Guide to the Best Time to Visit Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

Last Updated on September 9, 2024 by Kirsten Raccuia

Are you trying to figure out the best time to visit Puerto Vallarta? Well, it’s a good thing you’re here because after living here for over two years, I’ve got the answers. Not to everything, but the best time to come here? For sure. 

Puerto Vallarta is one of the most popular and safest beach towns on the Pacific Coast. And there is never a really horrible time to visit. The weather is always warm, the tacos are always on point, and the people are always welcoming. However, some times of the year are much better than others. So, it’s important to plan your travel schedule accordingly. 

The real way to work out when to plan your trip depends on one thing: YOU! 

There is more to think about than if it’s rainy season or not. Things like, do you want to see the beaches at their peak? Are you coming for an unbeatable whale-watching experience? Or do you hate the crowds and want lower prices? 

Below, I’ll break it down by month, season, festivals, and activities so you can make the best decision for your travel style. This will give you a local’s glimpse into when you should (and shouldn’t) visit. 

So, let’s get to it.

A quick lowdown on the Puerto Vallarta weather and seasons

Luckily for vacation goers (and me), the weather is warm all year round. No matter when you visit, the temperature is between 77 and 92°F (25-33°C).

The hottest months in Puerto Vallarta are June to September – technically the low season. During this period, temperatures reach a scorching 92°F (33°C). But it’s also the rainy season, which makes it extra humid and extra sticky. However, my curls are on point, so there’s that. #silverlining 

The rest of the year has warm days, with temperatures around 82°F/28°C with clear, dry skies. 

What is the rainy season in Puerto Vallarta?

Mark took this video of our street one night during the rains. If we only had a kayak and a couple of helmets who knows the adventures we could have!

In a plot twist, alongside being scorching, June to September also experiences the most rain. Each month gets progressively rainier. August and September get over 17.5 inches, averaging around 20 rainy days per month. 

You’ll need an umbrella or two for these short and heavy showers — more if you lose them as much as you use them, as I do. 

Does Puerto Vallarta have a hurricane season?

The hurricane season also spans from June to September. I know that this sounds scary at first, but they’re uncommon.

However, since Puerto Vallarta is nestled in a bay, it’s protected from the harshest weather. When a hurricane threatens to make its way to the area, the Sierra Madre mountains block it from a direct hit. 

Additionally, the way the mountains tumble into the Bay of Banderas makes it difficult for the storms to enter the bay. So, essentially, the landscape of the area protects us from being directly hit by hurricanes. We’ll get the rains and maybe the winds, but not a full-on hurricane.

What is the cheapest time of year to go to Puerto Vallarta?

Who doesn’t want to save while going on vacation? If you’re saving the pennies or simply want to visit when the prices are lower, plan for the low season: June to September. 

You’ll have to put up with wetter weather, but it rarely rains all day, and the temperature is actually hotter than peak season. So, if you don’t mind some rain but want scorching beach days, it’s a fair trade-off for better hotel and excursion prices.

When to visit Puerto Vallarta for incredible whale watching?

From December through March, thousands of humpback whales migrate to the warm waters of Banderas Bay to mate and give birth.

The moment you see a humpback whale breach the ocean is something you’ll never forget, especially when you’re seeing it in person. Last time we went on a whale-watching tour, we were so close we felt the spray from its blowhole, and nearly all of us teared up. The people who didn’t were clearly dead inside. 

It’s truly one of the most magical things you can experience here. We do it every year at least once, and for sure, when any of our visitors come. 

December to March is also peak tourist season, so book ahead to secure your spot.

Are you counting down the days until you can feel the sun on your skin and the golden sands between your tootsies? I get it. 

When to visit Puerto Vallarta for glorious beach days?

Forget your day job and visit Puerto Vallarta in April and May for world-class beach relaxation. These are the driest months, with temperatures around 89°F/31°C. The sea temperatures sit around 81°F/27°C in these months, so you won’t have to awkwardly waddle in to get used to the cold if you go for a dip.

You won’t even need to check your weather app. Grab your bikini and beach gear, and go. Or don’t. If you want to save the fuss, opt for Puerto Vallarta’s many chic beach clubs instead.

When is the best time to go surfing in Puerto Vallarta?

Surf’s up. But only if you time it right. And head about an hour north to Sayulita and Punta Mita. There really isn’t surfing in Puerto Vallarta because we are in the bay. But head north, and you’ll get plenty of wave action.

The best time of the year to catch waves in this Pacific coast area is from December to March. The weather is the most reliable during this period, and intermediate surfers can catch some gnarly waves.

