What's the weather like in Cozumel in September
September brings with it the dreaded hurricane season. While Cozumel does experience some alarming amounts of storms and heavy precipitation, the risk of hurricanes striking the island directly is not as high as in previous years. However the hurricanes' usual itineraries are often subject to sudden changes as well, so we do recommend a great amount of caution if you're engaging into marine activities during this time of the year, and always stay up to date with local weather forecasts, as they provide accurate details on a daily basis, as well as storm alerts.
Temperature
The heat is strong during this month with average temperatures steady around 27°C (81°F). The high end of the thermometer will exceed 31°C, while the expected low temperature will measure at cca 23°C, meaning it is still warm in the night time.
Sunshine Hours
The sun is scarce, often combined with menacing clouds and sudden storms, so chances of full sunny days are low, at an average of 6%, but there up to 9 hours of sunshine per day, a slight drop in the high levels seen since March, indicating the changeability of weather at this time of year.
Humidity
Humidity continues to stay high and bothersome, between 62% and 93% at its highest, particularly on rainy days of which there will be up to 7 in the month of September.
Rainfall
Rainfall reaches high volumes of 247mm and over, the annual peak, mostly seen as instant sheets of water causing sudden puddles and rivers pouring down the streets of Cozumel. Chances of full rainy days jump to 31% on average, so make sure your hotel room has cable TV and air conditioning to help you cope with oppressive dew points between 23°C and 26°C.
Clouds
Chances of clouds are also persistent at cca 30%, with winds too weak to assist in clearing the skies in any way. Chances of windy days are low, at 8% on average, and wind speeds rarely exceed 5m/s in September. Most of the air flow continues to come from the south and southeast.
Winds
If a tropical storm does hit, forget about measuring any wind speed, just seek cover and stay safe, because chances are that five minutes later you'll be able to go dip your toes in the sea again as it'll get sunny so fast, you won't even know what happened.
Sea Temperature
And speaking of the sea, the Caribbean is still quite warm, at 29°C (84°F) on average. While the water is not your greatest ally in times of occasionally unbearable heat amplified by humidity, it is absolutely perfect for snorkeling and scuba diving activities, as the warm tropical currents flowing from Cuba make the lower depth levels extremely comfortable for extended diving sessions. This temperature is also different to any visitors from colder climates are used to, making for a nice treat.
Cozumel Hotels in September
Since September is known as the opening season for some hurricanes and less aggressive tropical storms, hotels in the area of Cozumel tend to bring their prices down a bit, in order to encourage tourism. Don't be put off by precipitations, because this gorgeous island has a lot to offer even in the middle of the monsoon season. For example, you can book yourself a lovely suite for just £72 and Hotel Villas Las Anclas, a superb and bright blue hotel just 1,000 yards from the famous Playa del Carmen and its ferry dock. The suites here are generous studios built on two levels: the lounge and dining area on the ground level, and your comfy bedroom and private bathroom upstairs. There's also an outdoor pool for you to enjoy at any time of the day.
The All Inclusive Cozumel Palace continues to astonish its guests with its sumptuous and simply stunning architecture and sloping outdoor pools, and its beautiful suites go for a whopping £299 per night for couples. Of course, this is a 5-star resort offering so much pampering within that price: access to the state of the art spa and wellness center and gym, as well as some purely wicked bars and restaurants on-site. The suites are huge, with double spa baths and satellite TV, so you know you can just kick back and relax if the weather isn't always on your side.
If there's a bit of a budget issue but you still want the high quality you know you deserve, then the Caribo Cozumel is the right place for you. This cute establishment offers double suites for just £79 per night, and they are all splendid colorful studios with bold designs, air conditioning and additional fans for your increased comfort. Your suite also has a private bathroom and a fully equipped kitchenette and dining area.
Cozumel Beaches for September
If you haven't had enough beaches from your adventure tours, then you can easily head down to Playa Mia, south of San Miguel on the west coast of Cozumel. This beautiful strip of soft sand and peaceful blue water is great for swimming and beach diving, and even jet skis, parasails and kayaks are a good option. There's a volleyball court and restaurant open as well. Resort courses and full amenities are also available here.
