Dry & sunny
The weather
January is in the dry season — sunny days and very little rain. Daytime highs average 29°C (84°F) and nights 17°C (62°F). The weather station records about 2.2 days with rain and 34 mm of rainfall in the month. The sea in Banderas Bay averages 25°C (77°F), and the sun sets around 18:41.
Rain and temperature, all year
Rain (mm)High (°C)
January 2027
What's on in January 2027
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Dec – Mar
Humpback whale season
Every winter, humpback whales migrate to the warm water of Banderas Bay to mate and give birth. Watching a mother and calf — or a full breach — is the trip most winter visitors remember.
Full guide → -
Dec 31
New Year's Eve
The whole city ends up on the waterfront. The Malecón becomes a free open-air party with a stage, street food and music, and fireworks light up the bay at midnight — visible from almost anywhere along it.
Full guide → -
Jan 6
Día de Reyes
The real end of the holiday season: children get gifts from the Three Kings and families share a rosca de reyes. Whoever finds the figurine hidden in the bread owes everyone tamales on February 2.
Tips for January
- Dry-season months are the busiest for visitors — book popular hotels and tours early.
- It's whale season — pick a licensed whale-watching operator.
- Pack a light layer for evenings and early boat trips (lows around 17°C).
- The water is refreshing (25°C) — some snorkelers like a thin wetsuit.
Tours
Tours worth doing in January
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FAQ
Common questions
What is the weather like in Puerto Vallarta in January?
January is in the dry season — sunny days and very little rain. Daytime highs average 29°C (84°F) and nights 17°C (62°F). The weather station records about 2.2 days with rain and 34 mm of rainfall in the month. The sea in Banderas Bay averages 25°C (77°F), and the sun sets around 18:41.
Is January a good time to visit Puerto Vallarta?
Yes, if you want sunshine: January averages only 2.2 days with rain, and it's whale season.
How warm is the ocean in Puerto Vallarta in January?
About 25°C (77°F) on average in Banderas Bay (Open-Meteo, 2023–2025).