Best Time To Visit + Hurricane season Info
Everything you need to know about Cozumel hurricane season. Learn how to get the most out of your trip.
Category: Weather
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Cozumel Weather in January
Cozumel Weather in January: Start Your Year in Paradise
Weather in Cozumel in January is optimal for this region not just in this month but during the entire “dry season”. I will cover the weather basic and best activities for january. This post is part of our Cozumel weather month-by-month guide series.
January is considered one of the absolute best times to visit Cozumel. January is the most popular month for tourists with the island seeing as much as 7 cruise ships in port.
Cozumel in january
While the rest of North America is shivering, Cozumel offers sunny days, low humidity, and comfortable temperatures that are perfect for outdoor adventures.
Whether you are coming to escape the snow or just want to explore the island without the intense heat of summer, January delivers some of the most pleasant weather of the year. Here is everything you need to know about visiting Cozumel in January.
January Weather Info
Avg Temp: 82°F / 68°F
Rainfall: Minimal
Humidity: Comfortable
Water Temps: 78°F
Prices: High
Crowds: Very Busy
Temperature: The “Coolest” Month of the Year
Don’t let the word “cool” fool you—this is still the Caribbean! January is statistically the coolest month in Cozumel, but for most travelers, it feels like perfect summer weather.
Daytime Highs: You can expect daily highs around 82°F (28°C). It is warm enough for the beach but not so hot that you’ll feel exhausted just walking around San Miguel which it can be around spring time.
Evening Lows: At night, temperatures can dip to around 68°F (20°C). It’s refreshing, but you might want a light layer for dinner by the ocean.
The “Nortes” Phenomenon
Cruise passengers should be prepared you can be a victim of this natural phenomenon. Sometimes in January, the island experiences “Nortes” which are winds blowing from the north. When this happens it gets cooler and the water near the cruise port get rough.
This can happen for a day or two, which means the cruise ships can’t safely dock and they will cancel the port call for that country. It’s part of the island’s winter rhythm and usually passes quickly but be prepared it could leave you down a Cozumel island experience. If you book with us or your cruise ship you don’t have to worry because all of our tours a 100% refundable.
Rainfall: The Start of Dry Season
One of the biggest perks of visiting in January is the lack of rain. The Hurricane Season is officially over, and the Dry Season has begun.
Rainfall: You might see a brief, passing shower (usually in the afternoon), but heavy, all-day washouts are very rare.
Humidity: This is the least humid time of year. If you struggle with the intense tropical humidity of summer, January is your ideal month to visit.
Water Temperatures & Swimming
Is the water warm enough to swim in January? Absolutely. The Caribbean Sea remains warm year-round. In January, water temperatures average 78°F–79°F.
Pro Tip: January is one of the best months for spotting Eagle Rays, which frequent the reefs during the winter months! But if your looking for something that is on the drier side of things we also offer the best Parasailing experience in cozumel
Crowds and Pricing: What to Expect
January is deep into High Season. Because the weather is so perfect, the island is popular with snowbirds (escaping the cold north) and cruise ship passengers.
Crowds: Expect the downtown area and popular beach clubs to be busy, especially when multiple cruise ships are in port.
Pricing: Hotels and flights are at premium pricing. Negotiating prices for tours is harder this time of year.
Recommendation: If you want to book a Cozumel Jet Ski Tour with snorkeling, you must book in advance. Last-minute availability in January is often non-existent.
What to Pack for January
Since the evenings can be breezier than other months, your packing list needs a slight adjustment compared to our standard Cozumel Packing List:
Light Sweater or Denim Jacket: Essential for breezy evenings or ferry rides.
Reef-Safe Sunscreen: The sun is still strong!
Comfortable Walking Shoes: With the lower humidity, you’ll likely do more walking in town.
Biodegradable Bug Spray: Still a must for jungle tours (like ATV rides).
Top Activities in January
With the humidity low and the sun shining, land activities are just as enjoyable as water activities.
Snorkeling with Eagle Rays: The winter migration makes this a unique January highlight.
Jeep or ATV Tours: Since it’s not sweltering hot, exploring the jungle and Mayan ruins is much more comfortable.
