Situated within the state of Quintana Roo on the Yucatan Peninsula, Riviera Maya makes up a section of the eastern coast of Mexico in Central America. This resort enjoys a tropical climate with high temperatures, plenty of sunshine and a fair amount of rainfall throughout the year.
The average temperature ranges between 26°C and 27°C, rarely dropping below 20°C, even during the winter months. The rainy season falls between June and October when the resort can experience as many as 15 rainy days per month followed by the dry season from November to May.
Riviera Maya, Mexico is found on flat terrain, covered by low tropical jungle in the centre, giving way to a white sandy coastline around the edge. The resort is peppered with a number of natural cenotes, or underwater caves, which are popular locations for swimming, snorkelling and diving.
Famous for its large-scale all-inclusive resorts, Riviera Maya is a popular holiday destination for couples and families who want to relax on white sand beaches, explore ancient Mayan ruins and immerse themselves within a great assortment of nightlife.
What's The Weather Like in Riviera Maya in January?
Riviera Maya has a tropical climate all year round. January is a busy time at the resort as the weather is typically very warm relatively dry.
How Hot Is Riviera Maya In January?
January has an average temperature of 23°C with highs of up to 27°C common in the afternoon, then dropping to lows of 19°C overnight.
Sea Temperature and Sunshine In January
The average sea temperature for January is around 27°C and there is around seven hours of sunshine each day, making the perfect conditions for spending a day by the beach.
How Wet Is Riviera Maya In January?
Humidity is high during January, at an average of 80% and there are approximately six rainy days for the whole month. Keep in mind that the rain along the Riviera Maya tends to fall in dramatic-but-short showers, meaning that your stay is unlikely to be broken up by long spells of drizzle.
Hotels for Riviera Maya in January
Posada Freud
When it comes to accommodation, Posada Freud in Playa del Carmen is ideal for couples and families searching for budget accommodation in Riviera Maya, Mexico. Guests can choose from basic units, standard rooms and suites, all of which are close to restaurants, bars, cafes and shops. Onsite facilities are numerous and include free child places, access to Lido Beach Club, room service and 24-hour security..
Omni Puerto Aventuras Beach Resort
Families and couples looking for affordable accommodation in Puerto Aventuras should consider staying at the Omni Puerto Aventuras Beach Resort. This boutique hotel offers 30 rooms, each of which features a private Jacuzzi. There are many facilities for guests to enjoy, including beach bar, kids' club, WiFi access, fitness centre and swimming pools.
Teetotum Hotel
Teetotum Hotel is one of the most popular small-scale hotels in Tulum. Here guests can choose between four rooms, each of which has a king-size bed, air conditioning, WiFi, iPod docking station, minibar, plunge pool and private patio. The hotel also features a restaurant which serves a varied menu and a spa which offers a number of massages.
Beaches for January for Riviera Maya
Central Akumal Beach
With so many fantastic beaches, you'll be spoilt for choice during your holiday in Riviera Maya, Mexico. The Central Akumal beach is one of the most popular, due to the many amenities and services available.
Here you'll find soft white sand and clear waters, as well as many facilities, including sun loungers, parasols, showers, lifeguards, bars and restaurants. This beach is also home to two diving shops the Akumal Dive Shop and the Akumal Dive Centre which offer a number of courses and trips every day.
Playa del Carmen
If you're looking for something a bit calmer, visit the beach in the north of Playa del Carmen. Although this beach is also lined by a number of hotels, restaurants and cafes, it's usually quieter than Central Akumal beach.
This bay also boasts white sand and clear calm waters, making it an ideal spot for swimming and snorkelling. As well as the sun beds, shades and showers available to use, there is also a selection of water sports on offer, such as kayaking, boat hire and scuba diving.
Restaurants and Bars for Riviera Maya in January
Veneno Vil
Riviera Maya, Mexico boasts loads of fantastic restaurants, with something to suit all tastes and budgets. Veneno Vil in Playa del Carmen serves a variety of traditional Mexican cuisine from the area.
As well as an extensive list of starters, mains and desserts, this eatery also offers a large drinks menu, with several Mexican wines, cocktails and aged tequilas. One of the most popular choices is the eight-course menu which is full of the restaurant's specialities.
Gautama
Also situated in Playa del Carmen, Gautama serves an interesting fusion of Mexican and Asian cuisine which is sure to please. The menu features several curries, as well as several Mexican dishes, such as quesadillas, enchiladas, and taquitos. The eatery regularly offers discounts and deals on cocktails and local beers, making it an affordable option, whatever your budget.
Playacrawl
If you're in the mood to party, join one of the Playa del Carmen-based club hops with Playacrawl. On this night out you'll visit three or four of the post-popular bars and nightclubs in Riviera Maya, Mexico in a group made up of people from all over the world. The ticket price includes many extras, such as table reservations, VIP treatment, and unlimited drinks.
Mamitas Beach Club
The Mamitas Beach Club in Playa del Carmen is a great place to enjoy a refreshing drink during a day at the beach. This bar is usually very busy during the peak seasons, making January the ideal time to visit.
You can purchase a package for one price which includes several sun loungers, parasols, and drinks throughout the day, or pay for your drinks one by one. There is a great selection of beers, wines, spirits, cocktails, and soft drinks available, with something for everyone.
Things to Do in Riviera Maya in January
The Jungle Place
The Jungle Place in Playa del Carmen is a must-visit for animal-lovers or anyone travelling with children, whatever the weather. This popular attraction is an animal sanctuary which houses a colony of endangered spider monkeys.
You can choose to wander the grounds on your own or if you make a previous reservation, you'll be able to join a tour of the centre and have the chance to get up close and personal with some of the monkeys. Each tour lasts for around one hour and is an incredible experience for anyone who wants to learn more about the species and how to prevent their extinction.
Due to the fairly low rainfall, January is a great time to play a round of golf and fans of the sport will be pleased to hear that there is a number of championship courses to be found in Riviera Maya, Mexico.
Riviera Maya Golf Club
The Riviera Maya Golf Club in Akumal is one of the most popular and is suitable for everyone from first timers to pros. Here you'll find one 18-hole golf course and one nine-hole course, as well as a club house, golf shop, equipment rental, golf school and driving range.
Dates for the diary
Held at the beginning of January each year, the BPM Festival is an internationally-renowned electronic music festival held in Playa del Carmen. Open from midday until 6am, this event takes place at the Mamitas Beach Club and sees an eclectic mix of music lovers, producers and DJs who come together to party.
