What's the weather like in Havana in January
The weather in Havana, Cuba is beautiful all year round, however, the city is ideally situated on the Gulf of Mexico, and the year-round warm weather is particularly enticing during the northern hemisphere's winter, such as during the month of January. January falls in the middle of Havana's dry season, and the day-to-day forecast throughout the month is predictably warm and dry. A visit to Havana this month is a great way to soak up some winter sun and enjoy sunny days.
Temperature
The average temperature in Havana in January is 21°C (70°F), which is comfortable for many outdoor activities and adventures within the city and nearby Cuban costal towns. Days are often warm, but temperatures do not reach the stifling heat of some summer days. Both the average high air and water temperature in January is a 26°C (79°F), warm enough for swimming in the Gulf of Mexico.
The average low temperature drops to 16°C (61°F) for the month, which is the coldest of the year, with cooler evening and overnight temperatures. Visitors should prepare for dinners and evenings along the water to remain mild, yet crisp.
Sea Temperature
Fortunately for those seeking sun during the winter month of January, the Gulf of Mexico is warm and inviting all year long. Even in January the water temperatures remains at a wonderful 26°C (79°F), which is perfect for swimming, water sports or leisurely days on the beach. The warm Gulf water makes Havana a beach destination at any time of year.
Sunshine Hours
January sees the fewest average hours of sunlight per day, with only an average of 7 hours daily compared to December and February's average of 8 hours daily.
Rainfall
The Caribbean climate in Havana means the weather is often humid, even during the dry season. January is no different, and visitors should be prepared for humid days and the occasional chance of rain. On average Havana receives 20 mm of precipitation on an average of 6 wet days throughout the month of January.
Havana Hotels for January
Due to the impeccable January weather, this month is the high season in Havana, and the center of Old Havana will be bustling with tourists and locals alike. Visitors who book far enough in advance can take advantage of all the sights and sounds of Old Havana from a gorgeous hotel right on the city center's threshold by staying at Iberostar Parque Central. Often considered the best hotel in Havana, from the gorgeous, yet formidable, exterior to the impeccable service at this 5-star hotel it is easy to see why. This hotel has been open nearly a decade, and offers excellent service from reception to the buffet breakfast. There is a touch of upscale, old-world charm that radiates from the lobby through each guest room, which adds a touch of ambiance to a stay. Besides, the location is perfect and the rooftop has incredible views.
A wonderful tradition that refuses to fade into Cuba's strict communist past is casa particulars (private house). In 1997 the Cuban government began to allow residents with the appropriate license to rent rooms to tourists in their private homes. As most, if not all, other accommodation was government owned and operated, the casa particulars became the choice of many visitors to Havana and still are.
Each casa particular has a unique environment and features, just like the individual owners. One of the highest rated casa particulars in Havana is Casa 1932. The manager and staff are friendly and warm, and interior is filled with art deco furniture and classic Cuban antiques.
Decorated in a similar style and atmosphere and owned by the same management is Casa 1940. There is a small balcony with sea views, and the owners offer the same Art Deco Tour that is popular with guests at Casa 1932.
Havana Beaches in January
Past the more popular Playas del Este and along the rural coastline east of Havana are 3 white-sand beaches, known as Tropico, Puerto Escondido and Jibacoa. While Jibacoa is considered the most beautiful of the 3, it is also the more popular and the resorts on this strip of sand can be a bit possessive of their beachfront location. However, Tropico and Puerto Escondido are quiet and calm. The water at both of these small beaches is suitable for swimming, and they can be reached by rental car or taxi.
Bars and Restaurants
The FOCSA building is the tallest in Havana, and located on its top floor is the amazing restaurant, La Torre, also spelled El Torre. Given that La Torre (El Torre) is literally perched over all of Havana on the 33rd floor, the views are outstanding and the best time to visit for sunset. However, the prime location and amazing views also encourage higher prices, and visitors should be prepared to pay more for both food and drinks than at the same quality restaurant located on the street level.
If you look ahead, behind or next to you there is likely a memento or reminder of Cuba's Socialist regime and often its ties to other communist countries, such as Russia. One dining experience goes so far to celebrate the Soviet Union's history and culture. Nazdarovie is a retro Soviet restaurant that serves traditional Russian dishes. There a views overlooking the water, and a reservation is a must (because the food is that good).
Live salsa is a staple of the Havana experience, and Casa de La Musica in Miramar is a perfect place to watch or even take part. The location in Miramar is the cleaner version of the very popular Casa de La Musica in Centro Havana, which is filled to the brim with people and loud with music. Either option provides an interesting night out, and if you are brave enough to partake, sore feet from dancing.
Things to do in Havana in January
It can be tempting to spend every January day on the white-sand beaches near Havana. However, there is so much offered by this capital city and surrounding areas, that a visit to Havana without experiencing some of the cultural and historical sites would be a mistake. It would also be a mistake to miss out on the handcrafted souvenirs at Havana's open-air market. The Centro Cultural Antiguos Almacenes de Deposito San Jose is housed in an old shipping warehouse, and artists' wares includes everything from leatherwork, to woodworking, to paintings.
Take a ride in a CoCo taxi that are popular among tourists. They resemble large yellow helmets and are the perfect way to see Havana for a cheap price. Make sure you don't get over charged though.
For history enthusiasts, Morro Castle (Castillo del Morro) can be exciting to visit. It's a fortress guarding the entrance to Havana bay. Old world charm, history and culture can all be found at El Morro. If you're willing to hang about, the cannons fire at 9pm from the castle.
Most of the world celebrates the New Year on January 1st, however in Cuba the date is also an important national holiday. January 1st is called Triumph of the Revolution (Triunfo de la Revolucion), which celebrates the establishment of the current Cuban government following the victory of the revolution led by Fidel Castro.
