If you don’t like chilly mornings and heavy winter coats. Then you can imagine replacing winter snow with white soft sand and turquoise waves. January in Cancun is just like your imagination: there is sunshine, clear oceans and unlimited fun. It is also among the finest months to sail, snorkel and enjoy paradise at Catamaran Tours Cancun.
Therefore, is January a good time to go to Cancun? Yes, It is one of the best times of the year, the weather is perfect, the water is warm and the sailing conditions are smooth. You are able to enjoy the beaches and boat ride in Cancun. Let’s break it down.
Cancun Weather in January Warm Days, Cool Nights
If you’re planning your trip and wondering “Is January a good time to go to Cancun?” you’re in for a treat. This is the dry season of Cancun and it implies that the weather is sunny, the humidity is low and there is practically no rain so your plans are not going to ruin. It is one of the most comfortable seasons to be out in the open, either lying on the beach or going out on a catamaran tour.
What You Can Expect
- Daytime temperatures: 25–28 °C (77–82 °F) perfect for beach days, snorkeling, and long walks in the Hotel Zone.
- Evenings: Cooler and breezy (around 20 °C / 68 °F), so pack a light sweater for your night outings or beachfront dinners.
- Sea temperature: Around 26 °C (79 °F) warm, crystal-clear water that’s perfect for swimming, snorkeling, or diving.
- Humidity: Low compared to summer months, so you’ll enjoy the sun without feeling sticky.
Good to Know:
- January is the peak tourist season, so expect lively beaches, bustling resorts, and higher prices. The first week, right after New Year’s, is especially busy.
- No hurricanes: January is well outside of hurricane season (June–November), so your vacation won’t be interrupted by tropical storms. On the best day you might get a cooler breeze as a cold front passes through but it is uncommon.
- Boat rides, snorkeling trips, and outdoor adventures are one of the best things to do during the month because there will be no need to worry about heavy rains or rough seas.
In January 2024 nearly 3.9 million passengers traveled through Cancun International Airport which was a 33.6 percent increase from about 2.9 million in January 2023.
What to Do in Cancun in January
January is an invitation to come over: the air is fine, water is blue and everything in Cancun moves at your speed. Cultural days out or ocean adventure, or just a lazy day at the beach, this is one of the most flexible months to be a tourist in your own way.
Visit Ancient Wonders
One does not have to be a history lover to be amazed by the Mayan legacy of Cancun. You cannot help but be spellbound. There are many places to visit like:
Tulum: An excursion to Tulum is a complete necessity, and its ruins on the cliffs overlook blue oceans dramatically. It is like entering a different world as you walk through the old temples with the ocean breeze blowing through your face.
If you’re planning a trip to Tulum, check out our Tulum Mexico Beach Guide for First-Time Visitors to make the most of your visit.
Chichichen Itza: To be more immersed in Mayan culture, head to the inland area where one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, Chichichen Itza, has been built. The El Castillo is a huge pyramid constructed with astronomical accuracy and standing in front of it you will be totally amazed. You will immediately realize why people in every corner of the world flock here to visit it.
El Rey Archaeological Site: You wish to keep a little nearer to your resort, you need have no fears because history is at your door. Located directly in the Hotel Zone of Cancun, the El Rey Archaeological Site allows you to visit ancient ruins just a few minutes away from the beach. You can combine that with a visit to the Mayan Museum of Cancun. Where you can see exhibits and artifacts that make thousands of years of history come alive
Cool Off in Cenotes & MUSA
Cenotes: You can leave the beach and find the secrets of Cancun known as Cenotes. Those magical jade-green sinkholes, which are encrusted into the jungle, Cenotes are like entering a natural marvel. Some of them are open and sunny so that you can swim and have fun floating in the water and some are just like a cave where you can snorkel or even do a small bit of diving.
MUSA: And then we have MUSA, the Underwater Museum of Art. This is no ordinary museum, it is an under-sea gallery consisting of over 500 full-size sculptures on the ocean bottom. These are gradually changing into coral gardens. It is mostly popular with families who particularly like MUSA as it is not only entertaining but also educational. Children have an opportunity to safely snorkel in shallow waters and to hear about marine conservation. In case you are not a snorkeler, you may also view the sculptures at MUSA during a glass-bottom boat tour or venture deeper during a scuba diving trip.
Planning a trip to the Cancun Underwater Museum with kids? See our guide for family tips and what to expect.
