Puerto Vallarta   Travel Guide

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best time to travel to mexico puerto vallarta

Best Times To Visit Puerto Vallarta

The best time to visit Puerto Vallarta is between April and June when the weather is pleasant and the room rates are affordable. During these months, rain is scarce and there are fewer tourists compared to the winter high season. If you're interested in whale watching, however, visit from December to March. Just prepare yourself for the area's most astronomical travel fares.

Weather in Puerto Vallarta

Data sourced from the National Climatic Data Center

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Popular Times to Visit Puerto Vallarta

Tourism volume is estimated based on in-market destination search query interest from Google and on travel.usnews.com in 2015-2016. Hotel prices are sourced from a sample of U.S. News Best Hotels rates through 2015-2016.

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Timing can make all the difference when visiting Puerto Vallarta , a wildly popular resort known for its sublime jungle-backed beaches and emerald waters, tucked onto Mexico's Pacific coast.

The pleasantly cool and dry winter and spring months can cost you a pretty peso, but an epic whale-watching experience might warrant the peak-season splurge. The sultry summer months, in contrast, are a bargain hunter's dream, as long as you don't mind the heat and more frequent rainy days.

Autumn brings  Día de Muertos (Day of the Dead), a uniquely atmospheric Mexican tradition in which families pay respect to deceased loved ones by laying out colorful altars decked with offerings for the departed, coinciding with low prices and increasingly sunny weather.

Deciding when to visit Puerto Vallarta will depend on your budget, the experiences on your bucket list and how much sunshine you expect for your peso. When traveling with kids , you may want to consider the drier peak or shoulder seasons to maximize time on Puerto Vallarta's sandy beaches. Whether you're looking to see the wildlife, soak up the sun or experience local culture, here's the lowdown on the best time to go.

A humpback whale breaches at Puerto Vallarta

High season is the best time for whale-watching (December to April)

Many folks make a point of visiting Puerto Vallarta from December to March when thousands of humpback whales migrate to the warm waters of Banderas Bay for the mating season. There's a definite wow factor in getting up close to these majestic 30-ton creatures as they leap out of the sea. Tour company Ecotours de México runs four-hour whale-watching outings using boats equipped with hydrophones (underwater microphones that let you listen in on the whales’ mesmerizing mating calls). There's even a small chance of spotting a whale shark or gray whale this time of year.

Weather-wise, these are the coolest and driest months, providing ideal conditions for outdoor activities such as hiking, mountain biking and horseback riding. And with warm but not scorching daytime temperatures, this is prime time for lolling on those lovely sandy beaches. A winter visit comes at a price, however: travel can get downright expensive as snowbirds flock from the north, and hotels and airlines hike their rates considerably. The influx turns into a flood for spring break in March.

Majahuitas Beach in Cabo Corrientes

For the best diving, visit during shoulder season (May to August)

The hot summer months bring warm water temperatures and excellent visibility to Banderas Bay, making it arguably the best time to explore Puerto Vallarta’s prime diving sites, though rain becomes more common from June onwards. Dive shops such as Banderas Scuba Republic run snorkeling excursions to serene palm-fringed coves and scuba outings to remote islands, where you can glide in the company of giant manta rays, hawksbill turtles and pods of wild dolphins.

Once the city gets spring break out of its system in March, prices become more manageable. You can score shoulder-season hotel deals throughout May and June, except for the last week of May, when the spirited Vallarta Pride fest takes over the city. Hotels fill up particularly fast in the LGBTIQ-friendly Zona Romántica, Mexico’s most thriving gay beach destination. In July and August, hotel rates gradually increase over the Mexican vacation period, though they're still well down on the winter peak season.

Low season is the b est time to experience Puerto Vallarta like a local ( September to November)

Not only is fall one of the most affordable times to visit, but it’s also the most colorful, as Mexicans celebrate the nation's Independence Day on September 16 (and the evening before) and Día de Muertos on the first days of November. Even Halloween on October 31 gets some love in Puerto Vallarta’s gringo-friendly restaurants and bars. Note that inbound flights to Mexico can be more expensive during the celebrations.

The weather remains hot and sticky, but the warm waters and increasingly sunny days are highly conducive to swimming and snorkeling, and best of all, you get to enjoy them without the crowds. Be ready for some disruption to travel as locals switch their attention from catering to tourists to spending time with family during this time.

Here's a monthly guide to what you can expect through the year in Puerto Vallarta (but note that all events are subject to change).

January is expensive, but has great weather

Relatively cool weather makes this one of the best times of the year to visit, with the caveat that it comes with a hefty high-season price tag. Don’t miss the annual fiesta in the nearby mountain town of San Sebastián del Oeste. Key events: Fiestas Patronales San Sebastián del Oeste, Día de Reyes (Three Kings Day)

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February is peak whale-watching season

Temperatures remain delightfully cool (while still warm enough for time on the beach). February marks the height of whale-watching season, as both humpback and gray whales congregate on Banderas Bay for mating.   Key events: Carnaval

March marks the beginning of spring break

The really busy season arrives with the warmer weather as Puerto Vallarta gears up for spring break madness in March and April. Key events: Banderas Bay Regatta

La Playa Escondida, Islas Marietas

April has crowds and high prices

The mercury continues to rise, but it remains fairly dry. Semana Santa (Holy Week) sees crowded beaches and exorbitant hotel and airline prices.   Key events: Semana Santa

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May hosts a major Pride fiesta

Visitors come from far and wide for Vallarta Pride in late May, a weeklong fiesta with parades, wild street parties and entertaining drag shows. Hotels in the gay-friendly Zona Romántica are often booked out months in advance.     Key events: Vallarta Pride, Festival Cultural de Mayo

June is a good time to find bargain rates

The rainy season begins, bringing heavy afternoon downpours but mostly sunny mornings. A great month to snag bargain hotel deals. Key events: Día de la Marina (Navy Day)

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July sees an increase in local tourism

The muggy summer heat carries over into July as the busy Mexican vacation season starts, bringing many local tourists. From July through December, you can participate in sea turtle releases. Key events: Sea turtle releases

Street scene in Puerto Vallarta

August is steamy and hot

Ready for some steamy nights? August is one of Vallarta’s hottest and wettest months, and domestic tourists continue to pour in for the summer Mexican vacation period. Key events: Jardín Botánico Raicilla Festival

September is for celebrations

Always up for a fiesta, Vallarta celebrates Independence Day with a bang as fireworks light up the sky and bars and nightclubs rage into the wee hours on September 16. Key events: Día de la Independencia (Independence Day)

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October is still hot, but less rainy

The heat is still on, but the rainfall begins to diminish. A visit at the end of the month allows you to compare and contrast Halloween on 31 October and the Día de Muertos celebrations on the first few days of November. Key events: Halloween

November welcomes Día de Muertos

As the rainy season winds down and colorful Día de Muertos altars pop up in plazas and cemeteries across town, it's hard to imagine a better spot to soak up one of Mexico’s richest traditions. Key events: Día de Muertos (Day of the Dead), Festival Gourmet Internacional, Torneo Internacional de Pesca Marlín y Pez Vela

December is busy for the winter holidays

The temperature begins to drop a few notches with the winter holiday season in sight. You can still find decent hotel deals in the first few weeks of December. Key events: Día de Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe

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This article was first published Jul 30, 2021 and updated Mar 25, 2022.

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Best Time to Visit

The Best Time to Visit Puerto Vallarta

best time to travel to mexico puerto vallarta

Puerto Vallarta is a beautiful beach destination on Mexico's Pacific coast, and it enjoys mostly pleasant, sunny and warm weather year round. Although each time of year has its draws, the best time to visit Puerto Vallarta is from December through March, when you’ll find nearly perfect weather conditions, very little chance of rain, and fun activities like whale watching. Whatever time of year you decide to visit, this guide will give you the essential information you need to plan your trip.

The Weather in Puerto Vallarta

The weather in Puerto Vallarta is very nice for most of the year, but in the springtime, temperatures can be unpleasantly warm, and most of the rain falls during the summer. June is the hottest month in Puerto Vallarta with an average temperature of 81 degrees Fahrenheit (27 degrees Celsius) and although it never really gets cold, January has the coolest temperatures with an average of 72 degrees Fahrenheit (22 degrees Celsius).   September is the wettest month with an average of 16.9 inches (429 mm) of rain.  

Rainy season isn’t all bad: late afternoon thundershowers can be quite spectacular, with thunder, lightning, and sudden downpours. It usually rains in the late afternoons and evenings, so it’s usually possible to get in some beach time during the day. Hurricane season lasts from June through November, so you should be aware of the potential for tropical storms and hurricanes if you’re visiting during that period, although Puerto Vallarta’s privileged location in a bay with nearby mountains offers it some natural protection from storms.

Puerto Vallarta’s Peak Tourist Season

Most of Puerto Vallarta’s international visitors plan their visits to coincide with optimal weather conditions, from late fall through spring. Puerto Vallarta has also seen an increase in spring break travelers in recent years. Mexican visitors come in the two weeks surrounding Easter and during the summer, when children have school holidays. In the spring, days are typically hot and humid with highs around 91 degrees Fahrenheit (33 degrees Celsius) and at least half the days have some rain. The advantage of coming when there are fewer tourists is that there are lots of great deals on flights and hotels during the summer months. When the weather’s hot, it can be a good time to hit the beach; the pleasantly warm water makes for great swimming, snorkelling, and diving conditions.

Whale Watching Season

Conveniently, the humpback whales’ migration brings them to Puerto Vallarta’s Banderas Bay at the same time as tourists flock to the destination, between December and March. Early in the season, you’ll see more adult whales, and if you go toward the end of the season, you’ll have a better chance of witnessing baby humpbacks. Seeing these gentle giants breaching (jumping out of the water) and playing together is an amazing sight. During these months, you’re almost guaranteed to spot some whales whenever you go on a boat ride in the bay, and sometimes even from shore. Pacific bottlenose dolphins can be seen throughout the year, and sea turtles and manta rays are frequently spotted as well.

Spring in Puerto Vallarta

The weather in March is very pleasant, with warm days and cool evenings, but by April it’s warming up, with an average high of 82 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit (28 to 29 degrees Celsius). With these higher temperatures, the water is warmer, so it can be very pleasant to swim at this time of year. However, this is also when the whales leave the bay for cooler water. May tends to be hot and humid, with rain becoming more frequent toward the end of the month. Puerto Vallarta has become more popular with spring breakers in the past few years, but they tend to concentrate in a few specific resorts and at night in the nightclubs around the Malecón, so you can still find quiet beaches to enjoy without crowds.

Events to check out:

  • Banderas Bay International Regatta : Hosted by the Vallarta Yacht Club in Nuevo Vallarta yearly in March, this is the largest cruising Regatta on Mexico’s Pacific coast.

Summer in Puerto Vallarta

Summertime in Puerto Vallarta is typically hot and humid with highs around 90 degrees Fahrenheit (32 degrees Celsius) and lots of rain. The increased rainfall makes the vegetation grow lush and green, and makes the rivers and waterfalls more enjoyable. It’s also sea turtle hatching season, and thousands of Olive Ridley sea turtles lay their eggs on the beaches along Banderas Bay during the summer months. Because these beaches can be busy, several hotels sponsor sea turtle protection projects, and visitors can participate in releasing baby sea turtles to the sea. Hotels and resorts generally have lower occupancy rates during the summer, so it’s a good time to find deals or get added perks such as upgrades and free nights.

  • The Banderas Bay Fishing Tournament is held in July and prizes are offered for the largest marlin and tuna, as well as for the largest number of fish caught in a "catch and release" mode.

Fall in Puerto Vallarta

The rain continues through September, although the temperatures cool off a bit. In October the weather is increasingly pleasant, with more sunny days and comfortable temperatures as the month goes by. Many activities that are on hold during the summer months resume in the fall, such as the Historic Center Art Walk , which is takes place every Wednesday from 6 to 10 p.m. from the end of October through May.

  • The Puerto Vallarta International Gourmet Festival is held over a few days in November. Guest chefs from around the world are paired with participating restaurants where guests can enjoy their culinary creations. 
  • Day of the Dead celebrations : From the last day of October through the first few days of November, there are multiple festivities in town to mark the occasion, mainly concentrated in the center of town and along the Malecón. People paint their faces like sugar skulls, there is dancing, food, plenty of merriment, and a parade.

Winter in Puerto Vallarta

Temperatures get cooler, and generally are at their most pleasant this time of year, with warm days and cool evenings. Temperatures reach their coolest in January, with an average low of 60 degrees Fahrenheit (15.5 degrees Celsius). Ocean temperatures also drop to their lowest, attracting humpbacks and whale sharks, but it’s still comfortable for swimming and enjoying water sports. 

  • Our Lady of Guadalupe celebrations are held from December 1st through December 12th and there are processions to the Church of Our Lady of Guadalupe each evening, with the most elaborate one occurring on Dec. 12.
  • The National Charro Championship —a four-day event celebrating Mexico’s national sport, charreria —takes place at the end of January and beginning of February. It’s held at the Arena Vallarta with some events held concurrently in downtown Puerto Vallarta.

The best time of year to visit Puerto Vallarta is during the months of December through March. At this time, the weather is perfect, rain is seldomly experienced, and whale migration season is at its peak.

Puerto Vallarta experiences afternoon showers and thunderstorms from July through October. This time period also coincides with hurricane season, when local authorities keep their eye on tropical storms.

The cheapest month to fly to Puerto Vallarta is in August. The weather is generally hot and afternoon thunderstorms are frequent, but you avoid the beach resorts' high time (November and December).

Time and Date. "Climate & Weather Averages in Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco, Mexico." Retrieved December 22, 2020.

Current Results. "Puerto Vallarta Mexico Temperatures & Rainfall Averages." Retrieved December 22, 2020.

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Take Me To Puerto Vallarta

The Best Time to Visit Puerto Vallarta

By: Author Lora Pope

Posted on Published: November 18, 2023  - Last updated: June 10, 2024

This post may contain affiliate links. By clicking and making a purchase through the links, I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. See my disclaimer for more information. This allows me to keep the site up to date and expand on resources.

Wondering what the best time to visit Puerto Vallarta is? Let me help! I’ve been living in Puerto Vallarta for three years and have experienced every season here.

Planning a trip to Puerto Vallarta can feel like navigating a maze of choices, especially when it comes to picking the perfect time to visit.

Imagine landing in this tropical paradise only to find yourself caught in unexpected weather or missing out on the vibrant local events that make Puerto Vallarta truly special. That’s the last thing you want on your much-anticipated getaway, right?

As someone who’s not just traveled extensively but also calls Puerto Vallarta home, I’ve experienced firsthand every season this beautiful city has to offer. From the bustling peak season to the tranquil charm of the rainy months, I’ve been through the good and the bad.

Understanding the unique rhythm of Puerto Vallarta’s seasons is key to unlocking the best vacation experience. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a returning traveler, this guide is tailored to help you navigate the seasonal nuances of this beach paradise to determine the best time to go to Puerto Vallarta.

Table of Contents

Overview of Puerto Vallarta Weather

best time to visit puerto vallarta

Puerto Vallarta’s weather is a year-round invitation to beach lovers and sun seekers. As someone who’s lived here and experienced the full spectrum of its climate, I can attest to its warm, inviting nature.

The city never really dips below 72 degrees °F, which is perfect for those of us trying to escape colder climates.

November to April are the driest months, where the weather is at its most pleasant — dry and just perfect for outdoor adventures. This period aligns with popular activities like whale watching . The sight of these majestic creatures in the bay is something you don’t want to miss!

As we move into late spring, the higher temperatures come, bringing a more tropical, humid feel. July and August, the hottest months, average around 81 degrees Fahrenheit. But, the humidity can make it feel more intense. Still, I love this season for swimming in the ocean as it’s so refreshing.

The Puerto Vallarta rainy season, running from June to October, is an experience. Contrary to what you might think, it’s still a good time to be here. There are fewer crowds and the thundershowers, often short and spectacular, are incredible to watch.

I’ve spent many days marveling at the dramatic thunderstorms from the comfort of a cozy café or my balcony.

Plus, they usually only come in the late afternoons and evenings. This means you can still enjoy sun-filled mornings on the beach. Also, The sunsets during the rainy season are WAY prettier.

puerto vallarta beach

September and October is hurricane season, but Puerto Vallarta’s unique geographical location, nestled in a bay and shielded by mountains, offers some natural protection against hurricanes. However, as witnessed in recent years , nature can still make its presence felt strongly. These are the wettest months.

In terms of temperatures, January and February are the coolest, but even then, it’s pleasantly warm, ranging between 61.3-83.8 °F. From there, each month gets progressively warmer, peaking in August with highs between 73.4-92.7 °F.

Puerto Vallarta High Season

A radiant sunset painting the sky with hues of orange and pink over the tranquil waters of Puerto Vallarta's coast

The high season in Puerto Vallarta, from November to April, is the most popular time to visit.

The cooler climate of the northern hemisphere draws a vibrant mix of tourists, especially from Canada and the U.S.. The atmosphere is electric, with parties and gatherings at every corner.

The bay area becomes a lively hub, brimming with energy and stories from every corner of the world. The bars are lively, the beaches are bustling, and the spirit of adventure is palpable. It’s a time when making new friends feels as easy as enjoying the perfect beach day.

The weather is comfortably warm, not too hot or humid, ideal for enjoying the beach and achieving that perfect tan. It’s also the best time for outdoor activities. The lush greenery, courtesy of the preceding rainy months, makes hiking an absolute joy, and the waterfalls are at their most majestic.

quimixto waterfall puerto vallarta

This season also brings the best conditions for surfing. Although you can ride the waves year-round in Puerto Vallarta, the north swells from December to April are particularly spectacular, especially in spots like Sayulita and San Pancho.

However, it’s worth noting that with the high season’s allure comes higher prices, especially for accommodations.

Whale watching season in Puerto Vallarta

humpback whale tail coming out of the pacific ocean in puerto vallartab mexico

The whale watching season in Puerto Vallarta, aligning with the high season from December to March, is a period I hold close to my heart.

It’s a time when the majestic humpback whales grace Banderas Bay, offering a spectacle that’s both awe-inspiring and humbling. Having spent countless hours on the water during this season, it’s an experience that never loses its magic.

Early in the season, you can spot adult whales, but as the season progresses, the bay becomes a nursery to adorable baby humpbacks swimming alongside their mothers. On boat trips, you’re almost guaranteed a close encounter.

And sometimes, if you’re lucky, you can even catch a glimpse of these magnificent creatures from the shore.

During my time here, I’ve also had the fortune to witness whale sharks while snorkeling or diving between December and February. These gentle giants of the sea add an extra layer of wonder to Puerto Vallarta’s already rich marine life.

This is the whale and dolphin watching tour we recommend as it’s led by a biologist!

Low season in Puerto Vallarta

drone shot of los arcos marine parm from above. a boat goes past the islands with the backdrop of mountains.

The low season in Puerto Vallarta, spanning from May to October, is often overlooked, but it holds a special place in my heart. This is when the city reveals a more serene side, a stark contrast to the bustling high season.

The streets are quieter, the beaches less crowded, and there’s a sense of calm that pervades the air. It’s a time when Puerto Vallarta feels like it’s all yours to explore.

During these months, the weather is warmer and more humid, with heavy rain showers most days. But don’t let that deter you. The rain, usually in the late afternoon or evening, brings a refreshing respite from the heat and adds a lush, vibrant green to the landscapes. Mornings are typically sunny and perfect for beach outings or exploring the town.

One of the biggest perks of visiting during the low season is the affordability. Hotel rates drop significantly, making luxury stays more accessible. It’s also a great time for deals on tours and activities.

As a local, I’ve enjoyed some of my best dining experiences during this season, with more opportunities to interact with chefs and locals, adding a rich layer to the culinary adventure.

The low season also coincides with some unique natural events like the sea turtle hatching season, a magical process that I’ve been fortunate to witness.

Seasons in Puerto Vallarta

Here are the pros and cons of each season in Puerto Vallarta to help you decide when is the best season to visit Puerto Vallarta.

Winter (December, January & February)

lora walking along a beach in puerto vallarta looking at a pink and yellow sunset

This is the peak of the high season. The weather is idyllic, with clear skies and moderate temperatures, perfect for beach lounging and outdoor activities. There’s also tons of events put on by the expat community, making it easy to meet people if you’re new to town.

It’s also the prime time for whale watching, a must-do in Puerto Vallarta. However, be prepared for larger crowds and higher prices during this period.

If you’re averse to party crowds, avoid visiting Puerto Vallarta in February when spring breakers come and during Easter Weekend in April.

Spring (March, April, and May)

puerto vallarta pride parade

As the high season winds down into the spring months, the weather remains warm and pleasant, but with fewer tourists. This is a great time to explore local attractions without the rush. The city’s vibrant energy is still palpable, but with more breathing room and often better deals on accommodations.

In my experience living in Puerto Vallarta , I’ve never seen rain until June. And it’s usually late June!

One thing to note is that Puerto Vallarta is one of the most popular destinations for Mexican travelers to visit during Easter (Holy Week(. The city becomes a giant party with locals and international visitors. It’s a lot of fun, but if you don’t like crowds, avoid coming until after the holiday weeekend.

For all the LGBTQ+ community travelers looking to experience gay tourism in Puerto Vallarta , May is the best month to come, as this is when pride happens.

Summer in Puerto Vallarta (June, July & August)

two girls on a rock in front of palo maria waterfall puerto vallarta

This is low season, characterized by warmer temperatures and more humidity. This is when Puerto Vallarta shows its more tranquil side.

The rain, mostly in the evenings, brings a refreshing change and turns the surrounding jungle lush and green. Plus, all the waterfalls are full again!

