How is Cancun Weather in January?

If you are considering traveling to Cancun and want to know about Cancun Weather in January, this post will offer all you need to know about Cancun in the “coldest” month of the year. Read on.

January is one of the coolest months of the year in Cancun. It’s also one of the driest with less chance of rain and no hurricane threat. And therefore it’s good enough to be one of the best months to travel to Cancun for some of you.

Depending on what you are looking for.

Although it’s just past the Christmas Holidays it’s still considered high season for the amazing favorable climate and lots of sunshine.

The sea temperature is 26ºC, which is great for swimming, while humidity is moderate, but it helps to keep the temperature perception higher than reality.

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Cancun weather in January at a glance☀️🌡🌦

AVERAGE TEMPERATURE	23ºC	73ºF
LOWEST TEMPERATURE	21ºC	70ºF
HIGHEST TEMPERATURE	28ºC	82ºF
AVERAGE DAY TEMPERATURE	25.1ºC	77ºF
AVERAGE NIGHT TEMPERATURE	22ºC	72ºF
SUNSHINE HOURS	8 hr
RAINFALL	143mm
SEA TEMPERATURE	27ºC	81ºF
CHANCE OF CLOUDY DAYS	13%
CHANCE OF WINDY DAYS	11%
SUNSET HOUR	From 6:09 (Jan 1) to 6:30 (Jan 31st)
SUNRISE HOUR	From 7: 11 pm

Sources: Time zone, Holiday weather, Accuweather

Cancun weather in January – what to expect

This is how locals perceive the temperature in January.

But it’s nothing like that. Worry not.

Cancun is going to be mainly sunny and if it rains, it will only be passing showers. So don’t cancel your plans if you booked a tour and see some clouds in the sky.

Pack a light sweater or a shawl, if you wish, for the cooler nights, but other than that, feel free to include your beach clothes in your suitcase.

If you are coming from cold weather, such as Canada or Northern USA, or Europe, in Cancun you will find an amazing climate that will warm you up.

Temperatures in Cancun in January

Although the average temperature is estimated at around 73ºF/23ºC during the day, it will never exceed 90ºF. During the day, in the sun, you will definitely get to a warming 80ºF.

Rest reassured that you will enjoy sunbathing and swimming.

Nights are cooler though and sometimes you won’t even need a/c, which is good for the planet 🙂

Humidity and Rain in Cancun in January

Oh, forget about the rain in January in Cancun. Even if there is a chance of rain, it will only be passing showers most of the time. So take a rain jacket with you just in case but never cancel your tour if you see a cloud in the sky.

Humidity levels are definitely lower than any other time of the year but high enough to keep you warm.

What happens in Cancun in January

January in Cancun is considered the high season for the great climate.

Hotels are at their maximum occupancy and therefore more expensive than any other time of the year (except holidays).

It is difficult to find any deals, but you might find lower rates for the second week of January, just after the festivities.

Cancun Events in January

New year’s Day

Año nuevo is a national holiday in Mexico. Since everybody is recovering from the previous night parties and celebrations, on New year’s day Cancun looks like a ghost town.

The majority of the shops and businesses are closed although restaurants and bars are not, but they might be short of staff…for obvious reasons 🙂

El Día de los Reyes (Kings’ Day)

January 6 is a day of celebration in Mexico. As a heartfelt tradition, families, and friends gather to eat a sort of round-shaped sweet bread called Rosca de Reyes.

However, the main thing is that a baby Jesus figure is baked into the bread, and whoever finds it in their slice must commit to making tamales for everybody during El Día de Candelaria, the upcoming holiday.

Cancun in January FAQ

Is January a good time to go to Cancun?

It is a good time if you are looking for dry weather, less chance of rain, and less humidity and heat because we are in the dry season.

It’s not a good time if you are looking for travel deals because it’s high season and hotels are normally running at high occupancy and therefore less willing to give out discounts.

Is it rainy in Cancun in January?

Not really. January in Cancun is one of the driest months which means that there is less chance of rain.

Is it too cold to swim in Cancun in January?

It’s generally up to anyone, and what is “cold” for you. I am cold all the time when I am diving, but if I swim I find it warm enough.

Just know that water temperature averages around 26ºC/78.8ºF.

How hot is Cancun Mexico in January?

Average temperatures are estimated at around 73ºF/23ºC during the day, and they will never exceed 90ºF. During the day in the sun, you will definitely get to a warming 80ºF without a doubt.

Nights are cooler. Bring a sweater or light jacket just in case.

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Things to do in January in Cancun

➡️ Read the complete list of things to do in Cancun

Top rates tours from Cancun in January

January is the perfect month to visit the Mayan ruins because it’s not too hot and you can better enjoy the visit. The water can be chilly instead.

Packing list for Cancun in December

Here is a short packing list of essential items for Cancun in February. As you notice I am including a light sweater cause it can indeed be chilly.

✔️ swim suite

✔️ water bottle – important to save the environment from plastics and stay hydrated

✔️ sunscreen – (eco-friendly – but remember you cannot use it in Cenotes)

✔️ flip flops

✔️ beach towels (unless you are going to a beach hotel in which case you will be provided)

✔️ mosquito repellent (eco-friendly – but remember you cannot use it in Cenotes)

✔️ Go Pro for amazing pictures while diving and snorkeling

✔️ Phone waterproof case

✔️ Drybag for your belonging when you are on the beach and in the water

✔️ Beach bag

✔️ Sun Glasses

✔️ Raincoat

✔️ Sun and waterproof Hat

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Whether in Cancun for every month of the year

If you want to have an overview, first, you can check out my guide to When is the best time to travel to Cancun? Otherwise here below you will find thorough information on Cancun weather and events for every month.

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