Swim with Gentle Giants
Cancun is providing you a unique opportunity to snorkel with whale sharks (between June and September). They are quiet giants, which move calmly across the water. You may get a knot in your stomach at the beginning, but once you are out there, you will feel the wonder of floating alongside these peaceful animals. You are going to be amazed to see their huge fins flipping slowly through the air like slow motion. Not only is it a bucket-list adventure, but it is a humbling reminder of how beautiful the ocean can be. And believe me it is an experience you will be sharing with your friends and family for a long time after your visit.
If you want to read more about the best places to swim with whale sharks in Cancun, check out our guide for all the details!
Find Valladolid & Sian Ka’an
In search of the most memorable experiences in Cancun, sometimes it is as simple as taking a slight side street.
Valladolid: If you want to see some culture you can visit Valladolid, a colonial town located approximately two hours away in Cancun. Its pastel coloured streets, ancient convents, and bustling town square make you feel like you are living the life of the real Yucatacan. Be sure to taste local delicacies such as cochinita pibil or taking a dip in the cenotes located right into the town.
Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve: If you are a nature lover you can visit Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve which is a wild heaven. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site, with mangroves, lagoons, and an amazing amount of wildlife. You can watch dolphins and sea turtles and even rare birds flying over the jungle. There are boat tours where you would tour the hidden waterways of where the Caribbean and the wetlands meet.
Treat Yourself at Eco Parks
You should visit the eco parks of Cancun in case you want to have a day that is filled with pure fun and connection to nature.
Xel-Há: You should consider visiting Xel-Há, commonly known as a natural aquarium, where rivers, lagoons, and cenotes converge in a single gorgeous park. You may snorkel with schools of tropical fish or jump off the cliffs into jade-colored water if you are brave enough to do so.
Xcaret Park: In case you prefer adventure , you can visit Xcaret Park, which is part eco-adventure and part culture. You can here swim in underground rivers, go to a butterfly pavilion, or see Mexican traditional performances under the stars. It is also especially popular with families as there really is something everyone will appreciate, whether it is relaxing lagoons or energetic cultural performances.
Why January Is Perfect for Boat Rides & Catamaran Tours
This is where Cancun truly shines. The dry season means:
- Smooth seas ideal for catamaran cruises and island hopping.
- Clear skies and the sunsets are incredible from the deck.
- Underwater visibility perfect for snorkeling stops at reefs and MUSA (the underwater museum).
A catamaran tour is something that will make your January vacation even more special, whether you are traveling with family, friends, or a partner. Spacious decks, onboard drinks, music, and a combination of relaxation and adventure are all within the same trip.
If you’re ready to set sail, check out our Catamaran Cancun Guide for the best tours, tips, and everything you need to know for an unforgettable experience on the water!
Tip: During this high season, most comfortable, flexible, and family-friendly tours are provided as a private catamaran.
Book your private catamaran tour now! To visit Cancun in January and trade snow for sun.
Outdoor and Beach Activities & Events in January
January in Cancun brings warm weather, clear skies and calm turquoise waters. It is the ideal mix for outdoor adventures and beach fun. Average temperatures stay around 27°C, making it a perfect month for swimming, snorkeling or relaxing on Cancun’s famous beaches like Playa Delfines and Playa Norte. You can also take a catamaran trip to Isla Mujeres, go parasailing over the Caribbean Sea or enjoy sunset cruises with Boat Trips Cancun, which offers private charters and snorkeling tours for all group sizes.
Beyond the beaches, visitors can explore fascinating Mayan ruins such as Chichen Itza, Tulum, and Coba, or take day trips to cenotes like Ik Kil and Dos Ojos for a refreshing swim in crystal-clear underground waters. Eco-parks such as Xcaret and Xel-Há also offer family-friendly outdoor experiences that blend nature, culture, and adventure.
Here are some of the top events and celebrations in January:
January 1 – New Year’s Day Celebrations
The first day of the year is filled with relaxation, beach gatherings, and post–New Year parties at local resorts and beach clubs across Cancun and Playa del Carmen.
January 6 – Three Kings Day (Día de los Reyes Magos)
One of Mexico’s most beloved traditions, this day celebrates the arrival of the Three Wise Men. Locals enjoy “Rosca de Reyes,” a sweet bread with hidden figurines, and children receive small gifts. Parades and community events take place throughout Cancun.
