast of the Yucatan Peninsula. Beautiful beaches and ancient Mayan ruins are also among the best things to see in Cozumel.

However, when visiting Cozumel in August, be prepared for rain. Still, since so many of Cozumel’s top attractions are located on, near, or in the sea, the afternoon showers are manageable.

Playa del Carmen is often referred to as “Cancun’s little sister,” but it’s a destination in and of itself. Cancun is just a short boat ride away from this popular tourist destination, though, so may want to visit there as well.

Playa del Carmen is also home to numerous stunning resorts, but the town itself is smaller and easier to get around in. Expect hot, humid days and afternoon showers in Playa del Carmen in the summer months.

If you are visiting in August, the ideal Playa del Carmen Itinerary involves activities by the sea, visiting nearby ruins, and swimming in cenotes.

Early in the morning is the best time to see any of the Mayan ruins or go to cenotes near Playa del Carmen, and you’ll be done by the time the rain arrives.

In addition to being one of Mexico’s safest cities , Puerto Vallarta also happens to be one of the top Mexican beach towns to visit in August.

Puerto Vallarta is the queer capital of Mexico , or the San Francisco of Mexico, and as such, it attracts a diverse range of guests, including couples on their honeymoon, families, and those who identify as LGBTQ+.

Look at Puerto Vallarta cruises in August if you’re planning a trip to Mexico. When you step ashore at Puerto Vallarta, one of Mexico’s most popular cruise ports, you won’t be short of things to do.

Baha Banderas (Bay of Banderas) is a quiet inlet off the Pacific Ocean on the city’s western outskirts, where visitors can go swimming, snorkeling, and whale watching.

Tacos and burritos are hardly the tips of the iceberg when it comes to authentic Mexican cuisine . According to area, flavor, and ingredients, Mexican cuisine differs greatly. This diversity in culinary heritage classification has never before been granted to a cuisine other than Mexican.

Mexico is a foodie’s dream come true and a must experience when you visit in August. Rather than bouncing from restaurant to restaurant, why not join a culinary tour? You can learn a lot about a country’s culture and its food by taking a food tour.

You’ll probably eat both on the street and in a restaurant while you’re here. You’ll also get the inside scoop on some of the area’s best-kept secrets.

Other foodie destinations that you can look at for food tours are Merida , Monterrey , Puebla , Puerto Vallarta , Oaxaca City , and San Miguel de Allende.

Book your tour online here. 

Travel Tips for Mexico in August

● Traveling to Mexico in August means braving the rain as well as the high temperatures. Remember to bring a rain jacket and an umbrella with you, as well as light clothing when you go on vacation.

● A good pair of walking shoes that are both durable and comfy is also recommended. You’ll be doing a lot of walking in Mexico, so make sure you’re prepared with comfortable footwear.

● Bring sunscreen and wear it whenever you go out. August may get a lot of rain, but the heat can still be unforgiving. Wear sunscreen even if it’s overcast.

Travel Insurance: I never leave home without travel insurance. My personal opinion is if you can afford to travel, you can afford to buy a travel insurance. All things can happen while on the road and you can never be too sure. And it's something that you'll be glad to have when you need it. For my preferred travel insurance, I use Safety Wing .

Where To Stay: I personally use Booking.com for all my accommodations. Check out for their latest deals here .

Hola! Que tal? I'm Christine, a Filipina but in love with Mexico. I used to live in Central America and Mexico is my favorite. Love tacos, tequila, and margarita.

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Mexico in August: Beaches Beckon

• ~ mins read

It is hot and rainy in Mexico in August, with some of the highest temperatures of the year, especially in southern Mexico, and there is a possibility of hurricanes too. Given the weather condition, it is best to include a lot of water-based activities in your itinerary if you are traveling to places like the Yucatán Peninsula and Baja California. Having said that, some of the best places to visit with plenty of things to do in Mexico in August are Guadalupe Island, where you can see great white sharks; the pretty beaches of La Paz; Tulum, with its laid back vibes and snorkeling opportunities; and Mexico City, the country’s political and cultural capital. So make sure to not miss out on them while planning your Mexican vacation . 

• Georgina Lowe
• From England

Mexico Weather in August

The mercury shoots through the roof across most places in Mexico in August. Cancun, one of the most popular destinations among holidaymakers in the country, sees an average high of 34°C and an average low of 25°C. Though it does rain in this area, it will not hamper your day out on the beach. Similarly, temperatures in Tulum range from 26°C to 32°C. By comparison, Mexico City’s weather is pleasant during this time of year, with temperatures hovering between 11.3°C to 22°C.

In general, the Pacific coast sees more rain in August compared with other parts of the country. Also, keep an eye on the weather report for storms if your trip falls during this month as this is a hurricane season. For an in-depth seasonal overview, check out our travel guide on the best time to visit Mexico . 

Weather in Mexico in August - Rainfall and Temperatures

Why visit mexico in august.

Despite high temperatures and humidity levels, there are some good reasons to visit Mexico in August . Check out a few of them below.

• Low costs: August is a low tourist season in Mexico. Book a trip for this month and you can get excellent deals on hotel tariffs and air travel.
• Fewer people: Few travelers mean more breathing space inside museums and attractions along with fewer queues. Explore Oaxaca , or  discover Mexico City without being surrounded by massive crowds.
• Waterway: Soaring temperatures and high humidity levels make August an ideal month to indulge in water-based activities. Whether it is scuba diving during a La Paz tour , swimming with whale sharks while visiting Cancun , or liveaboard-diving off Guadalupe, there are plenty of activities to choose from.
• Pleasant capital: Mexico City’s weather in August is ideal for a walking tour of the city . Plus, with fewer travelers, you have highlighted for yourself. Make sure that you delve deep into the history of this city during a trip to Mexico in August.
• Festivities galore: Mexico’s August calendar has a fascinating lineup of events and festivals. Some of the top-rated ones include Encuentro Internacional del Mariachi y de la Charreria, which features mariachi music, performances and parades in Guadalajara; Fiestas de la Vendimia in Guadalupe Valley, which includes visits to wineries, great food, wine tastings and music; and Exposicion Nacional de Artesanias, where Mexican artisans display their work.

Where to go and what to do

Dealing with the weather in Mexico in August can be a challenge—and that explains why tourists tend to avoid coming here this month—but despite that, you can pack in a surprisingly large number of superb destinations and activities. Besides the top sights within the city, the areas around Mexico City are also worth exploring. In particular, do not miss out on a trip to the stunning ruins of Teotihuacan , a Unesco World Heritage site, and the beautiful canals and floating gardens of Xochimilco, where you can go on boat cruises.

If you are planning on visiting Cancun , you should be aware that its weather is admittedly on the hotter side, but this also means that you can laze on the beaches in the mornings and early evenings. Dive into the otherworldly cenotes of Playa del Carmen and marvel at the ancient Mayan ruins of Chichen Itza. Take a trip to Tulum , the quiet resort town about 130 kilometers to the south of Cancun, where you can pamper yourself in a wellness center, enjoy laid-back beaches, dive into the ocean to cool off, and explore Mayan ruins. If you are a party animal, do not worry. Tulum has DJs and nightclubs, too. Head for the isolated Guadalupe Island if you wish to get away from crowds. Soak up its awe-inspiring landscape and see magnificent great white sharks while cage-diving.

What to bring

In addition to heat, you will have to contend with rains while traveling to Mexico in August. Make sure that you pack lots of light, comfortable clothes, ample beachwear, a rain jacket, and an umbrella. A sturdy pair of walking shoes will also come in handy.

 Take advantage of a low tourist season with a trip to Mexico in August. If you want more ideas to plan your trip, take a peek at our travel guide on  how many days to spend in Mexico . We would recommend a  10-day stay  for the ideal trip but if you have limited time in your schedule, you could opt for a  7-day itinerary  so that you don't miss out on any of the must-see highlights. Our local travel experts in the country can help you design a personalized itinerary to Mexico . 

So look no further to start planning your trip to Mexico in August .

Our other similar travel guides that may interest you:

Mexico in July

Mexico in September

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Mexico Weather in August

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August marks the zenith of the tropical summer in Mexico . Along the coastal regions, from the Caribbean to the Pacific, the weather is hot and humid with daytime temperatures averaging around 28-32°C (82-90°F). Mexico City is milder and more pleasant than the balmy coast and can provide a useful respite from the heat. While August might see occasional rainfall, it's generally limited, allowing travellers to pack lightly. Want to know all about the weather in Mexico in August? Keep reading as we share all our tips.

What is the weather like in Mexico in August?

Is mexico warm in august, is august a good time to visit mexico, average rainfall in mexico in august, festivals and events in mexico in august, visit mexico in other months, tailor-made travel itineraries for mexico, created by local experts.

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Mexico City, Oaxaca & the Yucatan

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Discover Mexico from fascinating San Miguel de Allende over busy Mexico City all the way to the Yucatan Peninsula. This itinerary combines public transportation with domestic flights to ensure you can make the most of discovering fascinating Mexico within two weeks.

Tailor-made trips for   Mexico

The weather in Mexico in August is warm and humid, with varying conditions across regions. Coastal areas experience high temperatures, while central regions have a more moderate climate. Be prepared for occasional rain during the rainy season.

Mexico embodies the peak of the tropical summer in August when most regions enjoy warm and sunny days with the occasional rainfall. Along both coasts, the weather is warm to hot, with temperatures averaging around 28-32°C (82-90°F). Inland cities like Mexico City enjoy milder temperatures, ranging from 20-25°C (68-77°F), providing respite from the humid coastal areas. Overall, though, August in Mexico is invitingly tropical.

Rough Guides tip: a trip to Mexico is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Do you want to get the best out of your trip? Check our Mexico itineraries .

Acapulco, Mexico ©Shutterstock

August in Mexico is the time when the summer heat reaches its peak, and travellers can expect warm temperatures across the country. The average daytime temperature in Acapulco ranges from 28°C to 33°C (82°F to 91°F), though the coastal breeze provides a welcome relief.

The Yucatán Peninsula has a tropical climate, too. Average daytime temperature range from 25°C to 35°C (77°F to 95°F) and although the humidity levels can be higher than elsewhere, it can still be pleasant.

Oaxaca is a more temperate climate in August with average daytime temperatures hovering around 24°C to 28°C (75°F to 82°F). Tijuana has a more Mediterranean climate, with average daytime temperature ranging from 22°C to 26°C (72°F to 79°F), and a cool ocean breeze.

The capital, Mexico City, is cooler with daytime temperatures that range from 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F). In the evenings, the temperatures drop slightly, offering a refreshing respite from the daytime warmth.

Adventure awaits you on our tailor-made trip to the Oaxacan coast , a place as spectacular as the activities you will do. From a boat trip to the beautiful bays of Huatulco to a warm horseback ride on the seashore in Puerto Escondido.

The weather in Mexico in August is warm and enjoyable, so it's a great time to visit. August is part of the peak tourist season in Mexico, especially in popular beach destinations. You can expect larger crowds at popular tourist spots, resorts, and beaches.

It's typically hot, especially along the coasts, and accommodation is at its most expensive. Note that it is also part of hurricane season (usually June to November), so high winds and heavy rain are a possibility. Mexican families tend to take their summer vacations in August, so resorts like Acapulco can get very busy indeed.

Rough Guides tip: make sure to read all about the best time to visit Mexico .

Playa del Carmen © Shutterstock

As it is hurricane season, coastal areas and tropical regions, such as Cancun , Puerto Vallarta , and Riviera Maya, often have higher rainfall amounts in August. The average rainfall in these coastal regions can range from 150mm to 200mm (6 to 8 inches) during the month. These areas may experience occasional heavy rain showers, but the rainfall is usually brief and followed by sunny periods.

Inland cities, such as Mexico City and Guadalajara, typically receive lower rainfall amounts compared to the coastal regions. The average rainfall in these cities during August can range from 50mm to 100mm (2 to 4 inches). While there may still be some rainy days, the overall rainfall is generally lower compared to the peak rainy season months.

Discover the most unique places in Mexico City before heading out to Puebla and Oaxaca, tasting the best Mexico has to offer: mole poblano, chocolate, a corn workshop - this is a hands-on tailor-made trip to the Taste of Mexico , showing the variety Mexico has to offer, both in food and culture wise.

There are several festivals and events that take place in Mexico during the month of August. This is the biggest:

• Día de la Asunción (Assumption Day) Aug 15. This is the day when the Virgin Mary is believed to have ascended to heaven, and although it isn’t a public holiday, it’s celebrated around the country, most notably at Oxkutzcab and Izamal in Yucatán, and Cholula in Puebla State.

For more practical guidance that will help you make the most of your Italy trip, have a chat with our local experts , who can help you plan your dream trip or browse our Mexico itineraries and find the best option to suit your tastes.