It’s the perfect season for budget travelers and those seeking a more authentic local experience. Some events to check out:

Restaurant Week : Try out the hottest restaurants in the city as they offer innovative three-course menus at a reduced price. It is a great time to support local businesses after the low season and try delicious Mexican cuisine.

Independence Day is on September 16th. Mexicans love to celebrate, so expect parades, fireworks, and lots of parties all around the bay!

Fall (September, October, and November)

A woman wearing a black swimsuit and hat on the beach.

As the temperatures start to cool, the city begins to welcome an increase in tourist activity, especially towards November. This period offers a delightful balance of pleasant weather and moderate tourist presence, making it ideal for those seeking a mix of relaxation and cultural immersion.

However, it’s important to note that this shoulder season also coincides with the hurricane season. In recent years, Puerto Vallarta has experienced at least one major hurricane annually during this period.

While the city’s location in the Bay of Banderas offers some natural protection, and hurricanes are not a frequent occurrence, it’s a factor worth considering when planning your trip.

During my time here, I’ve seen how the community comes together to prepare and support each other during these rare events. It’s a testament to the resilience and warmth of the local people

Despite this, fall remains a beautiful time to visit. The Day of the Dead celebrations in early November are a cultural highlight, showcasing rich traditions and colorful festivities.

FAQ: Best time to visit Puerto Vallarta

What month has the best weather in puerto vallarta.

The best weather in Puerto Vallarta is typically found from November to April, with March and April offering the most ideal conditions.

What is the rainy season in Puerto Vallarta?

The rainy season in Puerto Vallarta runs from June to mid-October, with the heaviest rains usually in August and September.

What month is hurricane season in Puerto Vallarta?

Hurricane season highest risk in in September and October.

What is the coldest month in Puerto Vallarta?

The coldest month in Puerto Vallarta is usually January, with slightly cooler and more comfortable temperatures.

What is the busiest month in Puerto Vallarta?

Puerto vallarta in December is typically the busiest month, coinciding with the holiday season and winter vacations.

What is the cheapest time to fly to Puerto Vallarta?

The cheapest time to fly to Puerto Vallarta is usually during the low season, from early June to October.

What are the hottest months in Puerto Vallarta?

The hottest months in Puerto Vallarta are July and August, characterized by high temperatures and humidity.

Can you swim year round in Puerto Vallarta?

Yes, you can swim year-round in Puerto Vallarta, as the ocean temperatures remain warm throughout the year.

Is the ocean warm in Puerto Vallarta?

Yes, the ocean in Puerto Vallarta is generally warm, especially from June to October when the water temperatures are at their highest.

What is the slow season in Puerto Vallarta?

The slow season in Puerto Vallarta is during the summer months, from June to October, coinciding with the rainy season.

Final thoughts: When is the best time to visit Puerto Vallarta?

The best time to visit Puerto Vallarta hinges on what you’re seeking from your vacation. For those who prefer perfect beach weather and a vibrant social scene, the winter months from November to April are ideal.

This period offers the quintessential sunny holiday experience, with a bustling atmosphere and numerous cultural events .

However, if you’re looking to avoid crowds and enjoy lower prices, consider the summer months from June to October. Despite being the rainy season, these months reveal a quieter, more authentic side of Puerto Vallarta, with lush landscapes and warm ocean waters.

Ultimately, every season in Puerto Vallarta has its unique charm and advantages. Whether it’s the lively high season, the tranquil low season, or the culturally rich fall, this beautiful city caters to a wide array of preferences and promises an amazing experience any time of the year.

Planning a trip to Puerto Vallarta? Check out these tips!

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Lora Pope is a travel content creator who’s been wandering solo for over a decade. In 2021, she moved to Puerto Vallarta and fell in love at first sight. After visiting 70+ countries, she decided to make it her base and now helps travelers like you make the most of your time in PV.

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The Ultimate Guide to the Best Time to Visit Puerto Vallarta

‍ Puerto Vallarta, with its stunning beaches and vibrant culture, is a popular destination on Mexico’s Pacific coast. Whether you’re a beach lover, an adventure seeker, or a culture enthusiast, Puerto Vallarta offers something for everyone. But when is the best time to visit this tropical paradise? In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the weather patterns, tourist seasons, and key events throughout the year to help you plan your perfect trip to Puerto Vallarta.

Understanding the Weather in Puerto Vallarta

One of the key factors to consider when planning your trip to Puerto Vallarta is the weather. The city enjoys a warm and pleasant climate year-round, but there are variations in temperature and rainfall throughout the seasons. Let’s take a closer look at the weather patterns in Puerto Vallarta.

Winter (December to February)

The winter months, from December to February, are considered the best time to visit Puerto Vallarta. During this period, the weather is nearly perfect, with mild temperatures and low chances of rain. You can expect average temperatures ranging from 72 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit (22 to 29 degrees Celsius), making it ideal for exploring the beaches and outdoor activities.

Spring (March to May)

Springtime in Puerto Vallarta brings warmer temperatures and higher humidity. March is still pleasant, with warm days and cool evenings, but as April approaches, the temperatures start to rise. May can be hot and humid, with an increase in rainfall towards the end of the month. Despite the rising temperatures, spring offers quieter beaches and great deals on flights and hotels.

Summer (June to August)

Summer in Puerto Vallarta is characterized by hot and humid weather. June, the hottest month, sees temperatures reaching around 90 degrees Fahrenheit (32 degrees Celsius). The city experiences afternoon showers and thunderstorms, which can be quite spectacular. However, the rainfall brings lush greenery and enjoyable river and waterfall experiences. It’s also the season for sea turtle hatching, offering a unique opportunity to witness this natural phenomenon.

Fall (September to November)

Fall in Puerto Vallarta brings relief from the summer heat as temperatures start to cool off. September is the wettest month, with occasional tropical storms and hurricanes. However, Puerto Vallarta’s location in a bay with nearby mountains offers some natural protection from these storms. October offers increasingly pleasant weather, with more sunny days and comfortable temperatures. Fall also marks the return of many activities and events, such as the Historic Center Art Walk.

Puerto Vallarta’s Tourist Seasons

To make the most of your visit to Puerto Vallarta, it’s essential to understand the city’s tourist seasons. The peak tourist season aligns with optimal weather conditions and major events, while the off-peak season offers more affordable prices and fewer crowds.

Peak Tourist Season (Late Fall to Spring)

From late fall through spring, Puerto Vallarta attracts a large number of international visitors seeking the best weather and outdoor activities. This period coincides with the migration of humpback whales, making it an excellent time for whale watching. The city also sees an increase in spring break travelers and Mexican visitors during school holidays.

Off-Peak Season (Summer to Early Fall)

The summer months, from June to early fall, offer a quieter and more affordable experience in Puerto Vallarta. With hot temperatures and occasional afternoon showers, it’s an excellent time to enjoy the beaches and take advantage of discounted rates on flights and accommodations. The warm ocean waters are perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and diving.

Key Events and Activities Throughout the Year

In addition to the weather and tourist seasons, Puerto Vallarta is known for its vibrant festivals and events. Here are some of the key events you might want to consider when planning your trip.

December – Our Lady of Guadalupe Celebrations

From December 1st to December 12th, Puerto Vallarta celebrates Our Lady of Guadalupe with processions to the Church of Our Lady of Guadalupe. This religious festival features parades, music, dancing, and fireworks, offering a glimpse into the local culture and traditions.

January – The National Charro Championship

The National Charro Championship is a must-see event for horse and rodeo enthusiasts. Held at the Arena Vallarta, this four-day championship showcases Mexico’s national sport, charreria, with thrilling competitions and traditional performances.

February – Banderas Bay International Regatta

If you’re a sailing enthusiast, don’t miss the Banderas Bay International Regatta. Held in March by the Vallarta Yacht Club in Nuevo Vallarta, this regatta is the largest cruising regatta on Mexico’s Pacific coast. Watch as sailboats compete against the stunning backdrop of the bay.

March – Vallarta Yacht Club Charity Cup

The Vallarta Yacht Club Charity Cup is a sailing event that combines friendly competition with charitable giving. Participants race sailboats, and the proceeds from the event go to local charitable organizations. It’s a great way to enjoy the sport of sailing while supporting a good cause.

April – Puerto Vallarta International Gourmet Festival

Food lovers flock to Puerto Vallarta in April for the Puerto Vallarta International Gourmet Festival. This culinary extravaganza brings together renowned chefs from around the world who collaborate with local restaurants to create unique dining experiences. Indulge in gourmet meals and discover the rich flavors of Mexican cuisine.

May – Vallarta Pride

Vallarta Pride is a weeklong celebration of the LGBTQ+ community , featuring parades, parties, and cultural events. The festival highlights Puerto Vallarta’s inclusive and welcoming atmosphere, making it a popular destination for LGBTQ+ travelers.

Whale Watching Season (December to March)

As mentioned earlier, Puerto Vallarta is a prime location for whale watching. From December to March, humpback whales migrate to the warm waters of Banderas Bay. Take a boat tour and witness these majestic creatures up close as they breach and play in the water.

Sea Turtle Hatching Season (Summer Months)

During the summer months, thousands of Olive Ridley sea turtles lay their eggs on the beaches along Banderas Bay. Participate in sea turtle protection projects and have the opportunity to release baby sea turtles into the sea. It’s a magical experience that highlights the importance of conservation.

The Best Time to Visit Puerto Vallarta: A Summary

Based on the weather patterns and key events, the best time to visit Puerto Vallarta is from December through March. During this period, you’ll enjoy pleasant temperatures, minimal rainfall, and the opportunity to witness whale migrations. However, Puerto Vallarta offers something unique throughout the year, so consider your preferences and priorities when planning your trip. Whether you’re seeking vibrant festivals, affordable prices, or a quieter beach experience, Puerto Vallarta has it all.

Remember to check the local time zone and adjust your travel plans accordingly. The official time zone in Puerto Vallarta is Central Standard Time (CST). Be sure to coordinate your activities and transportation based on the local time to make the most of your visit.

For more information on Puerto Vallarta’s nightlife, gay-friendly hotels, tequila tasting tours, and botanical gardens, check out the following blogs:

  • The Ultimate Guide to the Best Gay Hotels in Puerto Vallarta
  • Puerto Vallarta Nightlife: Bars, Clubs & Insider Tips
  • Puerto Vallarta Time Zone: Essential Guide for Tourists
  • Ultimate Puerto Vallarta Botanical Gardens and Tequila Tasting
  • Tequila Jalisco Tour: Exploring the Birthplace of Tequila

Start planning your dream vacation to Puerto Vallarta and immerse yourself in the beauty, culture, and warmth of this tropical paradise.

Traveler and blogger Living in Guadalajara, Mexico

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The Best Time to Visit Puerto Vallarta for Weather, Prices, Events, and More

Our Lady of Guadalupe church in Puerto Vallarta.

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If you are not too sure when it’s the best time to visit Puerto Vallarta and you are planning a trip to the vibrant Mexican city on the Pacific Coast, you have landed in the right place.

In this post, I will share when is the best time to visit the city for weather, family vacations, events, prices, and more. I will also give you an overview of what Puerto Vallarta is like each month.

At the end of this post, you will know exactly when it’s the best time for you to visit Puerto Vallarta, for your ideal vacation.

With a huge variety of experiences to offer, Puerto Vallarta is a gorgeous beach destination in Mexico where you will find both the hip upscale vacation and the authentic Mexican charm in one place.

But the kind of experiences you can find here vary depending on the time of the year, so knowing what to expect for each time of the year will make your trip even more memorable.

In this post, I’ll also lay out the different seasons of Puerto Vallarta based on how much tourist activity it gets, and the month-by-month weather of this dream destination. But before that, I’ll tell you about the town itself.

Puerto Vallarta is one of the most famous destinations in Mexico.

Stunning beaches, a rich marine life, thriving nature, a vibrant historical center, great hiking trails, lots of shopping, and one of the most charming traditional Mexican-town vibes—Puerto Vallarta has it all.

These features, combined with underwater adventures, exploration, food, and luxurious beach-city vacation experiences, attract thousands of tourists to Puerto Vallarta every year.

So, with that being said, it’s time to get on with our main topic for the post without any more delay. Let’s start with the best time to visit Puerto Vallarta for the specific kinds of vacation experiences you can find here.

🌡 🌧️ 🌞 I suggest you get to the end of the post for interesting stats on weather, temperature, and more !!

The best time to go to Puerto Vallarta at a glance

Many things change in Puerto Vallarta throughout the year, including the prices for hotels and flights, the kind of experiences offered during a vacation, and the weather.

What’s more, the best time for different kinds of vacations changes with them as well. Such being the case, it’s hard to know which period of the year would be best to plan a trip to Puerto Vallarta to get the best of it.

You can find out the best time to visit Puerto Vallarta for the kind of vacation you have in mind below.

The best time to visit Puerto Vallarta for families

Visiting Puerto Vallarta with your family is a fun experience, and it’s even better if you do it during the right time of the year. The best months for it would be between April and May.

This is when Spring Breakers have left and the rain season is still a month or so away.

The weather is excellent, and you can find lots of amazing deals on lodgings as well. The best part about it all is the fewer crowds, which means a more intimate and memorable experience for you and your family.

If you want to enjoy a family trip with lots of snorkeling and water sports, you can also plan your trip between May and June.

The best time to travel to Puerto Vallarta when you’re on a budget

The low season (July through September) has the cheapest room rates and flight options, but it’s not necessarily the best budget option.

If you’re looking for affordable prices without compromising on the fun, I recommend planning a trip right before the low season begins (May and June) or ends (September and October).

This is when there are still plenty of lodging options easily available, the weather is decent, and there are lots of things to do as well.

Dolphin Sculptures in Puerto Vallarta.

The best time to visit Puerto Vallarta for surfing

Puerto Vallarta is big on surfing, so much so that many tournaments and events take place around it in this town.

Pro surfers come to the town all year round, but the majority of them visit here between November and March. That’s the best surfing season in the Puerto Vallarta area, from Banderas By through the Riviera Nayarit, when the North Pacific swells hit the bay.

However, from Punta Mita and Sayulita area, just an hour away, surfing is pretty much available all year round, especially for intermediate and beginner surfers.

The best time to go to Puerto Vallarta for whale watching

Whale watching is another popular activity in Puerto Vallarta. If you want to enjoy the once-in-a-lifetime experience of seeing these majestic creatures, December through March is the right time.

If you are passionate about whales as I am you can check out my full post on Whale Watching in Mexico for further details on all the top places where to see these majestic creatures in their natural habitat.

The best time to go to Puerto Vallarta by season

The Mexican tourist seasons are usually three main ones based on weather and climate. Puerto Vallarta similarly has these three seasons, the High Season, the Low Season, and the Shoulder Season.

Every season has its advantages and drawbacks, so I have listed an overview of each one in this section.

High Season (December through mid-April)

High season in Puerto Vallarta means the most number of tourists you will see in town in the entire year. Everything from the weather, activities, and exploration is perfect during it, so it’s no surprise that so many people visit here during the high season.

The peak seasons within this time of the year are Easter ) Semana Santa and Christmas. Semana Santa is the most important holiday in Mexico, so besides the high numbers of international tourists, you also have huge growth in local tourism at this time of the year.

As a result of this, hotel prices are at their peak, it’s very difficult to find a place so you need to book in advance, and you will have bigger crowds in every popular tourist spot.

You should keep that in mind and if you really want to travel at this time of the year, make sure you book your flights and hotel room way in advance.

A beach in Puerto Vallarta.

The weather in Puerto Vallarta from December through April

Humidity and temperatures are pleasantly lower. The skies are clear, with little to no chance of rain. Both the watersports activities and party scene of Puerto Vallarta thrive during the high season as well.

The best encounters with marine life are also offered from December to February, and the latter half of the season brings students vacationing for their spring break and then local families celebrating the Holy Week (Easter) to the town.

  • Great weather.
  • Lots of fun activities, partying, and vibrant nightlife.
  • Plenty of opportunities to see majestic marine creatures including migrating humpbacks.
  • Higher rates on pretty much everything, including lodging options and flights.
  • More crowds, especially during the later days when spring breakers flock to Puerto Vallarta.
  • Fully booked hotels and lodgings (which makes it important to reserve room months in advance to avoid dealing with availability issues).

Low Season (July through September)

With the highest temperatures and humidity of the year and more rainy days, the low season doesn’t see as many tourists as in the winter season.

However, this is when kids are out of school, so expect an increase in family vacations.

Prices are definitely lower than in winter but they are not at their lowest. However, you may find a good deal at this time of the year.

There is more chance of rain and although hurricanes are not so common on the pacific coast, they are still likely to hit, most likely in the form of tropical storms, but they can still affect your vacation.

  • warmer water
  • More affordable prices.
  • surf is possible
  • Lots of families and kids.
  • Hotter and more humid compared to the high season.
  • Overcast weather and rainy days
  • chances of hurricanes

A beach in Puerto Vallarta with tourists.

Shoulder Season (May through June)

Shoulder seasons are the best to find great hotel deals and better airfare.

The gaps between the high season and the low season comprise the shoulder season of Puerto Vallarta. This is when you can find the best of both worlds.

The weather isn’t as hot and rainy as the summer months, but also not as dry and cool as the winter months.

You can find great lodging options, and the ocean temperatures and underwater visibility are excellent during this season, which makes for the best snorkeling, swimming, and scuba diving experiences.

The water temperature starts to get warmer in March when we have the lowest water temperature of the year.

  • Cheapest flight and hotel rates.
  • Warmer ocean temperatures.
  • Best visibility underwater.
  • Little to no crowds.
  • The water temperature is still chilly compared to August temperatures
  • The rainy season is starting

Shoulder Season (September through November)

In September and October, you may find some hotels and tourism-related businesses of the town partly close up for annual repairs and maintenance work.

But you can still find a lot of lodgings available.

This time of the year is probably the best to find hotel deals and great airfares. The higher chance of rain and tropical storm discourage most people from traveling and that is why if you want to take your chance you may find amazing deals.

At this time of the year, the water is warmer but there is less visibility for snorkeling and diving.

  • Warm ocean temperatures.
  • Hotter and more humid weather (September and October)
  • More chance of rainy and overcast days.
  • The water is murky when it rains before.

The best time to go to Puerto Vallarta by month

Puerto Vallarta is warm throughout the year, but there are variations in the weather each month. These include things like the humidity, rain, and temperature highs and lows.

Below is a breakdown of the Puerto Vallarta weather for each month.

Also, I have included the major events that take place in a given month in case you need some fun things to do for your bucket list.

A mini hut on the beach of Puerto Vallarta.

Puerto Vallarta in January

January is one of the months when the weather in Puerto Vallarta is at its best. The temperatures are very pleasant, with clear skies and only two rainy days on average.

The afternoons are perfect for lots of exploration and excursions, but you might need a layer at night because the temperatures sometimes drop a little.

The water temperatures are also great in January, so you will see lots of exotic marine life in the ocean, including humpback whales and whale sharks.

Puerto Vallarta events in January

Vallarta cup.

The Vallarta Cup is held during January, with daily races in Banderas Bay followed by parties in Nuevo Vallarta.

La Virgen de la Paz Festival (Our Lady of Peace)

Also, you can go see the festival of La Virgen de la Paz (Our Lady of Peace) in the nearby village called Bucerias during January—a 9-day celebration with lots of cultural activities, food, and entertainment events.

Puerto Vallarta in February

The cool temperatures of January carry over into February, so you can expect warm afternoons and cool evenings.

Skies are even clearer in Feb, with very little chance of rainy days or even overcast weather. If you want to see some baby humpbacks, this is the best month for it.

Puerto Vallarta events in February

Mardi gras and carnaval parade.

The Mardi Gras and Carnaval Parade take place near the end of the month. It’s a grand celebration that begins with a parade from the Hotel Zone, going through the Malecon and Centro, and ending near the Los Muertos Pier.

The town, especially the Zona Romantica, is vibrant with parties and special events for many days after this parade.

Sayulita Festival

Just keep in mind that the parade sometimes takes place in March, but there is also the Festival Sayulita in February that you can attend in the small town of Sayulita less than an hour’s drive north of Puerto Vallarta.

Arcs in Puerto Vallarta near the beach.

Puerto Vallarta in March

March is the first month marking the onset of the dry season in Puerto Vallarta. The temperatures start rising from here onwards, so you won’t need any warm clothing unless you’re going on a hike or sunset sail.

The water temperatures, on the other hand, are their coolest but still comfortable enough for water sports.

March events in Puerto Vallarta

Banderas bay regatta.

Speaking of water sports, the Banderas Bay Regatta takes place during March as well. This event includes sailboat races and lots of parties, live music, dancing, and food.

Just make sure to book a place to stay well in advance, because hotels are filled with locals and tourists visiting the town during this time.

Dama Juana Raicilla Festival

The Dama Juana Raicilla Festival is a two-day celebration of the liquor called Mexican moonshine (raicilla). You can attend tastings, mariachi music, and dances, and find lots of other fun events.

Carnaval Day

Also, the first Tuesday of the month is Carnaval Day , which is celebrated with kids’ parades in the streets and everyone wearing party masks.

Puerto Vallarta in April

The driest month of the year, April brings warm days and some humidity with it. There are no chances of rain, and the sunlight starts getting a bit intense (especially towards the end of the month), so it’s not a bad idea to bring sunscreen .

Puerto Vallarta Events in April

Puerto vallarta taco festival.

Luckily, April has lots of amazing events to make up for the warmer temperatures. The town’s taco restaurants come together for the Puerto Vallarta Taco Festival to offer the best of this Mexican delicacy.

El Dia del Nino

El Dia del Nino (Children’s Day) is also celebrated during April, and you can participate in it by handing out toys and candies to children.

