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No trip to Florida would be complete without visiting Miami and January is one of the best times of the year to do so.

It’s the perfect place to escape the cold of winter in other parts of the US and enjoy pleasant temperatures without the warmth and humidity of the hurricane season in Florida.

There are so many things you can do in Miami and South Florida in general so you can be sure of one thing, you’ll have fun!

Now, I’m sure you’re wondering what you should wear in Miami in January and that’s exactly the question I will answer here.

What is the Weather Like in Miami in January?

miami in january

January is one of the best months to visit Miami, with comfortable temperatures and low humidity. You can expect temperatures ranging from 16°C to 25°C (61°F to 77°F). 

It’s mostly sunny, with occasional cool breezes in the evenings. Rain is rare but of course it can always happen.

As a general thing, Miami is blessed with amazing weather in January which means that you should opt for spring / summer outfits.

Essential Packing List for Miami in January

You can find below my recommended packing list for Miami in January. Please bear in mind that you will need to adapt it to your own style.

Clothing

  • Lightweight Dresses: Flowing, breathable dresses are perfect for daytime outings, beach trips, and even dinner at a nice restaurant. Opt for bright, tropical colors to match Miami’s vibe. I usually recommend the shorter ones for the day because they are more practical and some midi or maxi dresses for the evening as they look classier.
  • Swimsuits: Between the beach, the Florida Keys and all the water activities available in Miami, you’ll be using your swimsuits a lot so make sure to pack a couple of bikinis so you always have a dry one ready to go.
  • Cover-Up or Sarong: This is always practical when going to the beach or on a boat tour.
  • Shorts & Skirts: They are both practical for daytime activities as well as in the evening. Shorts come in particularly handy if you are going to the Everglades.
  • Lightweight Tops: Pack a mix of tank tops, T-shirts, and short-sleeve blouses for easy, breathable layers.
  • Light Jacket or Cardigan: While it’s warm during the day, evenings can sometimes get a bit cool, so it’s smart to bring a light jacket or cardigan just in case. I also like wearing jean jackets as I find them stylish and practical.
  • Jumpsuit: They look very stylish and if you feel like you need to be covered a bit more in the evening, they will come in very handy.
  • Rompers: These are also very practical because it’s only one piece of clothing that makes for a full outfit.

Footwear

  • Comfortable Sandals: Choose a pair that’s easy to walk in and look quite stylish so you can wear them in the evening as well.
  • Flip-Flops
  • Sneakers: If you plan to explore neighborhoods like Wynwood or South Beach, a pair of sneakers can come in handy. It’s also good to have if you go to the Everglades since there are some hiking opportunities there.
  • Evening Sandals or Flats: If you plan on dining out or dancing, a pair of stylish but comfortable sandals or flats will complete your outfit nicely.
  • Water shoes (optional): These can come in very handy if you are going to the keys and are planning on doing activities such as SUP or kayaking.

Bags

  • Beach Tote: Perfect for carrying your beach essentials, like sunscreen, a towel, and a water bottle.
  • Crossbody Bag or handbag
  • Waterproof Pouch: If you plan to go boating or do some of the water sports, a waterproof pouch will keep your phone and other essentials dry. It’s also practical on the beach since it protects your phone from the sand.

Accessories

  • Sunglasses
  • Sun Hat or Cap
  • Snorkel: It can practical to have your own snorkel and mask since there are a lot of snorkelling options around Miami

Electronics

  • Phone & Charger
  • Power Bank
  • Camera
  • GoPro: If you’re planning on doing some of the water activities it’s great to have a GoPro since you’ll be able to take photos underwater.
  • Portable Speaker: That can be practical to have especially if you spend a lot of time on the beach.

Paperwork

  • ID
  • Travel Insurance
  • Hotel Reservations
  • Credit / Bank Cards
  • Cash

What to Wear in Miami in January Depending on the Weather:

☀️ If it’s sunny ☀️
A lightweight dress or shorts with a breezy top, sandals, and a sun hat. Make sure to apply sunscreen and bring sunglasses!

🌴 If it’s cooler in the evening 🌴
Layer a light cardigan over a maxi dress or pair a light jacket with a jumpsuit. Stylish flats or sandals are perfect for going out to dinner.

Things Not to Wear in Miami in January:

  • Heavy Winter Clothes: Leave your bulky coats, heavy sweaters, and thick pants at home. Miami’s mild January weather doesn’t require winter attire.
  • High Heels for Walking: While heels can be great for a night out, avoid them during the day if you’re planning to explore. Stick with sandals or casual sneakers but if you want to take a pair of heels to go out in the evening, please do so!
  • Thick, Dark Colors: Miami’s fashion is bright, bold, and fun so you can take all your sunniest outfits.

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