Outside this period, the waves might be smaller. Not bad for newbies. But it might frustrate some experienced surfers.  

When is sea turtle hatching season in Puerto Vallarta?

Seeing little sea turtles scramble towards the shore is truly an aww moment. But this can turn into an oh-no moment if you’re too late for sea turtle season.

Book between August and December to see sea turtles around Puerto Vallarta and Banderas Bay. 

The best way to ensure you catch a glimpse of the babies is by working with a sea turtle release program. These specialized tours offer a sustainable way to see the phenomena — and you’ll learn a fact or two along the way.

When is the best time to go hiking in Puerto Vallarta?

OK, Puerto Vallarta isn’t really known for hiking. And neither am I. With beaches and whale-watching tours, you’re better off ticking these bucket list items off while you’re here. 

However, if you’re a fiend for getting your steps in, there are a few trails to explore. 

The best time to visit for hiking is from December to March. This is the peak season, but don’t worry. Most people will be lazing on the beach. It’s also the coolest time in town, so you won’t be melting into the trail and overheating like you would in June. 

The one and only hike I’ve done here is from Boca de Tomatlan to Las Animas Beach. It’s def one of the better routes in this area. 

Take the bus south to Boca de Tomatlan. From there, just ask someone where the trailhead is. 

The hike is along the coast from beach to beach to beach. So, it’s the ultimate beach hopping day. I prefer to go by boat (lady baller style), but that’s not always an option. And this hike was really incredible because you can stop at any of the beaches for a swim. 

When you get to Las Animas Beach, grab a seafood lunch and take a water taxi back. Tickets are around 250 pesos ($13). 

Check out the All Trails page here.

When to visit Puerto Vallarta to beat the crowds?

Picture nearly empty golden sandy beaches, a soft breeze, and an endless flow of tequila. 

The hot summer months in Puerto Vallarta are the best for a quiet trip with fewer tourists. The low season (June to October) is the best if you don’t want to elbow other tourists out of the way (not that you would; that would be rude). Just note that the weather will get wetter as the months progress, and it’s VERY humid. 

When is the shoulder season in Puerto Vallarta?

The shoulder season is April to May and October to November. It’s the time between the busy and off-season. Think of it as a sweet spot for travel.

Hotels and activities tend to be cheaper, it’s not as crowded, and the weather is still pleasant. What more could you ask for?

Should I visit Puerto Vallarta for spring break?

Ahh, spring break. A time to let loose and pretend no one is watching (FYI: Everyone is watching).  

Puerto Vallarta is a popular option for spring breakers. It has beaches, clubs, bars, and nightlife, and is far enough from the U.S. that you can escape without traveling too far.

If you’re into lively nightlife, spring break is a fantastic time to visit. If you’d rather skip the college shenanigans, give this week a miss. 

When to visit Puerto Vallarta for festivals?

Puerto Vallarta is a hub for festivals. There’s always something to celebrate here — that’s why it’s one of the best cities in Mexico. And why we made it our home.

Here are the key dates you need to know.

Easter and Holy Week (aka Semana Santa)

This is the time of year to see parades and ancient Catholic traditions. And the not-so-ancient ones. Every year they hang an effigy of Judas near the Our Lady of Guadalupe Church and then set his ass on fire with a crazy firecracker display until he falls in a heap of smoke onto the ground.

Restaurant week (or weeks)

Usually, we have Restaurant Week around the end of May through the beginning of June. It’s when nearly 50 restaurants offer set menus for deeply discounted prices. The meals are all three courses with prices between 459-575 Mexican pesos ($25-30). 

We love restaurant week and always try at least a handful of new places as well as the super expensive ones. It’s the best deal all year, and foodies should def come and eat their faces off.  

Pride

As the LGBTQ+ hub of Mexico, Pride is another big moment in Puerto Vallarta. At the end of May, locals and tourists flock to the center to celebrate love and diversity. Expect parades, parties, and non-stop celebrations throughout the week.

Mexico’s Independence Day

It’s celebrated on the 16th of September and the few days leading up to it. It’s a way to commemorate when Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla led the Mexicans to rise against colonial Spain. 

There are parades with dancing horses (charro), and the Plaza de Armas in Centro has dozens of performances by mariachis, modern bands and folk dancers. It culminates with an insane fireworks display, like all good celebrations here.

Dia de los Muertos

Come to Puerto Vallarta from October 31st through November 2nd for the Day of the Dead, which honors those who have passed away. 

The malecon, our oceanfront boardwalk, is the place to be. In the last two years, the city made the Guinness Book of World Records for the largest Catrina in the world. Standing at over 74 feet tall. 

