Weather Overview
While much of the northern hemisphere is shivering in the heart of winter, conditions are much different in Akumal, Mexico. January is actually one of the more popular times of the year to visit the area thanks to the fact that the tropical nature of the region helps temperatures remain warm. Additionally, it is also one of the drier months of the year allowing visitors to take advantage of all the outdoor activities that are offered on water and on land.
With tropical waters just offshore, there is no need to stay on land despite what the calendar says. Sea surface temperatures during this time of the year are a very pleasant 26°C (79°F). These waters are warm enough for swimming, scuba diving and snorkeling all without needing a wetsuit.
Temperatures on land are also very warm with an average daily temperature of 24°C (75°F). Even early morning temperatures are warm enough that visitors can go without a light jacket as average overnight low temperatures will only fall to 21°C (70°F). Afternoon temperatures will warm to a very pleasant average of 27°C (81°F). Additionally, visitors will be able to enjoy an average of 6 hours of sunshine per day throughout the month.
This region typically goes through two distinct seasons of a dry one and a wet one. This month falls squarely in the drier season with only an average of 70mm of precipitation expected. Additionally, the rain is expected to fall over an average of just 7 days throughout the month. While some of the rain can come in the form of heavy downpours, the precipitation will typically not last too long and visitors will be able to quickly resume their holiday.
Where to Stay
One of the finest resorts in the area is the Bahia Principe. The resort has a total of 758 rooms, three pools, seven restaurants, nine bars and much more. Perfect for the entire family, the hotel also features a children's water park and a 36-hole golf course. With a beautiful beach, casino and dance club, this resort offers everything you can want in a holiday.
Las Villas Akumal is made up of 26 ocean front villas that are like nothing you have ever seen before. Each villa has one, two or three bedrooms with ocean views, fully equipped kitchens, dining room and daily maid service. Guests can take advantage of a children's pool, adult pool, rooftop restaurant and much more.
With approximately 250 rooms of varying sizes, the Grand Palladium White Sand Resort & Spa is great for a couple or family looking to get away on a January holiday. This five-star resort will leave you wanting for nothing and have you coming back again and again. With the dry weather this time of year, guests can take advantage of the nine pools, baby club and numerous water sports offered by the resort. There are plenty of daily activities for the whole family to enjoy, or you can choose to just rest and relax.
Hit the Beach
The good news is that if you love water adventures, then Akumal is the place for you. Originally designed as a scuba lover's paradise, the region is now becoming just as popular with snorkelers and those who just want to enjoy the sand and surf. While there is no shortage of fine beaches, they may get crowded during the dry season.
Since January only receives an average of 70mm of rain, now is a perfect time to hit the beach. One of the best beaches in the area is Jade Beach. Easy to get to and located only one mile south of the city, this area is home to numerous holiday homes. Thanks to the fact that the reef is just offshore, this is a popular beach for those who are looking to get some snorkeling in. There is also a restaurant nearby for when visitors get hungry throughout the day.
Restaurants and Nightlife
Serving breakfast, lunch and dinner, the Turtle Bay Bakery & Café is one of the more popular restaurants in Akumal. In business since 1997, this café offers sticky buns and eggs benedict as some of the more popular dishes. Visitors appreciate the laid-back atmosphere where they can relax and stay a while. Other favourites include locally caught fish served in a house roasted garlic sauce, and white chocolate banana cream pie.
With quick and friendly service, El Ultimo Maya is quickly becoming a favourite restaurant in the city. The food is prepared fresh and to order and with a number of different items on the menu, there is something for everyone. Additionally, the authentic Mexican food is offered at reasonable prices that won't break the bank.
Located just up the road in Playa del Carmen, Playacrawl is the place to be for a good time. A bar crawl to the extreme, guests are treated to VIP service and experience all the happening spots in the city in one night.
Things to Do
For those traveling as a family, January is a great time to explore the world of dolphins at the Dolphin Discovery Akumal. With warm temperatures and relatively low rain chances, visitors will have plenty of opportunities to swim with the dolphins and interact with them all under the careful guidance of trained staff. Depending on which dolphin adventure your choose, your interaction will last between 40 and 60 minutes and provide memories for a lifetime.
However, if you would rather spend your time catching fish, then be sure to book a charter trip and head out on a deep-sea fishing adventure. Companies such as Captain Rick's will take you out on an adventure to catch anything from tuna to kingfish to blue marlin. Visitors can choose from different trip lengths available to match the time you have available as well as your budget.