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We Went to Cabo San Lucas in August: Here’s What to Expect

By: Author Aly Smalls

Posted on August 8, 2023

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Cabo San Lucas, a popular tourist destination located at the southern tip of Mexico’s Baja California Peninsula, offers a unique combination of beautiful beaches, vibrant nightlife, and exciting outdoor activities.

Visiting Cabo in August can provide an unforgettable experience for travelers seeking hot weather, adventure and relaxation.

When we visited Cabo San Lucas in early August, we experienced average temperatures around 34°C (95°F).

Although the heat was intense, it was a dry heat, making it much more manageable compared to other Mexico tourist destinations we have been to.

Despite being one of the hottest months of the year, August in Cabo San Lucas is an exciting time for tourists who can enjoy both sun-soaked days at the beach and refreshing evenings cooled by winds from the sea.

We recently visited Cabo for one week in August, so here’s what to expect when it comes to weather (including rain & hurricanes), things to do and places to stay.

This post contains affiliate links, meaning if you click through and make a purchase I may make a small commission. I only share information about things I know, love and trust!

Is August a Good Time to Visit Cabo San Lucas?

As one of the least humid places to travel in Mexico, August in Cabo San Lucas can be an enjoyable time to visit, but it does come with some caveats. 

During August, Cabo experiences hot and dry conditions – we experienced average temperatures around 35°C (95°F) with some days as high as 38°C (100°F).

While you might think this is too hot, Cabo’s dry heat makes it more bearable than other locations with high humidity.

Despite the heat, the ocean water remains relatively cool, with temperatures peaking at 28°C (82.4°F), making swimming and water activities enjoyable.

There are also some advantages to visiting Cabo in August.

Many tourists prefer to travel during the prime season from April to June, so August can offer a reprieve from larger crowds.

This may lead to more availability in accommodations and potentially lower prices. Additionally, Cabo maintains a lower risk of sargassum seaweed in comparison to other popular beach destinations.

However, there are a few drawbacks to consider. As the month falls within the hurricane season, there’s a potential risk of tropical storms affecting your trip.

Plan to visit in early August instead of the end of the month for the best weather and least amount of storms. 

Weather in August

August in Cabo San Lucas is known for its hot temperatures and sunny skies, and it’s the warmest month of the year.

The heat index averages at a sweltering 35°C (95°F) during this time. 

When we spent a week in Cabo in August, we had 4 days of clear skies and 3 days that were overcast.

Since Cabo San Lucas is a desert climate, there’s almost no humidity which makes the heat much more tolerable.

Is it Rainy in August?

While Cabo San Lucas does receive some rain during August, you won’t encounter heavy downpours. If it does rain, it’s usually at night.

Towards the end of August and throughout September is when it rains the most in Cabo.

So if you book your trip during the beginning of August, you’ll likely have mostly sunny days. 

When we visited in August, we did experience a tropical depression storm in the middle of the night. But by morning, everything had cleared up and we had blue sky all day. 

In summary, August in Cabo San Lucas is characterized by hot and dry weather, with some rainfall throughout the month.

Hurricanes 

Hurricane season in the eastern Pacific, which includes the region around Los Cabos and Baja California, generally runs from May 15 to November 30.

However, the peak of the hurricane season usually occurs from late August to early October.

During this time, there is a higher likelihood of tropical storms and hurricanes forming in the Pacific Ocean and potentially affecting the Baja California Peninsula, including destinations like Cabo San Lucas.

While hurricanes and tropical storms are not guaranteed, it’s important to be aware of the weather conditions and any potential warnings or advisories issued by local authorities.

If you’re planning to travel to Cabo during hurricane season, it’s a good idea to monitor weather forecasts prior to departure. 

I recommend buying travel insurance that covers trip disruptions due to weather and hurricanes for peace of mind. 

Insubuy is the largest provider of visitors insurance, which covers natural disasters such as hurricanes.

You can view policy options here , including free quotes. Rates are as low as under $30 for a week for two people. 

Beaches and Ocean Conditions

Cabo San Lucas  offers beautiful beaches and ocean conditions that change throughout the year.

August sees warm weather, which makes it an ideal time for beachgoers and water enthusiasts.

The seawater temperature in August is generally warm, making it comfortable for swimming and indulging in various water activities.

Expect water temperatures to be around 26-29°C (79-84°F), providing a pleasant experience for visitors wanting to go for a dip in the ocean.

Speaking of beach conditions, it’s worth noting that not all beaches in Cabo San Lucas are swimmable due to rocks or strong waves and currents.

However, there are still plenty of swimmable beaches that visitors can enjoy in the area.

For example, Medano Beach and Chileno Beach are both popular beaches known for their calm waters and excellent swimming opportunities.

For those interested in water activities, Cabo San Lucas offers various options such as snorkeling, scuba diving, paddleboarding, and more.

The good visibility and abundance of marine life in the surrounding waters make it an attractive destination for underwater explorations.

In terms of sargassum seaweed affecting some beaches in Mexico, Cabo San Lucas seems to be mostly unaffected.

Lastly, the relative humidity of Cabo San Lucas in August averages around 64.3%, making the weather feel a bit more humid than in other months.

However, this should not deter visitors from enjoying the sun, sand, and calming ocean waters that Cabo San Lucas has to offer.

Best Things to Do in August in Cabo San Lucas

Sunset cruises.

Summer sunsets in Cabo San Lucas are some of the most vibrant colors you’ll see in the sky compared to any other time of year. 

There’s no better way to see the iconic Cabo arch than evening time when the sky is golden orange. 

Book the highest-rated Cabo sunset cruise here . 

Sand Boarding

The Los Cabos region is full of sand dunes and sand boarding is one of the most unique things to do in Cabo. 

We booked this sandboarding tour through Airbnb experiences and loved every second of it.

Cabo San Lucas offers beautiful, scenic hikes perfect for nature lovers.

During your August visit, you’ll be able to enjoy the lush greenery and stunning landscapes that surround the area.

Some popular trails include the Mount Solmar hike, which offers panoramic views of both the Pacific Ocean and the Sea of Cortez, and the Misiones del Cabo trail, lined with picturesque coves and cliffs.

For thrill-seekers looking to explore Cabo’s terrain, consider an ATV riding adventure .

With numerous guided tours available, you’ll have the opportunity to ride through desert landscapes, along sandy beaches, and even into secret canyon areas. 

Book the highest-rated ATV tour in Cabo here . 

If it’s raining while you’re in Cabo San Lucas, a taco tour is the best way to spend a few hours!

We booked our taco tour with Juan More Taco food tours – check it out here . 

Read the full list of unique things to do in Cabo San Lucas here . 

Fishing in Cabo San Lucas

Cabo San Lucas is known for its excellent fishing opportunities, and August falls within the peak fishing season.

During this time, the warm waters of the Sea of Cortez and the Pacific Ocean attract a variety of game fish species, making it a popular destination for anglers.

In August, you can expect to catch a wide range of fish species such as marlin (both blue and striped), dorado (also known as mahi-mahi), tuna, wahoo, and more.

The warm water temperatures and abundance of baitfish contribute to the active fish population during this period.

Book the highest rated Cabo sportfishing tour here . 

Types of Fish You Can Catch in Cabo in August 

Some of the most common fish species you might catch on a fishing tour in Cabo San Lucas in August include:

Both blue marlin and striped marlin are highly sought-after game fish in Cabo San Lucas.

August is a prime time for marlin fishing, and you have a good chance of hooking into one of these powerful and exciting fish.

Dorado (Mahi-Mahi)

Dorado are abundant in the waters around Cabo San Lucas during August.

These colorful fish are known for their acrobatics and delicious taste.

Yellowfin tuna and skipjack tuna are often caught in Cabo San Lucas waters in August.

Yellowfin tuna, in particular, can be quite large and offer a challenging fight.

Wahoo is another fast and strong fish that anglers target in Cabo.

They are known for their speed and are a prized catch.

Roosterfish

Roosterfish are a popular inshore species known for their distinctive dorsal fin that resembles a rooster’s comb.

They offer an exciting fight for anglers and are often caught near rocky shores.

Various species of snapper can be found in the waters around Cabo San Lucas.

These bottom-dwelling fish are known for their tasty meat.

While less common than marlin, sailfish can also be caught in August.

They are known for their spectacular dorsal fin, which resembles a sail when raised.

Best Cabo Hotels in August 

Cabo San Lucas offers a variety of resorts and accommodations to cater to the diverse needs of travelers.

In August, the low season allows for better deals and discounts on hotel stays and activities.

Visitors can choose from luxurious all-inclusive resorts to budget-friendly hotels to suit their preferences and budget.

All Inclusive Resorts

One of the best all-inclusive resorts in Cabo San Lucas is Sandos Finisterra . 

• Known for its excellent service and stunning views, it’s a popular choice among travelers. 

Additionally, Hyatt Ziva Los Cabos is a luxurious all-inclusive oasis with sophistication, comfort, and spectacular views of the Sea of Cortez. 

• This family-friendly beachfront resort is located just minutes from downtown San Jose del Cabo, offering convenient access to various attractions.

Boutique Hotels

For those seeking more economical accommodations, we chose Los Milagros Hotel , which was in the heart of downtown Cabo San Lucas.

• Even though it was in the middle of the most popular area of downtown, it was quiet, clean & safe.
• It had a lovely pool, rooftop loungers and a coffee bar. 

We also stayed at the Bungalows Hotel , which was like a mini-all inclusive resort.

• We enjoyed a lush courtyard pool with plenty of shade – perfect for hot August temperatures.
• Your stay also comes with a gourmet hot breakfast every morning and refreshing drinks served poolside. 

More Cabo San Lucas Posts

The Ultimate Cabo Packing List (Everything Fits in Your Carry On)

16 Essential Cabo Travel Tips for a Better Vacation

Unique Things to Do in Cabo San Lucas (that most tourists miss)

Cabo vs. Puerto Vallarta: Here’s Which One You’ll Love Better

Weather in Mexico City in August + Events & Travel Tips 

Disclaimer: This page may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase using one of those links, I may earn a commission at zero cost for you. Please see my disclaimer policy here, and my privacy policy here.

Visiting Mexico City in August ? Here’s what you need to know!

August in Mexico City is a delightful blend of historic wonders, culture, weather, and vibrancy.

Whether you plan to explore the historic center, lose yourself in a museum, take a stroll in charming Coyoacan, or party away in Polanco and Condesa, Mexico City in August has something for everyone.

Visiting Mexico City in August is a very good idea. Although the rainy season continues, showers usually come in the afternoons and last only for a while, which gives you plenty of time to explore outdoor attractions in the morning.

Mexico City is one of the cities with the most museums in the world, so you’ll have plenty of options for rainy days.

Keep reading for a complete guide on visiting Mexico City in August.

I’ll include what to expect weatherwise, what to pack, outdoor and indoor places to visit, and useful traveling tips to help you get the most out of your escape. 

Mexico City in August: What is it Like?

👉🏽 is august a good time to visit mexico city.

While August is not the best time to visit Mexico City due to the rainy season, you’ll still find plenty to do indoors.

Although the wet season continues, the days are sunny and the mild weather allows you to explore the vibrant metropolis without getting too hot.

Mexico City in August is ideal for immersing yourself in the city’s rich historical and cultural experiences, as you can explore the city’s museums, neighborhoods, and historical highlights at your own pace.

Many residents are out on summer vacation, so it’s also a good month to visit if you want to avoid huge crowds and traffic.

👉🏽 Is it Cheaper in Mexico City in August?

While August is a pretty calm month in Mexico City, tourist-wise, as most Mexicans and residents are either on vacation or busy with back-to-school preparations, it is not a particularly cheap time of the year to travel.

However, it is always possible to find good flight and lodging deals if you take the time to look for them.

Attractions and meal prices tend to remain about the same year-round.

👉🏽 Is Mexico City Safe to Travel to in August?

Mexico City is safe year-round , provided you take the regular precautions you would in any large city in the world. 

This means being alert, not walking in dark alleys, keeping your belongings in sight, and watching out for pickpockets, especially in the Cento Historico area.

👉🏽 Mexico City Weather in August

Mexico City in August varies considerably throughout the day, with sunny weather in the mornings and midday, rainy afternoons, and cooler evenings. 

The air is humid and the parks and surrounding forests are lush green.

👉🏽 Mexico City Temperature in August

The temperature in Mexico City in August ranges from around 70°F during the day to 55°F in the evenings.

👉🏽 What Season is August in Mexico City?

August in Mexico City falls in summer.

👉🏽 Is August Rainy in Mexico City?

August is rainy in Mexico City, as it falls in the middle of the wet season, so expect some rain.

