January is a quieter, often cheaper month to travel. With post-holiday airfare and accommodation discounts, it’s a great time to find deals whether you’re chasing powder in the Northern Hemisphere or summer sun in the Southern Hemisphere. Below are 10 excellent destinations to consider for January 2026, with weather highlights, must-see activities and traveler tips.
Cape Town, South Africa
January is one of Cape Town’s warmest and driest months, with daytime temperatures typically in the low-to-mid 80s F—perfect for outdoor sightseeing and beach time. See the African penguins at Boulders Beach and visit Duiker Island for seals. Popular beaches include Camps Bay, Clifton and Muizenberg. Wine country is close by—consider a Stellenbosch tasting tour for local cabernet and pinotage. Don’t miss the Cape Town Minstrel Carnival (Kaapse Klopse) on Jan. 2, a colorful historic celebration. TPG tip: look for city-center boutique and chain properties; Canopy by Hilton Cape Town Longkloof is often available in January for competitive rates or Hilton points.
Pyeongchang, South Korea
Home to several top ski areas from the 2018 Winter Olympics, Pyeongchang in the Taebaek Mountains offers reliable winter conditions and quality resorts such as Yongpyong, Phoenix Park and Alpensia. For quieter experiences, hike Odaesan National Park or visit the serene Woljeongsa Temple and its stone pagoda. TPG tip: InterContinental Alpensia Pyeongchang Resort channels Alpine-style lodging and often posts attractive January rates or IHG points availability.
Oahu, Hawaii
January brings cooler crowds, occasional brief showers and comfortable highs in the low 80s F. It’s also peak humpback whale-watching season offshore. Big North Shore surf can be dangerous for casual swimmers in winter—stick to protected south-shore beaches like Waikiki and Fort DeRussy. Hikes range from the lush Manoa Falls to the coastal Makapuu Point Lighthouse Trail. TPG tip: January typically brings reduced hotel rates; check major loyalty properties for deals and points options.
Riviera Nayarit, Mexico
This Pacific coast region north of Puerto Vallarta enjoys mild, dry weather in January with temperatures around the low 80s F and clear water ideal for beach days. Riviera Nayarit is a less-crowded alternative to some of Mexico’s busier resort areas, with certified clean beaches and the start of local whale-watching season. TPG tip: luxury options like Siari Riviera Nayarit (a Ritz-Carlton Reserve) are available in January at premium rates or with Marriott Bonvoy redemptions.
Punta del Este, Uruguay
Often called the Riviera of South America, Punta del Este is in high season in January—with beaches, lively nightlife, polo events and an active art scene. Visit the Ralli Museum for modern Latin American art and the iconic sculpture La Mano (the giant hand in the sand). TPG tip: upscale resorts such as Fasano Punta del Este cater to travelers looking for seclusion, golf and fine dining during January.
Jackson Hole, Wyoming
Jackson Hole is a top winter destination for skiers and snowboarders. Early to mid-January generally brings fresh snowfall and fewer crowds than later in the season, making for great powder conditions in-resort and in the backcountry. Après-ski dining and local bars add to the mountain-town vibe. TPG tip: look for centrally located properties like The Cloudveil (Autograph Collection) for convenient access to town and resort amenities; January rates can be found with cash or Marriott Bonvoy points.
The Bahamas
January is in the Bahamas’ dry season: low humidity, pleasant temperatures in the low 80s F and calmer seas that improve visibility for snorkeling and diving. It’s also a good time for marine life viewing, including humpback activity. Explore cultural sites like the Museum of Junkanoo, sample local cuisine at Arawak Cay and check out local galleries. TPG tip: luxury resorts such as The Ocean Club, a Four Seasons property, list peak-season prices in January but offer Fine Hotels + Resorts perks if booked through eligible channels.
Sedona, Arizona
Sedona’s winter days are cool and quiet, with highs typically around the low 60s F—ideal for red-rock hikes without the heat and with fewer visitors. Popular activities include jeep tours, spa treatments and guided wellness offerings. Sedona is also designated a Dark Sky community, making it an outstanding place for stargazing on clear nights. TPG tip: boutique and national-chain hotels frequently run off-season rates in January; Sky Rock Sedona (Tribute Portfolio) is one of the properties you’ll see in searches.
Banff, Alberta, Canada
January is prime ski season around Banff—Mount Norquay, Sunshine Village and Lake Louise usually have abundant snow. Downtown Banff comes alive with the SnowDays Festival (Jan. 16–Feb. 8, 2026), featuring ice and snow sculptures and winter exhibitions. For rest and relaxation, soak in Banff Upper Hot Springs or ride the gondola for sweeping mountain views. TPG tip: iconic properties like Fairmont Banff Springs are popular in winter; watch for package deals and loyalty-program perks that add breakfast or late checkout.
Sydney, Australia
January is summer in Sydney, with warm days in the low 80s F, beaches like Bondi and coastal walks in full swing. Key attractions include the Sydney Opera House, Taronga Zoo and the scenic harbor. The Sydney Festival runs Jan. 8–25, 2026, celebrating its 50th year with performances and events across the city. TPG tip: city-center hotels and boutique options often show competitive January pricing relative to other peak holiday times—check chain and independent properties for points availability.
Whether you’re seeking warm beaches, mountain powder, wildlife encounters or cultural festivals, January offers a wide range of destinations that combine pleasant weather, smaller crowds and often better prices than the peak holiday stretch. Consider your priorities—activities, climate and loyalty-program value—when planning to get the most from a January getaway.