You’re probably checking the 14 day forecast daytona beach florida because you’re either planning to sit on the sand or you’re heading to the track for the Rolex 24. Honestly, Florida weather in January is a total wildcard. People think "Sunshine State" means bikinis year-round. It doesn't.
Right now, as of Sunday, January 18, 2026, it is 51°F outside. It feels more like 47°F. That northwest wind at 10 mph is biting if you aren't moving. If you’re at the beach today, you’re looking at a mostly cloudy sky and a 70% chance of rain during the day. It’s basically a "stay inside and drink coffee" kind of morning.
The Reality of January in Daytona
Most travelers get caught off guard by the temperature swings here. We aren't in Miami. Daytona is north enough that cold fronts actually mean something.
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Take a look at tomorrow, Monday, January 19. The high is only hitting 54°F. That is sweater weather, maybe even a light jacket if you're standing near the ocean. The low? 38°F. If you are camping in the infield at the Speedway for the "Roar Before the 24" testing, you are going to be shivering in your sleeping bag. Trust me on that.
By Tuesday, we see a tiny bump to 57°F, but it stays pretty crisp. You won't see "beach weather" until maybe Saturday, January 24, when it finally climbs to 73°F. That happens to be the same day the Rolex 24 starts.
Why the Forecast Matters for Race Weekend
If you're here for the 64th anniversary of the Rolex 24 at Daytona (Jan 22–25), you need to pack layers. The 24-hour race is a test of endurance for the fans, too.
Wednesday, January 21, looks cloudy with a high of 69°F. That’s decent for walking the garages. But by Thursday, as qualifying starts, we’re looking at 68°F with a 20% chance of rain.
The humidity is also hovering around 86% on Thursday. That "wet cold" hits different. It seeps into your bones while you're sitting in the grandstands watching those GTP prototypes fly by at 200 mph.
Day-by-Day Breakdown (The First 10 Days)
Instead of a boring chart, let's just talk through what this week actually feels like.
- Sunday (Today): High of 64°F, low of 39°F. Wet and windy. The wind is coming from the west at 25 mph, so don't even try to open an umbrella.
- Monday: Clearer but colder. Sunny with a high of 54°F.
- Tuesday: Partly sunny, 57°F. The wind shifts north.
- Wednesday: Cloudy and warmer, hitting 69°F. This is the transition day.
- Thursday: Staying around 68°F. Expect clouds and a slight drizzle risk.
- Friday: 68°F again. The UV index is a 4, so you can still get burned even if it feels cool.
- Saturday: Finally, some warmth. 73°F. This is the peak for the week.
- Sunday (Jan 25): The race finishes under mostly cloudy skies with a high of 68°F and a 25% chance of light rain at night.
- Monday (Jan 26): Cooling back down to 63°F.
- Tuesday (Jan 27): 62°F and partly sunny.
- Wednesday (Jan 28): Back to the chill. High of 58°F and a low of 38°F.
Basically, the 14 day forecast daytona beach florida is telling you that winter isn't over. You get a few "tease" days in the 70s, and then the floor drops out again.
What about the water?
Forget swimming unless you have a 3/2mm wetsuit. The sea temperature is sitting at 64°F right now. That is about 6 degrees colder than the historical average for this time of year. If you jump in, it’s going to take your breath away. Most surfers right now are sticking to full suits because that northwest wind makes the "effective" air temperature feel even lower when you're wet.
Planning Your Survival Kit
If you are coming down this week, don't pack like you're going to the Caribbean. Pack like you're going to a football game in the fall.
- The Windbreaker: The wind off the Atlantic or the draft in the grandstands is constant.
- Sunscreen: Even at 54°F, the Florida sun is intense. Don't be the person with a bright red face and a winter coat.
- Rain Gear: January isn't our rainy season, but we get these "scrappy" little showers that move through quickly. A light poncho is better than a bulky umbrella.
- Extra Socks: If you're at the track for 24 hours, your feet will get cold and damp. Fresh socks at 3:00 AM are a religious experience.
Honestly, the best thing about Daytona in late January is the energy. Between the roaring engines at the Speedway and the quiet, foggy mornings on the beach, it's a unique vibe. Just don't let a "sunny" forecast fool you into leaving your jacket at home. Florida has a way of surprising you.
Check the local buoy data if you’re heading out on a boat. The National Weather Service currently has a Small Craft Advisory in effect until early Monday. Waves are hitting 4 to 5 feet, and the Intracoastal is rough. It's not a great week for a light pleasure cruise.
Keep an eye on that Wednesday-Thursday transition. That’s when the humidity spikes and the wind shifts, which usually brings in those pesky evening showers. If you're planning a beach bonfire, Tuesday or Saturday are your best bets for staying dry.
Actionable Next Steps
- Pack for the 30s: Monday and next Wednesday nights are hitting 38°F.
- Watch the Rolex 24: It starts Saturday, January 24, at 1:40 PM. The weather looks to be the best of the week right as the green flag drops.
- Skip the swim: Unless you're a polar bear, the 64°F water is for looking, not touching.
- Download a radar app: The rain this week is "pop-up" style, especially today and next Sunday.
Stay warm, keep your gear dry, and enjoy the speed.