If you're interested in escaping the cold weather and going to the beach this January, these seven gorgeous destinations are perfect for you.
The Best January Beach Destinations In The World
1. Cancun, Mexico
Cancun has nearly perfect weather in January, with average temperature highs in the low 80s—ideal for a stretch on the beach. December to April are the best months to visit, weather-wise. The crowds are definitely heavier this time of year than during the sweltering summer and stormy fall months. But, traveling earlier in the year will save you from the spring breakers flocking to the shore in March and April. After the first month in January, when room rates tend to be highest, you’ll likely find deals for flight and rooms. With a hotel zone to fulfill anyone’s resort vacation dreams, or Playa del Carmen, a smaller beach town for a casual getaway, Cancun has a lot to offer.
2. Cancun, Mexico
San Jose has all kinds of beaches for different types of recreation. Beaches along the Pacific coast are popular surfing destinations, while beaches along the Caribbean are better for relaxing, having fewer crowds. Average temperature highs are around 75 degrees Fahrenheit, so if that feels a bit cool for your liking, remember there are tons of other activities in Costa Rica to enjoy. The center of the country has national parks galore, plus recreational activities such as zip lining and canopy tours. The Arenal Volcano is a huge tourist attraction, and the outlying towns make for great day trips from San Jose.
3. Cancun, Mexico
Beach vacations are all about island destinations. On Boracay Island in the Philippines, nearly every hotel is just a stone’s throw from the beach. With January average temperatures peaking at 82 degrees Fahrenheit, you’ll find no better time to visit this little island. Boracay has a laid back atmosphere, unlike some of the busy beaches you’ll see throughout Southeast Asia. It’s high season for hotels in January, but three and four star hotels fall within the $45-70 range per night for two people. For vacationers looking to score travel deals in the mid-price range, a Boracay Island trip will fall within budget.
4. Cancun, Mexico
The Gold Coast is an especially popular destination in January for the summer holiday season. The good news is that you’ll be arriving after the December crowds, but before the weather gets too hot. Temperatures inch higher by this time of year, so you’ll see families and locals flock to the beaches along the Gold Coast. For a break from the beach, there are several incredible amusement parks in the area. Wet n Wild and WhiteWater World will keep you cooled off, as will Castaway Bay or the water park at Sea World. Since January is such a busy season on the Gold Coast, make sure to book reservations some time in advance.
5. Cancun, Mexico
With January falling right in the middle of dry season, the Corn Islands of Nicaragua is a great escape this time of year. The Corn Islands are a set of two islands, Little Corn and Big Corn, located off the Caribbean coast of Nicaragua. Most people head to this destination to snorkel, fish, scuba dive and soak up the sun. You’ll want to head for Big Corn if you want larger resorts, a selection of restaurants and a more-developed area. Little Corn has fewer resorts, but has backpacker-friendly guesthouses and sites for explorers.
6. Cancun, Mexico
A seaside vacation doesn’t always have to coincide with beach-perfect weather. There’s plenty to do along the coast besides taking a dip in the sea, especially if you head to Monterey Bay. Average high temperatures for the month of January are in the upper 50s to low 60s for this northern Californian destination. While that may be a bit chilly for snorkeling or diving, the seaside town has a lot to offer. The Monterey Bay Aquarium draws tourists from all over the world, as does Monterey’s historic district and Fisherman’s Wharf.
7. Cancun, Mexico
If you’re looking for some serious rest and relaxation, head for the British Virgin Islands, located near Puerto Rico in the Caribbean. It may be on the pricey end of beach travel, but this romantic chain of islands offers top-notch yachting, snorkeling and cocktailing. There’s no bad time of year to visit the islands; average temperatures in January are in the low 80s. With reef-lined beaches and colorful coves, the British Islands is a beach destination you won’t forget!
This article was written by Hanna Choi.