Vallarta Azteca International Folklore Festiva

To top it all off, the Vallarta Azteca International Folklore Festival takes place near the end of April and lasts until early May. People from all over Latin America participate in it with dance troupes to perform traditional dances at different places in town.

Puerto Vallarta in May

The hot and balmy weeks progress onwards in May. Average temperatures also rise up along with the ocean temperatures, making them perfect for water sports and surfing. The chances of rain are fewer, but they still might be a day or two of rain.

Vallarta Pride event

The Vallarta Pride event takes place in May. If you don’t already know, this town is popular for its inclusive community, so this 9-day festival is a huge event of the year.

The activities include parades, beach parties, dance and music events, and film festivals. You will find most of these in the Zona Romantica (also called the Old Town).

Puerto Vallarta anniversary

The Puerto Vallarta anniversary celebration also comes in May, with the MayoFest bringing 5 days of concerts including all kinds of music, lots of entertainment events with sports activities and parties, and a huge fireworks show at the end of the festival.

Restaurant Week

Restaurant Week is also celebrated in May, usually in the last week of the month. You can enjoy the unforgettable culinary delights of Puerto Vallarta in the participating restaurants all across town.

Huts near the beach surrounded by buildings.

Puerto Vallarta in June

The dry season comes to an end with May, which means June brings overcast days and more rainfall with it. The heat and humidity also increase during it, but the water is excellent around this time of the year.

Watersports activities like swimming, surfing, and snorkeling are great with warm temperatures and better visibility.

Lots of festivals on the beaches and docks, and tournaments on the sea, take place during June as well, with the month’s first day celebrating El Dia de la Marina (Navy Day) when boats are launched into the Banderas Bay for the opening ceremony to lay out flowers on the water.

Puerto Vallarta in July

July precipitation levels are almost at their peak in July, but not yet.

The ocean temperatures rise even higher so for those of you who can’t bear cold waters this is the time for you to go swimming!

Puerto Vallarta July events: baby turtles releasing

Many hotels have turtle release programs, and these usually begin in July and go on until as long as December.

You can attend one of these events to see adorable little sea turtles being released into the sea. You can also participate in one of these programs and help release sea turtles into the sea.

Puerto Vallarta in August

The rainy season peak continues in August, with half of the month’s days raining and higher temperatures. Humidity is also pretty intense during August and ocean temperatures are the warmest they will be all year.

Puerto Vallarta Events in August

There are no particular events scheduled for August but make sure you check with the hotels that organize turtle releases on the beach.

Also, read the full article on Puerto Vallarta in August for more detailed info.

Puerto Vallarta in September

September is when the rainy season of Puerto Vallarta starts to decline a bit. The temperatures also decrease, but not much so it’s still hot and humid.

The days are usually overcast with chances of rain, but it’s not as frequent as in July or August.

Puerto Vallarta Events in September

National charro day.

September 14 is the National Charro Day. Mexican cowboys (charros) dress in their finest and ride down the streets of Puerto Vallarta on this day, which is followed by a parade at night.

Mexican Independence Day

Mexican Independence Day is celebrated on the 15th of September all across the country, so you will see lots of fireworks and parades on this day as well.

Puerto Vallarta in October

The first half of October is pretty much similar to September when it comes to the weather. It’s hot and humid, and the temperatures are only slightly lower than in the previous months.

But the latter days of the month have fewer rainy days and clearer skies.

Puerto Vallarta Events in October

Halloween is celebrated in Puerto Vallarta on October 27th a few days before the Day of the Dead which is the most important event in all of Mexico.

Vallarta Nayarit Gastronómica Conference

The Vallarta Nayarit Gastronómica Conference takes place earlier in the month and includes workshops, cooking demonstrations, special dinner events, and food and wine tastings.

The seahorse statue during sunset.

Puerto Vallarta in November

The best weather in Puerto Vallarta starts to show by November. The temperatures start lowering, and humidity is also noticeably lower by the end of the month. Most of the days are dry and clear, but you can still expect some rain.

Puerto Vallarta Events in November

Day of the dead.

In Puerto Vallarta, the Day of the Dead is a week-long festival that includes Art exhibitions and displays of pretty colorful shrines in town squares and along the Malecon (boardwalk).

Read about the Day of the Dead in Oaxaca as well .

Festival Gourmet International

The Festival Gourmet International is a 10-day festival in which local chefs invite international chefs into their kitchens to create unique and delightful culinary experiences for the people of the town.

Fishing tournament

The other international event in November is a fishing tournament that lasts for three days.

Puerto Vallarta in December

The best weather of the year starts in December. The town is breathtaking this time of the year, and the temperatures are a comfy warm.

The humidity is lower as well, and the chances of showers fall down to twice in the entire month.

December is when most of the days in the month are occupied with festivities and events.

Processions to Guadalupe

The first 12 days of the month see processions to Guadalupe. These processions are to celebrate Virgin Mary’s appearance to Juan Diago centuries ago. Dances, music, traditional cuisines, and fireworks are part of the festival.

Christmas Posadas

The Christmas Posadas is another significant event of the month. It starts 9 days before Christmas and goes on until Christmas Eve.

During it, the participants remember and reenact Mary and Joseph’s search for an inn. When they finally reach the designated spot, the party is officially started. On the last day, a mass with special fireworks is held at the church.

New Year’s Eve

New Year’s Eve is also celebrated very remarkably in Puerto Vallarta. There are fireworks, concerts, and parties throughout the town, and you can participate in most of them without any fees.

The fireworks show over the bay is breathtaking. You can best see it from the Los Muertos Pier or the Zona Romantica.

Daily Chance of Precipitation in Puerto Vallarta by month

Daily Chance of Precipitaiton in Puerto vallarta

Humidity levels in Puerto Vallarta by month

Humidity in Puerto vallarta

Average Ocean Water temperature in Puerto Vallarta by month

Water temperature in Puerto vallarta

Average wind speed in Puerto Vallarta by month

Average wind speed in Puerto vallarta

Hours of daylight and twilight in Puerto Vallarta by month

hours of daylight and twilight in Puerto vallarta

The best time to visit Puerto Vallarta: the best weather

As you could see there is no one best time to visit Puerto Vallarta. It all depends on what you are looking for.

However, I can tell you when is the best weather in Puerto Vallarta.

It comes during the high season—particularly between December and May. This is when the skies are the clearest, the average daily highs fall below 85°F (30°C) and the water temperatures are perfect for swimming and surfing.

The marine life of the region truly comes alive during these cooler months as well, which means you can see the humpback whale migration and lots of other undersea creatures.

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Isabella is traveler and animal lover, a former tourism professional with an multinational background that lead her to Mexico, that she can proudly call home. After seven years in Cancun where she's still a resident, she took a bold leap, leaving her fancy job to embrace a nomadic lifestyle. She traveled all over Mexico, from Baja California to Ciudad Juarez, Oaxaca, Chiapas Hidalgo exploring and living like a local. Isabella founded Let's Travel to Mexico to help travelers plan their own trip on and off the beaten path in this beautiful land that she loves so dearly.

Best Time to Visit Puerto Vallarta

Mexico › Puerto Vallarta › When to Go Updated: March 7, 2022

  • Where to Stay in Puerto Vallarta
  • Best Hotels in Puerto Vallarta
  • Best Family Hotels in Puerto Vallarta

Beach resort in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico.

What is the best time of year to visit Puerto Vallarta?

The best time to visit Puerto Vallarta is from mid-April to June, and October. These months all offer excellent weather and affordable rates. April through June has the best weather; May and June have the best hotel deals; and October has the best water for snorkeling and diving. Avoid Holy Week, the week leading up to Easter – this is peak time for local, Mexican family vacations (a fun atmosphere but very busy and hotels are fully booked well in advance).

  • Best Time for Good Weather : December through May are the best months to visit for good weather. Average highs are below 30°C in the afternoons, with cool evenings in the high teens. Sea temperatures are cooler this time of year than in the summer, though they still average in the mid-20s°C, quite comfortable for surfing and swimming. Vallarta sits on the edge of a rainforest, but precipitation is much less likely during the winter and spring months than in the summer. February through May are particularly dry months with mostly clear skies; July through September are the rainiest. The city is protected by the Banderas Bay, so hurricanes here are rare; the last hit came in 2002 and was the first major storm to land in Vallarta in 35 years.
  • Best Time for Families and Kids : The best times for family travel are from April through June and from mid-October through mid-November. April and May are particularly excellent months to visit, right after the Spring Break crowds leave and before the summer rains and Mexican vacation season begin. Travelers during these months should expect sunny, warm days that are not too hot, affordable room rates, and fewer crowds than in the previous five months. May and June offer the warmest water temperatures for late spring family travel, with June offering greater visibility for snorkeling. Since May and June are so popular with visiting families, there will be plenty of kids around to keep each other entertained at the kids clubs or poolside at the resorts. October and November are also great times to visit, though the days are typically a little hotter and room rates, especially in November, are just beginning to rise after the summer low season. Ocean temperatures are still warm this late in the year, with October offering great underwater visibility.
  • Best Time for Avoiding Crowds : Puerto Vallarta’s low season is getting shorter and shorter, but typically the best time to avoid the large crowds is from July through September, just after Mexican vacation season and before the foreign travel high season. With fewer people traveling, hotels and flights are often deeply discounted. However, this also means that it can be harder to schedule excursions, as fewer travelers visiting leads tour companies to reduce their number of daily or weekly outings. This is the rainiest season in Puerto Vallarta, with about half of the days experiencing at least a little rain, especially in the late afternoons or early evenings from late August through early September.
  • Best Time for Great Deals : The best time to find great deals for Puerto Vallarta travel is near the low season, but not exactly in the middle of it. Flights are usually cheaper during the low season from July through September, but many hotels close or reduce their room inventory for annual repairs during July and August. So, though there are fewer travelers, room rates don’t necessarily drop. Travel in May, June, September, and October for the best rates on rooms, plus affordable flights and excursions.
  • Best Time for Surfing : Surfing is great almost year round, especially in Sayulita, but the best time for riding the waves is from December through April, when the north swells hit. Waves are large enough for beginners to maintain enough speed on their boards to not tip over, while not being too intimidating. More experienced surfers will find faster and larger waves on the north end of Sayulita Beach, plus at several other nearby breaks. It is possible to surf outside of these months, but the waves just aren’t as good, especially from June through September, when the waves are particularly flat and short. Water is warm here year round, but the warmest times during the surf season are December, January, and April.
  • Best Time for Whale Watching : Humpback whales begin arriving in November and leave again by early April. The best time to see them in large numbers is from mid-December through mid-March. December will have the most active viewing of adult whales, as males compete for female attention in the hopes of mating. The first babies will be born in January, but become more active in February and March as they become stronger swimmers. Most whales leave toward the end of March, with the last few stragglers in the area until mid-April. Waves are calmer in the mornings, so earlier tours are better for people who tend to get seasick.
  • Best Time for Snorkeling and Diving : For snorkeling and diving, June through October offers better water conditions, while December through February offers more likely encounters with manta rays and whale sharks. Water temps are warm and waves are fairly calm year-round. Diving and snorkeling are possible anytime, though there are definite differences in the seasons. Water is warmest and visibility is clearest in the summer months from June through October. August and September are particularly warm with surface temperatures averaging 30°C. From November through May, the water is cooler and visibility is obscured by plankton blooms; however, plankton attracts more manta rays to the surface, making this a great time for snorkelers to see them up close. During the winter months, from December through February, divers and snorkelers may even encounter migrating whale sharks.
  • Best Time for Exploring the Jungle : December through March is the best time for visiting the Mismaloya jungle, whether hiking the Botanical Gardens or ziplining through the canopy. These are the coolest months of the year, with temperatures topping out around 27°C. Most days offer clear skies, even in the rainforest, especially in February and March. The worst time for jungle adventures is from July through September when the summer rains bring out hordes of mosquitoes. Even during the winter months, it’s a good idea to wear insect repellant or long pants that cover the ankles.
  • Best Time for Sportfishing : Fish bite year-round in Puerto Vallarta, but different seasons attract different types. The biggest variety of fish is found from September through December, when blue, black, and striped marlin are most abundant, along with mahi-mahi, sailfish, and wahoo. Generally, the warmer months of June through September attract more tuna and grouper.

Puerto Vallarta Travel Seasons

  • High Season : December through mid-April is the busiest travel time in Puerto Vallarta, as crowds flock to enjoy the city’s best weather. Average daily highs are usually below 29°C. Skies are the clearest they’ll be all year, though even in the driest months, days can be overcast. The cooler months from December through February bring migrating humpback whales and great fishing, and the north swells make for excellent surfing. This is when the city truly shines! As the weather warms up in March and April, throngs of students from north of the border descend on the city for Spring Break; most hotels that host Spring Breakers are in the North Hotel Zone. Holy Week (Semana Santa), the week leading up to Easter, is the peak travel time for local families. If visiting Puerto Vallarta in winter or early spring, be prepared to pay top dollar for flights and hotels and to contend with the crowds.
  • Low Season : July through September is the low season in Puerto Vallarta. Days are typically hot and humid with highs around 33°C and at least a little rain on more than half of the days. Skies are mostly grey, and surf is generally poor. However, there are lots of great deals on flights and hotels during the summer months. Those who venture to PV during the rainy season will be rewarded with the warmest ocean temperatures and the best underwater visibility. This is the perfect time for snorkeling, swimming, and scuba diving, especially near the reef islands, Marietas and Los Arcos.
  • Shoulder Season : The late spring (May and June) and fall months (October and November) are considered Vallarta’s shoulder season. These months feature good weather, with much less rain and fewer clouds than in the summer months, albeit hotter and more humid than in the winter and early spring. High temperatures hover around 31°C during these months. Rooms and flights are affordable, especially in May and June, when many hotels offer sales after high season officially ends. Room rates are still fairly low in October through mid-November, with prices beginning to creep up at the end of November in preparation for the holiday season.

Puerto Vallarta Weather by Month

Weather in Puerto Vallarta is warm and humid most of the year, with temperatures ranging from winter lows of 16°C to summer highs of 33°C. End of July and beginning of August are the hottest times of the year, while January is the coolest. March through May are the driest, sunniest months. Late August and early September are the rainiest and cloudiest. September is the most humid. Ocean surface temperatures are highest in August and lowest in March.

  • Puerto Vallarta Weather in January : January is one of the coolest months of the year, though still quite balmy. Afternoon highs are in the upper 20s°C, and skies are mostly clear, especially toward the end of the month. Januarys average about 2 rainy days per month, usually occurring toward the middle. Ocean temperatures are on the low side for Puerto Vallarta, attracting humpbacks, their newborns, and whale sharks, but the water remains comfortable for swimming and surfing. It’s a good idea to bring a jacket, as nightly temperatures tend to drop to the mid-teens. (Average High 28°C, Average Low 16°C, Sea Temperature 25°C, Rainfall 23mm.)
  • Puerto Vallarta Weather in February : Temperatures remain steady in February with warm days and cooler evenings; highs average 28°C and lows average 16°C. Skies begin to clear up now, with most days sunny or only partly cloudy. There is usually only one rainy day in February, with rainfall becoming less likely toward the end of the month as Puerto Vallarta moves toward the dry season. Sea temperatures drop just a hair from the previous month but stay well within a comfortable range. Surf is great this month. Baby humpbacks are most active now; this is the best opportunity to see them in the open. (Average High 28°C, Average Low 16°C, Sea Temperature 24°C, Rainfall 12mm.)
  • Puerto Vallarta Weather in March : Temperatures begin a slow rise in March, with days often hitting 30°C. Nights can still get cooler, so a light jacket or sweater is good to have, especially on a sunset sail or if visiting the mountains. Rain is uncommon in this first dry month of the season; bring your sunscreen! Ocean temperatures are at their coldest, though still comfortable for all water activities. Surf is great throughout the month. Baby humpbacks are still active, though whales begin to leave the area toward month’s end. (Average High 29°C, Average Low 17°C, Sea Temperature 24°C, Rainfall 5mm.)
  • Puerto Vallarta Weather in April : April is warm throughout with a few hot days at the end of the month. This is the driest month of the year, usually with no rainy days, but the humidity increases as the weeks go by. Be sure to pack sunscreen. Nights are still cool, as in preceding months. Ocean temperatures begin to rise and waves are still steady, making this an excellent month for surfing. Most of the humpbacks are leaving the area for cooler waters. (Average High 31°C, Average Low 18°C, Sea Temperature 25°C, Rainfall 4mm.)
  • Puerto Vallarta Weather in May : May is hot and muggy with temperatures regularly topping 32°C. As humidity rises toward the last couple of weeks, so does the chance of rain, though only one rainy day in the month is the norm. Ocean temperatures rise to a very comfortable range. Surf is less consistent, but there are still plenty of great waves in Sayulita, San Pancho, and Lo De Marcos. (Average High 32°C, Average Low 19°C, Sea Temperature 27°C, Rainfall 12mm.)
  • Puerto Vallarta Weather in June : Heat and humidity run high in June, growing as the month goes by. Days are usually cloudy or overcast, and rainfall comes more regularly – expect about 10 rainy days throughout the month. Ocean conditions are excellent for swimming, snorkeling, and diving, with warm waters and great visibility. Surf has died down in most of the usual spots, but Quimixto to the south of PV offers great waves throughout the summer. (Average High 32°C, Average Low 23°C, Sea Temperature 28°C, Rainfall 159mm.)
  • Puerto Vallarta Weather in July : Summer is the start of the rainy season. July sees rain about half of the days and overcast skies almost every day. It’s a good idea to bring an umbrella and to plan some rainy day activities, just in case. (Check out a chocolate making class, or dash from bar to bar in the Old Town.) Temperatures are hot and sticky. Ocean temps continue to rise, and visibility is excellent for divers and snorkelers, especially near the reefs. Surf is almost completely gone in the areas north of Vallarta, but Quimixto still has consistent surf. (Average High 33°C, Average Low 23°C, Sea Temperature 29°C, Rainfall 285mm.)
  • Puerto Vallarta Weather in August : August is the peak of the rainy summer season, with highs frequently above 33° and rain occurring half of all days. Pack an umbrella, and plan for a few rainy day activities. Skies are overcast and humidity is oppressive every day. Ocean temperatures reach their peak warmth, hovering around 30°C. Water is calm and visibility is excellent, ideal for snorkeling and diving. Surfers can still find waves to the south of the city. (Average High 33°C, Average Low 23°C, Sea Temperature 30°C, Rainfall 300mm.)
  • Puerto Vallarta Weather in September : Temperatures fall just a bit in September, though days continue to be hot and humid. Skies are the greyest this month, with almost every day either overcast or cloudy. Rain is common, though a little less frequent than in the previous months. Travelers will still want to carry an umbrella, and plan ahead for rainy days. Ocean conditions are consistent as they were in August, with warm water, flat waves, and great visibility. Surf conditions are still better in the south than in the north of Puerto Vallarta. (Average High 32°C, Average Low 23°C, Sea Temperature 30°C, Rainfall 288mm.)
  • Puerto Vallarta Weather in October : October begins much like September, with heat, humidity, and rain. But by the second half of the month, skies clear and rain becomes less frequent, with only 5 rainy days spread over the month. Ocean temperatures and conditions remain similar to September, with warm, clear water. Surf should good in the popular beaches of Sayulita and San Pancho. (Average High 31°C, Average Low 22°C, Sea Temperature 30°C, Rainfall 117mm.)
  • Puerto Vallarta Weather in November : Great weather returns to Vallarta in November. Daytime temperatures are warm, often rising above 31°C for a few hours in the afternoons. Humidity is high early in the month, but lessens as the weeks go by. Rain is possible once or twice in November, but most days are very dry. Ocean temperatures are still very warm and surf is becoming more consistent throughout the region. The first adult humpbacks should arrive at the end of the month. (Average High 31°C, Average Low 21°C, Sea Temperature 28°C, Rainfall 24mm.)
  • Puerto Vallarta Weather in December : December is gorgeous in PV, with warm comfortable days and cooler evenings. A jacket is recommended for nights out, especially for sunset cruises. Rain showers may hit a couple of days, but the majority of days are dry and humidity is relatively low (though it’s always a little humid). More than half the days are sunny or only partly cloudy. Sea temperatures drop down to 25°C, still comfortable for all water activities. Surfing is excellent this time of year, and Banderas Bay is filled with whales. (Average High 29°C, Average Low 16°C, Sea Temperature 25°C, Rainfall 21mm.)

Puerto Vallarta Festivals and Events

Puerto vallarta in january.

  • Vallarta Cup – Every Saturday in January, the Vallarta Yacht Club hosts a race in Banderas Bay. Courses may be as far south as Puerto Vallarta and as far north as La Cruz. Each day of racing finishes with a party at VYC in Nuevo Vallarta.
  • Festival of Our Lady of Peace (La Virgen de la Paz) – Nine-day, annual festival in Bucerías, celebrating the village’s patron saint, also considered the mother and protector of fisherman. The festival begins with fishermen sailing from La Cruz to Bucerías with the Peace Torch to make an offering at the church. This is followed by eight days of carnival rides, food vendors, cultural activities, daily processions, and nightly entertainment. The final night of the festival closes with the lighting of the Castillo, a rotating, three-story framework stuffed with fireworks.

