Roatán in
January

Home > Blog > Roatán in January

Roatán is the largest of the Bay Islands of Honduras, offering a small slice of Caribbean paradise to visitors with its incredible beaches and sensational wildlife population both on the island and surrounding it. Despite being part of Roatán’s wet season, January is one of the most popular months to visit the island because of its warm temperatures that make it an appealing winter escape, and there are a host of things to do indoors and outside that will keep you busy, whatever the weather.

Jump to…

Weather in Roatán in January

Weather

The weather in Roatán is one of the reasons that the island is such a popular holiday destination, with tropical temperatures and many hours of sunshine across the year. Whilst January is the last month of the island’s rainy season, you are unlikely to encounter rain every day and are sure to see some sun, particularly if you are staying for more than a few days.

Temperature

Temperatures in Roatán in January are very warm, despite the fact that this is actually the island’s coldest month, with an average high temperature of 28°C that usually drops down to about 21°C in the evening and early morning. The humidity is moderate, but nothing unbearable.

Sea Temperature

Average sea temperatures in Roatán in January are around 27°C, which feels very warm and is perfect for three of the island’s most popular activities; swimming, snorkelling and scuba diving. Even when it is raining in January, Roatán’s water temperature is still pleasant and means that you don’t’ need to worry about downpours, as you’re already wet!

Clouds and Rainfall

On average, there will be around 18 days that have some rain in Roatán in January, but these won’t usually be full days of storms, and you will likely enjoy a bit of sunshine in between the showers. The sky may be partly cloudly most days, but there will be hours when the sky is clear and you can enjoy the wonderful Caribbean sunshine.

Sunshine Hours

There is an average of 11 hours of daylight each day in Roatán in January, with about 6 hours of sunshine during these daylight hours. The sun tends to rise just after 6 am in the mornings, and will set around 5.30 pm at night.

Where to go in Roatán in January

West End Village

Roatán’s West End Village is one of the most popular locations on the whole island, and is an excellent place to pass the time if it is raining. With a variety of shops, cafes and restaurants and a lively social scene during the day as well as at night, it’s a village with a unique atmosphere that you must visit at least once during your stay on Roatán.

Sandy Bay

Sandy Bay is another area on the west of the island, close to West End beach and village, which has grown in popularity as a place to visit in the last few years. There is a large community of expatriates living in Sandy Bay which gives it a diverse population, along with a good selection of shops and eateries that make it another good place to spend a rainy afternoon.

Things to do in Roatán in January

Experience a Glass-Bottomed Boat Trip

If the weather isn’t ideal for sitting on the top deck of a boat as you explore the waters surrounding Roatán, then a glass-bottomed boat tour will provide the same thrilling experience of the ocean with a much better view of the creatures beneath the surface. There are many specially designed boats that offer trips around the island, with clear floors and underwater windows that are perfect for admiring the Caribbean’s famous coral reefs.

Eat Baleadas

A classic food you have to try when visiting Roatán is baleadas, which is an incredibly popular dish across Honduras. Consisting of a tortilla wrap stuffed with beans and melted cheese, baleadas can be topped with chicken, avocado or eggs, and make a brilliant lunch or afternoon snack.

Crowds & costs

January is in the middle of Roatán’s peak tourism season, and you can expect the whole island to be quite busy with visitors, particularly the areas that are part of holiday resorts. The popularity of Roatán in January is also reflected in the high prices of travel and accommodation, so it is a good idea to book early if you are planning on coming to the island after Christmas.

January festivals & events

Roatán Humane Society’s Annual Fur Ball

The Roatán Humane Society is a non-profit organisation that seeks to act as a voice for the animals on the island, provide humane solutions for animal overpopulation, and provide vet care for animals belonging to disadvantaged communities. The Annual Fur Ball takes place every January, and is a glamourous charity event that raises money for the organization. Tickets can be purchased from a number of places on the island if you decide you want to attend when you arrive in Roatán.

Frequently asked questions about Roatán in January

What is the rainy season in Roatán?

Rainy season in Roatán is a period of time on the island when rain and tropical storms are a lot more likely. Rainfall is heaviest at the end of the year in November and December, but the wet season lasts from October to January.

Does Roatán have hurricanes?

Despite its tropical position, Roatán is outside of the nearby hurricane zone and is too far west to really be affected by hurricanes. Whilst you may experience a few days of heavy rain and some strong winds, the island is only hit by hurricanes about once every 26 years.

Summary

Although popular beaches and tourist resorts are likely to be busy with tourists during a holiday in Roatán in January, there are still many parts of the island like Jonesville, St Helene Island and Oak Ridge that offer tropical tranquillity, along with lively island towns for a taste of Roatán’s culture and energy. Don’t let the chances of rain put you off — visiting the island is an unforgettable experience any time of the year!