Mexico › Los Cabos › Cabo in January
Updated: April 11, 2026
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January is one of the most popular months in Los Cabos, and for good reason. While much of North America is dealing with snow, Cabo is basking in reliable sunshine. However, this is the height of winter in the desert. If you arrive expecting tropical humidity and bathtub-warm ocean water, you will be surprised. If you come for world-class whale watching, active days, and crisp evenings, January is hard to beat.
Is January a Good Time to Visit Cabo?
The short answer is yes, provided you have the right expectations. I find January to be the best month for travelers who prioritize wildlife, golf, and outdoor comfort over intense tropical heat.
- Best for: Peak whale watching, golf, desert hiking, and escaping the winter cold.
- Great fit for: Couples, luxury travelers, and active families who prefer 75°F to 90°F.
- Less ideal for: Travelers who want to spend all day swimming in the ocean or those looking for rock-bottom budget deals.
- The Verdict: It is high season for a reason. The weather is nearly perfect for being outdoors, but the prices and crowd levels reflect that demand.
January Weather: Sunny Days and Desert Chills
The biggest mistake I see people make is packing only shorts and t-shirts. Cabo is a desert, and in January, the temperature swing between day and night is dramatic.
- Daytime: Expect bright sun and highs around 75°F to 80°F (24°C to 27°C). It is perfect “pool weather” during the middle of the day.
- Evening: Once the sun sets, temperatures drop quickly to 55°F or 60°F (13°C to 16°C). With the ocean breeze, you will absolutely need a jacket or a sweater for dinner.
- Wind: January can bring the “El Coruel” winds, especially in the afternoons. This makes the air feel cooler and can make the Pacific side quite choppy.
- The Air: It is incredibly dry. I always suggest bringing extra moisturizer and lip balm, as the desert climate can be harsh on your skin this month.
Can You Swim in Cabo in January?
This is a two-part answer. Ocean swimming is challenging. The water averages 70°F to 72°F (21°C to 22°C). Most people find this too brisk for casual swimming without a wetsuit. If you must swim in the sea, head to Medano Beach in Cabo San Lucas or Chileno Bay; these are protected and the most swimmable.
Pool Swimming: This is where your trip is won or lost. In January, an unheated pool is unusable for most people. I consider a heated pool mandatory for a January stay. When booking, do not assume the pool is heated just because it is a luxury resort. High-end spots like the Waldorf Astoria Pedregal or Grand Velas reliably heat their pools to a comfortable 84°F.
Peak Whale Watching Season
January is the “Goldilocks” month for whales. Humpback and Gray whales have arrived in massive numbers to mate and nurse their calves. You will likely see them breaching from your hotel balcony, but a boat tour is essential for the full experience.
I always suggest booking morning tours. The seas are almost always calmer in the morning. Afternoon winds make for a much bumpier, wetter, and colder ride. While sightings are never technically “guaranteed,” your chances of seeing multiple whales in January are as close to 100% as it gets. If you are prone to motion sickness, take precautions, as the winter swells can be lively.
January Crowds and Prices
January is high season. While it is quieter than the madness of Christmas and New Year, it remains busy and expensive.
- Pricing: Expect to pay high-season rates for hotels and villas. You will not find many “deals” this month.
- Holidays: MLK Weekend in mid-January brings a significant spike in American travelers. Book your flights and rooms well in advance for these dates.
- Reservations: The best restaurants, such as Flora Farms or El Farallon, often book out weeks in advance. If you have a specific “must-eat” spot, reserve it the moment you book your flight.
Best Areas to Stay in January
- Cabo San Lucas: Best if you want to walk to restaurants, enjoy the nightlife, and have access to the most swimmable beach.
- The Tourist Corridor: Best for the “resort experience.” This is where you find the best heated pools and dramatic whale-watching views from your room.
- San José del Cabo: Best for a quieter, more authentic Mexican feel with a great art scene and high-end dining. The Thursday Night Art Walk is a highlight this month.
What to Pack for January
- A Real Jacket or Fleece: Essential for evenings and early morning boat trips. I never go to dinner in January without a light puffer or a heavy sweater.
- Swimsuits and a Rash Guard: The rash guard provides a bit of insulation if you plan to snorkel in the cooler water.
- Sunscreen: The winter sun is still very strong. Do not let the cool breeze fool you into skipping protection.
- Closed-toe Shoes: Useful for evening walks, dinner at nicer restaurants, and desert excursions like ATV tours.
Common January Mistakes
- Underestimating the Cold: I see many shivering travelers buying overpriced sweatshirts at the Marina because they only brought summer clothes. Pack for a range of temperatures.
- Ignoring the Wind: If you are sensitive to motion, choose a larger catamaran for whale watching rather than a small zodiac, as the January winds can kick up the waves.
- Assuming the Pool is Warm: Many smaller hotels and villas do not heat their pools. Always confirm the temperature before you book if swimming is a priority.
- Waiting to Book Tours: Whale watching is at its absolute peak. Reserve your spot at least a week before arrival to get the best boats and times.
January vs. Other Months
- January vs. November: November has much warmer water for swimming, but January is the superior month for whale watching.
- January vs. December: January is slightly cooler and usually less crowded than the holiday weeks between Christmas and New Year.
- January vs. February: These months are very similar, though February can occasionally be a few degrees warmer. Both are excellent for whales.