January 10–14 – Cancun Jazz Festival (dates may vary)
An annual beachfront event featuring international jazz musicians. Visitors can enjoy live performances, beachside cocktails, and a relaxed atmosphere perfect for music lovers.
January 20–21 – Riviera Maya Paddleboard Race
This popular sporting event brings together professional and amateur paddlers to race along Cancun’s scenic coastline. Spectators can cheer from the beach and enjoy live entertainment and food stalls.
January 25–28 – Cancun Wellness Weekend
Many resorts and retreat centers host yoga workshops, meditation sessions, and healthy-living activities to start the new year with balance and renewal.
Throughout January – Beach Yoga & Outdoor Markets
You’ll find regular beachfront yoga classes, artisan markets, and live music events held at popular spots like Playa Tortugas and Mercado 28, offering a mix of culture and local charm.
Upcoming concerts in January 2026
- Out Of The Blue 2026
Dates: Thursday, January 8 – Sunday, January 11, 2026
Location: Moon Palace Golf & Spa Resort
Performers: Mumford & Sons, Noah Kahan, Caamp, Role Model and more!
- Crash My Playa 2026
Dates: Thursday, January 15 – Sunday, January 18, 2026
Location: Moon Palace Golf & Spa Resort
Performers: Luke Bryan, Dierks Bentley, Dustin Lynch, Riley Green, Parker McCollum and more!
Whether you’re here for adventure, wellness, or relaxation, January in Cancun is full of sunshine, celebration, and unforgettable experiences by the sea.
Pros & Cons of Visiting Cancun in January
If you’re asking yourself “is January a good time to go to Cancun?” The short answer is yes but it comes with a few trade-offs you should know.
Pros
The month of January is probably one of the most favorable weather months in Cancun. You will be experiencing sunny skies, hot days and very minimal rainfall because it is the dry season. The Caribbean Sea is smooth and perfect for swimming, which makes it the right place to snorkel, sail or even spend a whole-day on a catamaran tour to the Isla Mujeres. And the evenings are cool enough to make you feel nice after the heat of the day. You simply carry a light sweater to walk out during the night.
Cons
January is the busiest travel month of the year so you can expect that hotels and tours will be priced higher. The week immediately after New Year is particularly busy. Then things level out somewhat but remain busier than low season months. January can be a little too bustling, especially if you are a person who likes to be almost alone on the beaches.
Should You Go in January?
Unless you mind sharing paradise with other tourists, January is just about the best month of the year to enjoy. the beaches, boat tours and the lively night life in Cancun. You can enjoy the great weather and at the same time get some isolated areas to rest with the appropriate planning.
Set sail to Isla Mujeres on our shared catamaran tour and enjoy a fun-filled day of snorkeling, sun, and sea. Book your adventure today!
January Temperature Trends in Cancun from 2020 to 2024
From 2020 to 2024, Cancun’s January weather remained consistently warm and pleasant, ideal for beach vacations. According to World Weather Calendar data, annual daytime highs ranged between 25.6°C (78°F) and 27.8°C (82°F), while January highs stayed steady at 27°C to 28°C (81°F to 82°F). Nighttime lows averaged around 20°C (68°F), providing cool and comfortable evenings. The period showed no major temperature fluctuations, reflecting Cancun’s stable tropical climate. These steady conditions make January one of the best months for travelers seeking sunshine, low humidity, and perfect weather for swimming, sailing, and exploring the Riviera Maya.
Final Thoughts
So, is January a good time to go to Cancun? Yes, it’s one of the best months. You’ll find sunny days, calm seas, and endless opportunities to enjoy the Caribbean. And the ultimate way to make the most of it? A catamaran tour.
Want the best way to enjoy Cancun’s warm sunshine and clear blue waters this January? Book a catamaran tour for a perfect day of sailing, snorkeling, and relaxing at sea. Ready to plan your trip or have questions? Send us a quick message on WhatsApp, and we’ll help you set it all up.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Cancun warm in January?
Yes, Cancun stays warm in January with daytime temperatures averaging 75–82°F (24–28°C).
Can you swim in Cancun in January?
Yes! The Caribbean Sea stays around 78–80°F (25–27°C), perfect for swimming and snorkeling.
What’s the weather like in Cozumel in January?
The weather in Cozumel is like sunny days, warm nights and an average temperature of 80°F (27C) that is just right to spend time outside.
Is Cancun cold in January?
No, It is not cold in January in Cancun, the mornings and evenings are cooler, days are always comfortably warm.