Puerto Vallarta in February

  • Sayulita Festival – Five day festival in the little surfer town, filled with music, movies, Mexican wine and spirits. Events take place all over town; tastings, concerts, surfing, and yoga workshops. Hotels fill up fast, so book early! Camping is popular during this event in designated areas.
  • Charro National Championship – Charros are Mexican cowboys, and this five-day competition is similar to a rodeo. Charros show off their skills riding bucking broncos and roping bulls. Plus live music, dance, lasso demos, and cultural shows. Competitions are held at Arena Vallarta; music and cultural events take place at the Los Arcos Amphitheater on the Malecon.
  • Mardi Gras and Carnaval Parade (sometimes in March) – Huge celebration marking the last party day before the austere season of Lent. Festivities begin with an evening parade that stretches from the North Hotel Zone down along the Malecon through El Centro and finishes just shy of Los Muertos Pier. Floats, beads, and big parties follow, especially in Zona Romantica. Plan ahead for this – the parade draws crowds upwards of 30,000. This event is popular with the LGBT crowd, and many hotels and clubs host special events.

Puerto Vallarta in March

  • Banderas Bay Regatta – Five-day event featuring three full days of sailboat races and four nights of parties. Races are open to both cruisers and race boats. Nights end with parties at the Vallarta Yacht Club, with food, live music, and dancing.
  • Dama Juana Raicilla Festival – Celebration of raicilla, aka Mexican moonshine, a sister liquor to tequila and mezcal. Events include raicilla and food tastings, talks with distillers, mariachi music, and more. This two-day festival takes place at the cultural center on Cuale River Island.

Puerto Vallarta in April

  • Puerto Vallarta Taco Festival – The city’s best taco restaurants, whether street vendors or fine dining, get together to offer a wide range of styles and flavors of this signature Mexican dish. Tequila and beer share the spotlight, along with lucha libre, music, dance, and more entertainment. In the North Hotel Zone, near La Isla Mall.
  • Bucerías Oyster Festival (Feria de Ostiones) – Annual celebration of local oyster divers, marking the end of the oyster season in Bucerías. The main event is a competition among divers to see who can snag the largest oyster. Tons of oysters and ceviche to eat, plus live music, and the crowning of the Oyster Queen. Events take place on El Punto Beach.
  • Children’s Day (El Día del Niño) – A holiday filled with fun, gifts, and special activities just for kids. Though not an official holiday, most schools don’t hold classes this day. Zoos, amusement parks, and attractions often offer special discounts on April 30. Travelers can also participate by handing out toys or candy to street kids.
  • Vallarta Azteca International Folklore Festival (late April through early May) – Celebration of traditional dance from Mexico and Latin America. Dance troupes from all over Mexico plus Central and South America perform folkloric dance every evening from 6:00 p.m. at venues around town. Over 600 dancers participate annually, representing around 15 unique cultures.

Puerto Vallarta in May

  • Vallarta Pride – Vallarta is the premiere LGBT destination in Mexico, and Zona Romantica is the central hub for the city’s Pride events. This nine-day festival features tons of activities, including a huge parade, drag derby, beach parties, film festivals, live music, dancing, and much more. Book hotels ahead of time, as many of the closest ones are small boutiques that fill up fast.
  • MayoFest Puerto Vallarta – Puerto Vallarta’s anniversary celebration. This is a five-day long festival with concerts (traditional, rock, and pop), sports, activities, and entertainment, much of it at the lighthouse (faro) and the Los Arcos Amphitheater on the Malecon. Food vendors abound, and the closing event is a huge fireworks show.
  • Restaurant Week – A two-week late May gastronomy event in Mexico’s top foodie destination. During this celebration, restaurants offer creative, three-course meals with three mix-and-match options for each course, all at a deeply discounted rate, making this an affordable time to explore PV’s cutting edge gourmet scene. Participating restaurants are scattered throughout the city.

Puerto Vallarta in June

  • Navy Day (El Día de la Marina) – June 1st is celebrated in all of Mexico’s port towns; commemorating the launch of the first all-Mexican crewed ship, and honoring past and present naval service men and women. Boats are launched in a morning opening ceremony into Banderas Bay to lay flower wreaths on the water. The ceremony is followed by festivities and tournaments at sea, along with celebrations on the beaches and docks, with dancing into the night.
  • RHA Festival – Two-day electronic music festival in Punta Mita, northwest of Puerto Vallarta. The main RHA Festival runs for two-days with DJs spinning and dancing on the beach all night. The “RHA Experience” adds two more days of more intimate concerts and pool parties.

Puerto Vallarta in July

  • Banderas Bay Fishing Tournament – International marlin and tuna fishing competition. This two-day event leaves from the Paradise Village Marina and is hosted by the Bahía de Banderas Fishing Club. Record-setting fish have been caught here in the past, including a 322 kg marlin.

Puerto Vallarta in August

  • Cristo de los Brazos Caidos (Christ of the Fallen Arms or Christ of the Cyclone) – Local celebration in Barra de Navidad south of Puerto Vallarta. This festival commemorates a local miracle. As a huge storm approached in 1971, town residents sought refuge in the church, certain that the storm would devastate the village. As they were deep in prayer, the arms of the crucified Christ above the altar fell off. At the same moment, the storm ended. Since then, the town has celebrated yearly with rosaries, processions, fireworks, street food, and live entertainment.
  • Punta Mita Beach Festival – Two-day festival at Kupuri Beach Club with tons of activities, including an underwater treasure hunt, windsurfing, paddleboarding, and more beach fun. Chefs from Punta Mita’s luxury resorts serve upscale beach bites and creative cocktails. A family-friendly event held from 9a-8p.

Puerto Vallarta in September

  • National Charro Day – Charros, the Mexican cowboys, are celebrated every year on September 14. Festivities begin in Puerto Vallarta with charros riding through the downtown streets, decked out in their finest. At night, there is a charro parade down the Malecon, ending at Los Arcos Amphitheater. Here, the festivities continue with a street party, lasso demo, mariachi music, and dancing.
  • Mexican Independence Day – A two-day festival with music, fireworks, food, and parades. Beginning on the afternoon of September 15, people gather in the main square for non-stop mariachi and traditional foods. At 11pm, the grito , or cry for independence, is called with ringing bells and fireworks. The country’s biggest party begins immediately after and goes well into the night. On September 16, there is huge military parade through town and more food and festivities.
  • San Pancho Days – Nine-day festival for the patron saint of San Francisco (aka San Pancho), a small surfing village northeast of Sayulita. This celebration of St. Francis of Assisi is filled with parades, food, rodeos, live music, dancing, and carnival rides. Each day and night of the festival is held in a different neighborhood in town. The celebration ends with a wild day of parties, the final rodeo, and the lighting of the castillo, a tall rotating structure of fireworks, at midnight. Dancing continues until the wee hours. From September 25-October 4.

Puerto Vallarta in October

  • Vallarta Nayarit Gastronómica – High-end culinary conference featuring renowned chefs and sommeliers. Four days of cooking demos, food and wine tastings, workshops, and special dinners. Creative, contemporary, and traditional cooking styles feature regional and international flavors.
  • Halloween – In PV Halloween celebrations merged with Day of the Dead events, creating a huge festival lasting several days from October 29-November 2. As of now, Halloween on October 31 is still the smaller holiday, celebrated with costume contests and parties at local bars and restaurants. Kids will be dressed up in the streets, saying “Queremos Halloween,” the local version of “trick or treat,” and carrying bags to be filled with candy.

Puerto Vallarta in November

  • All Saints’ Day (Día de Todos Santos) – All Saints Day gets wrapped into Day of the Dead Celebrations, much like Halloween. On this day, Mexicans honor deceased children, leaving offerings to them on custom-designed altars in cemeteries or in their homes, with sugar skulls, toys, and treats. Altars are set up by local businesses, as well as the Cuale River Island cultural center and City Hall. City streets in all neighborhoods will be decorated in orange and purple, with public altars on the Malecon, and Catrinas (skeletons dressed as fancy, rich ladies).
  • Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead, All Souls Day) – Mexican celebrations for Day of the Dead include decorating altars in their homes or in cemeteries, some keeping vigils and others leaving offerings, usually tequila, cigarettes, and the deceased’s favorite foods. Candles and trails of marigold petals extend from the altars to light the way for the spirit’s return. Around town, there will be parades of Catrinas, folkloric dance, mariachi, street foods, and special sweet pastries and treats. Hotspots for celebrations include the Malecon, Municipal Cemetery, Hidalgo Park, and the Emiliano Zapato neighborhood in the north end of Zona Romantica.
  • Festival Gourmet International – Ten-day food and wine event where the best chefs from local restaurants and hotels invite celebrity chefs into their kitchens for a culinary culture exchange. Events take place at a different location each night and include, cooking demos, restaurant hopping, forum discussions, wine and liquor pairings, and a mini art festival. Travelers can reserve their spaces online.
  • International Fishing Tournament – Three days of competitive fishing for marlin and sailfish with a reception each night at Marina Vallarta. The tournament ends with an awards ceremony and a large cash prize.

Puerto Vallarta in December

  • The Guadalupe Processions – A festival over the first twelve days of December, celebrating the appearance of the Virgin Mary to the Aztec peasant Juan Diego in 1531. This celebration includes hundreds of processions to Guadalupe Church by the faithful in a fusion of Aztec and Catholic traditions. Processions usually begin in the afternoon and end after midnight, though as the festival nears the end, processions can fill the streets for up to twenty hours in a day. Bells ring with the arrival of each singing procession to the church. Folk dancers, live music, traditional foods, and a final night of fireworks caps off the fiesta.
  • Christmas Posadas – For nine days leading up to Christmas, this celebration reenacts the journey of Mary and Joseph searching for an inn. Participants journey from house to house reenacting the story; when they are received at the final destination, a street party begins with traditional Mexican foods, piñatas, and a special punch. On Christmas Eve, the final night of Las Posadas, the procession goes to the church for a special mass and fireworks.
  • New Year’s Eve – Events take place all over town, with free concerts at Los Arcos on the Malecon, a street party on Olas Altas in Zona Romantica, and multiple fireworks shows over the bay. Los Muertos Pier is the most popular spot to watch the displays. Reserve early for tables at fine dining restaurants, or simply bar hop through the throngs of Old Town.
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Ultimate Puerto Vallarta Travel Guide for Visitors in 2024

By: Author Aly Smalls

Posted on Published: October 9, 2023  - Last updated: October 14, 2023

Ultimate Puerto Vallarta Travel Guide for Visitors in 2024

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Puerto Vallarta at a Glance

Nestled on Mexico’s Pacific coast, Puerto Vallarta is a captivating blend of natural beauty and rich culture.

With its sun-kissed beaches, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culinary scene, it’s one of the most unique places to visit in Mexico for foreigners and locals alike. 

best time to travel to mexico puerto vallarta

This post contains affiliate links, meaning if you click through and make a purchase I may make a small commission. I only share information about things I know, love and trust!

Airport: PVR – Licenciado Gustavo Díaz Ordaz International Airport

Time Zone: Central Standard Time

Currency: Mexican Peso (credit cards accepted)

Language: Spanish, but English is common (you don’t need to know Spanish to visit)

Electric sockets & plugs: they use Type A (two-prong) and Type B (three-prong) – if you’re traveling with lots of electronics, bring a small powerstrip because most hotel rooms do not have enough outlets. 

Getting around: Taxis, Ubers and local buses are all fine to use. 

Top food to try: Tacos al Pastor

Top activity: Hidden beach at Marietas Islands

Where is Puerto Vallarta Located? 

Puerto Vallarta can be found on the western coast of Mexico, right along the beautiful shores of the Pacific Ocean, as you can see in the map above.

It’s in the state of Jalisco, which is kind of like a Mexican version of a “state” in the U.S. 

When you look at it on the map, it’s right in the middle of the Bahia de Banderas, or Banderas Bay. 

How to Get There

best time to travel to mexico puerto vallarta

Most major airlines fly directly into the Puerto Vallarta airport, named Licenciado Gustavo Díaz Ordaz International Airport.

The airport code is PVR so you can search easily for flights. 

One of the best things about arriving in Puerto Vallarta is that the airport is in the city.

It’s located very close to the Marina and hotel zone, which are only about a 10 minute drive away.

To get to downtown neighborhoods (like centro and zona romantica), you’re only a 20 minute drive form the airport. 

Here are flight times from some popular cities:

Los Angeles: 3 hours

Vancouver : 4 hours, 30 minutes

Calgary : 4.5 hours

Toronto : 5 hours

Phoenix : 2.5 hours

New York City: 5 Hours

Cancun: 5 hours

What’s the Best Time to Visit Puerto Vallarta?

best time to travel to mexico puerto vallarta

November to April – high season

November to April is the time to visit Puerto Vallarta, when the temperatures are mild, and the humidity and mosquitoes are at bay.

You’ll find many American, Canadian and European travelers visit during this time.  

A huge reason to visit at this time of year is because of the annual whale migration in Mexico.

From January to March, magnificent species like Pacific gray, humpback, orcas, and others gracefully traverse the Pacific coast of Mexico as they make their way to their breeding grounds.

Here are more details about what you can expect if you’re visiting in February , for example.

May & June – shoulder season

Many people still visit in May and June, which is considered shoulder season and the beginning of off-season.

It can be a great time to visit because the winter crowds have thinned out and hotel prices are a little cheaper.

The weather gets hot, but it’s not at its peak humidity yet.

You’ll also notice a lot more Mexican citizens start to travel and take holidays. 

July to October – off season

July through October is the rainy season in Puerto Vallarta and it gets extremely humid.

However, it’s usually sunny during the day or at least until mid afternoon, and then it usually rains every evening. 

Many restaurants in the ‘touristy’ areas shut down for the month of September, so I do not recommend visiting during that month. 

Where to Stay in Puerto Vallarta (neighborhood guide)

best time to travel to mexico puerto vallarta

For easy navigating and holiday planning, Puerto Vallarta is split into different zones, which all have their own features. 

Starting from North to South, here is a summary of all the zones & why you might want to consider staying there. 

North Zone (Zona Norte)

best time to travel to mexico puerto vallarta

Starting about 30 minutes north of the airport and beyond, you’ll find small towns and secluded resorts.

Quiet and serene, this zone offers a relaxing escape from the hustle and bustle, with secluded beaches and charming fishing villages.

This actually stretches into the next state, called Nayarit. 

Stay here if you crave a serene getaway, surrounded by untouched beaches and quaint fishing villages, far from the bustling tourist crowds.

I recommend visiting Bucerias or La Cruz de Huanacaxtle.

Nuevo Vallarta 

A bit north of Puerto Vallarta, this upscale area is renowned for its luxury resorts, golf courses, and water adventures, perfect for travelers seeking an opulent beachfront experience.

Stay here if you’re looking for an opulent beachfront escape with luxurious resorts, world-class golf courses, and a taste of upscale coastal living.

Marina Vallarta 

best time to travel to mexico puerto vallarta

A paradise for golf enthusiasts and water sports lovers, this zone boasts a tranquil atmosphere, luxury resorts, and a picturesque marina with fine dining options.

Marina Vallarta, stay here if you’re a golf enthusiast or enjoy watersports, as it offers a tranquil atmosphere, luxury resorts, and a picturesque marina with fine dining options.

Hotel Zone (Zona Hotelera) 

Perfect for beach lovers, this zone offers a plethora of beachfront resorts, water activities, and stunning views of Banderas Bay.

Stay here if you want beachfront resorts and being perfectly in the middle of the airport and downtown. 

Downtown (El Centro)

best time to travel to mexico puerto vallarta

This bustling area is known for its vibrant nightlife, historic charm, and a wide range of dining options, making it perfect for visitors looking to immerse themselves in the local culture.

Stay here if you want to experience Puerto Vallarta’s vibrant nightlife, soak up its historic charm, and savor a diverse range of dining options, all while immersing yourself in the local culture.

Romantic Zone (Zona Romántica)

best time to travel to mexico puerto vallarta

Famous for its lively atmosphere, beautiful beaches, and LGBTQ-friendly scene, this area is ideal for travelers seeking a blend of relaxation and excitement.

Stay here for a blend of locals and tourists, old world architecture, a huge concentration of bars and the LGBTQ-friendly scene.

Here are my top 5 favorite (and affordable) hotels in the Zona Romantica .

Nestled between the beach and downtown, Amapas is a peaceful neighborhood, perfect for travelers looking to enjoy both serene surroundings and easy access to Puerto Vallarta’s lively attractions.

Conchas Chinas

Perched on the hillsides, Conchas Chinas offers upscale villas with breathtaking ocean views, making it a haven for those seeking luxurious tranquility.

South Zone (Zona Sur)

Nature enthusiasts will find solace in this lush area, known for its pristine beaches, tropical forests, and opportunities for hiking and eco-tourism.

stay here if you’re a nature-enthusiast seeking pristine beaches, tropical forests, and opportunities for hiking and eco-tourism.

For a more in-depth guide, check out my post on the different neighborhoods in Puerto Vallarta . 

Best Things to Do & Top Attractions in Puerto Vallarta

best time to travel to mexico puerto vallarta

Visiting Puerto Vallarta has so much to offer!

You’re surrounded by beautiful beaches to one side and mountains to the other, whale watching in winter is a must-do activity, there’s gorgeous resorts, fantastic hiking, tequila tours, tasty local cuisine and an endless amount of day trips and excursions. 

Plus, you’ll be blown away by the city’s history, colorful architecture and friendly locals. 

It might be one of the best destinations in Mexico with the biggest variety of unique things to do , like visiting natural hot springs and bioluminescent kayaking with glowing plankton.

best time to travel to mexico puerto vallarta

Here are some of my top picks for things to do in Puerto Vallarta:

49 Things to Do in Puerto Vallarta (the complete list) in 2024

23 Free Things to Do in Puerto Vallarta (in 2024)

Puerto Vallarta Off the Beaten Path: Hidden Gems Travel Guide

10 Waterfalls and Hot Springs to Visit Near Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

Best Puerto Vallarta Tours

best time to travel to mexico puerto vallarta

Tours in Puerto Vallarta are a great way to see the city, its vibrant neighborhoods and the surrounding areas — and unless you’re planning to rent a car in Puerto Vallarta, this is the best way to get around because Uber rides and taxis add up quickly!

There are some unforgettable journeys and iconic spots like the secret beach at Islas Marietas Islands and top-rated snorkeling tours .

Below, you’ll find the most popular and best tours in Puerto Vallarta, and the surrounding areas.

Downtown Puerto Vallarta Food Tour : 5-star rating, sample dishes at 10 spots!

Zipline, Tequila & Speed Boat All Inclusive tour : 5-star rating, biggest variety!

Wild Dolphin Swimming : the only way to swim with dolphins in Puerto Vallarta!

Sea Limousine to Yelapa Waterfall : if you only do one boat excursion, this is the one to pick!

Natural Hot Springs tour : this one is my favorite! (tell them Aly Smalls sent you for VIP treatment)

Tip: if you’re curious, watch my vlog about our day trip to the hot springs !

Is Puerto Vallarta Safe for Travelers?

best time to travel to mexico puerto vallarta

While no destination is entirely without risk, Puerto Vallarta maintains a reputation as a safe haven for tourists.

For first-time visitors to Puerto Vallarta, especially those new to Mexico, the city generally offers a safe and welcoming environment.

It’s a popular tourist destination with a strong focus on visitor safety.

The city center and tourist areas are well-patrolled, and violent crime against tourists is relatively rare.

However, like any tourist destination, it’s essential to take standard precautions:

  • be mindful of your belongings
  • avoid walking alone in unfamiliar areas at night
  • use reputable transportation services

Like any city, there are some scams that visitors need to be aware of, which I discuss in my article here . 

By staying aware and following common-sense guidelines, your visit to Puerto Vallarta is likely to be a safe and enjoyable experience.

I go in-depth about safety in Puerto Vallarta in my video here . 

General Puerto Vallarta Travel Tips

After over 20 visits to Puerto Vallarta, I’ve made a list of some random travel tips that are helpful to know. 

Greetings and Manners

It’s very common for locals to greet you and say hello, whether you’re passing them in the streets or at the resorts.

They’re just very friendly people! Don’t be afraid to smile and meet them with a greeting such as:

  • Hola: hello
  • Buenos dias: good morning
  • Buenos tardes: good afternoon
  • Buenas noches: good evening or goodnight
  • Por favor: please
  • Gracias: thank you

Haggling Culture

best time to travel to mexico puerto vallarta

One of my favorite things to do is browse all the markets for handicrafts and other handmade souvenirs and trinkets.

If you’re looking at an item that doesn’t have a price, it’s very common to negotiate to come to an agreement on price. This is normal and expected! 

I suggest asking them to name their price, and then off about 50% less. Usually you can meet in the middle and come to an agreement for a price of 65 to 75% of the original asking price. 

And remember, if it’s not a price you’re comfortable paying, it’s perfectly acceptable to say thank you and walk away. 

(they might even offer you a lower price at this point).

Street Food & Tacos

best time to travel to mexico puerto vallarta

Puerto Vallarta’s food culture is all about tacos and street food.

You can’t visit this city without trying at least a few dishes. 

First, if you’ve never tried street food (or traditional Mexican tacos for that matter), book a walking street food tour at the beginning of your trip! 

Then, you can go back and visit all your favorite spots and have the confidence to branch out and try other places. 

I also have a list of my favorite taco sta nds in Puerto Vallarta.

best time to travel to mexico puerto vallarta

Also, meal times in Puerto Vallarta are a little different than what you might be used to in the USA or Canada.

While restaurants will always be open at traditional meal times, you might be wondering why some places are completely empty or packed at odd times. 

Mexicans traditionally have a ‘first breakfast’ which is usually coffee and a light pastry. This is early, around 7 or 8am. 

Then, around 10 am they have a second breakfast which is a little heavier, and is usually something like Birria tacos. 

Then lunch is usually eaten around 1 or 2pm, and usually something like tacos, tostadas or tortas. 

And dinner isn’t usually eaten until 7:30 or 8pm and even much later. 

My Puerto Vallarta Travel Tips Video:

More puerto vallarta information:.

