What's the Weather like in Playacar in January
Temperature
During the first month of the year, Playacar, south of Playa del Carmen, sees the coolest temperatures it will have all year. The average temperature for this month is 23°C (about 73°F), more comparable to a British summer than winter and a great reason to get away for a holiday here. The average highs and lows drop slightly from those in December, with an average high of 27°C (around 81°F) and lows down to 19°C (about 66°F).
Wind
Even though it's winter back in the UK, you'll want to pull out and pack your short-sleeved shirts, shorts and capris to wear during the day. At night, you will probably want a light jacket or sweater, especially if you'll be near the beach where it's a little breezier. Overall, though, the chance of a windy day is only 11 percent, the El Norte winds start blowing through the area at this time, making it windier than usual.
Average Sunshine Hours
This month you get 8 hours of sunshine, still ample time to get out and see what the resort and nearby towns have to offer. The chance of a sunny day is 18 percent; you'll want to bring along sunglasses or a hat to protect your eyes from the sun. You'll also want some sunscreen so you don't bring home sunburn as your souvenir.
Rainfall
The average rainfall this time of year is 89mm, falling over 6 days, much lower than the wet season as this resort. There is a 20 percent chance of rain on any given day and a 13 percent chance of a cloudy day. So, even with the rainfall chances, you'll more than likely still have a great day to enjoy time outside.
Average Sea Temperature
When visiting this month, be sure to take advantage of the still warm sea temperatures, which average 27°C (about 81°F). These pleasant temperatures make it a great time to swim or try your hand at watersports, perfect for a winter getaway.
Playacar Hotels in January
Iberostar Quetzal
The five-star Iberostar Quetzal provides all-inclusive accommodations, with all food, drinks and activities included. This hotel's architecture takes its cue from the ancient Maya ruins located nearby. Hotel amenities include private beach and pool perfect for enjoying the beautiful January weather. It also has a tennis court, kids' club, day and evening entertainment, and an on-site spa that even offers massages on the beach. Room choices range from stand double-queen rooms to large junior suites with separate living areas.
Viva Wyndham
Those looking for an all-inclusive complex should look no further than the Viva Wyndham Maya, one of Playacar's best value all-inclusive resorts. Room choices accommodate many different groups and include double queen and single king rooms, as well as ocean and garden views. The outdoor ocean-view swimming pool is a major draw, providing spectacular views over the Riviera Maya. The resort is particularly welcoming of families, with kids' clubs and children-focused entertainment in the evenings.
Viva Wyndham Azteca
Sister property to the Viva Wyndham Maya, the Viva Wyndham Azteca also provides excellent value for families and budget-minded travelers. When staying at the Azteca, along with all-inclusive accommodations, you also get access to the facilities at the Wyndham Maya, doubling your vacation value. Family-friendly amenities include kids' clubs, theater, ocean-front pool and babysitting services. The onsite spa is just what visitors need for a little relaxation after a busy day on the golf course. The hotel boasts its own excursion center, making it easy to book day trips to the nearby Maya ruins.
Beach in Playacar for January
Playacar has one long beach that stretches the entire length of Phase 1 and Phase 2. It starts just south of the Playa del Carmen ferry dock. Thanks to the warm sea temperatures in January, averaging 27°C (about 81°F), it's a great time to check out the beach. Many of the beach areas in Playacar are reserved by the resorts and the resorts do have the right to ask you to move down if you're in that resort's area so it is best to stay somewhere with a section of beach.
Bars and Restaurant
Rolandi's Restaurant, Bar & Pizzeria
For dinner, head back to Playacar and stop by Rolandi's Restaurant, Bar & Pizzeria, located close to the airport where Playacar and Playa del Carmen meet. The restaurant has a romantic feel, with dimmed lighting and small, private tables. Traditional Italian food is served up in abundance, but Rolandi puts a little twist on some classics too, such as the fettuccini with vodka salsa and the Mexican-influenced pizza.
Xulam
For a totally different dining experience, stop by the Xulam restaurant, which offers authentic and traditional Maya cuisine. Decorated in true Mayan fashion, chipotle-marinated steaks, filled ensaladas and salsa-topped tortillas are popular menu items. There's even a kid's menu and desserts shaped like the Maya pyramids. The restaurant is located on the Playacar/Playa del Carmen border, close to the airport.
Las Ventanas
For a dinner fitting the upscale atmosphere of the Playacar resort, Las Ventanas at the Royal Hideaway is ideal. Given the privilege of being the hotel's signature restaurant, the cuisine here has a decidedly Spanish influence, with Spanish cheeses, cold meats and copious amounts of olives and olive oil. Be prepared to dress up when visiting, however, as the restaurant does not permit anyone wearing sandals, tennis shoes, running shoes, shorts or jeans to dine there.
Things to do in Playacar in January
PDC Kiteboarding School
The El Note winds are by no means a hindrance; in fact, their presence throughout January makes this month ideal for stopping by the PDC Kiteboarding School located to the south of the resort amongst the top hotels. The school has been offering professional lessons and equipment rental on the Riviera Maya since 2007. The lessons include one-on-one courses and semi-private courses with just you and one other person.
Xcaret Eco Theme Park
A must-do when staying in Playacar, the Xcaret Eco Theme Park offers plenty to see and do for all interests and ages. You can literally spend a whole day there and still only scratch the surface. The park offers animals and wildlife including Jaguar Island and a butterfly pavilion, as well as dolphin swims. You can explore and swim through underground rivers or explore the ocean while snorkeling. If you need a break or a quick bite to eat, Xcaret has several restaurants and snack bars to help you refuel.
Xaman-Ha Aviary
To learn a little about wildlife native to the Yucatan, stop by the Xaman-Ha Aviary towards the south end of the resort. The aviary contains many different species of local birds, including flamingos and toucans. It's within walking distance of the major hotels, and with it being just a small park, it can easily be seen during a leisurely morning or afternoon.