👉🏽 How Do People Dress in Mexico City in August?

August sees mild, sunny days and cool evenings, with some afternoon rain showers, so people dress in layers and carry a waterproof jacket and umbrella.

Best Places to Visit in Mexico City in August

1. centro historico.

The Centro Histórico, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a large area in downtown Mexico City that is considered one of the most important historic centers in the world.

You’ll find many museums, churches, and historical landmarks, as well as countless dining and shopping options.

Mexico City’s Centro Historico is considered the heart of the country, with iconic landmarks like the Zocalo, National Palace, the Metropolitan Cathedral, the Templo Mayor Mexica archaeological ruins, Palacio Postal, Bellas Artes Palace, and much more.

2. Lucha Libre (Wrestling) at Arena Mexico

One of Mexico City’s favorite attractions – and a fantastic way to spend a rainy evening – is to watch the Lucha Libre wrestling matches at the Arena Mexico. 

This wonderfully choreographed show fascinates the audience with dives, aerial assaults, and wipeouts.

Believe me when I say you’ll find yourself cheering for the técnicos , and booing at the rudos.

Matches take place on Tuesdays, Fridays, and Sundays at 7:30 p.m., but you can arrive early to have a beer or michelada as the regulars do. 

3. Chapultepec Park

Chapultepec Park or Forest is a huge urban park located in the middle of Mexico City. Spanning over 1,600 acres, it is twice the size of Central Park in NYC! 

Besides the large expanse of green areas, which are awesome for getting a dose of nature and escaping the hustle and bustle of the city for a while.

The park also features several attractions including museums, cultural centers, a botanical garden, fountains, a zoo, exercise areas, and Palacio de Chapultepec, where Maximilian and his wife Carlota lived during their short reign in Mexico.

4. Frida Kahlo Museum

Best known as Casa Azul (Blue House), the Frida Kahlo Museum is housed in the real home of the Mexican artist Frida Kahlo.

It is located in the charming Coyoacan district, which is worth checking out while you’re there.

The museum pays tribute to the artist’s work and life, preserving the original furnishings and many of her personal belongings.

5. National Museum of Anthropology

The National Museum of Anthropology is always a good place to visit in Mexico City. 

It is a huge complex in the Chapultepec Park area housing a vast collection of pre-Columbian art and artifacts that showcase the rich history and lifestyle of Mexico’s indigenous peoples over the centuries.

6. Museo Nacional de Arte (Munal)

Set in the old palace where the Secretary of Communications and Public Works operated in the past, Munal is a breathtaking structure designed by Italian architect Silvio Contri in 1904. On the inside, it opens to a beautiful marble staircase.

The museum’s vast collection includes art from the viceroy era until the 20th century and unique French-inspired marble statues. 

7. Soumaya Museum

Housed in one of Mexico City’s most iconic modern buildings in the Reforma- Polanco corridor, Soumaya is a comprehensive art museum built by Mexican business mogul Carlos Slim.

Here, you’ll find a vast collection of more than 66,000 works of art spanning 30 centuries.

Named after Slim’s late wife, Soumaya Museum displays works by Da Vinci, Van Gogh, Picasso, Dalí, Diego Rivera (Frida Kahlo’s husband), and Rodin.

8. Teotihuacan Pyramids

The ancient pyramids at the Teotihuacán archaeological site are located a few minutes from Mexico City, providing a profound experience and insight into Mexico’s part.

The UNESCO World Heritage Site is a great outdoor option for a morning outing in August.

Climb the Pyramid of the Sun for a breathtaking view of the archaeological site and the surrounding fields. 

You’ll find many tours available for a day outing to this unique site, where you can also explore the town, grab a bite to eat, and shop for some souvenirs to take home.

Mexico City Holidays and Events in August

🎊 night of the shooting stars (august 12th).

Better known as the “Perseids,” is an amazing meteor shower that takes place on August 12th. 

The astronomical spectacle can be best observed in areas with minimal light pollution, so consider venturing to the outskirts of the city.

🎊 Assumption of Mary (August 15th)

A religious holiday, the Assumption of Mary is celebrated with church services, processions, and cultural events. 

It offers a unique opportunity to witness the intersection of tradition and profound faith in part of Mexico City’s population.

What to Pack for Mexico City in August

Weather in Mexico City in August can vary a lot, with mild, sunny weather during the day. rainy afternoons, and cool evenings. Packing layers is a good idea.

Bring t-shirts and lightweight tops, shorts, and jeans, along with a light jacket, sweater, cardigan, or hoodie, depending on your style.

Comfortable walking shoes are a must, while rain gear is strongly advised.

Mexico City in August Travel Tips

📌 Late August marks the return to school for Mexican students, so the city calms down as residents are either taking advantage of the last days of vacation to travel, or they’re busy with back-to-school preparations. This means fewer crowds.

📌 It is always a good idea to book accommodations in advance, although August is not a particularly busy month.

📌 Pack layers of clothing , as the weather changes considerably as the day unfolds.

📌 Enjoy as many Mexican dishes and snacks as you can. The variety of tasty fare is amazing.

📌 Take a walk or bike along Reforma Avenue, probably the most iconic in Mexico City. 

📌 Visit the markets in the city. You’ll be amazed at the sheer variety of items to be found.

📌 Mexico City offers several means of transportation, including the metro, Metrobus, and Uber, as well as bike and motorcycle rentals.

If you plan on using public transport, acquire an MI card, available in Metro and Metrobus station dispensers.

It costs $20 pesos (a little over a dollar/euro), with trips costing less than a US quarter.

📌 Mexico City has a number of relatively unknown museums that are tributes to just about everything you can imagine.

You can add some of them to your itinerary for unexpected rainy days. Museo del Juguete Antiguo ( Antique Toy Museum ), Museo de la Luz ( Light Museum ), Museo del Calzado El Borceguí ( Footwear Museum ), and many more.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is mexico city warm in august.

Yes, the days are usually warm in Mexico City, with sunny days and some afternoon rain showers.

Temperatures usually go from 75°F during the day to the mid-50s°F at night and early morning.

What Part of Mexico is Best in August?

It depends on what you’re aiming for. If a tropical beach getaway is what you want, coastal destinations like Cancun , Tulum , Puerto Vallarta , and Cabos are great.

Take into account that August falls right in the middle of hurricane season.

If a city full of culture is what you’re after, Mexico City, Oaxaca , and Guadalajara are perfect, and there’s a much lower chance of your vacation being dampened by tropical storms.

How Hot is Mexico City in August?

Mexico City is not too hot in August, although the days are usually sunny with afternoon showers.

You can expect temperatures around 75°F during the day, dipping to about 55°F or lower at night. 

Is it Hot in Mexico in August?

Although it is warm and sunny in the mornings, Mexico City is not extremely hot in August, with milder weather than other parts of the county.

Temperatures during this time hover in the 70s°F during the day and 55°F in the evenings, which is a nice respite from much hotter summers in other parts of the world.

This allows you to explore the city without sweltering in the summer heat, but you’ll need an umbrella or rain gear in the afternoons.

Does it Rain in Mexico City in August?

Yes, it rains in Mexico City in August.

It falls in the middle of hurricane season, so it is almost inevitable to have a few showers, although they don’t last too long and should not dampen your stay.

Is Mexico City Wet in August?

Mexico City is usually wet in August, as it falls in the rainy season. Expect some afternoon showers.

What is a Popular Celebration in Mexico City in August?

August tends to be quiet in terms of celebrations, with no national holidays or events.

However, adventurers and astrology lovers venture to the outskirts of the city on August 12th to observe the Night of the Shooting Stars or “Perseids”.

On August 15th, Catholics observe the Assumption of Mary with special masses and processions, which is a nice opportunity to observe the cultural and religious traditions of the most devout residents in Mexico City.

Does Mexico City Get Cold at Night in August?

No, Mexico City doesn’t usually get cold at night in August, although temperatures go down, especially after an afternoon or evening shower. 

Because of the high altitude, the city experiences much cooler temperatures compared to other parts of the country. 

Average nighttime temperatures in August usually roam in the 50s (°F), so be sure to come prepared for evening outings or partying until the wee hours.

What is the Best Month to Visit Mexico City?

The best month to visit Mexico City depends on what you´re after, but in terms of weather, March – April and October-November are fantastic for mild and dry weather.

March and April can get pretty warm, with the pretty jacaranda trees showing off their purple blooms throughout Reforma and the central districts in the city.

October and November are somewhat chillier but still sunny, and you’ll get to experience the full scope of Day of the Dead celebrations.

Cost and weather-wise, September is great, with the rainy season coming to an end and fewer crowds.

Final Thoughts: Mexico City in August

Visiting Mexico City in August is a great idea if you’re aiming for a blend of cultural richness and mild weather, especially if you want to escape the summer high temperatures that prevail in other parts of the world. 

Even though there might be rain during the afternoons, there are plenty of incredible museums, restaurants, and coffee shops to explore!

Before You Go…

Here are some useful posts that you may be interested in:

• Is Mexico City Worth Visiting in 2023?
• 19 Amazing Day Trips from Mexico City in 2023
• The 23 Best Boutique Hotels in Mexico City (2023)
• 23 Fun Things to Do in Mexico City at Night – The Ultimate Guide [2023]
• A Guide to Mexico City Street Food 2023: 41 Must-Try Street Food and Where to Find Them

Dani is a travel write and blogger from Mexico City who traveled all over the world for 5 years before returning to Mexico. After visiting and living in so many different countries, she realized how lucky she is to call Mexico her home.

August Festivals and Events in Mexico

With festivals that celebrate local wine, music, film, and culture, August is a great time to experience Mexico. Depending on which part of the country your travels take you, you could see some of the world's best Mariachi bands in Guadalajara or watch some competitive fishers show off their hauls on the beaches of Baja. Just bear in mind that Augusts are hot and rainy in Mexico and northern Mexico is in the middle of its hurricane season , so you may have to keep an eye on the weather in the case that any of these events take place outdoors.

In 2020, many of these August events have been canceled, so make sure to check the official organizer's website for the latest details.

Mariachi Festival in Guadalajara

Encuentro Internacional de Mariachis

The festival has not been rescheduled for 2020.

If you can't get enough of Mexico's Mariachi bands, the city of Guadalajara in the region of Jalisco is the place to be during the last week of August. Every year the Encuentro Internacional del Mariachi (International Meeting of the Mariachi) attracts Mariachi bands from around the world to perform and compete with each other in the heart of the region where the music originated. Throughout the week, you'll see parades and street performances during the day and can attend concerts at night.

Feria de Huamantla in Tlaxcala

Feria Nacional de Huamantla

The fair has been canceled for 2020.

This cultural fair is a celebration dedicated to the Virgin Mary, and the first Saturday of the fair is called La Noche que Nadie Duerme (The Night No One Sleeps). On this night, miles of the city's streets are decorated with beautiful tapestries made of flower petals and colored sawdust. After a ceremony, you can look forward to the traditional running of the bulls , dancing, and a street fair. The festival is held in the small town of Huamantla, which is about two and a half hours away from Mexico City by car.

Las Morismas in Bracho

 Morismas de Bracho

This event has been canceled for 2020.

Las Morismas de Bracho (The Moors of Bracho) is a popular annual celebration held during the last few days of August in the state of Zacatecas. During this event, a series of historical reenactments of battles between Moors and Christians will take place on the  Lomas de Bracho field. The event also commemorates Saint John the Baptist and his held around his Saint's day on August 29.

Bisbee's East Cape Offshore Tournament in Baja California

A fishing tournament in Baja California Sur, Brisbee's East Cape Offshore Tournament is held during the first week of August. In 2020, all events will take place as scheduled from August 4 to 8 at the Hotel Buena Vista in Cabo . In addition to black and blue marlin, dorado and tuna will also be targeted. Every year more than 70 teams of mariners compete for the big cash prize for whoever reels in the biggest fish. Weigh-ins take place on the beach and are open to the public.

Chile en Nogada Season

Chile en Nogada is a festive Mexican dish traditionally eaten from July to September, but August is the best time to try it because its most important ingredients will be in season. Consisting of a poblano chile stuffed with meat and dried fruit, covered in a walnut sauce and garnished with pomegranate seeds, the dish was created in  Puebla  and is served in many restaurants in that city, but you can also find it throughout the country.

Feria Nacional Potosina

 Courtesy FENAPO

Feria Nacional Potosina— or FENAPO for short—is a national fair held in San Luis Potosí City. The event is focused on promoting fine arts like theatre, dance, opera, photography, and painting, but you can also expect mechanical rides like Ferris wheels and other fairground staples in addition to live music.

Chamber Music Festival in San Miguel de Allende

 Chamber Music Festival

In 2020, the festival will be held virtually through a series of online events.