What to Know if You’re Visiting Puerto Vallarta for the First Time

2 Weeks Traveling in Greater Puerto Vallarta

Comparing PV to the Riviera Maya

Comparing PV to Cabo

Best Time to Visit Puerto Vallarta for Low Prices & Great Weather

Whatever your reason for visiting Puerto Vallarta, Nuevo Vallarta, Bucerias, & the Riviera Nayarit, we’re here to help you decide when you should be visiting so that you can make the most of your travels. If you’re trying to decide what month has the best weather in Puerto Vallarta for your vacation, or what season has the best deals, the good news is that there are benefits of traveling during each season, so there’s no bad time to plan an escape to the beaches of Puerto Vallarta.

Below we’ll cover the best time to go, our favorite months, when’s the best time to visit, and when hurricane season is in Puerto Vallarta.

Wind Season

Fishing season, when to visit puerto vallarta.

The answer to this question varies from person to person, and the reason is that each season in Puerto Vallarta brings different things to love. When deciding the best time to travel to Puerto Vallarta, there are two distinct seasons:

  • HIGH SEASON: Mid-December to April 31
  • LOW SEASON: May 1 to Mid-December

For some, the period from November to December is the best because that is when things start to cool down; the rains dissipate and the lush mountains retain their green hues, making for a stunning backdrop. January to May is another great time, as the temperatures are mild and the days are long.

Our favorite time to visit Puerto Vallarta is during the shoulder seasons, especially from April to mid-June when the weather is pleasant and the rentals are more affordable than in the winter high season. During these months, rain is scarce and there are fewer tourists since most snowbirds have returned home by this time.

  • Sunny days? ✅
  • Low probability of rain? ✅
  • Relatively fewer crowds? ✅

Thanksgiving Week and Holy Week are the two exceptions since the latter is a busy time for Mexican family vacations and the former is a popular time to travel for Americans.

Late summer and early fall is also the best time to visit Puerto Vallarta if you want to take advantage of some of the best travel deals of the year. As tourism declines, local hotels, restaurants, and businesses make their best deals, inviting guests to enjoy the best of the coastal destination.

Best Time to Visit for Good Weather

The climate is tropical in Puerto Vallarta. The average temperature in Puerto Vallarta is 23.5 °C (74.2 °F). The rainfall here is around 1497 mm | 58.9 inches per year. Hurricane season in Puerto Vallarta lasts from June to October.

Seasonal Temperature Changes

Puerto Vallarta’s average temperature in the winter is 70° F (21° C) and in the summer is 83° F (28° C) . Annually there are more than 300 sunny days! On average, the warmest month is August, and the coolest is February.

Hurricanes & Rainy Season

Puerto Vallarta is a stunning destination any time of the year, but if you’re planning to visit during the rainy season, there are a few things you should know. Puerto Vallarta’s rainy season might bring a few challenges, but it also presents unique opportunities to explore this beautiful destination without the usual crowds. While the city has faced hurricanes in the past, they are relatively rare events. With the right knowledge and a flexible itinerary, you can have a fantastic experience in Puerto Vallarta, even during the rainy season. So, pack your umbrella, put on your adventure hat, and get ready for a memorable journey in this tropical paradise.

Understanding the Rainy Season: In Puerto Vallarta, the rainy season typically extends from mid-June to October, with September being the wettest month, receiving an average of 340 mm (13.4 in) of rainfall. While it’s true that this season can bring about heavy downpours, there’s no need to be deterred. The city’s unique geography offers a degree of natural storm protection, and you can take advantage of some excellent deals on accommodations and flights due to fewer tourists.

Hurricane History: Puerto Vallarta, though generally well-protected by the Sierra Madre mountain range surrounding the bay, does experience occasional tropical storms and hurricanes. Historically, the city has been directly hit by a hurricane only a handful of times in the last 50 years. Here’s a look at some of the significant hurricane events:

  • Hurricane Lidia (Category 4) in 2023
  • Hurricane Roslyn (Category 4) in 2022
  • Hurricane Nora (Category 1) in 2021
  • Hurricane Kenna (Category 4) in 2002
  • Hurricane Lily (Category 1) in 1971

For the latest updates on any hurricanes near Puerto Vallarta:

  • ENGLISH: nhc.noaa.gov/refresh/graphics_ep4+shtml/175129.shtml?key_messages
  • ESPAÑOL: https://smn.conagua.gob.mx/es/

Embracing Rainy Days: If you happen to visit Puerto Vallarta during the rainy season, you can expect occasional showers, often in the late afternoon. However, this doesn’t need to dampen your spirits. Start your day with ocean swimming or mountain hiking, making the most of the mornings when the weather is usually more pleasant. When the clouds gather and the thunder rolls in (typically after 5 pm), you can find solace indoors or at a cozy restaurant for a delightful evening.

The wind season (especially important to kiteboarders , windsurfers, and sailboats) usually covers the months of February to June. After that, the sea temperature rises so much that the breezes slow down. The north end of Banderas Bay is known to have pretty consistently good wind every afternoon. Bucerias is considered to be the Wind Capital of the Riviera Nayarit. Here, the wind ranges from  5 – 20 mph  but can reach 30mph. Usually starts around  noon  and on a good day continues until sunset. It’s possible to get  3 or 4 good days a week  during wind season.

Best Time to Travel to Puerto Vallarta for Great Deals

The best time to travel to Puerto Vallarta for great deals is during the summer rainy season, from June to October . The vast majority of days during the summer season are hot and humid, with afternoon showers being very frequent. For travelers who don’t mind the heat and occasional rain shower, this is the ideal time to travel, as you can find the best deals on tours and accommodations.

The cool and dry winter and spring months can cost you a pretty peso, but an epic whale-watching experience might warrant the peak-season splurge.

Best Time to Visit for Fun Activities

Even if you are traveling during the hurricane season in Puerto Vallarta, there are some great yearly events and activities that you should check out. There are also some amazing events that take place during the winter months such as whale & turtle season. You get to decide when’s the best time to travel to Puerto Vallarta:

Puerto Vallarta Surfing Season

The best season for surfing is during the winter. Between November and March is when the North Pacific swells hit the bay. Waves do lose some of their intensity due to the protection from the bay, but you can easily head north to some great surf spots such as La Lancha and Sayulita.

Whale Watching Season

Puerto Vallarta whale watching season is from  Mid-November to March  every year. In late fall, Humpback Whales begin their annual migratory route to their winter breeding and calving grounds in the warmer tropical waters of Mexico. Their total migration route extends to about 5000 km (3000 mi). This makes it one of the longest journeys of any mammal on the planet!

Sea Turtle Hatching Season

Attending a baby sea turtle release in Puerto Vallarta at a local sanctuary is definitely one of our favorite family-friendly activities in the bay. Baby turtle liberation ceremonies are held almost daily at the different camps and sanctuaries around Banderas Bay. The sea turtle hatching season is  between the months of July and December , although it occurs frequently outside this period of time.

Regarding a general Puerto Vallarta fishing calendar, Mahi Mahi and Marlin season is best from September to February, but Red Snapper and Jack Crevalle fishing are great all year! There are also many opportunities to catch Sailfish and giant Yellowfin Tuna.

For some, the period from November to December is the best because that is when things start to cool down and the rains dissipate. January to May is another great time, as the temperatures are mild and the days are long. Our favorite time to visit is during the shoulder seasons, especially from April to mid-June when the weather is pleasant and the rentals are more affordable than the winter high season.

Puerto Vallarta has only been hit by a hurricane 3 times in the past 50 years: Hurricane Nora (Category 1) in 2021, Hurricane Kenna (Category 4) in 2002, and Hurricane Lily (Category 1) in 1971.

Hurricane season in Puerto Vallarta lasts from July to October. Most precipitation falls in September, with a monthly average of 340 mm (13.4 in) of rainfall. Heavy rains can cause problems, but the natural geography of the city protects it from the most active hurricane season weather.

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Avoid Crowds & Save Money: The Best Time to Visit Puerto Vallarta in 2024

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Learn when is the best time to visit Puerto Vallarta for weather, affordable rates, crowds, and more.

Puerto Vallarta is one of Mexico’s top beach destinations , and it’s easy to see why. It’s a lively city on Mexico’s Pacific coast, with charming cobblestone streets, beautiful architecture, and incredible scenery. From Vallarta, you can enjoy snorkeling excursions, hike through lush jungles along the coast, lounge at chic beach clubs, and dance the night away in countless nightclubs.

And while there are fun adventures to be had at any time of year, you may wonder when is best to visit to get the most out of your experience.

Spoiler alert: In my opinion, early November is the best time to visit Puerto Vallarta to experience the best weather and lower prices. While tourism will be ramping up, there will still be fewer people in the city at this time than if you wait until the peak season hits in late November.

Traveling soon? Don’t forget to buy travel insurance for Mexico. Insurance gives you peace of mind, knowing you can get the help you need if anything goes wrong. SafetyWing is the provider that I recommend.

best time to travel to mexico puerto vallarta

When is the Best Time to Visit Puerto Vallarta?

The ideal time to travel to Puerto Vallarta ultimately depends on your priorities. Is perfect weather the most important factor of your trip? Would you prefer to save some money by visiting outside of the peak season when the crowds are thinner? Or, maybe the purpose of your trip is tied to an attraction like whale watching or great surfing conditions? Getting clear on your priorities will help you determine the best time to visit the city. 

When to visit Puerto Vallarta for the best weather

For perfect weather, visit Puerto Vallarta during the winter months. From November through April, you can count on warm days and low precipitation. During this time, you’ll experience the lowest humidity levels and the most comfortable climate. 

Of course, the idyllic weather draws crowds, and these months coincide with the high season. Prepare yourself for high occupancy rates, busy beaches, and higher prices if you visit during this time of year. 

What is the cheapest time to go to Puerto Vallarta?

The low season will inevitably be the cheapest time to visit Puerto Vallarta. The low season coincides with Puerto Vallarta’s rainy season: June through October. While you may have to compromise a bit on weather, facing higher temperatures and an increased possibility of precipitation may be a small price to pay to take advantage of lower prices and fewer tourists.

You’ll find great deals on hotels and airfare during these months, and the Airbnb scene will be less competitive, especially for those looking to secure an extended stay. If you’re backpacking through Mexico or visiting the country as a digital nomad, you’ll have a much easier time finding cheap accommodation during the summer months.

When to visit Puerto Vallarta to beat the crowds?

If you’re hoping to beat the crowds in Puerto Vallarta, the rainy season (aka, the low season from June through October) is the best time to visit. Many travelers avoid these months due to the high heat and humidity they bring. In the same way, many Puerto Vallarta expats opt to travel home to visit loved ones at this time of year. This results in more vacancies throughout the city and fewer crowds at the beaches. 

However, one thing to keep in mind is that these months also coincide with hurricane season. While it’s rare for a hurricane to make landfall in Puerto Vallarta, it’s good to be aware of the possibility. 

best time to travel to mexico puerto vallarta

When to visit Puerto Vallarta for whale watching

Puerto Vallarta’s prime whale watching season is December through early April, which coincides with peak tourist season. If you hope to see breaching humpbacks, this is the best time to be in Puerto Vallarta.

During the late winter to early spring, hundreds of adult whales flock to Banderas Bay to mate and give birth, leading to lots of intriguing whale activity for visitors to witness! Humpback whales are known for their tendency to put on a show, so a whale-watching tour is sure to be a highlight if you visit at this time of year!

blonde woman surfing a long board near Puerto Vallarta

What is the best time to go to Puerto Vallarta to surf?

If you’re interested in surfing, the best time to visit Puerto Vallarta is between December and March. This is when the conditions are the most reliable. However, if you’re a beginner surfer and are okay with smaller waves, there are opportunities to surf all year long. The swell may be less consistent, but good waves are still to be found throughout the rest of the year, especially if you have a flexible schedule.

If you’re planning your whole trip around surfing, visit in the winter. If you hope to take a lesson during your vacation, you can do it anytime! I took a surf lesson with Vallarta Surf Tours on my last trip to Puerto Vallarta, and it was a ton of fun. Reach out to them for board rentals, surf tips, and lessons!

close up of a child's hands holding a tiny baby sea turtle

Best time to go to Puerto Vallarta for sea turtles

August through December is the sea turtle season in Puerto Vallarta. Thousands of turtles return to Banderas Bay each year to lay eggs on the beaches near Puerto Vallarta. Turtles may lay anywhere from a few dozen to a few hundred eggs, but statistics show that only one turtle from each nest will survive to adulthood.

Several sea turtle protection organizations in the region are working to preserve nests and protect them from predators and human disruption. If you’re keen to witness sea turtle hatching season, you can participate in a sea turtle release program to learn more about a sea turtle’s life cycle and help baby turtles reach the ocean safely! 

Puerto Vallarta Weather & Climate

Puerto Vallarta has a tropical climate, meaning it’s warm and humid all year long! The average daily temperature in Puerto Vallarta ranges from around 62 °F to 90 °F (16 °C to 32 °C).

best time to travel to mexico puerto vallarta

Graph courtesy of © WeatherSpark.com

December through April bring Puerto Vallarta’s most ideal weather conditions , which is why these months are also the most popular among tourists. The average daily high temperature during this time ranges from around 80°F (27°C) to 85°F (29°C), with low humidity and very little rainfall.

This period is ideal for outdoor activities such as swimming, sunbathing, and water sports, and the area is at its liveliest, with numerous festivals and events taking place.

April is the driest month in Puerto Vallarta, with clear skies and little to no chance of precipitation. 

The weather in Puerto Vallarta between May and November brings increased chances of rain and the threat of hurricanes in the region , starting in June. Average daytime temperatures during this time range from 85°F (29°C) to 90°F (32°C), with high humidity and occasional heavy rain.  

best time to travel to mexico puerto vallarta

June is officially the start of the rainy season, which lasts until October, with August being the wettest month of the year. July, August, and September are the hottest months in Puerto Vallarta. 

Although there are increased chances of rain and storms during this time, the area is also quieter and more affordable, making it an attractive time to visit for budget-conscious travelers. The rainy season also brings lush greenery to the area and is a good time for nature lovers to explore the surrounding forests and waterfalls. 

From June through October, tropical storms and hurricanes are possible in Puerto Vallarta. It’s rare for these storms to make landfall, but it’s possible, so it’s worth monitoring any storms if you visit during these months. The NOAA website is the best place to see the region’s storm updates.  

best time to travel to mexico puerto vallarta

November is Puerto Vallarta’s shoulder month (and one of the best times to visit). The average daily temperature during November is 77°F (25°C). The days are hot with moderate humidity. You can expect cool evenings, with average lows of 69°F (25°C). Precipitation and humidity are low during November, and tourism doesn’t quite pick up until after American Thanksgiving. There are still vacancies and flight deals to be found at this time of year! 

Ocean Temperatures in Puerto Vallarta

If you’re planning to take part in many water activities in Puerto Vallarta, it’s worth noting that water temperatures fluctuate throughout the year.

a graph demonstrating the average water temperature in Puerto Vallarta each month

Image courtesy of © WeatherSpark.com

The summer months in Puerto Vallarta bring the warmest water, with the average temperature ranging from 82 – 85 °F (27 – 29 °C) between June and August. 

The water temperature is slightly cooler in the winter and spring, with March typically bringing the lowest temperature at 75 °F (23 °C). Even though this is a significant drop, it’s still a very swimmable temperature, making Puerto Vallarta a great beach destination all year long.

best time to travel to mexico puerto vallarta

Puerto Vallarta Seasons

There are really only two seasons in Puerto Vallarta: dry season and wet season. Here’s what to know about each season so you can decide when is best for you to travel to Puerto Vallarta.

High Season / Dry Season

Puerto Vallarta’s peak season extends from December through April. The high season kicks off at the very end of November, after American Thanksgiving, and continues until after Semana Santa (Easter), a major holiday in Mexico . After Easter, the spring breakers and Mexican vacationers dissipate, and the city settles down.

During the peak tourist season, Puerto Vallarta is bustling with visitors, and the prices for hotels, restaurants, and attractions tend to be at their highest. If you’re traveling during this time, book your accommodations well in advance, as they may fill up quickly. Additionally, you may experience long lines at popular tourist attractions and face crowded beaches.

Low Season / Wet Season

Puerto Vallarta’s low season coincides with the rainy season, which spans from May through October. 

In the past, there was a big difference in the crowd levels between the high and low seasons, but Puerto Vallarta is a popular expat haven and digital nomad destination, so the city remains active all year long. But, while the low season is busier than it used to be, the consistent activity in the city means that there is always something to do. Plus, flights and hotel rates still tend to be lower at this time of year.

Though precipitation is likely from May through October, rain rarely lasts for more than a couple of hours. In fact, it’s usually concentrated to heavy afternoon showers, leaving the rest of the day warm and sunny. If you’re considering a visit during this time of year, you’re still liable to enjoy plenty of sunny days. 

catrina sculpture for dia de muertos in Puerto Vallarta

Events in Puerto Vallarta

Puerto Vallarta is known for its lively and vibrant culture, and there are plenty of festivals, traditions, and events to enjoy throughout the year. Here are some of the events that you might consider including on your travel itinerary in 2024!

  • Somos – Queer Music & Arts Festival (Feb 8-12) – This festival takes place on the beach at Casitas Maraika, a beautiful setting about 40 minutes from Puerto Vallarta that is only reachable by boat. The festival will feature incredible performances from artists and dancers from Mexico, the US, Colombia, and beyond!

Vinoma Fest 202 4 (March 7-9) – This wine festival features over 40 wineries and ten different restaurants from throughout Mexico. Events include tastings, wine pairings, lectures, panels, and more. 

DamaJuana Raicilla Festival (March) – Raicillia is a distilled spirit made from agave plants (just like Tequila and Mezcal) that has been produced in Jalisco for hundreds of years. This festival brings producers from throughout Jalisco and incorporates music, tastings, and lectures to help participants learn about Raicilla. 

Semana Santa / Holy Week (March 25 – April 6, 2024) – Semana Santa is one of the biggest holidays in Mexico. Most of the country has two full weeks of vacation, so this is the prime time for Mexican family vacations. Many Mexican tourists flock to the beaches to enjoy the sunshine during Semana Santa. If you visit at this time of year, expect high occupancy rates, busy beaches, and a lively and fun atmosphere. If crowds aren’t your thing, consider avoiding Puerto Vallarta during the Easter holiday. 

Puerto Vallarta Lesbian Pride (May, dates TBD) – Puerto Vallarta is one of Mexico’s most LGBTQ+ friendly cities, and this Pride event is just one of many to experience in late May. There are parties, excursions, and all kinds of other fun activities to participate in over these days.

Dia de Muertos (Nov 1-2) – The official dates of Dia de Muertos are November 1st and 2nd, but you can likely view the decorations and art associated with this holiday for days before and after the official holiday. Expect to find gorgeous ofrendas displayed along the Malecón in the weeks preceding the holiday. 

For more info on local events in Vallarta, visit this page.  

overlooking Puerto Vallarta and Banderas Bay

Additional Tips & Considerations for Visiting Puerto Vallarta

The perfect time to visit Puerto Vallarta depends on your travel preferences and budget, but these tips are applicable all year round.

Take bug repellent

Puerto Vallarta’s jungle setting makes it an ideal habitat for insects. Protect yourself by packing a trustworthy bug repellent. You can buy it when you get there, but it’s easier to bring your favorite brand from home. I’m a big fan of this one , which protected me from all kinds of critters on a hiking trip in the tropical jungles of Costa Rica. 

Protect yourself from the sun

Even if it’s overcast, sunburn is a possibility in Puerto Vallarta. Pack waterproof sunscreen for your face and body. Opt for reef-safe sunscreen , as it’s free of toxins that leech into the water and harm the local ecosystems. It’s thought to be better for humans, too. I use this one from Raw Elements for my body, and this La Roche Posay sunscreen is my favorite brand to use on my face.

Don’t forget travel insurance

Travel insurance is essential any time you travel. I love SafetyWing because their policies are extremely affordable. They specialize in policies for long-term travelers, making them a great fit for Mexico’s generous 180-day tourist visa. Click here to learn more.   

Use Wise to transfer money in Mexico

Wise is a financial technology company that prides itself on offering super competitive exchange rates. They started out as a money transfer service, but now they offer accounts and debit cards too. With their debit card, you can make purchases or withdraw cash from ATMs in Mexico.

You can fund your account via Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT), using your debit or credit card, domestic wire transfer, and more options. Each option is very affordable.

This is a great option for anyone who isn’t a US citizen and can’t open a Charles Schwab account. According to Wise’s website, their rates for withdrawing CAD in Mexico are 2X cheaper than other major Canadian banks– so if you’re Canadian, this might be the perfect option for you! Click here to try Wise!

Puerto Vallarta cathedral courtyard

FAQs About Visiting Puerto Vallarta

What is the best month to visit puerto vallarta.

If you ask me, the best time to visit Puerto Vallarta is in November. Precipitation and humidity are quite low, but the main tourist season doesn’t pick up until after American Thanksgiving, meaning you have three glorious weeks to enjoy excellent weather with fewer tourists and favorable prices. 

What is the worst time to visit Puerto Vallarta?

There isn’t really a “worst” time to go to Puerto Vallarta. Determining the best time for you to visit has to do with what your priorities are. If you’d rather have perfect weather than fewer crowds, the high season in the winter is an ideal time to go to Puerto Vallarta. But if you’re more concerned with sticking to a budget, perhaps the shoulder season makes more sense.

Think through what is most important to you on your Puerto Vallarta trip and plan accordingly!

Is the ocean water warm in Puerto Vallarta?

The water temperature in Puerto Vallarta is warmest in the summer and fall, from July through October. The average water temps during these months hover around 82 – 85 °F (27 – 29 °C).