For good snorkeling waters, you should down to the Marina Caleta Playa Paradise Reef, a rocky limestone sea bed clustered with splendid pieces of Mesoamerican Reef. You can also swim and engage in some beach diving while you're there. Resort courses are available for all the brave new souls who want to discover the wonders of scuba diving and snorkeling.
On the east coast of Cozumel you will find some breathtaking views, framed by white sandy beaches. Many of them are not recommended for deep water swimming, but they are still beautiful and perfect for basking in the sun, as well as some fun splashing around the shallow entry of the azure Caribbean Sea. One good example is the popular Playa San Martin, its soft sand and turquoise waters an absolute delight! Just don't swim far out, the underwater currents can be particularly treacherous.
Bars and Restaurants
As you probably know by now, the Mexican people love their food. Cozumel is no exception, as it's an island that basically specializes in delicious seafood, alongside the traditional Mexican dishes. Visit Pescaderia San Carlos, a hidden gem of Cozumel, whose owner and chef spends all his time in the kitchen, whisking out some truly irresistible dishes, from breakfast through lunch and all the way into dinner! The prices are reasonable, the staff is wonderful and the ceviche and garlic pan seared fish are simply to die for.
Another excellent example is Cielito Lindo Bistro, hidden behind the main street. They do lunch, dinner and takeaway, and take pride in their Mexican cuisine and generous portions. We understand that the stuffed chili is simply sensational. And if you're craving some good Italian soul food, visit Sorrisi; the beautiful décor and pleasant ambient perfectly complement a varied Italian and Mexican lunch and dinner menu, and they also host afterhours specials.
When it comes to having a drink or two, and even shaking a leg if the atmosphere and music ask for it, you can always go to Ambar. The Latin rhythms and vibrant ensemble of this establishment, along with the entertaining pool table and beer garden at the back make this a great place to spend your evenings in Cozumel. Hotel Flamingo's Aqua Bar is an obvious hip spot; they play live jazz music in the evening and their drinks menu encompasses a wealthy variety of smooth cocktails, imported and local wines, as well as regional tequilas and cold beers. For an after dinner drink, head down to La Cocay, popular for its wonderful ambiance, romantic candlelight décor accentuated by a high ceiling and modern elements, as well as its rich spirits and wholesome wines.
Things to do in Cozumel in September
September is a month with several significant religious and national holidays. Probably the most important is Grito de Dolores, or Independence Day, to commemorate the battle cry of the Mexican Independence War, uttered by the Roman Catholic priest Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla, from the little town of Dolores near Guanajuato, back in 1810, on September 16th.
The Mexican people also celebrate Columbus Day in September, or Dia de la Raza/Dia de Cristobal Colon. Of the significant religious festivities we can certainly focus on Dia de San Francisco de Asis, one of the most important saints in the Catholic calendar, as well as Nuestra Senora del Rosario, with an emphasis on the fact that the Mexican people exhibit a particular sense of adoration towards the Virgin Mary, worshipping her in multiple forms.
If the weather is cooperative, you should definitely take the Xcaret Tour from Cozumel, organized by Viator. It allows you to explore the breathtaking paradise of the Maya Riviera, including its rich botanical garden, butterfly sanctuary, stunning aviary and aquarium, as well as its stables and surrounding Mayan ruins. This place is amazing, as you can also swim in the blue lagoon, have fun snorkeling around and even ride the underwater rivers!
Another great tour option is the Jeep and Snorkel Adventure. You get a professional tour guide but you also get your own jeep to drive around in and explore the scenic routes of Cozumel, while keeping a constant contact via radio with your designated tour guide. You can visit the impressive El Caracol, a Mayan ruin dating back from 1200-1400 AD, as well as the splendid Columbia Lagoon, where you can observe some American saltwater crocodiles in their natural habitat. Don't get too close though! The observation tower is best for this type of activity, and it also gives you a complete view of the entire lagoon. Further down you can go snorkeling around the coral reef and swim in the bright blue bay water.