Besides the dozens of catrinas created by restaurants and establishments around town. There are colorful ofrendas in every store, boutique, and restaurant, as well as around the main square.

Virgin de Guadalupe Festival

From December 1st to 12th, people make a pilgrimage from hundreds of miles around to the city’s Church of Our Lady of Guadalupe. There are daily parades and celebrations and nightly pilgrimages to the iconic church — one of Puerto Valarta’s most famous landmarks. 

Around that time, we saw a young girl dressed as Mary (I think, I’m a Jew, so my Catholic icons are rusty) riding a donkey to the church. 

Puerto Vallarta weather by month – A snapshot

Want to know the best time to visit Puerto Vallarta weather-wise? That’s understandable. 

Nothing sucks more than packing for the wrong climate. We did that on a trip to Laos and we had to buy sweatshirts and pants just to walk around town. I also did it last January on a trip to San Miguel De Allende. So, eventually, I’ll take this advice. But, just learn from my mistake!

Here’s a brief overview of each month so you can decide on the best time of year to visit Puerto Vallarta.

Peak season:

January

Temperatures of 60 to 80°F (16 to 27°C) and no rain. The perfect time for beaches, relaxing, whale-watching tours, and getting active (*cough* low humidity). Bring a light sweater because the cool evenings can get a little chilly. 

February

Temps are the same as January. February is the peak season, but don’t let this put you off. The weather is stunning, and margaritas never taste better than when your feet are in the sand a foot of snow just dumped at home. Checking out Puerto Vallarta in February is def a good idea.

March

Is March a good time to visit Puerto Vallarta? 

Absolutely. March is pleasant and sunny like January and February. If your attitude to heat is “less is more,” this is another good month for you. 

Shoulder season

April

April starts the shoulder season, and the temps start to creep up. There are daily highs of 84°F/29°C. There’s little rain, and the crowds start shrinking. You won’t regret visiting during this month. But if you arrive during Easter or Semana Santa, it’ll be super crowded. It’s a great time if you want to see the festivities. Not so much if you just want to hang on the beach.

May

Shoulder season is in full swing. You won’t have to wake up early to grab a sunbed. Expect higher temperatures of 86°F/30°C and mostly dry skies. 

Low season

June

It’s the official start of the low season. So, is June a good time to visit Puerto Vallarta? Well, not every day is a beach day due to the rain. But the city has lots to do. There is always time for fresh tacos and bar hopping. Temperatures sit at 90°F/32°C.

July

July is even wetter than June, and the temps remain the same. Think super-humidity. Beach and boat trips might be off, but it’s nice to chill in the lovely hotel pool. Margaritas in the swim-up bar? Absolutely.

August

August is still the low season, and hotel prices are usually at their bottom. It’s also hurricane season, and it will rain — trust me. Buuut, you still have daily highs of 90°F/32°C. ​​August is great if you want a last-minute deal. Even though it is the hottest month, there are worse places to spend the summer holidays. 

September

Temperatures sit around 88°F/31°C, and rain is still going strong. It’s extremely humid this month, and unsurprisingly, there are very few tourists. BUT! Mexican Independence Day is on the 16th. 

Shoulder season

October

Things start changing in October. The temps are still high at 88°F/31°C. The rains slowly die down, and it’s the Day of the Dead at the end of the month.

November

The rains are barely here, and the crowds are returning. The humidity is lower, and the temperature is around 88°F/31°C with an average low of 65°F/18°C. The Day of the Dead celebrations are still happening at the start of this month, and sunbathing and boat trips are back in business, baby.

High season

December

Cue an average temperature of 85°F/29°C, dry skies, religious festivals, busy beaches, whale-watching, and lots of happy cheer. So, is December a good time to visit Puerto Vallarta? Absolutely.

What is the best time to visit Puerto Vallarta, MX?

The big question still stands. 

In my humble opinion, November or April are the best times to go to Puerto Vallarta. 

They’re quieter yet still have blissful weather. You won’t need an umbrella as it’s dry and you won’t pay crazy prices for hotels or flights. And you might catch a few cool cultural festivals. 

However, when all is said and done, visiting Puerto Vallarta is always a good decision. Even if it’s raining.

Final thoughts on the best time to travel to Puerto Vallarta

There’s no wrong choice when it comes to the best time to travel to Puerto Vallarta. 

Seriously, it’s always a good time here. Even when the rain’s pouring, we’ve got tacos, cold drinks, a vibrant city center, and top-notch resorts. And the lightning shows are fantastic.

So, when are you coming? Let me know your travel plans in the comments. 

XO,
K❣️