The largest chamber music festival in Mexico annually features award-winning international ensembles, guest musicians, and local artists. Most of the festival events take place in the Teatro Angela Peralta in San Miguel de Allende . Past years' lineups included the Hermitage Piano Trio, Jane Dutton, the Shanghai Quartet, and the Onyx Ensemble.​

Monterrey International Film Festival

Courtesy FICMonterrey 

The film festival has not been rescheduled for August 2020.

The Festival Internacional de Cine de Monterrey was created to provide the city of Monterrey a space where filmmakers of all ages can meet and present their work, share their visions with the public, and grow an audience. It allows filmmakers to come together to discuss their work and for audience members to learn about their process.

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Best Time to Visit Mexico: Month by Month Breakdown

Mexico is a vast country and there is a huge range of seasons and climates across the different regions.

The weather can be roughly split into a wet and a dry season, although this mostly counts in the tropical regions south of Mexico City.

The north has a more arid, desert-like climate, while the central regions are at high altitude and enjoy much cooler weather than the rest of Mexico. 

Mexico also has distinct low and high seasons when it comes to tourism, especially in touristy destinations like Cancun and Puerto Vallarta. These generally coincide with the wet and dry seasons too. 

To inspire your next trip, here’s our guide on the best time to visit Mexico!

Don’t leave home without: Lonely Planet Mexico (Country Guide)

Table of Contents

Mexico Dry Season 

The dry season is the best time to visit Mexico, and it falls between November and April.

This is peak season, so you can expect things to be busy, especially over Christmas, but Mexico is such a vast country that you can always find a way to escape the crowds.

Here’s our month by month breakdown for Mexico’s dry season. 

Novem b er  in Mexico

November is the start of the dry season, and for travelers, this could be the best time to visit Mexico. 

Prices are still low and tourist numbers are still small compared to what’s going to hit the top destinations in December. This is a good time to visit popular destinations like Cancun, Playa del Carmen, and Puerto Vallarta, as you’ll find some great deals on flights and accommodation. 

As the rainy season has only just ended, it’s not the best time for diving yet, but head to Baja California and you’ll catch the start of the Whale Shark season. 

Tropical Yucatan is getting much cooler and a lot less humid, so now is the time to explore the jungles and to visit those lost Mayan Ruins without working up too much of a sweat. 

December in Mexico

Weather-wise, December is easily the best time to visit Mexico. However, everyone else has the same idea too, and December is the worst time to visit Mexico if you’re looking for a quiet vacation away from the crowds! 

In December, especially over Christmas and New Year, the resorts of Cancun and the Maya Riviera are packed out and prices are at their peak. It’s no different in other popular tourist spots either, such as Puerto Vallarta or Baja California. 

The weather is crisp, sunny and dry though, and you’re not likely to have a single rainy day. If you’re not having a beach holiday though, then take a trip to explore the indigenous culture of Oaxaca or Chiapas where you can find beautiful weather. 

January in Mexico

January is just as busy as December, at least for the first two weeks. This is peak season across Mexico, especially in Cancun and along the Pacific Coast.

Travel to Mexico towards the end of January though and you can start to get a few good deals again, as the crowds start to thin out.

Weather-wise this is a great time to explore the south, so enjoy the dry weather along the coast, and visit Mayan archeological sites like Palenque or Chichen Itza.

Mexico City is lovely in January, as are the central highlands, although it can get chilly at night. 

February in Mexico

In February the weather starts to get hotter, especially in the tropical south. Up north and in the mountains it’s still very cool, however. 

You can expect the odd rain shower across the country but for the most part, this is still a beautiful time to travel around Mexico .

You’ll get lower prices in Cancun while the diving and snorkeling off the coast of Cozumel Island is glorious, with sparkling clear water. 

This is the perfect time to visit Baja California, on the Pacific Coast, where you’ll be right in the middle of the whale watching season, and you’ll have the chance to swim with Whale Sharks. 

March in Mexico

March brings a mixed bag when it comes to crowds and the weather. This can be the middle of Spring Break, so it’s a good idea to avoid the big tourist hotspots if this isn’t your scene. If you’re looking to party though, then head straight to Cancun or Tijuana.

Equally, if Easter falls in March then it can be busy everywhere, although this is a great time to soak up the local culture during Semana Santa, the holy week. 

Weatherwise, it can be a little more unpredictable. The south sees more rain while the north is heating up and seeing a few thunderstorms too. 

April in Mexico

Like March, it can be a little unpredictable in April too, so plan your trip in advance to avoid spring break dates or Easter holidays, which can both fall this time of the year. 

April is the last month of the dry season, although you will see the weather starting to turn. The colder winter months are over and summer is on the way, which means that along with the rain it’s getting much hotter, everywhere. 

This is your last chance to see the whales and Whale Sharks in Baja California before they move on for the summer, and it’s the last chance to get really good visibility and diving conditions around Cozumel Island and along the Maya Riviera. 

As the weather heats up, this is a great time to start exploring those high altitude destinations in Central Mexico, such as Guanajuato or San Miguel de Allende, where you can escape the heat. 

Mexico Wet Season

Mexico’s wet season runs from May through to October, however, this varies across the country. The south sees the most rain, and hurricanes can lash the coastlines.

It’s cooler and drier in the north this time of the year, where the climate isn’t tropical. The wet season is not the best time to visit the south of Mexico, but there are still plenty of great deals and places to explore outside of this traditional tourist hotspot. 

May in Mexico

May is officially the start of the wet season, and you can guarantee that it’s going to be hot and it’s probably going to be rainy.

This is a good month for shoulder season travel though because you can avoid the high season crowds in places like Cancun or the Pacific Coast.

It’s fine if you don’t mind a little humidity and have a swimming pool to cool off in because you’ll only get a few hours of rain a day at most.

It’s even better in Baja California, where you can enjoy dry weather for most of May, while temperatures soar into the 30s. Mexico City has cooler weather, and it feels like it’s summer, making the capital a great option in May. 

June in Mexico

June is not the best time to visit Mexico, although you can get some cheap deals on flights and hotels.

The reason it’s cheap though is because it’s the start of hurricane season. While hurricanes are rare, it’s definitely going to rain, although if you don’t mind risking that for a few hours a day it might be worth it 

Instead of going to the coast though, stick to the central highlands, where it’s much cooler and there’s much less rain. 

July in Mexico

July is just as hot and rainy, and while you can get cheap deals at the resorts and great value flights across the country, it’s really not the best time to visit Mexico. 

Hurricanes can hit the Caribbean and Pacific Coast, while everywhere is hot, stuffy and humid. 

You get the best weather in Baja California, but make sure you have a swimming pool where you can cool off.

The other option is to stay at altitude, as you’ll find that while Central Mexico is hot, it’s not quite as hot as the coast – especially at night time.

August in Mexico

In August, it’s still going to be uncomfortably hot across Mexico, although temperatures will start to cool off slightly, especially in the higher altitude areas of the country around Mexico City.

This is still very much hurricane season, so be prepared for this if you’re traveling to Cancun or the Pacific Coast in August.

On the plus side, there are few other vacationers around in August and the prices can be very low, on both flights and hotels! 

September in Mexico

In September, things are starting to look up again when it comes to the weather. This is still the rainy season, but the worst is behind you, and September can be a great time to escape the crowds and score some good deals. 

It’s a good time to be in Mexico City, where the rain is slack anyway and the high altitude means cooler climes.

It’s also Independence day in September, so you can expect plenty of parades and fiestas. 

October in Mexico

In October, it’s the last month of the rainy season and the hurricane season, and actually this can be the best time to visit Mexico.

Rainfall will be minimal, but prices are still low, so head to the beaches and make the most of the deals before the high season crowds arrive in November and December.

As a bonus, the end of October is also when you’ll be able to celebrate Day of the Dead across Mexico.

Our Top Recommended Mexico Tours

• Mayan Adventure with G Adventures – 22 days
• Yucatan Discovery: Cenotes & Seasides with G Adventures – 7 days
• Classic Mexico Adventure with G Adventures – 14 days
• Mayan Highlights with G Adventures – 9 days
• Cultural Wonders of Mexico with National Geographic Journeys – 9 days

More on Mexico:

• Ultimate Packing List for Mexico
• Ultimate Baja Mexico Cruise: Sea of Cortex with UnCruise
•   Kayaking in Mexico: 4 Days on the Sea of Cortez
• Ultimate 3 Days in Mexico City Itinerary
• Where to Stay in Mexico City: Best Districts & Hotels
• 12 Best Day Trips from Mexico City (That are Worth Taking)
• The Amazing Mexico City Pyramids of Teotihuacan
• Manzanillo Mexico Travel Guide: A Cancun Alternative
• 8 Amazing Things to Do in Cancun
• Best Time to Visit Cancun: Month by Month Breakdown
• 8 Things to Do in the Riviera Maya for an Epic Vacation
• Celebrating 15 Years of Travel with Barcelo Maya Grand Resort
• 10 Awesome Things to Do in Playa del Carmen
• 9 Incredible Things to Do in Cozumel
• Isla Espiritu Santo in Mexico: Ultimate Planning Guide

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Travel planning resources, about david stock.

I have always been an outdoorsman so becoming an adventure traveler was just the next natural step. I love nature, I love to get off the beaten path and I like to explore. I enjoy scuba diving and cars. And yes, Lina and I have a naked dog.

1 thought on “Best Time to Visit Mexico: Month by Month Breakdown”

Such a beautiful place! Mexico’s dry season is the best for me. Thanks for sharing this Anna

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The best things to do in Mexico: 19 unmissable experiences

Oct 7, 2023 • 14 min read

Get to know the country with these top things to do in Mexico, from visiting ancient pyramids to swimming in underground cenotes © Oleh_Slobodeniuk / Getty Images

Mexico is a wonderland. One moment, you're sipping smoky mezcal, and the next you're floating in the bluest of natural pools or being serenaded by mariachi singers while Frida Kahlo peers down from a mural.

Things feel even more fantastic when you find the tastiest food while discovering plumed serpents, pyramids and millennia of history around the next corner. No matter how many times you visit, Mexico 's stunning nature and its vibrant towns let you find an everyday life steeped in surrealism, natural wonders and incredible history.

Here are the best things to do in Mexico.

1. Admire the monumental power of a pyramid

Pyramids humble you. Gaze skywards at the Pyramid of the Sun at Teotihuacán , and it’s easy to feel tiny. It’s the third-largest ancient pyramid in the world, bringing the ancient priests closer to the heavens at its summit. No wonder the pyramids at Teotihuacán were chosen as temples for human sacrifices to the gods.

The Aztecs did the same at the fascinating Templo Mayor at the heart of their empire, Tenochtitlán, modern-day Mexico City.

Other pre-Hispanic civilizations, such as the engineering Maya, constructed pyramids to also be the center of public life. At Chichén Itzá and Palenque , they buried their powerful leaders inside them and used the monumental structures, which push above the forest canopy, to navigate their lands.

Similarly, in Tulum a Maya pyramid squats over the turquoise waters and was used as a lighthouse.

Yet Mexico has even mightier pyramid, the largest by volume in the world. The Pirámide Tepanapa is bigger than the Great Pyramid of Giza in Egypt. Outside, it looks like a grassy hill, which fooled the Spanish conquistadors, sparing its destruction. Inside, it takes 15 minutes to walk through the cool tunnels crossing through the Pyramid of Cholula. With each tight turn, you feel minuscule.

2. Learn about Mexico's artisan traditions

Gorgeous Mexican artesanías (handicrafts) charm you with their sweetness. When you hold up a piece at a workshop, you are also grasping centuries of skill and traditions.

A psychedelic beadwork mask might leap out at you. The pulsing colors carry on the mythology of the Huichol of Jalisco. Or look into Taxco silverware, which shimmers with history, first as silver gifts to Aztec gods and then ransacked for Spanish pockets.

The kaleidoscopic work of generations of embroiderers, pre-Hispanic weavers, Oaxacan potters and metalsmiths tells Mexico's diverse story. Pick up a piece from an artisan to contribute to their stories.

3. Cycle Mexico City’s leafy neighborhoods

Bike lanes are plentiful across some of  Mexico City's best neighborhoods , including Condesa, Roma and artsy Coyoacán. Archways of trees guide you down streets lined with elegantly tiled houses and boutique stores. Parks are alive with young families or teenagers practicing dance moves, while around their edges, the well-dressed lounge about at cafes.

Planning tip: Join Mexico City's free Sunday bike rides , when the main avenues of the country’s capital turn into a car-free zone. Cyclists go for pleasure rides, and you can be part of the action at any time with a free or low-cost bike rental.

