What's the Weather Like in Puerto Vallarta in January
January may well be one of the coldest months in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, but it still boasts high temperatures and lots of sunshine thanks to the resorts position near the equator. It's the perfect time to visit if you're after some warm winter sun and to escape to soft-sand beaches and forget all about the cold European winter.
Temperature
Average daily temperatures sit at a particularly pleasant 22°C, often rising to a scorching 29°C and above during the hottest parts of the day. It's important to pack plenty of suncream and regularly top it up as the sun is very strong at this time of year. The warm winter weather rarely dips below 14°C at night, providing balmy evenings. It's a good idea to pack layers if you're visiting in January as there's quite a difference between the temperatures during the day and at night. T-shirts, shorts, and swimwear is perfect for the daytime, whilst you might wish to pack a light cardigan or jumper for when it gets cooler in the evenings.
Rainfall
Though it's technically winter (November - May), there is very little rainfall in January in Puerto Vallarta, with only around 23mm falling throughout the month. It's very unlikely you'll get caught in any showers, but to be on the safe side you should slip an umbrella into your luggage.
Sunshine Hours
Due to its positioning so close to the equator, Puerto Vallarta sees a huge amount of sunshine, even during the winter months. In January there's around 10 hours of sunshine a day, meaning there is plenty of time for you to hit the beach and explore the cultural attractions that are on offer in the resort.
Sea Temperature
Hitting the beach is something you'll definitely want to do, as the warm temperatures at this time of year heat up the water to a tropical 25°C, providing the perfect atmosphere for casual swimmers and those who want to just splash about in the shallows. There's also an abundance of watersports opportunities dotted around the coast, which is a great way to enjoy the beautifully warm sea temperatures.
Puerto Vallarta's tropical climate is, thanks to its central location near the equator, bringing with it long sun-filled days and hot temperatures even during the winter months. If you're looking for to get away on a beach holiday in the middle of winter, then Puerto Vallarta is a good bet.
Hotels for Puerto Vallarta in January
Casa Velas
Casa Velas is a luxury boutique hotel for adults only, providing a romantic setting and quiet atmosphere. Set inside a huge, villa-style building, the stylish décor is sleek and modern, and the spacious suites are bright and airy and many have their own terraces and pools. To top it off, there is an in-house spa, and on-site golf course, a garden and swimming pool with a swim up bar, and a restaurant that serves gourmet cuisine.
Casa Cupula
The Casa Cupula promotes itself as a boutique hotel for LGBT travellers, providing a chic décor with spacious rooms complete with WiFi and satellite television. Elsewhere in the hotel there is a swimming pool, spa facilities, and an in-house restaurant and bar offering a variety of food and refreshments.
Hotel La Siesta
Those who are watching their wallets should check into the Hotel La Siesta, a modest but stylish accommodation option with views across the beach. Rooms include WiFi and satellite television, and there's an outdoor terrace with a pool, as well as an on-site restaurant and bar.
Beaches for January for Puerto Vallarta
Puerto Vallarta in January is very warm, providing the perfect temperatures to relax and sunbathe on the beach in. The sea temperatures are positively tropical and the calm pacific breeze offers a little respite from the scorching winter sun.
Playa de Oro Beach
Playa de Oro Beach is one of the most popular beaches in the city, located in the downtown area. It's spacious, with sprawling golden sands, and surrounded by unusual rock formations that provide shelter and give it a secluded feel. There's numerous activities on offer here, too, like parasailing, jet skiing, kitesurfing, and snorkelling.
Conchas Chinas Beach
Conchas Chinas Beach is less busy than Playa de Oro, and is filled with beautiful natural pools ideal for exploring the small sea life of the city. It's a great place to try some snorkelling and to get to know the colourful underwater world.
Restaurants and Bars for Puerto Vallarta in January
Cafe des Artistes
Café des Artistes is tucked in the old part of Puerto Vallarta city and provides a stylish gourmet dining experience. The décor is sleek and modern, and there is a secluded terraced area out the back surrounded by lush greenery and twinkling lights. Chef Thierry Blouet serves up a delicious selection of dishes that are exquisitely presented.
Vista Grill
Vista Grill is an upmarket restaurant that brings international cuisine to Puerto Vallarta. It offers spectacular views across the bay and the menu is filled with creative Mexican dishes as well as those from further afield, including pork with Huitlacoche, grilled shrimp with Chile Ancho, and smoked duck Magret. There is a range of specials that change every day depending on seasonal ingredients, and the dessert menu is a flurry of delicious dishes such as marzipan crème brulee and local banana bread.
Things to Do in Puerto Vallarta in January
Malecon
Stroll along the Malecon, a boardwalk that stretches along the coast, lined with a selection of restaurants, cafes and bars. There's a number of statues dotted along its length the renovation that it underwent a few years ago has left it with a lively, contemporary atmosphere. It's a great place to watch the sunset from one of the road-side terraces, or to grab a coffee and watch the world go by including the street artists, performers, and locals.
Church of Our Lady Guadalupe
The Church of Our Lady Guadalupe is a popular cultural attraction in Puerto Vallarta, drawing in hundreds of visitors every year. It's set inside a beautifully ornate building that acts as a symbol of the city and there are a series of bells that ring every day. It's still a working church, so you can go to one of the mass ceremonies, or simply explore its interior out of hours.
