Puerto Vallarta is a gorgeous Mexican beach destination on the Pacific coast that attracts travelers throughout the year for its delightful scenery. Puerto Vallarta has a season for everyone: sunbathers, jungle explorers, and fiesta lovers; it all takes place at different times throughout the year. Here are the best times to visit Puerto Vallarta by climate, crowd, and seasonal attractions to help you plan your ideal trip.
Winter: December to March
Puerto Vallarta gets a lot of visitors in the winter months when colder areas of the world are braving the cold. At this time, the weather is perfect, with temperatures hovering between 70 to 80 degrees F. Ideal for beach days, sightseeing, and outdoor activities with clear blue skies and very low humidity.
Puerto Vallarta has another attraction during winter: whale watching. During this time, Humpback whales migrate to Banderas Bay, making for exciting views. A variety of whale-watching excursions are offered to get an up-close look at these lovely beasts. Winter is the peak season, so travelers should book their lodgings in advance as hotel and flight prices usually increase.
Spring: April to June
Puerto Vallarta highs in the spring season range from the mid-80s to low-90s as temperatures warm on the coast. April is often a favorite as it generally retains the pleasant dry weather of winter. This is an ideal time to visit, as visitors will be treated to quieter beaches and fewer crowds as the peak season comes to a close, making it perfect for those for whom a more laid-back vacation is desired.
Things begin to heat up through May and June, with the rains starting to arrive through June. But rain usually happens during the late afternoons or evenings, so there is a lot of time for beaching and sightseeing during the days. It is also the season of the turtles, with baby sea turtles hatching and making their way to the ocean, a treat for nature lovers.
Summer: July to September
Puerto Vallarta experiences hot weather and high humidity in the summer months. Its average temperatures are in the low to mid-90s, and the rainy season is in full swing, with afternoon showers almost every day. The summer months keep away the timid but pull-in bargain hunters. Since many hotels and resorts have huge discounts on offer, summer is a very economical time to visit one.
Summer is also a time of year that grass lovers enjoy as well. With the rain, Puerto Vallarta becomes a green paradise, and the rivers and waterfalls rage with power. It is the best month for doing eco-tourism activities like jungle tours, river rafting, and hiking. Although rain is prevalent, it rarely hinders daytime activities when showers are often fleeting.
Fall: October to November
Puerto Vallarta in the fall is a transitionary period where temperatures start to cool down and the rainy season is winding down. October is still warm; however, from November on, the climate is quite pleasant, with temperatures in the mid-80s. November is also one of the more comfortable months in Puerto Vallarta for a visit as the humidity sinks.
This is an ideal time for travelers wishing for a more tranquil experience without the winter’s steep rates. Coated in crisp fall foliage, the crowds are fewer, and prices are lower, making it easy to enjoy popular locations in a much more peaceful fashion. November also ushers in the annual Day of the Dead celebrations in Puerto Vallarta, complete with elaborate altars, parades, and events decorated throughout the city. It offers visitors an authentic insight into Mexican culture and is a must-see for people visiting during this time.
Choosing the Right Time for Your Visit
Puerto Vallarta has a distinct personality in a given season–the bursting sunshine of beach days in winter, all the vibrant colors of summer, and the celebration of culture in fall.