Does Puerto Vallarta get hurricanes?

Hurricane season in Puerto Vallarta is from June through November. While hurricanes aren’t common, the city has been hit in the past. Often these storms are downgraded to tropical storms before they make landfall, but there are no guarantees, so keep this in mind if you plan to visit during hurricane season.

Does it get cold at night in Puerto Vallarta?

Not really. The temperatures do dip compared to the daytime highs, especially in the winter. I would say it may get brisk at night but not cold. You’ll be fine with a sweater or light jacket.

Mexico Travel Planning Resources

🌡️ Do I need travel insurance?

Yes! Healthcare in Mexico is affordable for minor ailments, but travel insurance will give you peace of mind if an emergency arises. Plus, you can add coverage for trip interruption, theft, etc. Get a quote from SafetyWing . 

🏨 What’s the best way to find accommodation in Mexico?

I use a mix of Booking, Airbnb, and Hostelworld. 

Booking.com  is awesome for booking hotels and resorts,  Hostelworld  is great for hostels, and  Airbnb  specializes in apartment rentals, making it a great place to find long-term stays.

💸 How should I exchange money in Mexico?

Use local ATMS to withdraw cash. US travelers should open a Charles Schwab bank account because they’ll refund ATM fees at the end of the month.

Travelers from outside the US should open a Wise account to secure the best currency exchange rates. 

📱 Where can I buy a local SIM card in Mexico?

Pick up a Telcel SIM card at any convenience store. Or, buy an Airalo eSIM online so you’re connected as soon as you land. 

🗣️ Do I need to speak Spanish in Mexico?

No, but it definitely helps you feel more confident and connected. 

RocketSpanish is my favorite program for learning the foundations of the language. If you’re more focused on improving your conversation skills, hire a tutor through iTalki to prep for your trip. 

✈️ What’s the best way to find affordable flights?

I use Skyscanner because it makes it easy to compare rates across different travel days. 

🚖 How do I find a safe airport transfer?

I recommend GetTransfer for airport transfers anywhere in Mexico. 

🚗 What’s the best way to find rental cars in Mexico?

I recommend Discover Cars because they aggregate prices across rental car companies, making it easy to find competitive rates. 

🚐 How do I book bus tickets online in Mexico?

Plan your routes with Rome2Rio , and book your tickets with Busbud — the site is in English and takes foreign credit cards. (Read more here)

🤿 How do I find cool activities and tours in Mexico?

I recommend Viator and Get Your Guide . Viator usually has more options, but it’s worth comparing offerings across both platforms. 

🇲🇽 How can I experience Mexico like a local?

Solo female travelers can hire a local female guide through Greether . Greeters will tailor tours based on your interests— it’s basically like experiencing a destination with a local bestie!

🧳 What’s the best luggage for Mexico?

Unless you’re staying at a resort, a travel pack is recommended. I’ve used this one from Osprey for the last 8+ years. 

👯‍♀️ How do I connect with fellow travelers in Mexico?

Join my Female Travelers in Mexico Facebook group , a supportive community of fellow Mexico travel enthusiasts, where you can find answers to all your travel questions!

best time to travel to mexico puerto vallarta

Janine is a full-time content writer and travel blogger. In 2017 she and her cat moved from Los Angeles to Mexico and never looked back. Now, she writes in-depth articles to help women travel Mexico safely and confidently. Connect with her on Instagram.

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Puerto Vallarta seems like such a beautiful and amazing city to visit. I’m adding it to my bucket list. Thanks for your awesome information and tips!

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best time to travel to mexico puerto vallarta

Better Wander

The Best Time To Visit Puerto Vallarta

The Best Time To Visit Puerto Vallarta

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Bottom Line Up Front Summary:  The best time to visit Puerto Vallarta is from the middle of April through late June and then from September until late November. 

Have you thought about a place to go ease off either privately or with your family? Or somewhere you could go spend the vacation together?

Puerto Vallarta is a location in Mexico where you can have such experience. The spot has a distinctive humid climate and experiences almost a persistent humidity and temperature all through the year. From the beginning of June, there is a continuous supply of rainfall which lasts until about the middle week of October.

After this period, you wouldn’t get any precipitation again till the year ends. At times at night, the rainfall in short torrents meanwhile, the weather is still dry and hot. This offers little or no hindrance to the normal fishing trips and tours which are often done in Puerto Vallarta.

When you consider coming to spend some time in Puerto Vallarta, you should consider the period between the middle week of April and June. October is another great time you could arrive at the spot for vacations too. In these months, you are sure of getting lower and cheap rates and having excellent weather.

It works in such a way that you will find the excellent weather when you arrive from April to June; the hotel rates are affordable and cheap in May and June while you are sure to explore some activities like diving and snorkeling in October. This is due to the perfect water nature October offers.

However, ensure you do not arrive in Holy Week, i.e. the week leading up to Easter, if you are trying to cut down the cost or prefer quiet holidays. This period is a very special one of Mexican families as they take vacations and fill up everywhere (e.g. might not be a good idea to travel from North America during this time ).

Nevertheless, you can still decide to come to partake in their fun but you should endeavor to make your reservation in advance so that they do not book out everywhere.

Best Time to Visit Puerto Vallarta for Good Weather

sunset puerto vallarta

December through May is your best time to visit if you are after Puerto Vallarta’s good weather. Average highs are less than 30 degrees Celsius during the day while the evenings are cool.

Sea temperatures at this time are cooler than the Summer month temps. However, the average is in the mid-20s degrees Celsius. The water is very good for surfing and swimming. February to May is especially dry with mainly clear skies.  

In March, there is a gradual rise in temperature as daytime could rise up to 30°C while the nights feel colder. If you are going to take a walk in the night time, sailing on the sea or journeying to the mountains, you should endeavor to put on your sweater or a light jacket so that the cold does not hit you. At this month of the year, it is almost impossible to find rainfall.

Your sunscreen will also need to be right beside you because you will find some sun eventually. The temperature of the ocean drops to its coldest although it won’t hinder you from engaging yourself in some water activities. You would surely enjoy surfing in this month and the baby humpbacks would still be visible.

Nevertheless, the whales gradually leave the surroundings as the month comes to an end. The average high at this period of the year climbs to 29°C just as the average low also climbs upward to 17°C. The sea temperature stays at 24°C while the rainfall is at 5mm.

July to September is the wettest period. As a result of the shield offered to the city by the Banderas Bay, hurricanes rarely occur here.  

Best Time to visit Puerto Vallarta for Families and Kids

The best times for family vacation are from April to June and from the middle of October to the middle of November.

April and May are especially great months for tourism. It comes immediately after tourist Spring Break when the crowd is disappearing and before the summer wet season and the high Mexican tourist season. Tourists who travel these months enjoy sunny, warm days, cheap accommodation and a quieter period. 

May and June have the warmest water temperatures for late spring family vacation while June offers the best snorkeling visibility. There are many kids around for entertainment at kids’ clubs or poolside. October and November are equally good times for a family visit, although the days are normally hotter.  

Best Time to visit Puerto for Avoiding Crowds

The low season in Puerto Vallarta or the best time to avoid large crowds is between July and September, immediately after the Mexican vacation season and prior to the beginning of the tourist’s high season. Because this period has fewer tourists, to cost airfares and accommodation is commonly cheaper. 

The Busiest and Least Crowded Months

The busiest tourist month in Puerto Vallarta is January, then February, followed by March. Hotel rates and airfares a dearest at these times but you can save some funds when you book months in advance. Tourists are less likely to visit Puerto Vallarta in May but this least crowded month is very affordable. 

Best Time to Visit Puerto Vallarta for Great Deals

puerto vallarta family

The best bargain time to visit Puerto Vallarta travel is close to the low season. However, it is not in the middle of the low tourist season.

The airfares rate drop between July and September. However, a lot of hotels shut down or minimize their room numbers for yearly repairs in July and August. Therefore, there are fewer travelers. For the best time for travel deals chose any of these months- May, June, September, and October.

Best Time to Visit Puerto Vallarta for Surfing

Surfing can be done nearly throughout the year, particularly in Sayulita. However, the best time to ride the waves is between December and April, when the north swells occur.

Waves are big enough for newbies to maintain sufficient speed on their boards to avoid tipping and at the same time, it is not too overwhelming. Veteran surfers will delight in the faster and larger waves of the Sayulita Beach’s north end and at many other adjoining breaks. 

Best Time to visit Puerto Vallarta for Whale Watching

Humpback whales start emerging in November and disappearing by early April. The best time to catch a glimpse of large numbers of whales if from the middle of December to the middle of March. December is the best time to view adult whales when males are competing for females to mate. The first baby whale is born in January. They get more active and stronger in February and March. 

Best Time to visit Puerto Vallarta for Snorkeling and Diving  

June to October is the best time for snorkeling and diving because of great water conditions, whereas December to February provides the best atmosphere for encountering with manta rays and whale sharks. The temperature of the water is warm and the waves are a little calm throughout the year. 

August and September are especially warm with an average surface temperature of 30 degrees Celsius. November to May features cooler water but it is not very clear due to plankton blooms. Nevertheless, plankton attracts additional manta rays to the surface and this makes it a good time for snorkelers to see them very close. In the winter months, from December to February, divers and snorkelers may catch a glimpse of migrating whale sharks.

Best Time to visit Puerto Vallarta to Explore the Jungle

Best Time to visit Puerto Vallarta to Explore the Jungle

December to March is the best time to visit the Mismaloya jungle, either to hike the Botanical Gardens or ziplining via the canopy. These are the coolest months with average high roughly 27 degrees Celsius. The majority of the days are clear in February and March even in the rainforest. The worst time to visit the jungle is July to September when the summer rains result in the emergence of hordes of mosquitoes. 

Best Time to visit Puerto Vallarta for Sportfishing

While you can do sport fishing in Puerto Vallarta any time of the year, the fishes you catch can differ by season. The largest type of fish is present between September and December, when blue, black, and striped marlin is nearly plentiful, together with mahi-mahi, sailfish, and wahoo. If you want tuna and grouper fish, the warmer months of June to September is the best time.

Best time to Visit Puerto Vallarta for Festivals and Events

sunset at puerto vallarta

Key Events:

  • Vallarta Cup  – A race competition organized by Vallarta Yacht Club every Saturday in January, the Vallarta Yacht Club hosts a race in Banderas Bay. 
  • Festival of Our Lady of Peace (La Virgen de la Paz) 
  • Sayulita Festival  
  • Day of the Mexican Flag (February 24)
  • Charro National Championship
  • Mardi Gras and Carnaval Parade  – A March celebration that marks the last party day prior to the Lenten season. 
  • Vallarta Wine Fest  
  • Banderas Bay Regatta  
  • Dama Juana Raicilla Festival  – Raicilla Event, equally known as Mexican moonshine.
  • Benito Juarez Day (March)
  • Puerto Vallarta Taco Festival  .
  • Bucerías Oyster Festival   (Feria de Ostiones)  – Yearly celebration of local oyster divers.
  • Semana Santa (April)
  • Children’s Day   (El Día del Niño)  
  • Vallarta Azteca International Folklore Festival  (late April through early May) 
  • Vallarta Pride
  • Puerto Vallarta International Sports Classic  (May)
  • Historic Center Art Walk   (October to May)
  • MayoFest Puerto Vallarta  – 5-day Puerto Vallarta’s anniversary celebration. 
  • Restaurant Week  – A two-week late May gastronomy event in Mexico’s top foodie destination. 
  • Navy Day   (El Día de la Marina)  – June 1st event of first all-Mexican crewed ship to honor past and present naval servicemen and women. 
  • RHA Festival  – Two-day electronic music festival
  • Banderas Bay Fishing Tournament  – International marlin and tuna fishing tournament. 
  • NIIJIMA Mexican Surf Open  – Surf competition at the main beach in San Pancho
  • Cristo de Los Brazos Caidos   (Christ of the Fallen Arms or Christ of the Cyclone)  
  •   Punta Mita Beach Festival  – Two-day event at Kupuri Beach Club 
  • National Charro Day  – Charros, the Mexican cowboys’ event (September 14)
  • Mexican Independence Day  ( September 16) – A two-day festival with music, fireworks, food, and parades. 
  • San Pancho Days  – This is a 9-day celebration of the patron saint of San Francisco (also known as San Pancho).
  • Día de Muertos (October to November)
  • Vallarta Nayarit Gastronómica  – This is a top-quality culinary seminar for top chefs and sommeliers. 
  • Halloween  
  • Puerto Vallarta Gourmet Festival  (November to December)
  • All Saints’ Day   (Día de Todos Santos)  The event merges with the celebration of the all souls day similar to the Halloween celebration.
  • Día de Los Muertos   (Day of the Dead, All Souls Day)  
  • Festival Gourmet International  
  • Festival Gourmet International  (November to December)
  • International Fishing Tournament  
  • The Feast of the Virgen de Guadalupe Processions (December)
  • Christmas Posadas  
  • New Year’s Eve  celebration

Best time to visit Puerto Vallarta by Season

Best time to visit Puerto Vallarta by Season

Spring (March through May)

The humidity and temperatures of this season together make the weather warm. The average high ranges from 30.6°C to 26.4°C. There is no rain this time and this season is the second popular tourist season. 

Summer (June through August)

The weather of middle-year months feels very comfortable and average highs are really warm. The greatest amount of rainfall is recorded at this time. June to August is the lowest tourist season in Puerto Vallarta. Therefore, room rates are rather cheap at this time. 

Fall (September through November)

The daily highs in the Fall run from 32.4°C and 28.7°C. This feels very nice as a result of the humidity and wind. It only rains a little and roughly zero days a month. This period is characterized by fewer crowds and cheap room rates.

Winter (December through February)

The winter weather is a great time to visit Puerto Vallarta especially if you love warm weather as the average temperature high range from 28.2°C to 26.1°C. It rarely rains or snows and the period is high tourist season.

Puerto Vallarta Travel Seasons Explained

High season.

The high season in Puerto Vallarta falls between December and mid-April.

This is the busiest time to visit Puerto Vallarta mostly due to its good weather. The average daily high temperature of this time is normally less than 29 degrees Celsius. The Skies are very clear this time. 

As the day gets cooler from December to February, humpback whales start to migrate. It is a great time for fishing, and surfing due to the north swells. Holy Week (Semana Santa), the week before Easter, is the peak travel time for natives. A visit to Puerto Vallarta in winter or early spring is costly due to the increased cost of airfares and hotel rates.

July to September marks the low season in Puerto Vallarta. The humidity is generally high during the day and temperature is hot and roughly 33 degrees centigrade. It equally rains more than 50 percent of the days. The skies are not clear and surfing at this time is not the ideal. 

Nevertheless, there are plenty of great deals on flights and hotels in the summer months. The rainy season is the best time to visit Puerto Vallarta for the warmest ocean temperatures and the clearest view of the underwater. The low season is a great time for snorkeling, swimming, and scuba diving.

Shoulder Season  

The Shoulder season in Vallarta falls in the late spring (May and June) and fall (October and November). These months feature good weather, with much less rain and fewer clouds than in the summer months.

However, these months are hotter and the humidity is higher than those of early spring and summer. The average high during this period is roughly 31 degrees Celsius. 

Rooms and flights are affordable, especially in May and June when many hotels offer sales after the high season officially ends. Room rates are still fairly low in October through the middle of November, with prices beginning to creep up at the end of November in preparation for the holiday season.

Puerto Vallarta Weather Consideration

puerto vallarta

If you are planning your vacation according to the months when it will fall in, then you could pick a month when you feel the weather suits your desires and arrive at Puerto Vallarta.

Normally, the weather in Puerto Vallarta is not cold as it is a humid region. Even the coldest month is only mildly divergent from the mean.

However, there are some months when the weather normally experiences some modifications. Some of these weather changes might not be suitable for you or could affect your health. You wouldn’t want to arrive at such time.

Temperature

There are little variations in the Puerto Vallarta’s average temperatures. Since the environment is humid, there will be some rise in temperatures for almost 6 months in the year. If not, then the atmosphere will be cool with only a little rainfall till the year’s end.

The region has slightly clement weather— in the 55th percentile for nice weather — when you compare it to other tourist sites all over the world. August, July, and June are the months when you will find the weather at its hottest at Puerto Vallarta.

Towards, the middle of August, the weather begins to get lighter and there is warmth everywhere. August isn’t as hot as June or July as it has an average temperature high at about 91.1°F (32.8°C) while at night, you rarely find the temperature going lower than 76.8°F (24.9°C).

Humidity and Wind

In Puerto Vallarta, you will find September to be the most humid month (75.7%) and May to be the least humid month at 66.9% relative humidity.

Usually, you will discover that the wind blows calmly at Puerto Vallarta even in May when the wind is at its worst, it blows at an average wind speed of about 5 knots (5.8 MPH or 9.3 KPH). Usually, people call this “a light breeze” in some areas. The wind continues at this speed till the first week of June when it climbs up to14.3 knots.

Precipitation (Rain or Snow)

At Puerto Vallarta, there is precipitation in the last week of June though it is not doesn’t stay very much. If you do not enjoy the snow periods, you could as well go for other months like January, February, and March when there is very little chance of having precipitation.

One of the periods, when you will find Puerto Vallarta at its coolest, is in January. At this time of the year, you will find the afternoon highs in the upper 20s°C, very little or no rain, and the clearness of the sky is very noticeable. It is this period the whales, sharks, humpbacks and their newborns begin getting attractions to the oceans due to their low-temperature sides.

However, it is still a great time to swim or surf the sea though you shouldn’t forget to carry along your jacket. It is necessary at nights when the temperature experiences a drop to an average high of 28°C and an average low of about 16°C. The temperature of the sea is at 25°C and rainfall comes at 23mm.

In February, there is a steady average temperature range as the daytimes are normally warm while there is a considerable amount of cold at night. The average high and low temperatures remain steady at 28°C and 16°C respectively. The sky gets clearer and you will find some days sunny while others are partly cloudy. The rainfall comes only once in February as the year approaches dry season. There is also a -1 drop in sea temperature and is a perfect time for surfing too.

If you are at sea at this moment, you could catch a glimpse of the baby humpbacks which are now most active as they come out frequently in the open. The average high and low remains steady once more at 28°C and 16°C respectively. The rainfall arrives at 12mm while the temperature of the sea remains like in February.

FAQ’s About Puerto Vallarta

The rainy season in Puerto Vallarta runs from June through Mid-October, with almost no precipitation the rest of the year. And when it does rain in the rainy season, the rain lasts a little while and frequently at night leaving most days warm and dry.

The High Season in Puerto Vallarta runs from December through mid-April. It is a very busy period filled with crowds who gather around for the good weather. The mean daily highs are normally less than 29°C during this time and the skies are very clear.

It is safe to travel to Puerto Vallarta so long as you would stay close to the beach area. The best travel safety tip for you as a tourist is to stay in well-traveled tourist areas.

Puerto Vallarta actually does not suffer from hurricane season as such, thanks to its location at the center of the Banderas Bay wrapped around by mountains. When hurricanes do pass occasionally, it affects only the sidelines.

The most affordable time to visit Puerto Vallarta is around April and June when you will equally enjoy lovely weather besides the affordable accommodation. It equally rains a little within these periods.

Conclusion: Timing Your Visit to Puerto Vallarta Mexico

The best time to visit Puerto Vallarta depends on your individual preference. If you are after good weather and affordable rates, visit between April and June.

It also rains a little lesser these months and the crowds are fewer than when you visit in the high season of winter.

Nonetheless, if you’re after whale watching, the best time is from December to March but you must be prepared to pay exorbitant rates.

Bottom Line Summary: The best time to visit Puerto Vallarta is from the middle of April through late June and then from September until late November. 

Further Reading on Similar Vacation Destinations:

  • Cancun vs Cabo San Lucas: Which is Better for Vacation?
  • Cancun vs Tulum: Which is Better for Vacation?
  • Best Times to Visit Puerto Rico [Travel Guide]
  • Best Times to Visit Jamaica [Travel Guide]
  • Best Times to Visit Aruba [Travel Guide]

Champion Traveler

The Best Time to Visit Puerto Vallarta, Mexico for Weather, Safety, & Tourism

The best times to visit Puerto Vallarta for ideal weather are

December 10th to April 8th

based on average temperature and humidity from NOAA (the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration). Read below for more weather and travel details.

Puerto Vallarta Travel Guide

Temperature.

  • Perceived Temperature
  • Rain and snow
  • Humidity and wind
  • The busiest and least popular months
  • Overall travel experience by time of year

Other Puerto Vallarta Travel Info

Weather in puerto vallarta.

Average temperatures in Puerto Vallarta vary little. Considering humidity, temperatures feel hot for about half of the year and otherwise nice with a very low chance of rain throughout the year. The area is somewhat temperate — in the 55th percentile for pleasant weather — compared to tourist destinations worldwide. Weeks with ideal weather are listed above . If you’re looking for the very warmest time to visit Puerto Vallarta, the hottest months are August, July, and then June. See average monthly temperatures below. The warmest time of year is generally early to mid August where highs are regularly around 91.1°F (32.8°C) with temperatures rarely dropping below 76.8°F (24.9°C) at night.

Puerto Vallarta Temperatures (Fahrenheit)

Puerto vallarta temperatures (celsius), “feels-like” temperatures.

The way we experience weather isn’t all about temperature. Higher temperatures affect us much more at higher humidity, and colder temperatures feel piercing with high winds. Our perceived temperatures factor in humidity and wind chill to better represent how hot or cold the day feels to a person.

Puerto Vallarta Perceived Temperature (F)

Puerto vallarta perceived temperature (c), average puerto vallarta temperatures by month.

Daily highs (averaged for the month) usually give the best indication of the weather. A significantly lower mean and low generally just means it gets colder at night.