4. Learn to dance the salsa and  danzón

Mexicans have the music in them, and just trying to dance is a part of the Mexico experience. Dressed in hats and heels or casual clothes, couples take to the outdoor Plaza Ciudadela in Mexico City every Saturday to dance, mingle, and learn to salsa and do the danzón .

It’s open to the public, but if you need some courage, there are also bars around town to learn to dance for the cost of a tequila. Mama Rumba turns out a show with its live big band. 

Planning tip:  If you want to seriously move, Salón de Bailes Los Ángeles is part school, part legendary venue. It's where stars of Mexico’s Golden Age of cinema, such as Cantinflas and María Félix, went to boogie.

5. Float in subterranean cenotes

To the Maya, cenotes were a portal to speak to the gods, so they built villages around them. For a visitor today, cenotes, natural limestone swimming holes , are wondrous hidden pools to cool off in the jungle. Cenotes are created by the collapse of porous limestone bedrock, forming pools that are filtered to crystal clarity. The majority of cenotes are found in the  Yucatán Peninsula .

Underwater photographers, cavers and snorkelers revel in the clear cenotes, as do swimmers who want a peaceful swim shielded by the glorious tree canopy.

Unlike seawater, the turquoise water in cenotes is fresh and wonderfully mineral-rich. Floating in these still waters feels like slipping into prehistory. Look up at the columns of vines and the shafts of sunlight drifting through. Hummingbirds zigzag by, and it seems like little has changed since the Maya were here.

Planning tip: Take cash to pay entrance fees, plus a day-pack with all your supplies, including shoes you can get wet to protect your feet and reef-friendly chemical-free sunscreen. 

6. Eat your fill of Mexican street food

Want to know where to get the best tacos? It’s not in a white-tablecloth restaurant. It's on the street.

There is something special about feeling the red-hot embers on the pyramid of chargrilling pork that makes tacos al pastor tastier at places like El Vilsito . It could be the sizzling hot plate that gives handmade quesadillas stuffed with zucchini flowers or nopales (cactus) the perfect bite. Or the tubs of self-serve salsas that make sopes (tortillas sprinkled with white panela cheese and lettuce) and tlacoyos (diamond-shaped blue-corn parcels of beans and meat) much feistier (and tastier) than you had intended. It’s definitely the freshly cut limes and impromptu chats that give eating Mexican street food that extra zing.

Mexican foodie capital Oaxaca squeezes some of the best street food into market stands at Mercado 20 de Noviembre , or check out Los Cucuyos and vegan eats at  Por Siempre Vegana Taquería in Mexico City.

Local tip:  To find the freshest and tastiest street food, pause at a stand and observe. The best have a hissing comal (hot plate) where even the smoke smells alluring.

7. Glide along the canals of floating Aztec gardens in Xochimilco

Xochimilco , south of Mexico City, is the only remaining part of the country's pre-Hispanic waterways. Colorful wooden trajinera boats glide across the canals, passing chinampas (floating gardens). Fruits, vegetables and flowers grow atop garden beds constructed from reeds.

More than 500 years ago, the mighty Aztec city of Tenochtitlán ruled from an island in interconnected lakes. The Aztecs balanced a complex system of brackish and fresh water. As you float by, imagine Xochimilco in Aztec times, with gardeners tending to the plots of green bean vines, furry purple amaranth, and plump chilis and tomatoes to feed the city, as they still do today.

8. Sip artisanal mezcal

Mezcal is a smoky, rich elixir drunk in warmly lit bars by dreamers, artists and the heartbroken. The older sibling of fast-living tequila, mezcal is distilled from the same agave plant but is hand-roasted under volcanic rocks. For a long time, visitors to towns in Oaxaca would smuggle back flasks of the potent stuff from mom-and-pop farms.

Now mezcal has hit the heights in the cities, and small artisanal distillers are revered in mezcalaría bars like Mexico City's hidden Bósforo and Mano Santa with its tasting flight of drinks. You can learn all about the agave drinks at Museo del Tequila y el Mezcal in the capital.

Most mezcal is created in small batches and available only in Mexico. Artisanal producers with further reach are the upmarket and impressive Los Danzantes . Oaxaca is the capital of mezcal. 

Local tip:  A perfect mezcal day starts with a guided distillery visit, taking you through the process of slow cooking the agave piñas (hearts) in a volcanic rock pit with the smell of roasting catching the air. Continue at one of the many tasting rooms. Drink the traditional way with a slice of orange sprinkled with sal de gusano (agave worm salt with mild chili) on the side. 

9. Experience a 3000-year-old temascal ceremony

A temascal is more than a sauna; it’s an ancient Maya-Zapotec ritual that uses 3000 years of indigenous cultural knowledge as medicine. A shaman guides you through a ceremony inside a dome while you sit in a circle, giving you the kind of experience that people swear is life-changing.

In the semi-darkness, the shaman throws an herbal infusion sizzling on the pit of hot rocks at the center. The dialogue begins between the shaman and other participants, thanking the earth and acknowledging our connection to the villages of animals and nature. Sometimes the guide intones words in the indigenous Náhuatl language.

This is no touchy-feely session. Warriors endured this ritual before battle to steel them. After 90 minutes of building resilience and releasing toxins, both physical and mental, you emerge and dip into cold pools, cleansing yourself. 

Planning tip:  For a real temascal experience (not just a sauna), follow spirituality seekers to Tepotzlán  or get the full picture of the Zapotec civilization in Oaxaca. We love Xquenda in Huatulco for its full pre-Hispanic ceremony and mural.

10. Tap into the songs of Mexico with a mariachi performance

Mariachi bands have a song for every mood and life milestone. Happy? More trumpet. Somber? More strings and a heartfelt bolero style. Mexicans hire these singing troupes for big events, including birthdays, weddings and funerals. They are not a mere tourist attraction but a way to tap into the songs of Mexico. You’ll find them roaming around major plazas from Mérida to Cuernavaca.

A top choice is Mexico City’s Plaza Garibaldi , which has been bringing together restaurants and music since 1925. Get serenaded in mariachi's heartland in Guadalajara , which holds the world's largest mariachi festival each September at the Encuentro Internacional del Mariachi y la Charreria .

11. Get insight into Frida Kahlo’s artistic life

Bottles filled with paint glisten in their tray next to an easel. It feels like the artist has just stepped out.   Handicrafts – clay fertility figures, papier-mâché skeletons and dangling cherubs – from across Mexico sprawl out across the rooms.

The  Blue House  is where Frida was born, lived and spent her last days, with everything as she left it. The artist’s silver jewelry, short bed, crutches, wheelchair and prosthetic leg are here. Kahlo had a lifelong disability and channeled her physical and emotional pain into her art while showcasing pre-Hispanic art and traditions.

Kahlo famously wore traditional dresses and shawls from Oaxaca to summon the female power of the women of her mother’s hometown. Mexico City has other interesting places to find Frida  and trace her life. But to stand in her house and its courtyard of volcanic stone is to feel her passion for Mexico and its people. This museum is an unmissable insight into her life and her art.

12. Travel through Mexican history at a museum

Mexico City alone has more than 150 museums, beating New York City and Paris. Some of them are makeshift and obscure – torture museum , anyone? – but all of Mexico's history can be found in its museums, from indigenous handicrafts to revolution , human rights and tequila .

The headline act is Museo Nacional de Antropología , which is one of the best in the world, with a dramatic giant water feature at the center of its Maya-inspired courtyard. 

Mexico's top male painters are known as the "big three" muralists. Made to be seen by the average Mexican worker, murals by Diego Rivera , José Clemente Orozco and David Siqueiros grace many public buildings. All three daub the patio walls of Antiguo Colegio de San Ildefonso and inside the splendid Palacio de Bellas Artes , notably Diego Rivera’s monumental El hombre en el cruce de caminos (Man at the Crossroads). 

Other museums cater to specific tastes, like the Museo del Calzado shoe museum, which displays the trainers of Mexican fútbol heroes and replicas of Neil Armstrong’s lunar boot.

13. Mark Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead)

Once a year, the spirits of the dearly departed can follow a path of marigold petals back to their loved ones. Altars are piled with their favorite dishes and objects, and photos of the deceased are lit by candlelight and shrouded in incense smoke.

Far from a withdrawn sad time, Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) is a time of remembrance through joy. It’s been this way for more than 3000 years, and the tradition can be traced back to Aztec customs and the even more ancient Olmecs.

Visit Mexico at the end of October, and you’ll see the nights turn festive as people crowd the squares, with businesses and museums to judge the best-decorated altars. In towns like Naolinco, Pátzcuaro and Mixquic, mass processions drift to the cemeteries for a night of drinking and singing.

Local tip:  Tagging along at a respectful distance is accepted, and the sight of thousands of candles and marigold flowers glowing orange into the night is a true Mexico experience.

14. Devour some mole

Of all the attention-grabbing Mexican dishes, mole is the most intriguing for its complex mix of herbs and spices. Cocoa and three kinds of chilis give the sauce a chocolatey warmth, but mole contains a checklist of more than 15 ingredients, including sesame seeds, aromatic herbs, peanuts and cumin. In Puebla , it is eaten in restaurants tiled in hand-painted blue talavera .

Planning tip:  Oaxaca is known for its seven multicolored moles . The star is mole negro , a smoky "black" sauce that differentiates itself with a hit of hoja santa  or "sacred leaf," which tastes somewhere deliciously between licorice and eucalyptus. Mole is best smothered over chicken or enchiladas (tortillas filled with cheese or chicken).

15. Experience everyday Mexican life in a market

Boisterous piñatas dangle above you. Flowers and mangos perfume the air, while fat sacks of spices and mounds of dried chilis beckon you.

On a balmy day, the cool of a Mexican market is an inviting wonderland of fruit salad stands, old-world barber shops, and storekeepers touting woven baskets and Virgin candles. A mercado (market) is where everyday Mexican life happens without the airs and graces, no matter if you’re in an upmarket neighborhood or a mountain village.

In one market, you might smell wafts of incense floating on the air and pork crackling glistening under heat lamps. Eat alongside families or get nuts and chili-lime grasshoppers for the road. Taste delicious Mexican fruit like honey-almond flavored mamey  and tuna (prickly pear fruit) blended into juice. Every walk through a Mexican market is an adventure.

16. Learn history through botany in Oaxaca

History is palpable at the Jardín Etnobotánico . You can stain your hands bright red with cochineal from the prickly pear cactus. At its height, the smooshed-bug blood was used to dye garments for Europe’s elite, giving the Spaniards wealth second only to silver.

The storyteller guides at the garden explain how indigenous people used plants for clothing, shelter, food, rituals and medicine. A fascinating story brings to life Maya mythology, which saw the ceiba tree as the universe itself, with its roots in the underworld and the peculiar thorns on the trunk representing the people.

17. Visit a magic town

Mexico has more than 132 pueblos mágicos , and they truly feel like "magic towns." In each place, you can experience the beauty of traditional Mexican life.

Many of the towns have a leafy zócalo piazza or square at their center where families and lovers laugh, whisper and enjoy a weekend or long summer evening outdoors. What makes them "magical" is not just that they’re lookers – most are – but they maintain some natural or historical charm.

For example, in Taxco, where silver was mined by the Aztecs and Spaniards, all-white retro VW taxis crisscross its cobblestones. In lovely Papantla, people come for the spectacle of seeing the voladores whirl around a maypole, attached only by their feet.

18. Lounge on beaches without the crowds

If you want to swim alongside Mexicans, not just tourists, head to the coast of Oaxaca. Huatulco has 36 golden-sand beaches to enjoy in peace. In Puerto Escondido,  Playa Carrizalillo beach is a jewel in a sheltered cove, reached by steep steps to deter most tourists.

Maybe it just has to be the Yucatán Peninsula's Riviera Maya. We get it: the clear blue ribbon of water and white sand is enticing, and you can still escape the crowds.

If you’re stuck in the overdeveloped parts of Cancún and Tulum , follow the locals to a spacious public beach. At Playa del Carmen , the beach runs adjacent to "5th Avenue," where all prices are in US dollars, yet step a mere two blocks back from the souvenir strip, and life seems preserved from another era. Eat at an unpretentious garden restaurant, drink at a wooden shack bar and stroll across squeaky sand into the warm arms of the Caribbean.

19. Enjoy a steaming hot tortilla at a tortillería

One of Mexico's simplest pleasures is hearing the squeak of a neighborhood tortillería (tortilla maker). Mesoamericans unlocked the secret of nixtamalization more than 3500 years ago, ramping up the nutrition and turning corn into tortillas. For passersby, the magic is seeing the steaming hot tortillas parade down the conveyor belt before being bundled up in paper for a waiting line of locals. Most neighborhoods have  tortillerías every few blocks.

