Things to Do in Houma in January

January Weather in Houma

15°C (59°F) High Temp

4°C (39°F) Low Temp

76 mm (3.0 inches) Rainfall

70% Humidity

Is January Right for You?

Advantages

Ideal weather for bayou tours - cooler temperatures mean more active wildlife and comfortable boat rides without summer heat and humidity
Prime fishing season with cooler water temperatures bringing fish closer to shore, especially speckled trout and redfish
Lowest accommodation rates of the year - hotel prices drop 30-40% compared to summer peak season
Comfortable outdoor exploration - perfect temperature range 10°C-15°C (50°F-59°F) for walking historic districts and nature trails without summer's oppressive heat

Considerations

Frequent morning fog can delay or cancel early boat tours - expect 40% of mornings to have visibility under 0.8 km (0.5 miles) until 10am
Unpredictable rain showers averaging every 3 days can disrupt outdoor photography and festival events
Some seasonal seafood restaurants operate reduced hours or close entirely during slower winter months

Best Activities in January

Atchafalaya Basin Swamp Tours

January offers optimal conditions for wildlife viewing in America's largest wetland. Cooler temperatures mean alligators are less active but more visible as they bask in sunny spots. Migratory birds peak in numbers, and cypress trees create dramatic silhouettes in winter light. Morning tours (9am-11am) avoid afternoon fog that often rolls in.

Booking Tip: Book 7-10 days ahead for weekend tours. Prices typically range $35-55 per adult. Choose operators with enclosed boats due to January's cool morning temperatures. See current tour options in the booking section below.

Louisiana Bayou Fishing Charters

January is prime fishing season in Houma's marshlands. Water temperatures 10°C-13°C (50°F-55°F) concentrate fish in deeper channels. Speckled trout, redfish, and black drum are most active. Cooler air means comfortable full-day charters without summer's brutal heat and afternoon thunderstorms.

Booking Tip: Half-day charters run $400-600 for up to 4 people, full-day $800-1,200. Book 14 days ahead for weekend slots. Licensed captains provide all equipment and cleaning services. Weather cancellation policies are crucial in January.

Historic Downtown Houma Walking Tours

January's mild temperatures 4°C-15°C (39°F-59°F) make extended walking comfortable. Explore antebellum architecture, Cajun cultural sites, and local art galleries without summer humidity. Many historic homes offer interior tours only during cooler months when air conditioning costs are manageable.

Booking Tip: Self-guided tours cost $15-25 for detailed maps and audio guides. Guided group tours typically $20-35 per person. Start after 10am when morning fog clears. Book indoor attractions first as backup for rainy days.

Cajun Cooking Classes and Food Tours

January features seasonal ingredients like fresh oysters at peak quality, winter vegetables, and traditional warming dishes. Cooking classes move indoors, creating intimate settings perfect for learning gumbo, jambalaya, and beignet techniques. Cooler weather makes kitchen work comfortable.

Booking Tip: Classes typically run $75-125 per person including meal and recipes. Book 5-7 days ahead as class sizes stay small (8-12 people). Morning classes 9am-12pm are most popular and avoid afternoon weather uncertainty.

Terrebonne Parish Coastal Restoration Tours

January offers clear visibility for understanding Louisiana's land loss crisis. Cooler, less humid conditions make educational boat tours comfortable. Winter months provide stark visual contrast showing erosion impacts, and lower water levels reveal more coastal damage detail.

Booking Tip: Educational tours cost $40-65 per adult, typically 2-3 hours. Book through university extension programs or environmental organizations. Tours run Tuesday-Saturday, weather permitting. Indoor presentations complement outdoor viewing.

Shrimp and Oyster Farm Visits

January marks peak oyster season when cold water produces the best quality. Many local farms offer tours showing traditional cultivation methods. Shrimp boats return with winter catches, and processing facilities welcome visitors during slower tourist season.

Booking Tip: Farm tours typically $25-40 per person including tastings. Many operate by appointment only. Combine with seafood markets for fresh purchases. Rubber boots essential - farms provide when included in tour price.

January Events & Festivals

Third Monday in January

Martin Luther King Jr. Day Celebrations

Community events including cultural presentations, traditional music performances, and educational programs about civil rights history in Louisiana. Local churches and community centers host special services and meals.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Waterproof jacket with hood - January rain comes in sudden bursts lasting 1-2 hours, and bayou tours continue in light rain

Layered clothing for 11°C (20°F) temperature swings between morning lows 4°C (39°F) and afternoon highs 15°C (59°F)

Waterproof boots or shoes - boat landings, nature walks, and farm visits involve wet, muddy surfaces

Light fleece or sweater for early morning tours when humidity makes 4°C (39°F) feel colder

Compact umbrella for sudden afternoon showers that can start without warning

Sunscreen SPF 30+ despite cooler weather - UV index 3 still causes burns during long boat tours

Insect repellent - mosquitoes remain active in bayou areas even in January

Camera protection bag - humidity and sudden rain can damage electronics quickly

Cash for small vendors and tips - many local tour guides and restaurant staff prefer cash payments

Reusable water bottle - staying hydrated important even in cooler weather, especially on fishing charters

Insider Knowledge

Book accommodations along Highway 90 rather than downtown - rates are 25% lower and you're still within 10 minutes of major attractions

Visit seafood markets between 2pm-4pm when boats return with daily catches, ensuring freshest selection and often better prices

Many locals take vacation time in January after busy holiday season - call restaurants ahead as some family-owned places close unexpectedly for maintenance

Fog typically lifts by 10am, so book tours and outdoor activities for late morning or afternoon rather than early morning slots

Avoid These Mistakes

Booking early morning boat tours in January - fog delays or cancellations happen 40% of the time before 10am

Under-dressing for weather - 70% humidity makes 4°C (39°F) morning temperatures feel much colder than dry climates

Not having backup indoor plans - January averages 10 rainy days and weather can change quickly in coastal areas