Show Fahrenheit

Show celsius, precipitation (rain or snow).

If dry weather is what you’re after, the months with the lowest chance of significant precipitation in Puerto Vallarta are January, February, and then March. Note that we define “significant precipitation” as .1 inches or more in this section. The lowest chance of rain or snow occurs around early January. For example, on the week of January 1st there are no days of precipitation on average. By contrast, it’s most likely to rain or snow in late June with an average of 0 days of significant precipitation the week of June 25th.

Chance of Precipitation

The graph below shows the % chance of rainy and snowy days in Puerto Vallarta.

Snow on the Ground

The graph below shows the average snow on the ground in Puerto Vallarta (in).

Average Rain and Snow by Month

Show inches, show centimeters, humidity and wind.

Puerto Vallarta has some very humid months, and above average humidity throughout the year. The least humid month is May (66.9% relative humidity), and the most humid month is September (75.7%).

Wind in Puerto Vallarta is usually calm . The windiest month is May, followed by June and April. May’s average wind speed of around 5 knots (5.8 MPH or 9.3 KPH) is considered “a light breeze.” Maximum sustained winds (the highest speed for the day lasting more than a few moments) are at their highest in late May to early June where average top sustained speeds reach 14.3 knots, which is considered a moderate breeze.

Relative Humidity (%)

The graph below shows the average % humidity by month in Puerto Vallarta.

The graph below shows wind speed (max and average) in knots.

Average Wind Speeds

Show wind speeds.

All wind speeds are in knots. 1 knot = 1.15 MPH or 1.85 KPH.

Show Relative Humidity by Month

Is it safe to travel to puerto vallarta.

Our best data indicates this area is somewhat safe, but with extra warnings in a few regions. As of Dec 04, 2023 there are travel warnings and regional advisories for Mexico; exercise a high degree of caution and avoid some areas. Check this page for any recent changes or regions to avoid: Travel Advice and Advisories . This advisory was last updated on Dec 04, 2023.

The Busiest and Least Crowded Months

The busiest month for tourism in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico is January, followed by February and March. Prices for hotels and flights will be most expensive during these months, though you can save if you purchase well in advance. Tourists are unlikely to visit Puerto Vallarta in May. Those willing to visit at these times will likely find it the least expensive month.

Estimated Tourism by Month

Most popular months to visit, overall puerto vallarta travel experience by season, spring (march through may).

Humidity and temperatures combine to make this season feel warm. Highs range from 87.1°F (30.6°C) and 79.5°F (26.4°C) with warmer temperatures in the later months. Rain is nonexistent with roughly 0 days of significant precipitation per month. Spring is the second busiest for tourism, which makes it a good time for those looking for things to do.

Summer (June through August)

The middle-year months have very comfortable weather with high temperatures that are quite warm. These months see the most precipitation with about 0 days of precipitation per month. June – August is the slowest season for tourism in Puerto Vallarta, so lodging and other accommodations may cost less than usual.

Fall (September through November)

Fall daily highs range from 90.3°F (32.4°C) and 83.7°F (28.7°C), which will feel very nice given the humidity and wind. It rains or snows a trivial amount: approximately 0 days per month. Tourism is fairly slow during these months due to the weather, so hotels may be lower priced.

Winter (December through February)

Weather is perfect this time of year in Puerto Vallarta to be enjoyable for warm weather travelers. The average high during this season is between 82.8°F (28.2°C) and 79°F (26.1°C). On average, it rains or snows a insignificant amount: consistently 0 times per month. These times of year are the busiest with tourists.

Best Times to Travel › Mexico › Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

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  • When is the Best Time to Visit Puerto Vallarta?

The best time to visit Puerto Vallarta is between April and June, when the weather is pleasant and room rates are affordable. During these months, rainfall is scarce and there are fewer tourists compared to the peak winter season. However, if you're interested in whale watching, visit from December to March. All of these months offer great weather and affordable rates.

April to June has the best weather; May and June have the best hotel deals; and October has the best waters for snorkeling and diving. Avoid Easter, the week leading up to Easter: this is rush hour for local Mexican family vacations (a fun but busy atmosphere and hotels are fully booked well in advance). The best time to travel to Puerto Vallarta with great deals is during the summer rainy season, from June to October. The vast majority of days during the summer season are hot and humid, and afternoon showers are very common.

For travelers who don't mind the occasional heat and rain, this is the ideal time to travel, as they can find the best deals on tours and accommodation. The peak season to travel to Puerto Vallarta is from late November to April. As for the weather, many travelers believe that Puerto Vallarta is at its best during this time. June-August is the slowest season for tourism in Puerto Vallarta, so lodging and other accommodations may cost less than usual.

June is Puerto Vallarta's hottest month, with an average temperature of 81 degrees Fahrenheit (27 degrees Celsius), and while it's never really cold, January has the coldest temperatures, averaging 72 degrees Fahrenheit (22 degrees Celsius). Late summer and early fall is also the best time to visit Puerto Vallarta if you want to take advantage of some of the best travel deals of the year. If you're traveling to Puerto Vallarta during hurricane season, you'll likely have several rainy days, but since most rains come in the late afternoon, you can spend your mornings swimming in the ocean or hiking in the mountains that have cooled off in the rain. Deciding when to visit Puerto Vallarta can be a difficult decision for travelers. With its warm climate year-round and its abundance of activities, it can be hard to choose when is the best time for your vacation.

Fortunately, there are certain times of year that offer more advantages than others. April through June is considered one of the best times to visit Puerto Vallarta due to its pleasant weather and affordable room rates. During these months rainfall is scarce and there are fewer tourists compared to peak winter season. If you're looking for a great deal on accommodation or tours, then traveling during summer rainy season from June to October may be your best bet. Although it's hot and humid during this time of year with afternoon showers being common, travelers who don't mind a bit of heat and rain can find great deals on tours and accommodation. For those looking for a more lively atmosphere with plenty of activities, then late November through April may be your ideal time for a vacation in Puerto Vallarta.

This is when temperatures are at their warmest and rainfall is at its lowest. It's also when many travelers believe that Puerto Vallarta is at its best. Finally, if you're looking for a unique experience such as whale watching then December through March may be your ideal time for a trip to Puerto Vallarta. This is when whales migrate through these waters making it an ideal time for whale watching. No matter what time of year you decide to visit Puerto Vallarta there will always be something special waiting for you. From its warm climate year-round to its abundance of activities, there's something for everyone in this beautiful Mexican destination.

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Léa Payamps

Léa Payamps

Passionate twitter trailblazer. Subtly charming pop culture guru. Passionate food fanatic. Friendly social media advocate. Professional tv lover.

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Puerto vallarta, a beach destination with a taste of mexico.

Puerto Vallarta is defined by the natural charm of its beaches embraced by the Sierra Madre mountains; the essence of its culture , gastronomy and traditions ; and the warmth and hospitality of being welcomed like a friend. This magical destination has an authentic Mexican taste and spirit.

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Puerto Vallarta Shines in the 2024 Travvy Awards with 7 Prestigious Nominations

Puerto Vallarta Shines in the 2024 Travvy Awards with 7 Prestigious Nominations

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Make Traveling Better: Discover GAP Blue at the Puerto Vallarta International Airport

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The Planet D: Adventure Travel Blog

15 Reasons to Visit Mexico In 2024

Written By: The Planet D

Updated On: July 2, 2024

We have traveled to Mexico a dozen times and always enjoy our trips to this diverse country. After a year of cancer struggles, we have started planning our travels for the winter, and Mexico is at the top of our list. After we finally visit Cartagena in Colombia, but that will be another article. For now, let’s talk about all the amazing reasons to visit Mexico!

Table of Contents

Why Visit Mexico?

Visit Mexico this year

Many people ask, why visit Mexico? Whenever we mention we are planning to spend the winter there, people tell us they are “worried for our safety and would prefer we go someplace else”, but with a little planning, a trip to Mexico is awesome, and we are going to share some reasons to visit Mexico right now!

Worried about safety in Mexico? Read our articles

  • Is Cancun Safe to Visit? Travel Warnings And Safety Tips
  • Is Mexico City Safe To Visit? Travel Warnings And Safety Tips
  • Is Belize Safe To Visit? Your Guide To Belize Travel Safety

When is the Best Time to Visit Mexico?

best time to visit mexico

The best time to visit Mexico depends on what you want to do and where you want to go. Generally, the dry season is the best time to visit from November to April when the weather is warm and sunny and perfect for beach vacations in Cancun, Playa del Carmen, and Puerto Vallarta. This is also the time to visit cultural and historical sites like Chichen Itza and Teotihuacan without the discomfort of heat and rain.

If you want to go whale watching, the peak season in Baja, California, is from December to April, but it is from June to October in the Yucatan.

If you want fewer crowds and lower prices, May to June and September to October are good times to visit, with pleasant weather and a more relaxed trip. Just be aware that the rainy season from May to October can bring heavy showers in tropical areas, but it rarely affects your travel plans.

1. Rich Cultural Heritage

Festivals in Mexico

Mexico has a rich and varied cultural heritage that spans thousands of years so history buffs will love it. You can explore ancient civilizations like the Maya and Aztecs through incredible archaeological sites. Chichen Itza one of the New Seven Wonders of the World has El Castillo pyramid a must see for any traveler. Teotihuacan the “City of the Gods” is another highlight with its impressive Pyramids of the Sun and Moon.

Beyond these famous sites Mexico has many more historical treasures. Palenque in Chiapas has beautiful Maya architecture and carvings surrounded by jungle. Monte Albán in Oaxaca has stunning views and a glimpse into the Zapotec civilization. And in addition to these ruins you can visit UNESCO World Heritage Sites like the historic center of Mexico City and Xochimilco where colorful boats float through ancient canals.

And cultural festivals and traditions are a big part of Mexico’s heritage. Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) shows how Mexico does death. Elaborate altars, colorful decorations, and parades. Independence Day and Cinco de Mayo are also not to be missed.

2. Stunning Beaches

visit mexico beaches

Mexico has some of the most beautiful beaches in the world with coastlines on the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea to suit every kind of traveler. Cancun on the Yucatan Peninsula is famous for its white sand and clear turquoise water, perfect for sunbathing, luxury resorts and water activities like snorkeling and scuba diving at the nearby Great Mesoamerican Reef.

On the Caribbean Coast, Playa del Carmen on the Riviera Maya is chill with beautiful beaches, great for exploring marine life, visiting ancient Mayan ruins like Tulum or taking a ferry to Cozumel. For a more luxurious experience Tulum has eco-chic beaches, trendy beach clubs, boutique hotels and the famous Tulum Ruins right on the beach.

On the Pacific side Puerto Vallarta has beaches surrounded by mountains, great for whale watching, deep sea fishing and exploring the old town. Cabo San Lucas in Baja California is famous for its dramatic landscapes, luxury resorts, nightlife, the iconic El Arco rock formation and activities like snorkeling, sailing and sport fishing.

For surfers, Sayulita and Puerto Escondido have some of the best waves in Mexico. Sayulita is bohemian and suits both beginners and experienced surfers, while Puerto Escondido is famous for the big waves at Zicatela Beach.

3. Natural Wonders

rio secreto cenotes visit mexico

Mexico’s natural wonders are breathtaking and varied. Sumidero Canyon in Chiapas has cliffs and boat tours on the Grijalva River, views and wildlife. Hierve el Agua in Oaxaca has petrified waterfalls and natural infinity pools, swimming and hiking.

Pico de Orizaba, Mexico’s highest peak, is for serious mountaineers who are on tough climbs and have difficult views. The national park around it has hiking and camping in a volcanic landscape. The cenotes of the Yucatan have unique swimming in crystal clear sinkholes for snorkelers and divers.

Copper Canyon in Chihuahua is bigger and deeper than the Grand Canyon, hiking, horseback riding, and train rides. Mexico is a nature and adventure lover’s paradise.

4. Delicious Mexican Cuisine

mexican food visiting mexico

Mexican food is a big draw for foodies worldwide, and many people plan their vacation around trying its bold flavors, many ingredients, and colorful traditions. Mexican food is a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage; that’s how important and special it is on the world stage.

Street Tacos are the ultimate Mexican food experience. Found in markets and roadside stalls these tacos feature freshly made tortillas filled with a variety of meat, topped with onions, cilantro, and salsa. Each region has its own twist and you can taste the flavors exploding on your taste buds. Mole is a complex sauce made from a mix of chiles, chocolate and spices, Mole Poblano from Puebla is the most famous but Oaxaca is known as the “Land of Seven Moles”.

Whether you are enjoying Tamales and street food or dining on Ceviche at a Michelin Star Mexican Restaurants in Mexico City, dining in Mexico is the best way to experience Mexican culture.

Pozole is a thick soup made with hominy, pork or chicken and a mix of spices, you have to try it. This traditional dish is often garnished with radishes, lettuce, oregano and lime, so you get a burst of flavours in every spoonful. It’s especially popular during celebrations and fiestas.

5. Mexican Spirits

Tequila in Mexico

Mexico’s drink offerings are just as impressive. Tequila and Mezcal, both traditional Mexican spirits made from agave, are part of the country’s drink culture. You can do tastings and tours in the states of Jalisco and Oaxaca, where these spirits are produced.

6. Chocolate Was Created in Mexico

oaxaca mexico hot chocolate

Did you know Mexico is also home to the creation of chocolate? Dating back to 1100 BC, the Aztecs were known to use cocoa in their drinks. Cocoa beans were a sign of wealth and were used as a form of currency. Some vendors still offer authentic Aztec chocolate in the markets.

7. Festive Atmosphere

celebrating Christmas in Mexico

Mexico’s party atmosphere is a big draw for travelers, with celebrations and events all year round.

Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) is the big one, on November 1st and 2nd, where you honour your deceased loved ones with altars, parades and vigils.

Mexican Independence Day on September 16th has fireworks, music and the Grito de Dolores in Mexico City’s Zócalo Square.

Cinco de Mayo is the Battle of Puebla, with parades and cultural events in Puebla.

Other events include Las Posadas, a 9 day Christmas celebration with processions and parties, Carnaval in coastal cities like Mazatlán and Veracruz with parades and fancy dress, Guelaguetza in Oaxaca with indigenous dances and music, Semana Santa (Holy Week) with solemn processions and religious ceremonies.

The Night of the Radishes in Oaxaca is a bit quirky, where they carve radishes, and Puebla’s International Mole Festival celebrates the region’s culinary heritage. Participating in these events will give you a real connection to Mexico’s culture and community.

8. Affordable Travel

saving money in Mexico

Mexico is known for its affordability, offering great value for accommodations, food, and activities. It’s an ideal destination for budget-conscious travelers.

Mexico is one of the most affordable international vacations you can take. A number of airlines that fly to Mexico have travel packages that can make the overall trip more affordable for you. They’re especially affordable when not around any major holidays, as there is less of a demand to fly there.

One Canadian dollar is the equivalent to  nearly 12 Mexican pesos , and even at that conversion rate, you still have the opportunity to negotiate with the vendors in the markets for their goods. In addition, most of the attractions in Mexico are free for visitors, which is ideal if you’re on a budget.

9. Diverse Landscapes

visiti Mexico Landscapes

Mexico has so many different landscapes to offer the outdoor enthusiast. From the huge Copper Canyon in Chihuahua, bigger and deeper than the Grand Canyon, to the jungles and cenotes of the Yucatan, there’s something for everyone. The Sierra Madre Mountains offer great hiking and birdwatching, the Baja Peninsula has dramatic coastlines for whale watching and snorkeling and the Monarch Butterfly Biosphere Reserve in Michoacán is a must see for the winter migration.

The Pacific Coast has surf spots like Puerto Escondido and Sayulita, and Chiapas has rainforests and waterfalls like Agua Azul. The Valle de Guadalupe wine region in Baja California has vineyards and gourmet restaurants. Whether you’re in deserts, mountains, jungles, or beaches, Mexico has it all and is the ultimate adventure destination.

From deserts to jungles and mountains to beaches, Mexico’s diverse geography offers endless opportunities for adventure. Hike through Copper Canyon, explore the cenotes of the Yucatan Peninsula, or climb the pyramids of Palenque.

10. Warm Climate

warm climate visiting Mexico

Mexico’s warm weather is a big plus, with sun and pleasant temps year round. The Yucatan Peninsula with tropical destinations like Cancun, Playa del Carmen and Tulum is for beach lovers. The Baja California Peninsula has mild winters and hot summers, perfect for snorkeling and whale watching in Cabo San Lucas and La Paz.

The Pacific Coast cities of Puerto Vallarta, Mazatlán and Acapulco have a tropical climate, great for water sports and nightlife. Central Mexico, including Mexico City and San Miguel de Allende has a temperate climate with warm summers and mild winters, perfect for sightseeing.

The humid tropical climate in Chiapas and southern regions means lush rainforests and waterfalls. Northern Mexico’s desert climate with hot summers and cool winters means warm weather in cities like Monterrey.

Mexico’s warm climate means outdoor activities year-round, from hiking in the Sierra Madre Mountains to surfing in Sayulita and Puerto Escondido. The weather makes festivals like Dia de los Muertos and Cinco de Mayo even more fun, so come for the sun and adventure.

11. Vibrant Cities and Towns

visit Mexico city

Mexico’s cities are a mix of old and new, so you get a fun travel experience. Mexico City is the big bustling capital, a cultural hub with world class museums like the National Museum of Anthropology and historic sites like the Zocalo and Chapultepec Castle. The city’s many neighborhoods, like Roma and Condesa, are full of art galleries, cafes and nightlife.

Guadalajara is the birthplace of mariachi music and tequila, and it has a rich cultural heritage and festivals. You can visit the historic Teatro Degollado, the beautiful Guadalajara Cathedral, and the lively Mercado San Juan de Dios. The city’s arts and food scene make it a must-see.

Monterrey is set in the Sierra Madre Mountains, so you get a mix of nature and urban. The city is known for its modern architecture, the Macroplaza, and Fundidora Park, a former steel foundry turned cultural space. The business district and upscale shopping centers are for business travelers and tourists.

Or you can visit the colonial towns of Guanajuato and San Miguelle de Allande. You can visit Mexico again and again and not visit the same place twice.

12. Friendly Locals

Chiapas Mexico Market

Mexican hospitality is famous for friendly people who welcome visitors and share their culture. The phrase “mi casa es su casa” (my home is your home) is real. Travelers love the personal connections they make, from helpful shopkeepers and great tour guides to warm hosts in boutique hotels and Airbnb’s.

In smaller towns and villages like San Miguel de Allende and Oaxaca the local community wants to share their customs and traditions. Joining in local festivals, eating at family owned restaurants and shopping at artisan markets is the way to do it.

Even in the most touristy places like Cancun and Puerto Vallarta the locals will always help you out, give you advice and a smile.

13. Unique Wildlife

Cancun Mexico Whale Sharks

Mexico has so much amazing wildlife for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. The country has different ecosystems, from rainforests and deserts to mountains and coastal areas, each with its own species.

The Monarch Butterfly Biosphere Reserve in Michoacán is a UNESCO World Heritage site where millions of monarch butterflies migrate every winter. This is a must see for wildlife enthusiasts, a breathtaking sight of butterflies clustering in the oyamel fir forests.

Baja California Sur is famous for its marine life, especially in the Sea of Cortez, known as the “Aquarium of the World” by Jacques Cousteau. You can snorkel, dive, and kayak among coral reefs, whale sharks, sea lions, and dolphins. Gray whale watching in Laguna San Ignacio and Magdalena Bay is an unforgettable experience with these gentle giants.

In the Yucatan Peninsula, the jungles and coastal waters are full of wildlife. Visit the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage site, to see jaguars, manatees, and over 300 species of birds. Snorkel in cenotes and along the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef to see fish, turtles, and rays.

14. Communication

Visit mexico languages

While the majority of Mexican citizens speak Spanish, they all have varying degrees of knowledge in speaking English. This makes it easy for many tourists, most of whom visit from the United States and Canada, to communicate with the locals to get directions or ask for help. It also makes laughing and joking with the local children memorable.

You can negotiate easier when buying your goods because you can banter back and forth with the vendors. Most of the Mexican people are also very friendly to tourists. They understand that tourism helps to boost the Mexican economy. When tourists are happy and traveling to Mexico, everyone benefits.

music in Mexico

Dave and I have always said that Mexican musicians are the most talented and when going out at night, make sure to watch Mariaches play at a local bar.

Mexico’s musical heritage is a big part of its DNA. Mariachi music from Jalisco is iconic, and you can hear it in places like Plaza Garibaldi in Mexico City. Regional styles add to the mix: son jarocho from Veracruz, norteño and banda from the north and trova yucateca from the Yucatan Peninsula.

Music festivals like the Cervantino in Guanajuato and Vive Latino in Mexico City bring together traditional and contemporary sounds with international artists. Experiencing these traditions is the real deal of Mexico’s culture and artistic soul.

Dave and Deb Visit Mexico

From ancient ruins, to beautuful beaches Mexico has it all. Mexicans are welcoming and friendly. Yes, the country has its problems with the cartels, but if you plan well and avoid the hot zones, you can have a safe an enjoyable time in Mexico. So are you planning to visit Mexico? Let us know in the comments below.

Read More about Mexico:

  • 15 Fun Facts About Mexico
  • Best Things to do in Cancun, Mexico
  • India and Mexico, More Similar Than You’d Think
  • An Unforgettable Adventure at Mexico’s Isla Espíritu Santo
  • 19 Best Things to do in La Paz, Mexico
  • 25 Best Places To Visit in Mexico
  • The Best Tulum All Inclusive Resorts
  • Things to do in Tulum

Travel Planning Resources

Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.