Punta Sur Eco Beach Park: Climb the lighthouse without sweating through your clothes!
Starfish Beach (El Cielo): The water is crystal clear this time of year.
Ready to Book?
January is our busiest month at Jet Ski Cozumel. Don’t wait until you arrive on the island to look for excursions.
Book your Cozumel Tour Here to Secure Your Spot
Continue Your Cozumel Weather Planning
January is the perfect start to Cozumel’s peak season, but the magic continues! Check out our guides for the months surrounding your trip:
⬅️ Previous Month: Cozumel Weather in December
➡️ Next Month: Cozumel Weather in February
Cozumel in December: what to expect
Want to know everything about cozumels weather in December before you arrive? Is December a good time to go to Cozumel? Well look no further, in this blog I answer that and summarize all the important info regarding average temps, chances of rain, crowds and prices. I finish up with recommendations for the best things to do during this time of year.
Most of North America and Europe is freezing so let’s focus on your tropical getaway. So, what is the weather like in Cozumel in December? Let’s dive into the details and uncover what you want to know before getting here.
December Weather Info:
- Avg Temp: 80°F
- Rainfall: scarce
- Humidity: 70%
- Water temps: warm
- Prices: Highest
- Crowds: Very busy
- Sunshine: 8 hrs
Is December a good time to go to cozumel?
December is considered a great time to visit Cozumel because of the high temps and dry weather. The month of December is the start of dry season immediately following the cozumel hurricane season. In Cozumel, December is winter, but there’s no cold, chilly weather. That’s what makes this month the start of peak travel season.
The island holds a steady tropical climate, making it a fantastic choice for a winter escape. During the day, temperatures soar to around 83°F, creating the perfect setting for bumming at one of the cozumel beach clubs and exploring the city streets of Cozumel.
Cozumel is not rainy in the month of December. Rainfall is scarce that for sure, but storms do pass through every now and then. Good news is the move through quickly (30 min – 1hr). Then the skies open back up to sunshine. It rains maybe 6 days a month in Cozumel mexico during December.
Check availability Cozumel Parasailing Tours
You won’t be sweating buckets which means you can wear the same clothes during the nighttime. Temps drop to a comfortable 72°F which means you still can enjoy pleasant night exploring the best local street food without heavy sweaters. December in Cozumel truly is a great time the essence of a perfect vacation.
Is it warm enough to swim in December
These water in Cozumel is beautifully warm and the water visibility is excellent for scuba diving or snorkeling. Water Caribbean isn’t like other places, the water temps in cozumel and adding the equator average 77°F to 80°F (25-27°C).
Read: What not to do in cozumel in 2026
Yes, the water is almost the same temperature as the air! Sometimes with the north winds it can feel a little cooler when your wet and you feel the wind, but it’s very comfortable for water activities.
You can walk into the water without a hint of cold shock because it’s very warm and inviting. The average water temps are 71 degrees in December.
We went out on a snorkeling tour with a group of 12 other people. We spent the entire time in the water stopping at two reefs before anchoring at place where we got to see sting rays!
As your can see above the water is incredibly clear and comfy. The captain and instructor prepared fresh pico while we swam with insanely bright colored wish. My girlfriend even got scared they came so close!
The water temperature is just right, which means it’s absolutely perfect for swimming at a Cozumel beach club or booking a all inclusive snorkeling tour to El Cielo. You can expect to see Eagle rays because they migrate at this time. I highly recommend this snorkel tour for everyone. Couples and families, just click the image below.
View prices and availability
What to wear in December
A few pudding ideas for a December in cozumel
The trick to packing for a trip to cozumel in December is to thin layers. I’m from the north so it always feels like spring to me, but if your from down south it with feel chilly. I focus on packing light layers for warm days and breezy nights. This is the exact list I packed myself
Daytime Essentials
- Swimwear (multiple)
- Light cotton t-shirts
- flip-flops
- Thin long sleeve
Sun Protection: Sunglasses are a must so interest in a good pair, and SPF 50 sunscreen.
Nighttime Essentials
- Comfy: light sweater or cardigan
- Formal Layer: Thicker button-down shirt
Remember, he nights can get breezy but it’s not for sure. It’s always better to have layers and not need them and be chilly. If your reading in town it will be much warmer than a romantic dinner by the water.
