Maldives
Maldives
Typically dry, settled weather and calm seas for reef diving; surf varies by atoll.
- Surf
- 8 out of 10
- Dive
- 10 out of 10
- Freedive
- 8 out of 10
- Best months
- Jan to Dec
January · Winter sun
Where to Go in January for Surf, Diving and Warm Water
Escape European winter with warm water and refined stays.
January overview
The ocean in January
January is one of the easiest months to make the case for an ocean escape. Europe has surf. The question is whether you want cold-water adventure or warm-water recovery. The Indian Ocean is typically in its drier monsoon, Atlantic islands offer mild winter sun close to home, and parts of Southeast Asia enter their dry season.
Climate and conditions
The north-east monsoon generally brings drier weather to the Maldives and Sri Lanka’s south and west coasts. Atlantic islands are mild but changeable, with powerful winter swell.
For European travellers
Post-festive January is often quieter and better value than Christmas, and a one-week escape is enough for short-haul islands. For long-haul, aim for ten nights.
Best-fit destinations
Where to go in January
-
- Indian Ocean
Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka
South and west coasts are generally in season for surf, with boutique hotels near Galle.
- Surf
- 9 out of 10
- Dive
- 7 out of 10
- Freedive
- 6 out of 10
- Best months
- Jan to Aug
- Atlantic Europe
Portugal
Madeira
Mild winter sun and powerful swell for experienced surfers; diving year-round.
- Surf
- 8 out of 10
- Dive
- 9 out of 10
- Freedive
- 7 out of 10
- Best months
- Jan to Nov
- Atlantic Europe
Spain
Canary Islands
Europe’s easiest winter-sun surf: consistent swell and short flights.
- Surf
- 9 out of 10
- Dive
- 8 out of 10
- Freedive
- 7 out of 10
- Best months
- Jan to Dec
- Southeast Asia
Philippines
Philippines
The drier season generally begins; good for reef diving and island-hopping.
- Surf
- 8 out of 10
- Dive
- 10 out of 10
- Freedive
- 9 out of 10
- Best months
- Jan to Dec
- Central America
Costa Rica
Costa Rica
Dry season on the Pacific coast; clean, friendly surf for learning.
- Surf
- 9 out of 10
- Dive
- 6 out of 10
- Freedive
- 6 out of 10
- Best months
- Dec to Sep
Selected areas of Thailand and Indonesia can also work in January depending on the coast. Check regional conditions carefully.
Also often in season in January
Read next
Where to Surf in January: Luxury Ocean Escapes
Europe has surf in January. The question is whether you want cold-water adventure or warm-water recovery.
Best Winter Sun Surf Holidays from Europe
When Europe is cold, different coastlines come into season. How to match the month to the coast, short-haul or long.
Canary Islands vs Madeira: Best European Winter Sun Ocean Escape
Ocean time without a long-haul flight: variety across islands, or a compact, dramatic island with strong luxury appeal.
Surf and Dive
Plan Your Next Ocean Escape
Shortlisted a destination for January? Read its destination page for surf, diving, freediving, luxury and planning notes.