Book Your Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner. We have used them for years and have found that they have the best flight deals.

Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor.

Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO . 

Travel Insurance: Don't leave home without it. Here is what we recommend:

  • Safety Wing - Occasional Travelers.
  • Medjet - Global air medical transport and travel security.

Book Your Activities: Looking for walking tours, skip-the-line tickets, private guides, and more? Then we recommend Get Your Guide.

Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

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About The Planet D

Dave Bouskill and Debra Corbeil are the owners and founders of The Planet D. After traveling to 115 countries, on all 7 continents over the past 13 years they have become one of the foremost experts in travel. Being recognized as top travel bloggers and influencers by the likes of Forbes Magazine , the Society of American Travel Writers and USA Today has allowed them to become leaders in their field.

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11 thoughts on “15 Reasons to Visit Mexico In 2024”

There are many reasons to visit Mexico. It’s really a great tourist destination in North America. I have some great experiences in Mexico’s tourist places. A transportation service Provider Oscar Cancun Shuttle helped more.

Hi I am just getting started on a blog page of my own and would like some addvice on which would be the best wat to stary and with who?

Hi Shelly, if you visit our advice section on our home page you can find many links on how to start travel blogging. https://theplanetd.com/ This article should help you out as well. https://theplanetd.com/travel-blog-success-an-overview You can always contact us on our contact us page if you have any more questions. Good luck!

I love Mexican food – its probably the biggest draw for me. Of course only to be compounded by the affordability and weather. These are wonderful reason to go, thanks for the reminder.

There are so many reasons to love Mexico and yes, the food is definitely a main attraction for us as well.

Ahhh, seriously wanting to go to Mexico now. I mean, what’s not to like – cheap to live, friendly people, sun, chocolate and coffee. Bliss!

And what’s better than chocolate and coffee right? 🙂

I just got back from a trip to Cancun for a family wedding. I know some people are really hesitant about going to Mexico, my dad was like that. But I found that my experience in Mexico was wonderful. Expeically the food, the seafood was so good, and the locals were so friendly. I’d love to go back and visit more of Mexico.

I am so happy to hear that Alouise, we agree. We traveled through southern Mexico on buses and people were so welcoming and friendly. We never felt unsafe. Like we always say, most people in this world are good and will look out for you. Every country has their problems, but the majority of the population is isn’t involved in the drug cartel or gang wars, they are simply good people with families trying to make a living and live a happy life. I’m glad you enjoyed yourself. And yes, the seafood is so good!

These are all excellent reasons to visit Mexico. I’d also recommend visiting during Semana Santa which is another great holiday that’s celebrated throughout the country. Great post, thanks for sharing!

Thanks Laura, Yes, there are so many holidays to see. Mexico is such a vibrant country, I bet that we could do an entire holiday and festival post on Mexico:) Cheers and glad you love Mexico too.

best time to travel to mexico puerto vallarta

Things To Do In Puerto Vallarta Mexico On a Cruise Ship Visit

P uerto Vallarta, Mexico is a fabulous cruise port that is safe for American visitors and offers a wealth of cultural, eco-tourism, and foodie excursions that you won't want to miss. 

Located on the East end of the Bay of Bandaras, is a resort town that serves as the gateway to Jalisco - the home of tequila. Because of its location and its role as a year-round resort town for Americans as well as Mexican tourists, visitors here will find a robust economy that can be navigated easily on your own speaking only English. While We recommend taking a bus from the cruise port and walking the Malecon looking at sculptures, enjoying local artists, dining in waterfront cafes, or venturing into the foothills to explore sites such as the villa once owned by 60's movie stars Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton.

Once you visit, you'll understand why this is a hidden gem that most people don't think about when considering taking a cruise to Mexico. This is a city where culture and natural beauty convene to offering a unique and unforgettable experience. From the white sand of the beaches to the sharp bite of the tequila, there’s so much in this town that sets it apart. Here are the top seven activities to check out in the limited time you’ve got.

Take a Walk on the Boardwalk

Puerto Vallarta’s boardwalk, or “malecón” in Spanish, is a supremely beautiful spot for a stroll. You’ll have a stretch of shops and restaurants on one side of you and the dazzling waters of the Pacific on the other. The dining options are as varied as they are delicious, and the walkway is full of cultural and artistic delights. The Hotel Rosita, the oldest such establishment in town, is among the highlights of this remarkable walkway.

Stroll Through Downtown

Once you’ve made your way inland from the boardwalk, you’ll be right in the midst of the gorgeous downtown. The area is considered a cultural heritage sight, and once you’re there you’ll see why it deserves this distinction. The cobblestone streets, old churches, and colorful buildings give the city center a unique, charming feel. Between the murals and prominent sculptures, the downtown is another great spot for lovers of the arts. If you’re a foodie, you can’t go wrong with a lunch at one of the many restaurants and cafes.

Check out the Marina

If you’re into boating, fishing, or seafood, then you might want to head down to the Marina Vallarta, a relaxing corner of the city with a massive whale statue and a pleasant atmosphere. If you have time for a fishing excursion, then this is where you’ll leave from. Even if you’re remaining on shore, the marina is still worth the trip. The restaurants are excellent, and the markets are perfect for meandering and buying souvenirs.

Drink Some Tequila

Puerto Vallarta is located in Jalisco, the same state as Guadalajara. Not only is that city a cultural and economic hub, but it is also the home to one of Mexico’s most famous exports: tequila. It should come as no surprise, then, that Puerto Vallarta is Mexico’s coastal town with the best tequila-drinking opportunities. Try tossing a few back in a local cantina, or, for a more comprehensive experience, book a tour of local distilleries. Tequila might be famous worldwide, but it tastes much better in its natural habitat.

Listen to Mariachi Music

Mariachi music is another hallmark of Jalisco, and you should make a point of hearing it while you’re in Puerto Vallarta. If you’ve got time, consider attending a mariachi show. If you’re in too much of a rush, try to catch a song or two in the city center. Don’t worry that you’re missing out on the real experience; a quick listen is more in keeping with the spirit of these itinerant troubadours, anyway.

Take the “Art Walk”

In addition to the public art downtown and along the boardwalk, there are also a number of galleries showcasing the work of local, national, and international artists. Pop in to check out the artwork, or, to truly immerse yourself, consider booking an “Art Walk” tour. The service includes a stop in over a dozen galleries, along with explanations and descriptions. You might not need this background information to appreciate art, but it certainly makes the experience more interesting.

Chat with Locals

Puerto Vallarta has been named the “friendliest city in the world,” and once you interact with the locals you’ll agree full-heartedly with this designation. The people are generally happy, outgoing, and eager to show off the city they’re so proud of. Take advantage of this generosity of spirit by chatting up the waiters, bartenders, and tour guides you come in contact with. There’s really no better way to experience a place than through its people.

What To Do In Puerto Vallarta:

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  • Mexico's pristine beaches, vibrant culture, and authentic food scene make it an ideal budget vacation spot for under $1,000.
  • Vacation destinations like Cancun, Puerto Vallarta, and Cabo San Lucas offer direct flights, all-inclusive resorts, and tons of activities.
  • From turquoise waters to vibrant nightlife, Mexico's vacation hotspots provide an easy and unforgettable beach getaway from the USA.

Mexico is known for its rich culture, ancient ruins, gleaming beaches, coral reefs, and marine life. It also boasts an authentic food scene, and the cleanest beaches in Mexico attract beach lovers from around the world.

If this is your first time planning a beach vacation in Mexico, chances are you've already heard of Cancun, Puerto Vallarta, and Cabo San Lucas. These destinations have a long history of welcoming tourists year-round for pristine beaches, all-inclusive resorts, and a massive food scene. Along with a few other destinations, they are very easy to get to from the U.S.

Not only that, but these destinations are some of the reasons why Mexico is the best country for a budget vacation under $1,000 ; these vacation spots' affordable, direct flights, on-budget all-inclusive resorts, and cheap or even free activities make even budget travelers' dreams come true.

Whatever your budget, with its breathtaking natural beauty, turquoise waters, hospitality, and festive spirit, there is no better time to take a quick and easy vacation to Mexico's holiday hotspots that are easily accessible from the U.S. Dive into these beautiful destinations in Mexico where you can get direct flights to from the U.S. and start your vacation with dinner on the patio and an evening stroll on the beach.

Have 100 Pesos? Here's What You Can Actually Buy In Mexico

Mexico is often considered an affordable destination for travelers, but how far will 100 pesos get you?

7 Cabo San Lucas, Baja California Sur

One of the most popular vacation destinations in mexico with beautiful desert landscapes and sunny white beaches.

Cabo San Lucas’ stunning coast lures first-time travelers to this Baja California escape, and for good reason. It's one of the most desirable places to visit in Mexico for its premier views of the Sea of Cortez from its beaches. The area attracts vacation tourists with its vibrant culture and teal waters.

If this is your quest - fishing, golf, scuba diving, snorkeling, kayaking, horseback riding, relaxing in luxury spas, and dancing the night away - you've come to the right place. You can have it all in Cabo San Lucas.

6 Cancun, Quintana Roo

Unbelievable turquoise waters, white sandy beaches, mayan ruins, coral reefs, and beautiful all-inclusive resorts make this a popular destination.

Cancun is one of the more well-known destinations in Mexico, and tourists from the United States have traveled there for many years. A direct flight from Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport is only 3 hours, and it's a little over 5 hours for a direct flight from Los Angeles.

Cancun is a developed, resort-style, all-inclusive vacation spot with some of the best all-inclusive resorts in the world. Plenty of activities in and around the hotels include water sports, shopping, and nightlife. Now, you can also visit four recently opened Mayan Ruins near Cancun .

Its unbelievable turquoise waters, white sandy beaches, ruins, coral reefs, and beautiful all-inclusive resorts make this a favorable destination that you'll want to return to time and time again.

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Discover the secrets of Mexico's most dangerous cave, the Sistine Chapel of Crystals! Unravel the mysteries of its breathtaking crystal formations.

5 San Jose del Cabo, Baja California Sur

Dive into this desert landscape home to historic charm and the sea of cortez coastline.

San Jose del Cabo is one of Mexico's best-kept secrets. It is known as "Old Town," with its old-fashioned Mexican charm. It is a pedestrian-friendly town known for its excellent golf courses and cuisine.

You'll want to ensure you hit the San Jose del Cabo Plaza for fine food, ice cream, live music, photo opportunities, outdoor markets, and more. This is where everything is happening when not on the beach. A ride from the airport to San Jose del Cabo will get you there in less than 20 minutes and can cost as much as $70 for a one-way trip.

4 Mazatlan, Sinaloa

A historical, cultural destination with beautiful beaches often referred to as an underrated beach getaway.

Mazatlan has a thriving year-round cultural scene offering fresh seafood, beautiful beaches, beachfront boardwalks, and a friendly community of locals and is still considered one of the underrated beach getaways in Mexico . This destination is a fantastic destination for a family vacation in the sun; before making plans, check out special events, festivals, and the annual carnival.

Plaza Machado, in the historic district of Mazatlan, is the central hub for restaurants, shopping, and galleries. Get inspired by the French and Spanish-influenced architecture, listen to local live music, and enjoy this public square where many locals and tourists hang out.

3 Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco

This destination should be on your must-visit list this summer for its charming beaches, authentic mexican fare, and vibrant culture.

Puerto Vallarta is often considered one of Mexico's safest beach towns and a popular destination for college spring breakers and family vacations. Whether you're looking for a relaxing beach vacation or a nature-filled adventure, you’ll find what you're looking for in this tourist town that has welcomed visitors for years.

Many all-inclusive resorts and colorful houses line the beaches side by side, and the city is famous for its pristine, sandy beaches, thus a popular destination for beach lovers. Puerto Vallarta also has some of the best restaurants in the country, featuring delicious traditional Mexican cuisine and international fare. For the nightlife, check out the Latin clubs and read about local fiestas and music festivals, which occur year-round.

2 Cozumel, Quintana Roo

For many years, numerous dive sites have made cozumel a scuba divers' dream destination.

For a more laid-back, slower-paced life than its neighbor, Cancun, Cozumel is the perfect vacation destination for families and couples. Its tropical climate, sandy beaches, and diving opportunities attract tourists daily.

While many visit Cozumel for scuba diving, snorkeling, seeing underwater reefs, and relaxing on the beach, there are other activities to do in the city, from duty-free shopping to enjoying the local cuisine and seeing historical sites.

7 Things That Don't Exist In Mexico

Mexico offers unique places like the Sistine Chapel of Crystals and delicacies like fried grasshoppers, but some elements are impossible to come by.

1 Playa del Carmen, Quintana Roo

The perfect caribbean sea destination where you can relax and have fun without a care in the world.

Playa del Carmen is a coastal paradise on the Yucatán Peninsula in the Mexican Caribbean's Riviera Maya. If you want to have fun both day and night but are looking for a more subdued area to vacation in, then perhaps Cancun's Playa del Carmen fits the bill; it's a smaller beach town with a more relaxed atmosphere, perfect for dancing the night away.

It's hard to beat over two miles of white powdery sand, but as this is true, so is the company that will be right next to you. But what beach in Mexico is not full of tourists during peak season? Pick your place on the beach and have fun!

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COMMENTS

  1. The Best & Worst Times to Visit Puerto Vallarta in 2024

    November through March sees the best weather in Puerto Vallarta, period. Average temperatures range from a balmy 71°F to 73°F this time of year, but highs rise into the low 80s in the afternoons for perfect beach weather. November: 69-86°F; 2 rainy days. December: 64-82°F; 1-2 rainy days. January: 62-81°F; 2 rainy days.

  2. Best Times to Visit Puerto Vallarta

    Find out the best time to visit Puerto Vallarta, a popular destination in Mexico, with U.S. News Travel's guide on weather, room rates and attractions.

  3. When to visit Puerto Vallarta: a monthly guide

    High season is the best time for whale-watching (December to April) Many folks make a point of visiting Puerto Vallarta from December to March when thousands of humpback whales migrate to the warm waters of Banderas Bay for the mating season. There's a definite wow factor in getting up close to these majestic 30-ton creatures as they leap out ...

  4. Best Time to Visit Puerto Vallarta (Weather and Costs)

    For those wondering about the best time to travel to Puerto Vallarta on a budget, August to October are the cheapest months. While it's hot, humid, and rainy in the mid-summer months, lots of Mexican families still travel to PV for a beach vacation. As a result, prices don't tend to drop all that much in June and July.

  5. The Best Time to Visit Puerto Vallarta

    Puerto Vallarta is a beautiful beach destination on Mexico's Pacific coast, and it enjoys mostly pleasant, sunny and warm weather year round. Although each time of year has its draws, the best time to visit Puerto Vallarta is from December through March, when you'll find nearly perfect weather conditions, very little chance of rain, and fun activities like whale watching.

  6. The Perfect 3- or 4-Day Puerto Vallarta Itinerary

    Puerto Vallarta Itinerary Day Two Summary: Take a late-morning food tour to explore Old Town with an expert guide. After your tour, relax at the pool or on the beach. At 5 PM head to the marina for the boat ride to Alma by Rhythms of the Night, an incredible dinner and show in the jungle.

  7. The Best Time to Visit Puerto Vallarta

    The high season in Puerto Vallarta, from November to April, is the most popular time to visit. The cooler climate of the northern hemisphere draws a vibrant mix of tourists, especially from Canada and the U.S.. The atmosphere is electric, with parties and gatherings at every corner. The bay area becomes a lively hub, brimming with energy and ...

  8. Best Time to Visit Puerto Vallarta (Climate & Seasons)

    Learn the best time to visit Puerto Vallarta, with details on weather, seasons, climate, crowds, and events. Find out when to book your flights and accommodations for the best deals. ... Puerto Vallarta, a vibrant coastal city on Mexico's Pacific Ocean shoreline, is celebrated for its stunning beaches, charming old town, and picturesque bay ...

  9. The Ultimate Guide to the Best Time to Visit Puerto Vallarta

    Winter (December to February) The winter months, from December to February, are considered the best time to visit Puerto Vallarta. During this period, the weather is nearly perfect, with mild temperatures and low chances of rain. You can expect average temperatures ranging from 72 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit (22 to 29 degrees Celsius), making it ...

  10. The Best Time to Visit Puerto Vallarta

    You can still sit on the beach. Plus, it's the best time to visit for a spot of adventure - snorkeling is fantastic, and the waves are big at Sayulita. For a cultural vacation, visit during Dia de Muertos (Day of the Dead) at the start of November or in December for the festival dedicated to Our Lady or Gaudalupe.

  11. The best time to visit Puerto Vallarta

    White sand. Whales in the ocean. Tacos and festivals. Puerto Vallarta has it all, but when's the best time to visit? Most tourists will tell you to come to this Mexican paradise when it's dry and a little cooler. It's comfortable to walk around, hit the beach and see the sights. But don't discount it at other times of the year.

  12. The Best Time To Visit Puerto Vallarta For ...

    Check out when it's the best time to visit Puerto Vallarta for weather prices, surfing and other practical tips to plan your trip to Puerto Vallarta. ... Let's travel to Mexico is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by ...

  13. Best Time to Visit Puerto Vallarta

    The best time to visit Puerto Vallarta is from mid-April to June, and October. These months all offer excellent weather and affordable rates. April through June has the best weather; May and June have the best hotel deals; and October has the best water for snorkeling and diving. Avoid Holy Week, the week leading up to Easter - this is peak ...

  14. Best Time to Visit Puerto Vallarta: A Comprehensive Guide

    Puerto Vallarta, located on Mexico's Pacific Coast, is a stunning vacation destination that offers breathtaking views, incredible food, and endless outdoor activities. With warm waters, plenty of sunshine, and a plethora of attractions, it's no wonder that this city attracts visitors from all over the world. However, choosing the best time to visit Puerto Vallarta can be a daunting task.

  15. Ultimate Puerto Vallarta Travel Guide for Visitors in 2024

    November to April - high season. November to April is the time to visit Puerto Vallarta, when the temperatures are mild, and the humidity and mosquitoes are at bay. You'll find many American, Canadian and European travelers visit during this time. A huge reason to visit at this time of year is because of the annual whale migration in Mexico.

  16. Best Time to Visit Puerto Vallarta for Low Prices & Great Weather

    When deciding the best time to travel to Puerto Vallarta, there are two distinct seasons: HIGH SEASON: Mid-December to April 31. LOW SEASON: May 1 to Mid-December. For some, the period from November to December is the best because that is when things start to cool down; the rains dissipate and the lush mountains retain their green hues, making ...

  17. Avoid Crowds & Save Money: The Best Time to Visit Puerto Vallarta in

    The NOAA website is the best place to see the region's storm updates. November is Puerto Vallarta's shoulder month (and one of the best times to visit). The average daily temperature during November is 77°F (25°C). The days are hot with moderate humidity. You can expect cool evenings, with average lows of 69°F (25°C).

  18. The Best Time To Visit Puerto Vallarta

    December through May is your best time to visit if you are after Puerto Vallarta's good weather. Average highs are less than 30 degrees Celsius during the day while the evenings are cool. Sea temperatures at this time are cooler than the Summer month temps. However, the average is in the mid-20s degrees Celsius.

  19. The Best Time to Visit Puerto Vallarta, Mexico for Weather, Safety

    Winter (December through February) Weather is perfect this time of year in Puerto Vallarta to be enjoyable for warm weather travelers. The average high during this season is between 82.8°F (28.2°C) and 79°F (26.1°C). On average, it rains or snows a insignificant amount: consistently 0 times per month.

  20. When is the Best Time to Visit Puerto Vallarta?

    The best time to travel to Puerto Vallarta with great deals is during the summer rainy season, from June to October. The vast majority of days during the summer season are hot and humid, and afternoon showers are very common.

  21. The Best Time to Visit Puerto Vallarta Mexico

    Thinking about travelling to Puerto Vallarta? Find out the best time to visit Puerto Vallarta Mexico for the perfect trip.

  22. Best time to go to Puerto Vallarta

    Very low season in Puerto Vallarta The months with the lowest number of tourists are: September and October. Low season in Puerto Vallarta The months with low numbers of tourists are: May, June, July and August. High season in Puerto Vallarta The number of visitors to Puerto Vallarta is high in: January, February, March, April and November.

  23. Travel Guide to Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco

    Puerto Vallarta A beach destination with a taste of Mexico. Puerto Vallarta is defined by the natural charm of its beaches embraced by the Sierra Madre mountains; the essence of its culture, gastronomy and traditions; and the warmth and hospitality of being welcomed like a friend. This magical destination has an authentic Mexican taste and spirit.

  24. Puerto Vallarta Is the Perfect Summer Getaway

    The Fiesta Americana resort in Puerto Vallarta is a fantastic place to base a trip into this beautiful region, with its attractive all-inclusive options for those who want an easy, laid-back ...

  25. 15 Reasons to Visit Mexico In 2024

    The best time to visit Mexico depends on what you want to do and where you want to go. Generally, the dry season is the best time to visit from November to April when the weather is warm and sunny and perfect for beach vacations in Cancun, Playa del Carmen, and Puerto Vallarta. ... On the Pacific side Puerto Vallarta has beaches surrounded by ...

  26. Things To Do In Puerto Vallarta Mexico On a Cruise Ship Visit

    Puerto Vallarta, Mexico is a fabulous cruise port that is safe for American visitors and offers a wealth of cultural, eco-tourism, and foodie excursions that you won't want to miss. Located on the ...

  27. 7 Easy Mexico Destinations To Get To From The U.S.

    Mexico's pristine beaches, vibrant culture, and authentic food scene make it an ideal budget vacation spot for under $1,000. Vacation destinations like Cancun, Puerto Vallarta, and Cabo San Lucas offer direct flights, all-inclusive resorts, and tons of activities.