Headed to Puerto Vallarta in January? You're in for a treat. Whether it's humpback whale encounters, jungle canopy adventures, or late-night dancing in the Zona Romántica, this place knows how to deliver. But every month brings its own vibe, so a little planning goes a long way. January offers Puerto Vallarta at its finest—warm, sunny days perfect for outdoor adventures and pleasantly cool evenings ideal for al fresco dining and cultural exploration.
This guide gives you the lowdown on what to expect, what to bring, and how to make the most of your trip without overthinking your packing list. Consider it your cheat sheet for showing up ready for whatever Puerto Vallarta throws your way—from early morning whale watching expeditions to sunset zip-lining through the Sierra Madre mountains.
What to Expect from January's Weather in Puerto Vallarta
January delivers Puerto Vallarta's most reliable weather, making it peak season for good reason.
Average temperatures: Daytime highs reach a comfortable 26-29°C (79-84°F), while nighttime temperatures drop to 14-18°C (57-64°F). This temperature swing means you'll want layers for seamless day-to-night transitions.
Rainfall: Minimal at just 15-23mm for the entire month, with only a 3% chance of rain on any given day. When rain does occur, it's typically brief and light, rarely disrupting outdoor activities.
Humidity: Moderate at 72-75%, making the warm temperatures feel comfortable rather than oppressive. The ocean breeze helps keep things pleasant, especially during evening hours.
Sea temperature: A perfect 25°C (77°F)—ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and whale watching boat trips without any wetsuit requirements.
Daylight hours: 10-11 hours of daylight with sunrise around 7:38 AM and sunset around 6:40 PM, plus an average of 10 hours of sunshine daily for optimal outdoor adventure conditions.
Essential Packing List for Puerto Vallarta in January
Some things are must-haves in Puerto Vallarta, no matter the month. But each time of year comes with its own little surprises that any smart traveler would want to plan for. The goal is to bring exactly what you'll use and nothing more, though let's be honest—perfect packing is more of a dream than a science.
Travel Documents & Money
- Passport (valid for 6+ months)
- Physical copies of passport/ID
- Travel insurance documents
- Mexican pesos (cash)
- Credit cards (notify bank of travel)
- Emergency cash in USD
Electronics & Power
- Phone charger + car charger
- Portable power bank (high capacity)
- Universal power adapter
- Waterproof phone case
- Camera + extra memory cards
- Headphones/earbuds
Health & Safety
- Prescription medications (extra supply)
- Basic first aid kit
- Insect repellent
- Hand sanitizer
- Sun-protective clothing
- After-sun care/aloe vera
Practical Items
- Plastic bags for wet/dirty clothes
- Travel-sized laundry detergent
- Quick-dry towel
- Reusable water bottle
Clothing and Accessories
- Multiple swimsuits (2-3 recommended)
- Lightweight, breathable t-shirts/tank tops
- Shorts and swim shorts
- Underwear (quick-dry recommended)
- Sleepwear/pajamas
- Beach cover-ups or sarongs
- Light layers for air-conditioned spaces
- Dressy outfits for upscale restaurants/nightlife
- Sun hat with a chin strap
- Sunglasses with a strap
Footwear
- Flip-flops or comfortable sandals for beach and pool
- Comfortable walking shoes for exploring cobblestone streets
- Sturdy, closed-toe shoes for adventure tours
Top Clothing and Footwear Suggestions for January
January's warm days and cooler evenings create the perfect excuse for versatile layering that transitions effortlessly from adventure to relaxation.
Warm Weather Essentials
Cotton t-shirts, linen sundresses, lightweight shorts, moisture-wicking tank tops
Evening Comfort
Light cardigans, breathable long-sleeve shirts, denim jackets, pashminas
Adventure Ready
Quick-dry pants, UV-protective shirts, closed-toe hiking shoes, sport sandals
Puerto Vallarta Nightlife Considerations for January
Puerto Vallarta's nightlife spans beach clubs, rooftops, and local bars, so pack versatile pieces that go from casual to dressy. Bring two breathable dressy outfits, comfortable stylish shoes, and a light layer for A/C. A small crossbody bag is perfect for essentials while dancing.
January's weather affects your night plans. Pack a mini umbrella and waterproof makeup for rain, a jacket and hair ties for wind, or extra deodorant and blotting papers for hot humid nights. Don't forget a portable phone charger and backup shoes for long nights out.
Top January Experiences & What You'll Need
Here, we'll highlight three amazing tours in Puerto Vallarta this January and the must-have items you'll need to enjoy each experience fully.
Whale Watching Adventure
January marks the peak of humpback whale migration season in Banderas Bay, making it the perfect time to witness these magnificent creatures breaching and singing in their natural habitat. This all-inclusive catamaran adventure offers guaranteed whale sightings with marine mammal experts who use hydrophones to let you listen to the whales' melodic songs—an experience that's only possible during these prime winter months.
What you'll need for this tour:
Light sweater for ocean breezes, waterproof camera for whale photography, extra pesos for conservation fees, comfortable non-slip shoes for boat decks, sunscreen for extended sun exposure.
San Sebastian del Oeste Day Trip
January's dry season and mild mountain temperatures create ideal conditions for exploring this charming colonial town nestled in the Sierra Madre mountains. The cooler mountain air provides a refreshing contrast to coastal warmth, while clear January skies offer perfect visibility for the scenic journey through agave fields, traditional bakeries, and historic silversmith workshops.
What you'll need for this tour:
Comfortable walking shoes for cobblestone streets, light sweater for mountain elevation, sun hat and sunscreen, extra money for authentic souvenirs, camera for colonial architecture photography.
Pueblos Cultural Tour
January's pleasant temperatures and dry conditions make it perfect for this immersive cultural journey through rural Mexican towns. The comfortable weather allows you to fully enjoy hands-on experiences like chocolate making, tortilla preparation, and outdoor cooking lessons without the discomfort of humidity or rain that other months might bring.
What you'll need for this tour:
Comfortable walking shoes for village exploration, lightweight clothing for cooking activities, camera for authentic cultural moments, extra cash for local artisan purchases, appetite for traditional Mexican cuisine and spirits.
Pre-Departure Preparation Timeline
2-3 Weeks Before Departure
Digital Preparation
- Download offline maps
- Create trip playlist for different moods
- Download translation apps to learn basic Spanish phrases
- Research weather patterns for the month
- Book accommodations and activities
- Reserve popular tours
Cultural & Culinary Research
- List of must-try dishes for the season
- Local festivals and events
- Learn basic Spanish phrases for food ordering
Documentation & Backup
- Verify passport expiration date
- Scan and email copies of passport, ID, travel insurance
- Print physical copies of important documents
- Travel insurance verification
- Emergency contact information
24 Hours Before Departure
- Check weather forecast updates
- Confirm offline maps are downloaded
- Charge all electronics
- Pack carry-on essentials
Airport/Travel Day
- Comfortable travel outfit
- Entertainment for flight
- Empty reusable water bottle
- Snacks for travel day
- Important documents in carry-on
You're All Set for Puerto Vallarta in January
Planning ahead for Puerto Vallarta in January means you'll spend less time worrying about what you forgot and more time enjoying everything this incredible place has to offer. With the right gear packed and your essentials sorted, you're set to make the most of January's unique advantages—perfect whale watching conditions, ideal adventure weather, and comfortable temperatures for cultural exploration—and create memories that'll last long after you're back home.
Ready to dive into Puerto Vallarta's best experiences? Don't leave your must-do activities to chance – the most popular tours and attractions in January fill up fast! Book your adventures now and secure your spot for an unforgettable trip.
