Key Takeaways
- Best Overall Time:
April to June offers the best weather in Puerto Vallarta, with sunny days, fewer crowds, and ideal conditions for outdoor activities. - Low Season Perks:
Traveling from July to September means fewer tourists and lower prices, though you can expect short afternoon rains. - Seasonal Highlights:
Winter is perfect for whale watching and outdoor adventures, while summer offers warm ocean waters for snorkeling and diving.
Wondering when is the best time to visit Puerto Vallarta? The answer depends on what kind of experience you’re looking for. With warm weather all year round, this Pacific coast destination offers something special in every season — from sunny beach days and whale watching to lush green landscapes during the rainy months.
In this guide, you’ll discover the best time to go to Puerto Vallarta based on weather, crowds, and top activities, so you can plan the perfect trip.
Why Puerto Vallarta Is a Perfect Year-Round Destination?
Puerto Vallarta is an incredible place to stay on Mexico’s Pacific coast. With impressive resorts, charming beaches, and a countless array of things to do, Puerto Vallarta has all you need. Puerto Vallarta weather is warm all year round and varies very little temperature-wise, making a perfect place for a tropical beach getaway. The destination is located at the foot of the Sierra Madre Occidental mountain range, is worth seeing on a tour of the Sierra Madre Waterfalls in Huatulco.
The weather varies about 10 degrees throughout the year, with highs ranging from 84°F in January to 93°F in August. Low temperatures vary from 62°F in January to 73°F in August. Generally you’ll find the best Puerto Vallarta weather from April to June. The destination’s rainy season is from July through September. Most coastal destinations’ rainy season coincide with their hurricane seasons, but, thanks to the protection of Banderas Bay, hurricanes are very rare here.
When to Enjoy Great Puerto Vallarta Weather?
The best time of year to visit Puerto Vallarta depends on what criteria are most important for you. If you prefer a more temperate climate, then December through May will be ideal for you. During this period average highs are below 86°F, and the evenings are comfortably cool. If you’re traveling with children, April and May and great months to visit, depending on when Easter falls. This is after the Spring Break party people have gone back home, and yet before the rainy season and Mexican public holidays.
Puerto Vallarta Weather during Low Season
If you prefer to avoid the crowds, then visit Puerto Vallarta during the ever-diminishing low season from late July to September. This is after the Mexican vacation and before the international high season. However, this is the aforementioned rainy season, so you’ll have to be prepared to get a little rain, mostly in the late afternoon or early evening. The rain is largely predictable, allowing you to still plan your days out and tours in Puerto Vallarta. This time of year is also great for laid-back, water-based activities like snorkeling and scuba diving. This is because the ocean is at its warmest and the visibility underwater is excellent. Don’t pass up the chance to check out the Marietas Islands National Park and the Los Arcos Marine Park!
The weather in Puerto Vallarta also has an impact on the destination’s attractiveness for fishing aficionados. During the warm summer months, you’ll find lots of tuna and grouper, with more variety from September to December. During the fall you’ll be able to catch dolphinfish, sailfish, and wahoo, as well as numerous marlin species.
When is the Best Time to Explore the Vallarta Outdoors?
When is the Best Time to Explore the Vallarta Outdoors?If you like to explore the jungle, then head to Puerto Vallarta during the cooler months from December to March. This way, you avoid possible mosquito hordes and you get to enjoy mostly clear skies. This time of year is also a perfect time to visit, as it is prime whale watching season.
You can also visit the jungle-clad Sierra Madre mountains earlier, during the fall. From late September to November the temperatures start to drop and the rain starts to fall off. The main benefit of this is the lush green landscapes you can admire and the incredible views. This period also covers a number of dates in the Mexican calendar, including the Day of the Dead and the San Pancho Patron Saint Festival. Discover the vibrant destinations of Sayulita and San Pancho, two charming spots along Riviera Nayarit.
Visit Puerto Vallarta Whenever You’d Like!
Basically, you can visit Puerto Vallarta at any time of year. There are benefits to each season, so don’t hesitate to explore outside of the main tourist times. The Puerto Vallarta weather can be more temperate during the low or shoulder seasons, and hotel rates tend to drop off as well. Plan what activities you’re looking to do, and book your time in Puerto Vallarta based on that. Whenever you come, you’re sure to have an unforgettable experience on Mexico’s Pacific coast!
FAQ
- What is the best time to visit Puerto Vallarta?
The best time to visit Puerto Vallarta is from April to June, when the weather is sunny, crowds are smaller, and conditions are ideal for exploring. - When is the rainy season in Puerto Vallarta?
The rainy season typically runs from July to September, with short, predictable showers in the afternoons. - Is Puerto Vallarta good to visit year-round?
Yes, Puerto Vallarta is a year-round destination, with each season offering unique experiences like whale watching in winter or water activities in summer.
