Majuro in January

January weather, activities, events & insider tips

January Weather in Majuro

27°C (80°F) High Temp

25°C (77°F) Low Temp

127 mm (5.0 inches) Rainfall

78% Humidity

Is January Right for You?

Advantages

Perfect trade wind season with consistent 15-20 knot northeast winds making outdoor activities comfortable despite tropical heat
Peak spawning season for skipjack tuna means exceptional deep-sea fishing opportunities with 80% success rates for catches
Calmest lagoon conditions of the year with 1-2 foot swells, ideal for stand-up paddleboarding and kayaking around the inner atolls
January's frequent brief showers keep dust down and create the year's clearest snorkeling visibility at 25-30 m (80-100 ft) underwater

Considerations

Trade wind showers occur daily between 2-5 PM, requiring flexible outdoor scheduling and waterproof gear
High humidity at 78% combined with 29°C (84°F) feels-like temperatures can be overwhelming for visitors from temperate climates
Limited evening activities due to early 6:30 PM sunset and most local businesses closing by 8 PM

Best Activities in January

Deep-sea sport fishing charters

January marks peak skipjack and yellowfin tuna migration through Majuro's waters. Trade winds create perfect 10-15 knot conditions for half-day charters. Local captains report 80% success rates versus 40% during calmer months. Morning departures at 6 AM avoid afternoon wind shifts.

Booking Tip: Book 7-10 days ahead through licensed charter operators. Half-day trips typically cost $400-600 USD for 4 people. Look for boats with GPS fish finders and outrigger stability. Reference booking widget for current charter availability.

Laura Beach lagoon paddling

January's northeast trades create protected conditions on Majuro's lagoon side, perfect for stand-up paddleboarding and kayaking. Water temperature stays constant at 27°C (81°F). The 20 km (12 mile) lagoon offers shallow coral gardens 2-3 m (6-10 ft) deep, ideal for beginners.

Booking Tip: Equipment rentals available through resort concierges for $25-40 USD per day. Best paddling times are 7-11 AM before trade winds strengthen. Book 2-3 days ahead during January's light tourist season.

WWII historical site exploration

January's frequent light showers wash salt off preserved WWII aircraft wrecks and bunkers, providing clearest photography conditions. Comfortable 25-27°C (77-81°F) morning temperatures make the 3 km (1.9 mile) historical walking trail manageable before afternoon heat builds.

Booking Tip: Self-guided exploration works well, but local guides provide context about Liberia Islands' wartime role. Guide services typically cost $50-75 USD for half-day tours. Morning departures at 8 AM avoid afternoon shower periods.

Traditional outrigger sailing lessons

Steady January trade winds at 15-20 knots provide ideal learning conditions for traditional Marshallese wa sailing. Local masters offer instruction using authentic single-hulled outriggers. Cultural immersion includes navigation techniques using wave patterns and bird behavior.

Booking Tip: Arrange through community cultural centers 5-7 days ahead. Lessons typically cost $80-120 USD for 3-hour sessions including cultural instruction. Best conditions are morning hours 8 AM-12 PM before winds intensify.

Snorkeling the lagoon's coral heads

January's rain showers create the year's best underwater visibility at 25-30 m (80-100 ft) by washing particles from the water column. Water temperature holds steady at 27°C (81°F). Protected lagoon sites offer encounters with juvenile reef sharks and green sea turtles.

Booking Tip: Snorkel gear rentals available for $15-25 USD daily through dive shops. Guided snorkel tours to remote coral heads cost $60-90 USD per person. Book morning tours to avoid afternoon trade wind chop in the lagoon.

Local market and food experiences

January brings peak breadfruit and pandanus season to local markets. Rita Market operates 6 AM-6 PM with fresh fish arriving from morning catches. Traditional foods like bwiro (fermented breadfruit) and coconut crab are most available during this season.

Booking Tip: Visit Rita Market between 7-9 AM for best selection when fishing boats return. Traditional cooking classes available through local families for $40-60 USD per person. Book cultural food experiences 3-5 days ahead.

January Events & Festivals

January 1st

Marshallese Constitution Day

Local holiday on January 1st features traditional dancing, outrigger canoe racing, and community feasts. Rita Market area becomes celebration center with authentic handicraft displays and traditional food preparation demonstrations.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Quick-dry synthetic clothing - cotton stays wet for hours in 78% humidity and frequent rain showers

Reef-safe sunscreen SPF 50+ - UV index reaches 9 and reef protection laws prohibit chemical sunscreens

Lightweight rain poncho - daily 2-5 PM showers last 15-45 minutes with little warning

Water shoes with good grip - coral sand beaches and wet boat decks become slippery

Wide-brimmed hat with chin strap - trade winds at 15-20 knots will blow off loose headwear

Waterproof phone case rated IPX8 - essential for boat trips and sudden tropical downpours

Light cotton long sleeves for evening - provides sun protection and mosquito barrier after sunset

Dry bags in multiple sizes - keep electronics and documents dry during water activities and rain

Polarized sunglasses - crucial for spotting coral heads and fish while on the water

Insect repellent with 20% DEET - standing water after rains increases mosquito activity around 6 PM

Insider Knowledge

Local fishing boats return to Rita dock between 6-8 AM - this is when you'll find the freshest fish and can chat with captains about conditions

January trade winds create a daily pattern: calm mornings until 10 AM, building winds until 4 PM, then calming after sunset - plan water activities accordingly

The only ATM on island often runs out of cash on weekends, especially after the first of January when locals get paid - withdraw early in the week

Local stores close during heavy afternoon showers even if brief - stock up on supplies during morning hours when weather is more predictable

Avoid These Mistakes

Planning outdoor activities between 2-5 PM when trade wind showers are most likely - morning and early evening offer better weather windows

Bringing only cotton clothing which stays damp and uncomfortable in the high humidity climate

Expecting Western-style restaurant dining - most meals are in hotel restaurants or require advance arrangement with local families