Best Time to Visit Puerto Vallarta: What to Expect in Every Season
Between the sapphire-blue Bay of Banderas, the green Sierra Madre mountains that cradle the city, and the warm, laid-back coastal vibe, Puerto Vallarta is one of Mexico’s most beloved destinations.
Whether you’re coming for the beaches, the food, the art scene, or the open-hearted energy that this city is known for, one question always comes up:
When is the best time to visit Puerto Vallarta?
The truth is that any time can be the best time – it just depends on what kind of experience you’re looking for!
After living in a nearby pueblo and spending years exploring this beautiful region and the country, I’ve come to appreciate what every season offers.
Here’s how the year breaks down – and how to choose the best time for you.
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High Season (December – April): Perfect Weather, Peak Energy
Best for: First-time visitors, winter escapes, whale watching, vibrant energy
Book your tour in advance if this surreal swim-through cave and hidden beach is on your bucket list!
If perfect beach weather is your top priority, December through April is the best time to visit Puerto Vallarta!
This is Vallarta’s high season, with daytime temperatures ranging between 24–29°C (75–85°F) and cooler nights that invite you to walk the Malecón or sip a drink under the stars.
Expect a lively atmosphere, packed restaurants, cultural events, and a steady stream of travelers – especially from Canada and the US.
Holiday periods like Christmas, New Year’s, and Semana Santa (Easter) are especially popular, so book accommodations in advance if you’re planning a trip during these times.
Bonus: This is also prime season for whale watching. Humpback whales migrate to the bay between December and March, and the experience is unforgettable.
Low Season (May – November): Lush, Local, and Laid-Back
Best for: Budget-conscious travelers, lush green landscapes, slower pace, local experiences
The low season in Puerto Vallarta runs from May to November – and while it’s quieter, it’s far from boring.
This is the best time in Vallarta for heat, humidity, and greenery.
Rain begins to fall in June, transforming the hills into a tropical jungle. Temperatures range from 30–34°C (86–93°F) with high humidity, especially from July through September.
The trade-off? Fewer crowds, better hotel deals, and a more relaxed local vibe.
If you’re a traveler who loves the heat and wants to experience Puerto Vallarta at a slower rhythm, this season is perfect for you!
Note: September and October are the rainiest months and carry the highest risk for tropical storms or hurricanes. While direct hits are rare, it’s good to stay informed and flexible with your travel plans.
Shoulder Seasons: May & November
Best for: Balance of weather and price, fewer crowds, photography and nature lovers
If you’re trying to find that just right moment – not too hot, not too crowded – consider the shoulder months of May and November.
- May is warm and dry, before the rains arrive. It’s a peaceful month with fewer tourists and lower prices
- November is fresh, green, and buzzing with anticipation. The rains have ended, the weather is cooling, and the city is gearing up for high season
Why Consider Traveling in the Shoulder Season
Traveling to Puerto Vallarta in the shoulder seasons (May and November) isn’t just good for your budget – it’s also a powerful way to support the local economy in a more sustainable way.
During these months, many small, Mexican-owned businesses see a dip in visitors. Restaurants, boutique hotels, tour guides, artisans, and vendors often rely on tourism income to support their families year-round – and shoulder season helps bridge the gap between the highs and lows.
By choosing to travel during this time, you’re helping:
- Local hotels and guesthouses stay open and retain staff
- Family-run restaurants and food vendors keep cooking and creating
- Artisans and craftspeople continue selling their handmade goods
- Tour operators and guides keep offering personalized, low-crowd experiences
- Communities beyond tourist zones see a more even flow of income
The vibe is slower, more relaxed – and often more intimate. Locals have more time to chat, share stories, and connect without the pressure of peak season.
It’s a beautiful time to build real relationships and experience Vallarta with more depth.
Traveling in the shoulder season is one way we can move away from extractive tourism and towards something more reciprocal, relational, and human.
Monthly Best Time to Travel Breakdown
- January – Sunny, dry, busy, whale watching in full swing
- February – Peak season continues, Carnaval celebrations and romantic escapes
- March – Spring breakers arrive, vibrant nightlife and tours
- April – Warming up, Semana Santa holidays, beautiful sunsets
- May – Start of heat, dry, quiet, budget-friendly
- June – First rains, lush hills begin to emerge
- July – Hottest month, humid, quiet beaches, local summer vibe
- August – Rainy and humid, great time for deals and solitude
- September – Rainiest month, storm risk; colourful sunsets and Día de la Independencia
- October – Still rainy, Día de Muertos preparations begin
- November – Dry, fresh, vibrant, perfect for outdoor activities and events
- December – High season begins, festivals, Christmas, whale watching
So, When Is the Best Time to Visit Puerto Vallarta?
It depends on what you’re looking for.
- Want guaranteed sunshine and fun events? January to March is perfect
- Hope to spot whales? December to March is your window
- Craving quiet beaches and lush jungle views? Try July or August
- Prefer local festivals and culture? November and February are magical
- Traveling on a budget? You’ll get the best rates in May, June, September, and October
Each season brings its own rhythm. Come when it feels right, and the city will meet you exactly where you are.
Whenever You Travel to Vallarta, Come with Intention
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer to when to visit Puerto Vallarta. The best time is when it aligns with your energy, your needs, and your curiosity.
So, whether you’re coming to dance at a beach club, dive into jungle waterfalls, or simply sit by the sea with a cold coconut in hand – Vallarta is ready for you.
Travel with heart. Respect the land. Show up ready for Mexico’s magic!
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