Planning tip:  You can count on a mercado (fresh produce market) to have at least one tortillería  on the streets immediately around it, such as Mexico City's  Mercado Medellín , where you'll find several.

This article was first published September 2021 and updated October 2023

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12 Best Places to Travel in August

These are the best places to visit in August in the United States and around the world.

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When July turns into August and you’re fretting that summer is flying by too quickly, it’s time to plan some travel. Even a long weekend trip or staycation will be satisfying and fun, especially for the young ones who may be ready for a change of pace. A beach or pool in California, Hawaii, Mexico, or Florida might fit the bill, and for those longing for distant places, we have several suggestions, including Kenya, Scotland, and Montenegro. 

Fresh mountain air in Jackson Hole and delightful breezes in New England, Nova Scotia, and Chicago (there are beaches on Lake Michigan and cruises on the Chicago River) will be refreshing in August. These are the best places to travel in August in the U.S. and around the world. 

Related: 20 Best Classic Summer Vacations Everyone Should Take at Least Once

Malibu, California

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From a 30-mile stretch of surf to the hills and canyons of the Santa Monica Mountains, Malibu is a destination to put on your summer itinerary. If you read Travel + Leisure’s Family Travel Digital Issue , you may have already done just that. Malibu’s beaches are world famous, and beyond that, the city with the glamorous reputation offers hiking, culture, wineries, and history. Imagine yourself at an ancient Roman country home with a visit to the art-filled Getty Villa . Combine a guided hike or 4x4 tour with wine tasting for a fun way to get to know Malibu. In Malibu Creek State Park , there’s fishing, mountain biking, rock climbing, and horseback riding along with spectacular views in this area that is the ancestral home of the Chumash Native American people. Get to the beach with an oceanfront stay at the Surfrider Hotel Malibu , Nobu Ryokan Malibu , or Malibu Beach Inn . Additional lodging options include Calamigos Guest Ranch & Beach Club and Hotel June .

North Carolina’s High Country

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Located in the state’s northwest corner in the Blue Ridge Mountains , North Carolina’ s High Country offers family fun and ideal August weather in the high 70s. The Blue Ridge Parkway , called “America’s Favorite Drive” for its scenery, wildlife, and varied activities, is just one of many attractions. In Boone , the Boone Greenway offers an accessible trail for hikers, cyclists, strollers, wheelchairs, and leashed dogs — perfect for a picnic among gorgeous scenery. In town, stay at the historic boutique Horton Hotel . Nearby in Blowing Rock, Tweetsie Railroad features attractions for all ages, including rides, entertainment, food, and a zoo. At Grandfather Mountain , you can walk across the Mile High Swinging Bridge , and at Moses H. Cone Memorial Park , you can ride in a horse-drawn carriage and tour a historic mansion. Nearby in Blowing Rock, Mystery Hill is a fascinating attraction, and Chetola Resort offers a variety of lodging. Taste award-winning wines and spend the night at Banner Elk Winery and Villa , High Country’s original winery.

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August falls in the area’s dry season (from July to September), so a trip then is well-timed for the thrilling annual Great Migration when more than two million wildebeest, zebras, giraffes, and many of their predators cross the Serengeti into Kenya’s Maasai Mara. Located in southwest Kenya, Maasai Mara National Reserve is also home to lions, elephants, African buffalos, Thomson’s gazelles, and cheetahs. The nomadic Maasai tribe also lives in the area, herding their cattle and often welcoming visitors as tour leaders or selling their handmade items. A luxury stay at Sir Richard Branson’s Mahali Mzuri safari camp or ol Donyo Lodge, Relais & Châteaux would be a memorable addition to a visit. JW Marriott Masai Mara Lodge and Fairmont Mt. Kenya Safari Club are other plush options. Several tour companies offer safari excursions, including Intrepid Travel and Jacada .

Oahu, Hawaii

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Beaches , museums, luaus, fine dining, and convenient flights make Oahu a popular vacation destination for everyone from honeymooners to families and friends. In Honolulu, the Bishop Museum , Hawaii’s largest, explores the islands’ history and culture, and the Honolulu Museum of Art offers an extraordinary collection. The new Wai Kai entertainment venue on the shores of West Oahu offers a wave pool with surf for beginners to experts, cabanas, restaurants, a lagoon for kayaking and paddle boarding, entertainment, and surfing lessons. Families will enjoy the Four Seasons Resort Oahu at Ko Olina , with a skate camp, hula show, poke demo, and kids’ activities. The Prince Waikiki features ocean-view guest rooms, fine dining, and Naio Bliss Spa. Choose from the elegant Espacio Hotel , surfing-themed Twin Fin , classic Royal Hawaiian , or an expansive Ritz-Carlton residence . Hawaiian Airlines ’ increased summer schedule to Honolulu makes travel convenient, and there’s Starlink Wi-Fi on the Airbus A321.

Chicago, Illinois

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The “Windy City” is warm in summer, with perhaps a shower or two — making this the perfect time to enjoy indoor entertainment with a visit to the Art Institute , Children’s Museum , or Museum of Science + Industry . The popular Architecture River Cruise offers a 90-minute guided tour, and an evening version highlights the city skyline. On the Navy Pier , visitors can watch fireworks on Wednesday and Saturday evenings. The annual Chicago Air & Water Show will be held on Aug. 19-20, and on Aug. 3-6, Lollapalooza takes place in Grant Park. Baseball fans can watch the “Crosstown Classic” on Aug. 15-16 when the White Sox and Cubs meet in Wrigley Field. Chicago’s beaches , parks, Riverwalk , and “The 606” green space are ways to enjoy the outdoors, along with concerts and summer films in Millennium Park . Stay at the conveniently located 21c Museum Hotel Chicago , Waldorf Astoria Chicago , Pendry Chicago , Arlo Chicago , Park Hyatt , or Ritz-Carlton . About 30 miles outside the city, the historic Deer Path Inn offers plush style and comfort.

Edinburgh, Scotland

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August is the sunniest and arguably the most exciting month in Edinburgh , with festivals galore, and it’s a great time to visit the United Kingdom, Travel + Leisure’s Destination of the Year . The temperature is in the comfortable mid-60s, and excitement is all around the historic city. The month begins with music, dance, theater, and opera at the International Festival and thousands of free performances throughout the city with the Fringe Festival , both set for Aug. 4-27. The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo runs from Aug. 4-26, and the Art Festival runs from Aug. 11-27. Be sure to take time to explore the city’s history as you enjoy the atmosphere. Stay at the new Virgin Hotel or the Gleneagles Townhouse . Within a mile of UNESCO World Heritage Site Old Town, the Waldorf Astoria Edinburgh - The Caledonian features views of Edinburgh Castle, a spa, indoor pool, sauna, and steam room.

Nova Scotia, Canada

Courtesy of Cabot Cape Brenton

Nova Scotia’s short summer from mid-June to mid-September brings temperatures in the pleasant 70s, with a few days a bit warmer. The peninsula, one of Canada’s maritime provinces, is located east of Maine. Festivals mark the summer season, with events throughout the area. Visitors and locals take advantage of the warm weather with whale watching , surfing , kayaking , canoeing, boating, fishing , and water sports. On land, hiking, fossil hunting, stargazing , and golf are favorite activities. Sample local wines , and visit distilleries, breweries, cideries, and seafood restaurants. Cabot Cape Breton offers stunning surroundings, dining, and a 72-room lodge with ocean views from every room. There’s hiking and biking on the nearby Cabot Trail , fishing, and golf on two 18-hole courses and the new par-three ten-hole short golf course.

This small country , with more than 150 miles of Adriatic coastline, is warm and dry in summer, perfect for spending time at one of its many beaches, quiet seaside havens, and lively towns. Montenegro’s diverse landscape also includes mountains, fishing villages, ancient walled cities, and forests. Durmitor National Park , a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of the country’s five national parks , with hiking, rafting, and stunning scenery in summer. August events include the Sea Dance Festival , Aug. 18-20, featuring a variety of performances in Budva on Buljarica Beach. Places to stay include the ultra-luxury One&Only Portonovi , set on fjord-like Boka Bay, with Chenot Espace for exclusive wellness treatments. Guided hikes to mountain peaks and dives among ancient caves and tunnels are among activities offered at the resort. The Regent Porto Montenegro’ s unique design creates the atmosphere of being onboard a luxury ship.

Punta Mita, Mexico

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This 1,500-acre resort and residential community on Mexico’s Riviera Nayarit is located just north of Puerto Vallarta, about 25 miles from the airport.  A variety of vacation homes, condos, and beachfront villas are available , and renters have access to four beach clubs , tennis courts, pickleball courts, world-class golf courses, and children’s activities , ideal for an August family vacation. Concierge services are available 24/7 in the gated peninsula community, and everything visitors need is there on the property, from restaurants to a market and food delivery . Warm summer weather is perfect for relaxing poolside, surfing, scuba diving, paddle boarding, boating, and bike riding. In addition to residences, Punta Mita features hotels : Four Seasons Resort Punta Mita, St. Regis Punta Mita Resort, and the exclusive Naviva, a Four Seasons Resort .

Gloucester, Massachusetts

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Gloucester , America’s oldest seaport, is located on Cape Ann about 45 minutes from Boston on New England’s Atlantic coast. The working waterfront is home to the famous “Man at the Wheel” statue, also called “Fisherman’s Memorial,” a monument to mariners lost at sea. August brings festivals to the city, this year celebrating its quadricentennial with events that highlight its history and seafaring heritage. Enjoy fresh seafood and ocean breezes while exploring Gloucester, and learn about its past at the Cape Ann Museum . Tour the harbor on a boat trip to see lighthouses, fishing boats, and lobstering fleets. The Gloucester Blues Festival comes to Stage Fort Park on Aug. 12, and the Gloucester Waterfront Festival is set for Aug. 19-20. Stay at the oceanfront Beauport Hotel Gloucester or the historic Ocean House Hotel at Bass Rocks for a memorable New England summer experience.

Jackson Hole, Wyoming

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August is a popular time to visit Jackson Hole , with sunny, dry weather reaching the low 80s, outdoor activities galore, festivals, and convenient access to Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks. Hiking trails and the Via Ferrata offer gorgeous mountain views along with a challenging workout, and for a more relaxing way to enjoy the scenery, ride the Aerial Tram for views of the Tetons, valley, and surrounding mountains. The nightly (except Sundays) Town Square Shootout is a reminder of the town’s wild west past. Summer’s Grand Teton Music Festival , June 30-Aug.19, brings world-renowned symphony talent, and the Art Fair , Aug. 18-20, features fine art, ceramics, photography, and more. Stay in luxury at The Cloudveil , located on Town Square. Or choose retro-style Virginian Lodge , Teton Mountain Lodge & Spa , or Hotel Terra .

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Yes, August weather is warm throughout Florida, but pools, water parks, air conditioning, Atlantic Ocean and Gulf of Mexico beaches, and off-season prices make it an attractive summer destination. In Miami, the Pelican Hotel on Ocean Avenue is in the midst of South Beach nightlife and steps from the sea, with The Pelican Café , a superb Italian restaurant. The Elser Hotel , Four Seasons Hotel at the Surf Club , Esme , and Carillon Miami are among other options. On the Gulf Coast, the Ritz-Carlton Naples and Hotel Effie are welcoming summer guests. On Amelia Island , August marks the beginning of sea turtle hatching season, and the Ritz-Carlton Amelia Island is a great place to observe the protected turtles. In Fort Lauderdale, choose the all-suite Conrad Fort Lauderdale Beach , Westin Fort Lauderdale , or Four Seasons Hotel & Residences . In Orlando, stay at the luxury Grande Lakes Orlando with its new water park or the Signia by Hilton Orlando Bonnet Creek . The new Brightline high-speed rail just debuted its Orlando station, and service to South Florida is expected to begin this summer. 

Protect Your Trip »

Best places to visit in august 2024.

Late summer is generally marked by hot days and the desire to squeeze in one more vacation. That's why U.S. News evaluated attractions, events and weather (among other factors) to bring you this list of the best places to visit in August. From mountain reprieves to lake getaways , there's a destination on this ranking for every traveler to enjoy. Vote below to help determine next year's list.

Rocky Mountain National Park

Vancouver, canada, masai mara national reserve, kluane national park and reserve, outer banks, white mountains, coeur d'alene.

Fiji is an excellent place to visit in August. Although this month falls within Fiji's cooler, drier season, daytime temperatures commonly sit in the low 80s, so you can spend the bulk of your vacation sunbathing on its white sand beaches and swimming in its vibrant blue water. Plus, several of the country's 333 islands – including Taveuni, the Mamanucas and the Yasawas – offer ample opportunities for water sports like surfing and scuba diving. The rich Fiji culture also features all kinds of unique traditions, such as kava and firewalking ceremonies.

