Headed to Cabo San Lucas in January? You're in for a treat. Whether it's whale watching expeditions, swimming with gentle giants, or exploring the desert on camelback, this place knows how to deliver. January brings perfect conditions—warm sunny days, cool refreshing evenings, and virtually no rain—making it ideal for both ocean adventures and desert explorations.
This guide gives you the lowdown on what to expect, what to bring, and how to make the most of your trip without overthinking your packing list. Consider it your cheat sheet for showing up ready for whatever Cabo throws your way, from sunrise camel rides to sunset sailing adventures.
What to Expect from January's Weather in Cabo San Lucas
Average temperatures: Daytime highs reach a comfortable 74-80°F (23-27°C), while nighttime lows can drop to 54-61°F (12-16°C). This temperature swing means layering becomes your best friend for all-day comfort.
Rainfall: January is one of the driest months with almost no measurable precipitation—only 0.2-0.5 inches for the entire month across just 2-3 days. Rain is highly unlikely to disrupt your outdoor adventures.
Humidity: Moderate levels ranging from 68-83% feel comfortable due to the dry conditions and cooler temperatures, creating pleasant conditions for extended outdoor activities.
Sea temperature: The ocean hovers around 75°F (24°C)—refreshingly cool but perfectly comfortable for swimming, snorkeling, and water sports during the warmer midday hours.
Daylight hours: Expect about 10 hours of glorious sunshine daily. While slightly less than spring and summer months, you'll still have abundant daylight for beach time and adventures, with skies ranging from clear to partly cloudy.
Essential Packing List for Cabo San Lucas in January
Some things are must-haves in Cabo, no matter the month. But each time of year comes with its own little surprises that any smart traveler would want to plan for. The goal is to bring exactly what you'll use and nothing more, though let's be honest—perfect packing is more of a dream than a science.
Travel Documents & Money
- Passport (valid for 6+ months)
- Physical copies of passport/ID
- Travel insurance documents
- Mexican pesos (cash)
- Credit cards (notify bank of travel)
- Emergency cash in USD
Electronics & Power
- Phone charger + car charger
- Portable power bank (high capacity)
- Universal power adapter
- Waterproof phone case
- Camera + extra memory cards
- Headphones/earbuds
Health & Safety
- Prescription medications (extra supply)
- Basic first aid kit
- Insect repellent
- Hand sanitizer
- Sun-protective clothing
- After-sun care/aloe vera
Practical Items
- Plastic bags for wet/dirty clothes
- Travel-sized laundry detergent
- Quick-dry towel
- Reusable water bottle
Clothing and Accessories
- Multiple swimsuits (2-3 recommended)
- Lightweight, breathable t-shirts/tank tops
- Shorts and swim shorts
- Underwear (quick-dry recommended)
- Sleepwear/pajamas
- Beach cover-ups or sarongs
- Light layers for air-conditioned spaces
- Dressy outfits for upscale restaurants/nightlife
- Sun hat with a chin strap
- Sunglasses with a strap
Footwear
- Flip-flops or comfortable sandals for beach and pool
- Comfortable walking shoes for exploring cobblestone streets and marina boardwalks
- Sturdy, closed-toe shoes for adventure tours
Top Clothing and Footwear Suggestions for January
January's mild temperatures and temperature swings call for versatile pieces that adapt from cool mornings to warm afternoons and back to chilly evenings.
Comfortable Daytime Layers: Lightweight t-shirts, breathable tank tops, comfortable shorts, quick-dry swimwear
Evening Warmth: Light sweater or cardigan, denim jacket, windbreaker, cozy hoodie
Adventure Ready: Athletic shorts, closed-toe sneakers, comfortable leggings, rash guards for water activities
Cabo San Lucas Nightlife Considerations for January
Cabo's nightlife spans beach clubs, rooftops, and local bars, so pack versatile pieces that go from casual to dressy. Bring two breathable dressy outfits, comfortable stylish shoes, and a light layer for A/C. A small crossbody bag is perfect for essentials while dancing.
January's cooler evenings affect your night plans. Pack a light jacket or sweater for outdoor venues, and don't forget a portable phone charger for long nights out. The dry conditions mean you won't need rain gear, but evening breezes call for an extra layer when moving between indoor and outdoor venues.
Top January Experiences & What You'll Need
January brings Cabo's most incredible adventure opportunities. Here are three must-try experiences that showcase why this month is perfect for both ocean and desert exploration—plus exactly what to pack for each one.
Whale Watching in Cabo
January marks prime whale watching season in Cabo, when humpback, blue, gray, and minke whales migrate through these waters. This three-hour marine expedition takes you out on custom-made rigid inflatable boats where you'll listen to whale songs through hydrophones and witness these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. The tour also includes breathtaking views of the iconic Cabo San Lucas Arch and encounters with playful sea lion colonies.
What you'll need for this tour:
Waterproof camera for capturing whale breaches, warm layered clothing for cool ocean breezes, sun hat with chin strap, reef-safe sunscreen, light sweater for early morning departures.
Save Your Spot Now.
Whale Shark Encounter
January's calm seas create perfect conditions for swimming alongside whale sharks, the gentle giants of the Sea of Cortez. This all-inclusive adventure takes you on a scenic journey to La Paz where you'll snorkel with these magnificent creatures while learning about marine conservation from professional bilingual guides. The experience includes spotting dolphins, rays, and other marine life in their natural habitat.
What you'll need for this tour:
Quick-dry swimwear and towels, comfortable non-slip shoes for boat boarding, waterproof sunscreen for marine protection, light jacket for the scenic van ride, change of clothes for post-snorkel comfort.
Save Your Spot Now.
Combo Arch & Camels
January's mild temperatures make this unique combination perfect for exploring both land and sea adventures. Experience a thrilling speedboat ride to the famous Land's End Arch followed by a memorable camel ride along pristine beaches with stunning ocean views. The adventure concludes with a delicious Mexican buffet feast, creating the perfect blend of adrenaline and cultural immersion.
What you'll need for this tour:
Comfortable athletic shoes for camel riding, breathable long pants for desert protection, light sweater for winter months, reef-safe sunscreen and sun protection, insect repellent for ranch activities.
Save Your Spot Now.
Pre-Departure Preparation Timeline
2-3 Weeks Before Departure
Digital Preparation
- Download offline maps
- Create trip playlist for different moods
- Download translation apps to learn basic Spanish phrases
- Research weather patterns for the month
- Book accommodations and activities
- Book popular tours
Cultural & Culinary Research
- List of must-try dishes for the season
- Local festivals and events
- Learn basic Spanish phrases for food ordering
Documentation & Backup
- Verify passport expiration date
- Scan and email copies of passport, ID, travel insurance
- Print physical copies of important documents
- Travel insurance verification
- Emergency contact information
24 Hours Before Departure
- Check weather forecast updates
- Confirm offline maps are downloaded
- Charge all electronics
- Pack carry-on essentials
Airport/Travel Day
- Comfortable travel outfit
- Entertainment for flight
- Empty reusable water bottle
- Snacks for travel day
- Important documents in carry-on
You're All Set for Cabo San Lucas in January
Planning ahead for Cabo in January means you'll spend less time worrying about what you forgot and more time enjoying everything this incredible destination has to offer. With the right gear packed and your essentials sorted, you're set to make the most of January's perfect weather, whale watching opportunities, and ideal adventure conditions.
Ready to dive into Cabo's best experiences? Don't leave your must-do activities to chance – the most popular tours and attractions in January fill up fast! Book your adventures now and secure your spot for an unforgettable trip where desert meets sea and every sunset promises new memories.
