Best Time to Visit Puerto Vallarta Mexico

Puerto Vallarta is known for its stunning beaches, vibrant culture and exciting nightlife. But when is the best time to visit Puerto Vallarta and enjoy all that it has to offer? Explore the different factors that can affect your travel experience, such as weather, prices, events, and activities, to help you decide when to plan your trip.

Puerto Vallarta Weather

Puerto Vallarta has a tropical climate, which means it is hot and humid all year round. However, there are some variations depending on the season. The average temperature ranges from 21.8 °C (71.3 °F) in February, the coldest month, to 28.6 °C (83.4 °F) in August, the hottest month. The sea temperature is also warm enough for swimming throughout the year, reaching 30 °C (86 °F) in August.

PUERTO VALLARTA WEATHER

Puerto Vallarta rainy season lasts from June to October, with September being the wettest month with an average of 370 mm (14.6 inches) of rainfall. During this time, you can expect thunderstorms and showers, especially in the afternoon and evening. However, the rain usually does not last long and the sun often comes out afterwards. The advantage of traveling during the rainy season is that the landscape is greener and more lush, and there are fewer tourists and lower prices.

The dry season lasts from November to May, with March and April being the driest months with no rainfall. During this time, you can enjoy clear skies and sunny days, but also be prepared for higher temperatures and humidity. The advantage of traveling during the dry season is that you can avoid the rain and enjoy more outdoor activities and events.

Prices

Puerto Vallarta is a popular destination for both domestic and international travelers, which means that prices can vary depending on the demand and availability. Generally speaking, the high season runs from mid-December to mid-April, coinciding with the dry season and the winter holidays in North America and Europe. During this time, you can expect higher prices for flights, hotels, tours and activities. However, you can also enjoy a festive atmosphere and a variety of events and attractions.

The low season runs from mid-April to mid-December, coinciding with the rainy season and the summer holidays in North America and Europe. During this time, you can expect lower prices for flights, hotels, tours and activities. However, you may also encounter some rain and fewer events and attractions.

The shoulder season runs from mid-November to mid-December and from mid-April to mid-May, bridging the gap between the high and low seasons. During this time, you can enjoy moderate prices and weather conditions, as well as fewer crowds and more availability.

Puerto Vallarta Events

There are many Puerto Vallarta events throughout the year that showcase its rich culture and history. Some of the most notable are:

Festival Gourmet International

This is an annual event that takes place in November and celebrates the culinary arts of Puerto Vallarta. It features renowned chefs from around the world who offer cooking classes, wine tastings, special menus and gala dinners at various restaurants and hotels.

Festival of Our Lady of Guadalupe

This is a religious festival that takes place from December 1st to 12th and honors the patron saint of Mexico. It features processions, fireworks, music and dancing in the streets of downtown Puerto Vallarta.

New Year’s Eve

This is a festive occasion that takes place on December 31st and welcomes the new year with fireworks, parties and live music along the Malecon boardwalk.

Whale Watching Season

This is a natural phenomenon that takes place from December to March and attracts thousands of humpback whales who migrate to the warm waters of Banderas Bay to mate and give birth. You can join a whale watching tour or a sailing excursion to see these majestic creatures up close.

Cinco de Mayo

This is a national holiday that takes place on May 5th and commemorates the victory of Mexico over France at the Battle of Puebla in 1862. It features patriotic displays, cultural performances and festive food and drinks.

Puerto Vallarta Pride

This is an annual event that takes place in May or June and celebrates the LGBTQ+ community of Puerto Vallarta. It features parties, concerts, art exhibitions, film screenings and a pride parade along the Malecon boardwalk.

Things to do

The best time to visit Puerto Vallarta depends on your personal preferences and budget. You can choose between the dry season or the rainy season, the high season or the low season, or the shoulder season that offers a balance between both. You can also plan your trip around the events that interest you most or the activities that suit you best. Whatever you decide, you will have an unforgettable time in Puerto Vallarta!