When it comes to summer vacations, why settle for one lake when you can visit two? Interlaken – a scenic Swiss town whose name means between lakes – is set in an idyllic spot between the dazzling lakes Thun and Brienz and surrounded by mountains. August temperatures in the mid-70s will allow you to take in the area's natural beauty while hiking, boating or paragliding, though you'll want to pack some rain gear for occasional wet weather. What's more, if you plan your visit around Aug. 1, you'll be able to participate in the area's Swiss National Day celebration, which includes bonfires, a folk festival and a parade.

While a case can be made for a quieter shoulder-season trip, Lake Como is in its prime at the height of summer. Visiting during the high season may mean more tourists and higher room rates, but you'll be able to take in the lakeside towns, villas and beaches at their most lustrous. Take a boat cruise across the lake to stroll through the blooming gardens of iconic villas like Villa Balbianello. Sample peak produce at open-air markets or freshly caught fish in the many dining venues with a view. Or simply see and be seen on one of the area's beaches or lakeside pools.

A trip to Rocky Mountain National Park in August will ensure almost all trails will be accessible and the weather will be pleasant, so you'll have every opportunity to take in the park's mountainous beauty. Wildflowers dot the meadows and bighorn sheep are commonly seen this time of year, too. Popular hikes and vistas become busy this time of year, and you'll need to reserve a timed entry permit available on July 1, but you can easily find quieter options among the park's 355 miles of trails. Combat the crowds by arriving early in the day and taking the park's shuttles instead of driving.

Vancouver, the most populous city in British Columbia, is a vibrant destination that offers something for all visitors. As one of the driest, warmest months (think: temperatures in the low 70s), August is a superb time to take it all in. Thrill-seekers can cross the Capilano Suspension Bridge or hike the grueling Grouse Grind (both just north of the city), while those who prefer a more leisurely outdoor experience can take a Vancouver Harbour cruise or relax on some of the city's beaches. Vancouver Pride Festival also takes place early in the month and features a parade and performances to celebrate the LGBTQ+ community.

The Mediterranean island of Cyprus has a lot to offer beyond its beaches, including a myth-laden history, but a visit during one of the hottest months of the year will make its sandy stretches look pretty enticing. Sun seekers can bask under cloudless skies, and when the temperatures get too warm (think: 90 degree averages), visitors can cool off by Jet Skiing, swimming and paddleboarding. Later, beach bums and water lovers alike will want to treat themselves to some fresh Cypriot cuisine paired with local wine (including some of the oldest named wine in the world).

August brings some of the warmest temperatures of the year to Montenegro, as well as throngs of travelers looking to bask on this Balkan country's beaches. Montengro's coastline on the Adriatic Sea and its inlets boasts scenic towns like Budva and Kotor, where you'll find charming old towns and blissful stretches of sand. To cool off and escape the crowds, retreat to the country's mountainous interior to hike in destinations like Durmitor National Park and Biogradska Gora National Park.

Kenya's Masai Mara National Reserve is one of Africa's most frequented safari destinations , especially in August when wildlife viewing opportunities are superb. August is usually a great time to catch the Great Migration, an annual journey by more than 2 million wildebeest, zebras and other animals from Tanzania's Serengeti National Park into Masai Mara. What's more, the reserve is a year-round haven for additional animal species, including the big five (lions, leopards, rhinos, elephants and buffaloes), earning it a reputation as one of Africa's most diverse areas.

Head to Kluane National Park and Reserve in Canada's Yukon region if you want to enjoy an unconventional summer vacation. At this UNESCO World Heritage Site, you'll discover the world's largest nonpolar icefield and Canada's highest mountain, Mount Logan. Sign up for a flightseeing tour to view Kluane's glaciers from the air or take advantage of the mild, incredibly long summer days by exploring the park on foot. A boat ride around Kathleen Lake or a rafting excursion down the Alsek River are also fun ways to admire your surroundings.

America's Finest City is warm and dry in August, giving you ample opportunities to soak up some sun. If you're eager to spend time at the beach, you'll find 70 miles of coastline  ideal for everything from surfing to swimming to paddleboarding. Away from the shore, there's Balboa Park, where you can admire beautiful architecture, check out various museums and explore the world-renowned San Diego Zoo . Plus, San Diego is home to an exceptional dining scene and a plethora of live music venues to round out your trip.

Summer is peak season in this Croatian town, so you'll likely rub elbows with other travelers during an August visit. However, Rovinj's beauty will more than make up for the influx of tourists. In August, you can comfortably walk along the car-free cobblestone streets of Rovinj's Old Town thanks to daytime temperatures in the 70s and 80s. This month is also a great time to explore Grisia Street, which hosts an open-air art exhibition in August. If you need a break from the town's throngs of people, take a day trip to one of 14 nearby islands.

Plan an Outer Banks vacation in August to enjoy toasty beach weather (think: average highs in the mid-80s) and fun festivals like the Outer Banks Watermelon Festival and the Outer Banks Pirate Festival. These North Carolina barrier islands are ideal for all kinds of beach activities, including sailing, surfing and sunbathing. Plus, some of them are rich in history. Head to Kill Devil Hills to visit Wright Brothers National Memorial (where the famous pilots took their first flight), or venture to Roanoke Island to check out Roanoke Island Festival Park's exhibits about what life was like in the 16th century.

Trade your ski poles for a hiking stick and visit New Hampshire's White Mountains in summertime, when the area's gorges, bike trails and more than 100 waterfalls are at their most lush. Action-seekers can climb Mount Washington, the highest peak in the Northeast, where they'll be rewarded with views of five states. Meanwhile, those looking for a more easygoing summer afternoon can go for a scenic drive or take in the views with a cocktail in hand on the terrace of Omni Mount Washington Resort . With August averages in the 60s and 70s, the weather will be ripe for any outdoor adventure.

Curacao is the perfect destination for those seeking a late summer Caribbean getaway thanks to its location outside the hurricane belt. Sustained daytime temperatures in the high 80s and low 90s mean you'll likely spend most of your vacation lounging on the beach or swimming past marine life, coral reefs and shipwrecks while scuba diving. But the charming, colorful Dutch colonial architecture found in the UNESCO-certified capital – Willemstad – is worth exploring, too. Plus, with fewer mega resorts and more boutique resorts and bed-and-breakfast establishments, Curacao has a more relaxed feel than other Caribbean destinations and is a great place to reset.

With festivals, prime weather and outdoor activities galore, Coeur d'Alene is the perfect destination for a summer send-off. This northern Idaho city boasts easily accessible golf courses (including one with a unique floating green), bike paths and parks, while its eponymous 26-mile lake is ideal for boating and fishing come August. The city ushers in the month with popular events like the Coeur d'Alene Street Fair and Taste of Coeur d'Alene, which showcase local shops, breweries and crafts. Coeur d'Alene also caters to a variety of budgets, with accommodation options ranging from campsites to cabins to amenity-filled resorts.

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Solar eclipse 2024: Photos from the path of totality and elsewhere in the U.S.

Images show the Great American Eclipse, seen by tens of millions of people in parts of Mexico, 15 U.S. states and eastern Canada for the first time since 2017.

Millions gathered across North America on Monday to bask in the glory of the Great American Eclipse — the moment when the moon passes between the Earth and the sun. 

The path of totality measures more than 100 miles wide and will first be visible on Mexico’s Pacific coast before moving northeast through Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois and upward toward New York, New Hampshire and Maine, then on to Canada.

Total solar eclipse 2024 highlights: Live coverage, videos and more

During the cosmic spectacle, the moon’s movements will temporarily block the sun’s light, creating minutes of darkness, and will make the sun's outer atmosphere, or the corona, visible as a glowing halo.

Here are moments of the celestial activities across the country:

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Elise Wrabetz is a Senior Photo Editor for NBC News digital

Chelsea Stahl is the art director for NBC News Digital

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Solar eclipse 2024: Follow the path of totality

Solar eclipse, mexico's beach party is excited to see the eclipse first emerge.

Jorge Valencia

A woman puts on special glasses to see the eclipse on Monday in Mazatlán, Mexico. Many people have flocked to the seaside area to catch a glimpse of the total solar eclipse. Hector Vivas/Getty Images hide caption

A woman puts on special glasses to see the eclipse on Monday in Mazatlán, Mexico. Many people have flocked to the seaside area to catch a glimpse of the total solar eclipse.

MAZATLÁN, Mexico — The Mexican city of Mazatlán is the first place the total solar eclipse will be visible as it emerges over the Pacific Ocean today, and the weather here is perfect.

Astronomy fans, scientists and kids alike have been waiting for this day for a while. Even Mexico's president, Andrés Manuel López Obrador, came to mark the occasion.

This small beach city along the Pacific has attracted people from all over the world to catch the eclipse. That includes NASA, which selected Mazatlán for a watch party and live stream .

Small booths lining the seafront have been handing out "Eclipse Solar Sinaloa 2024" glasses. Bands play on the beach and the promenade is teeming with tourists. Like accommodation everywhere along the eclipse belt, hotels and Airbnbs are at premium prices. And anyone with a boat is doing a brisk trade renting them out to those tourists who want to view the eclipse from the ocean.

How to follow today's solar eclipse, even if you're not near totality

Roberta Saraco, an 11-year-old from Mazatlán, says she is very excited as she and her family gear up for the eclipse in a park in Mazatlán.

For her mother, Tania Cerrillo, the anticipation has been 33 years in the making, ever since she saw a partial eclipse as a kid. She and her siblings saw the day get dark, the sun came back out and the birds started chirping.

Today's eclipse is such an event in Mazatlán that kids don't have school and many parents like Cerrillo are taking the day off work.

But for David Esquivel, a college professor and member of the Mazatlán Astronomy Society, it's a very busy day. He's been welcoming scientists from NASA and even eclipse chasers from Finland, England, Canada.

"For some of us, it's maybe one of the most important days of our lives," he told NPR.

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Solar eclipse maps show 2024 totality path, peak times and how much of the eclipse people could see across the U.S.

By Aliza Chasan

Updated on: April 9, 2024 / 5:00 AM EDT / CBS News

A total solar eclipse  crossed North America Monday with parts of 15 U.S. states within the path of totality. Maps show  where and when astronomy fans could see the big event  as skies darkened in the middle of the day Monday, April 8.

The total eclipse first appeared along Mexico's Pacific Coast at around 11:07 a.m. PDT, then traveled across a swath of the U.S., from Texas to Maine, and into Canada.

About 31.6 million people live in the path of totality , the area where the moon fully blocked out the sun , according to NASA. The path ranged between 108 and 122 miles wide. An additional 150 million people live within 200 miles of the path of totality.

Solar eclipse path of totality map for 2024

The total solar eclipse started over the Pacific Ocean, and the first location in continental North America that experienced totality was Mexico's Pacific Coast, around 11:07 a.m. PDT, according to NASA. From there, the path continued into Texas, crossing more than a dozen states before the eclipse enters Canada in southern Ontario. The eclipse exited continental North America at around 5:16 p.m. NDT from Newfoundland, Canada.

The path of totality included portions of the following states:

• Pennsylvania
• New Hampshire

Small parts of Tennessee and Michigan also experienced the total solar eclipse.

Several major cities across the U.S. were included in the eclipse's path of totality, while many others saw a partial eclipse. These were some of the best major cities for eclipse viewing — though the weather was a factor :

• San Antonio, Texas (partially under the path)
• Austin, Texas
• Waco, Texas
• Dallas, Texas
• Little Rock, Arkansas
• Indianapolis, Indiana
• Dayton, Ohio
• Cleveland, Ohio
• Buffalo, New York
• Rochester, New York
• Syracuse, New York
• Burlington, Vermont

Map of when the solar eclipse reached totality across its path

The eclipse began in the U.S. as a partial eclipse beginning at 12:06 p.m. CDT near Eagle Pass, Texas, before progressing to totality by about 1:27 p.m. CDT and then moving along its path to the northeast over the following few hours.

NASA shared times for several cities in the path of totality across the U.S. People could have also  checked their ZIP code on NASA's map  to see when the eclipse was to reach them if they were on, or near, the path of totality — or if they saw a partial eclipse instead.

How much of the eclipse did people see if they live outside the totality path?

While the April 8 eclipse covered a wide swath of the U.S., outside the path of totality observers may have spotted a partial eclipse, where the moon covers some, but not all, of the sun, according to NASA. The closer they were to the path of totality, the larger the portion of the sun that was hidden.

NASA allowed viewers to input a ZIP code and see how much of the sun was to be covered in their locations.

Could there be cloud cover be during the solar eclipse?

Some areas along the path of totality had a higher likelihood of cloud cover that could interfere with viewing the eclipse. Here is a map showing the historical trends in cloud cover this time of year. 