Crowds in December
This is considered the official start of peak season, meaning more crowds and higher prices, especially around the holidays. The high prices don’t stop people from booking their trips in anything more people come!
Downtown during peak time
Cozumel can get up to 7 cruise ships in one day, which means close to 40,000 people from ships alone. The island is festive, decorated for Christmas, with cultural events. I suggest you bring a light sweater for potentially breezy evenings or cooler ‘Norte’ winds that aren’t always the case but can happen.
Top Activities in December
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Snorkeling (popular)
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Punta Sur Eco Park
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Scuba diving
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Jade Cavern ATV tour (our best seller)
View our 100% Money Back Tours!
With December being the peak months you can expect cozumel tours and excursions to be booked. Prices will be higher with less negotiating power. Don’t think you will be able to simply book a jet ski tour on the same day.
If you’re an adventure seeker, December is your time to shine in Cozumel. The winds start picking up again after the summer lull, predominantly blowing from the northeast and north. The chances of windy days are about 29% on average, meaning it’s a good time to visit the best public beach in Cozumel Chen Rio.
Chen Rio Restaurants beach in december
The the water is a dream come true in December. It’s an excellent time for snorkeling, swimming. Expect crystal-clear waters and calm seas, providing impeccable underwater visibility for an unforgettable aquatic adventure.
Punta Sur Eco Park
Cost: $16 person
When people ask me for the one thing they absolutely must do on the island, I always tell them to visit Punta Sur Eco Beach Park. Honestly, there’s no better way to escape the cruise ship crowds than heading down to the southernmost tip of Cozumel. There are great places to take beautiful photos like this. She wouldn’t let me leave until we got the perfect pic on this swing
The lighthouse at Punta Sur Eco Park
I didn’t pay to climb the Celarain Lighthouse, but you can definitely see the entire coast! But the real magic is spotting the wildlife. You can stop off before you get there as walkout onto a spotting deck to see huge crocodiles in the Columbia Lagoon.
The gator spotting tower at Punta Sur
Punta Sur was a really cool experience. There isn’t a whole lot to the tower it’s mainly a beach and Eco Park so don’t have super high expectations.
Jade Cavern ATV Jungle Tour
Price: $75
With the sun rising around 7:07 AM and setting at 6:06 PM, Cozumel gifts you approx 11 hours of sunshine each day. Whether you’re an early riser or prefer sunset strolls, there’s lots of time to explore. For travelers who want to see the island in a unique way and this time of year is perfect for a four wheeler excursion tour that stops at the Jade Cavern Cenote.
Jade cavern cenote from above
Our tour started at the beach club and headed down the city streets and Into the back woods. I was surprised Cozumel had a jungle, I thought it was all beaches! Abut 30 minutes through the ride we arrived at the cenote and got to see the bats. The stairs walking down gave a really cool experience.
US before we head back
We stayed here for some cool pictures and headed back to the beach club where we spent the rest of our day at the beach and drinking margaritas! The chairs and amenities are all included when you book so that was cool.
Note: Jade Cavern charges $15 extra and wasn’t included in our ATV tour. So expect $75 + $15 if you want to go.
Continue Your Cozumel Weather Planning
December is the perfect start to Cozumel’s peak season, but the magic continues! Check out our guides for the months surrounding your trip:
⬅️ Previous Month: Cozumel Weather in November
➡️ Next Month: Cozumel Weather in January
Learn More About Cozumel!
Continue exploring value travel info about Cozumel with my helpful blogs. Check out these articles:
- 100% Free things to do cozumel – Top no cost ways to explore Cozumel for travelers on a budget.
- Cozumel Tours: Head-to-Head Comparison – Cruise ship tours vs. Viator Who’s better?
- Best time to go to Cozumel – Discover best, worst and budget friendly times to hit Cozumel
- Crime In Cozumel WARNING: Common crime against tourists and what you should watch out for.
- Public beaches in cozumel – Find the 100% free beaches on the island.
- Beach Clubs In Cozumel – A complete list of all beach clubs and choose your favorite.