You could have checked the latest forecast for your location with our partners at The Weather Channel .

Where did the solar eclipse reach totality for the longest?

Eclipse viewers near Torreón, Mexico, got to experience totality for the longest. Totality there lasted 4 minutes, 28 seconds, according to NASA. 

Most places along the centerline of the path of totality saw a totality duration of between 3.5 and 4 minutes, according to NASA. Some places in the U.S. came close to the maximum; Kerrville, Texas, had a totality duration of 4 minutes, 24 seconds.

What is the path of totality for the 2044 solar eclipse?

The next total solar eclipse that will be visible from the contiguous U.S. will be on Aug. 23, 2044.

Astronomy fans in the U.S. will have far fewer opportunities to see the 2044 eclipse they had on April 8. NASA has not yet made maps available for the 2044 eclipse but, according to The Planetary Society , the path of totality will only touch three states.

The 2024 eclipse will start in Greenland, pass over Canada and end as the sun sets in Montana, North Dakota and South Dakota, according to the Planetary Society.

Aliza Chasan is a digital producer at 60 Minutes and CBSNews.com. She has previously written for outlets including PIX11 News, The New York Daily News, Inside Edition and DNAinfo. Aliza covers trending news, often focusing on crime and politics.

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Total solar eclipse 2024: Where, when, and how to watch

People in North America will be able to witness a total solar eclipse on April 8 as the moon completely blocks the sun.

Millions of people across North America will get the chance to experience a very special natural event on Monday when a total solar eclipse will be visible from parts of Mexico, the United States and Canada.

The total eclipse – which occurs when the moon completely blocks out the sun – will darken skies for a few minutes “as if it were dawn or dusk”, the US’s NASA space agency explains.

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It will be visible from a 185km-wide (115 mile-wide) band that stretches from the western coast of Mexico, through the US, and up to Canada’s easternmost province of Newfoundland and Labrador – what’s known as the “path of totality”.

“Weather permitting, people along the path of totality will see the sun’s corona, or outer atmosphere, which is usually obscured by the bright face of the sun,” NASA says on its website.

The path of totality is really “where it’s at” on Monday, said Anthony Aveni, professor emeritus at Colgate University in New York and author of the book, In the Shadow of the Moon: The Science, Magic, and Mystery of Solar Eclipses.

“It’s that precious three minutes or so … of totality when you see a whole range of phenomena that you just don’t see in everyday life,” he told Al Jazeera. “It takes your breath away and you stop what you’re doing and gawk at nature.”

So how often do total solar eclipses occur? How long does it typically last? Where and how can you watch safely? Here’s everything you need to know.

Where will the total eclipse be visible from, and at what time?

Monday’s total eclipse will be visible from parts of Mexico, the US and Canada.

It will enter continental North America in Mazatlan, in the northwestern Mexican state of Sinaloa, at 11:07am local time (18:07 GMT). It will exit the continent on the Atlantic coast of Newfoundland, Canada, at 5:16pm local time (19:46 GMT).

In the US, the eclipse will enter the state of Texas at 1:27pm local time (18:27 GMT) and exit in Maine at 3:35pm local time (19:35 GMT).

It will last only a few minutes, and the exact time it will be visible depends on where you are within the path of totality.

For example, in Erie, Pennsylvania, totality starts at 3:16pm local time (19:16 GMT) and ends at 3:20pm (19:20 GMT).

It will reach Buffalo, New York, a few minutes later: there, totality starts at 3:18pm local time (19:18 GMT) and ends at 3:22pm (19:22 GMT).

A partial eclipse also will be visible for about two hours on Monday, before and after totality.

What happens during a total solar eclipse?

While the Earth and moon both orbit the sun, the moon also circles the Earth each month.

During a total solar eclipse, the moon passes directly between the sun and the Earth, completely blocking the sun’s light on one side, and casting a shadow on a small area of Earth on its other side.

The dark inner part – the “umbra” – of this shadow creates a narrow track or “path” as the moon orbits the Earth. Areas on this path, and especially on its centreline, which fall directly under the shadow, are the ones from where the total eclipse will be visible.

This track is about 160km (100 miles) wide and 16,000km (10,000 miles) long.

“If it was a lunar eclipse, it would last for a few hours and people around the world could see it. But the difference is that total eclipses only happen over a specific path of that new moon,” said Khady Adama Ndao, a NASA eclipse ambassador.

This eclipse only occurs during a new moon. And the moon’s position in its orbit, relative to the sun and Earth, as well as the angles of all three at a specific time, are what create a total eclipse.

While the moon will be close enough to Earth so as to look as though it entirely covers the sun during an eclipse, in reality the moon is 400 times smaller than the sun. It’s the increased distance between the moon and the sun at the time of a total eclipse that makes the moon look like it is big enough to cover the sun.

Meanwhile, people who are close to the path of totality, but not directly in it, may see what’s known as a partial eclipse on Monday. That’s when only a part of the sun is obscured by the moon.

Areas from which a partial eclipse will be visible fall under faint parts of the moon’s wider shadow, called the “penumbra”.

What does a total eclipse look like?

As the moon moves past the sun during an eclipse, it will slowly obscure the sun – creating a dark sky – before reaching the moment of “totality”. That’s when almost the entirety of the sun will be covered, leaving only a faint circle of the sun’s light or the corona.

After a few minutes, people in the path of totality will see a partial eclipse again as the moon moves away. The sun will become fully visible again.

What else happens during the moment of totality?

There is a drop in temperature and animals also start to behave as if it’s nighttime.

The chirping patterns of birds may change, while nocturnal animals such as bats and owls may start to wake up and look for prey.

Stars and celestial objects hanging in the dark sky may also become more visible.

If a person were to stand on the moon or a space station orbiting Earth, they would also be able to see a dark shadow passing over the Earth.

How long will the total solar eclipse last on April 8?

A total solar eclipse can last between two to three hours, from the moment the moon first begins to cover the sun, until the time the moon crosses past the sun and stops obscuring it.

However, the period of totality in most places this year will last only between three and a half to four minutes.

Areas on and very close to the centreline will experience the longest period of totality while totality will last for shorter periods of time in areas farther from the centreline.

The longest period of totality on Monday – 4 minutes and 28 seconds – will occur near Torreon, Mexico. That’s because the area is closest to the point at which the shadow’s path is perpendicular to the Earth’s surface and near the central line of the umbral shadow.

In the past, totality in some places has lasted for as little as a few seconds, and as long as seven and a half minutes.

The durations of the eclipse and the period of totality differ due to a combination of factors, such as the curvature of the Earth and angle at which the moon’s shadow strikes.

Mobile applications such as “Totality” track eclipse start and end times, as well as totality durations for different cities on the total eclipse’s path.

What are some of the cultural and historical beliefs around total solar eclipses?

Total solar eclipses have captivated people for thousands of years. But in ancient civilisations, the phenomenon was often viewed as a bad omen.

In ancient China, for example, people believed that solar eclipses happened because “a celestial dragon” was eating the sun, according to NASA . As a result, people made loud noises during eclipses “to frighten the dragon away”.

The Inca people of South America believed solar eclipses were a sign of the sun god Inti’s anger.

And in ancient Mesopotamia (modern-day Iraq), a solar eclipse was thought to signal that the ruler was in grave danger – leading decision-makers to put a system in place known as the “substitute king”.

In order to prevent the real Assyrian king, for example, from being harmed, a substitute would be dressed up and ultimately offered as a sacrifice “for the evil fate that was destined for the true king”, explained Sarah Graff , a curator in the Department of Ancient Near Eastern Art at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City.

According to Aveni at Colgate University, there is a tendency to view people in the past as being less intelligent or more superstitious about eclipses than people today. “But in every case, it’s an occasion to have a conversation,” he told Al Jazeera.

For instance, people made noise in the ancient Andean world during an eclipse “to alert the sun not to believe what the moon is whispering in his ear, which is that we people that live down here on Earth do bad things at night”, Aveni said. “This becomes an occasion to have a discussion about lying – that’s really what it’s about.”

Can you watch a total solar eclipse without glasses?

Experts stress that safety is critical.

During the brief time in which the moon completely blocks out the sun, people can view the total eclipse with their naked eye.

But during the partial eclipse before and after totality, you should use specially designed, protective solar glasses or a handheld solar viewing device.

“If people look without the proper protection, they run the risk of injuring their eyes,” said B Ralph Chou , president of the Royal Astronomical Society of Canada.

“And if they get an injury, depending on how often and how long they look at the sun without the protection, they do have a substantial risk of developing a permanent loss of vision.”

This risk is due to a number of factors such as the intensity and radiation of the sun’s light, as well as the absence of pain receptors in the eye, which makes it easier to stare for too long.

Compared with a regular day, pupils may also be less dilated during an eclipse, making the bright light that enters more dangerous. “It’s like being in the dark, when all of a sudden, someone just flashes a flashlight in front of your eyes”, Ndao, the NASA eclipse ambassador, said.

How are people preparing?

Cities and towns across the path of totality have been distributing eclipse glasses to residents in the weeks leading up to Monday’s event. Museums, science centres and other institutions are holding viewing parties.

Schools in the US and Canada have announced closures on Monday to allow students to participate in eclipse-watching events. The closures also aim to avoid safety issues, as schools have raised concerns that the total eclipse coincides with school dismissal times.

Groups of people are also flying in private planes to watch the totality, said Barbara Gruber, assistant director of education and public outreach at the National Radio Astronomy Observatory (NRAO) in the US.

While this is permitted, the US Federal Aviation Authority has put out safety advisories about flying during totality.

Are you guaranteed to see the total eclipse if you’re in the path of totality?

Unfortunately not. Weather conditions will play an important factor in what hopeful eclipse-watchers will be able to see on Monday.

In other words, if it’s cloudy, that could ruin the visibility.

If you’re not in North America, several institutions will be hosting live coverage of the total eclipse, including NASA .

How often does a total solar eclipse happen?

While Monday may be the last time the US sees an eclipse for at least another nine years, a total solar eclipse generally occurs every 18 months.

Many total eclipses are only visible at sea and may not be seen by anyone at all, according to Ndao.

Additionally, once a particular area experiences a total eclipse, it may not see the return of the phenomenon for hundreds of years.

“On average a single location will experience a total solar eclipse about every 350 years, but averages can be misleading and some lucky places will get an eclipse in just a few years”, Gruber told Al Jazeera.

When is the next total solar eclipse?

The next total solar eclipse will take place on August 12, 2026, over Greenland, Iceland, and Spain. Almost exactly a year later, on August 2, 2027, one will be visible from northern Africa, Gibraltar, and the Saudi peninsula.

In the US, the next total eclipse will occur in 2033 but will only be visible from Alaska.

Western Canada, Montana and North Dakota will witness a total eclipse in 2044 and, the following year, people in the US will be able to see a total eclipse from coast to coast, according to NRAO.

Experts say a day will come, however, when total eclipses will stop occurring altogether – but not for quite a while.

As the universe expands with the moon moving further away from the Earth each year, and the sun gets bigger, the moon will eventually become too small in the sky to block the whole sun.

That day is still a distant reality though. A NASA study in 2017 estimated that total eclipses would end in 563 million years.

What to Do with Your Solar Eclipse Glasses After the Eclipse

M ore than 31 million people who live in the roughly 115-mile wide path of totality, and millions more who traveled to the U.S. to see Monday’s total solar eclipse, will all be gazing at the sun wearing the same thing: solar eclipse glasses . 

The highly-coveted item is important for eye safety, especially for those who live outside of the zone of totality and can only see a partial eclipse. But after the eclipse is done, people should be sure to dispose of their eclipse-viewing lenses properly. 

Because most eclipse glasses are made out of cardboard, the arms of the glasses can be recycled so long as the lenses are thrown out, according to the University of Rochester .

Eclipse lovers can also choose to donate their glasses. Astronomers Without Borders will be collecting gently-used eclipse glasses from the U.S. and Canada. The campaign, which has been running since 2008, redistributes glasses to people in other countries for upcoming eclipses. Of the millions that were donated during the 2017 total solar eclipse that also crossed through the U.S. only tens of thousands were usable. Thanks to a partnership with Astronomers Without Borders, glasses can be dropped off at all Warby Parker locations across the country for recycling.

Eclipse Glasses USA is also taking donations for two programs, though only one focuses on reusing existing glasses. Through the "5 for 1 program," every five-pack of eclipse glasses purchased, one pair of glasses will be donated. The Eclipse Give Back program takes used glasses that do not have any scratches, punctures, tears, or other damage. The eclipse glasses will be sent to schools in Latin America so that children will be able to view the October 2024 annular eclipse. For more information about where to ship the glasses to, read here .

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