Puerto Vallarta, located on Mexico’s Pacific Coast, is a stunning vacation destination that offers breathtaking views, incredible food, and endless outdoor activities. With warm waters, plenty of sunshine, and a plethora of attractions, it’s no wonder that this city attracts visitors from all over the world. However, choosing the best time to visit Puerto Vallarta can be a daunting task. In this article, we’ll break down the different seasons and months of the year, so you can make an informed decision on when to visit this paradise.
Understanding Puerto Vallarta Weather
Before diving into the best time to visit Puerto Vallarta, it’s essential to understand the city’s climate. Puerto Vallarta has a tropical climate, with two distinct seasons – dry and rainy. The dry season typically runs from November to May, while the rainy season spans from June to October.
During the dry season, you can expect clear skies. With minimal rain, and warm days with average temperatures ranging from the low 80s to the high 80s Fahrenheit. The humidity levels tend to be lower, and there are fewer mosquitoes. This season is the high season, and you can expect more crowds and higher prices.
On the other hand, during the rainy season, you can expect heavy rainfall, and high humidity. and hot temperatures with average highs ranging from the low 90s to the high 90s Fahrenheit. The humidity levels can make it feel hotter than it is, and mosquitoes tend to be more abundant. The upside of visiting during the rainy season is that there are fewer tourists, and you can score great deals on hotels and activities.
Breaking Down the Seasons
Now that we understand the climate, let’s dive into the different seasons and months of the year in Puerto Vallarta.
Dry Season: November to May
During the dry season, which runs from November to May, the weather is typically sunny and warm, with low levels of rainfall.
November
November marks the beginning of the dry season in Puerto Vallarta, with an average high of 85°F and an average low of 67°F. The sea temperatures are still warm. Making it a great time to enjoy water activities such as swimming, snorkeling, and scuba diving. There are also fewer tourists, and prices are relatively low compared to peak season.
December
December is one of the most popular months to visit Puerto Vallarta due to the Christmas and New Year holidays. With an average high of 82°F and an average low of 63°F, it’s still warm enough to enjoy outdoor activities. The sea temperature remains warm, and there are plenty of sunny days to explore the city.
January
January is the driest month of the year, making it an excellent time to visit if you want to avoid the rain. With an average high of 80°F and an average low of 59°F, it’s a great time to spend time outdoors. The sea temperatures are still warm, and there are plenty of humpback whales to spot.
February
February is a great time to visit if you’re looking for warm weather with fewer crowds. With an average high of 81°F and an average low of 59°F, it’s still warm enough to enjoy the beach and outdoor activities. The sea temperatures are also warm, making it a great time for snorkeling and scuba diving.
March
March is the start of the spring months, and the weather begins to warm up. With an average high of 84°F and an average low of 62°F, it’s a great time to visit if you’re looking for a warm and sunny vacation. The sea temperatures are still warm, and it’s the beginning of the sea turtle hatching season.
April
April is a great time to visit Puerto Vallarta if you’re looking for excellent weather and fewer crowds. With an average high of 86°F and an average low of 65°F, it’s warm enough to enjoy outdoor activities, but not too hot to be uncomfortable. The sea temperatures are still warm, and it’s a great time to spot manta rays and whale sharks.
May
May marks the end of the dry season in Puerto Vallarta, and the temperatures start to rise. With an average high of 88°F and an average low of 70°F, it’s a great time to hit the beach and enjoy the warm waters. The sea temperatures are still warm, making it a great time for water activities.
Rainy Season: June to October
During this time, the city experiences a significant increase in rainfall, with the wettest months being July, August, and September. The average rainfall during this time can range from 5 to 14 inches per month. Although it can be wetter during the rainy season, there are still plenty of sunny days to enjoy.
June
June marks the beginning of the rainy season, and the temperatures start to rise. With an average high of 90°F and an average low of 74°F, it can be hot and humid. However, the sea temperatures are still warm, and it’s a great time to enjoy water activities. You can also expect great deals on hotels and activities, as it’s the low season.
July
July is one of the wettest months of the year in Puerto Vallarta, with an average of 15 rainy days. However, with an average high of 90°F and an average low of 74°F, it’s still warm enough to enjoy outdoor activities. The sea temperatures remain warm, making it a great time for snorkeling and scuba diving.
August
August is the hottest month of the year in Puerto Vallarta, with an average high of 91°F and an average low of 75°F. It can be hot and humid, but the warm waters make it a great time for water activities. You can also expect fewer tourists and lower prices during this time.
September
September is the peak of the hurricane season in Puerto Vallarta, so it’s not the best time to visit. With an average high of 89°F and an average low of 74°F, it’s still warm, but the heavy rains and tropical storms can put a damper on outdoor activities. It’s also the least humid month of the year.
October
October marks the end of the rainy season in Puerto Vallarta, and the weather starts to improve. With an average high of 87°F and an average low of 71°F, it’s still warm enough to enjoy outdoor activities. The sea temperatures are still warm, and it’s a great time to spot humpback whales.
Factors to Consider When Planning Your Visit to Puerto Vallarta
Puerto Vallarta is a beautiful destination that attracts visitors from all over the world. However, before you plan your trip, there are a few factors you should consider to ensure that you have the best possible experience.
Weather
The weather in Puerto Vallarta varies throughout the year, with the dry season (November to May) being the most popular time to visit. However, if you don’t mind a little rain, the rainy season (June to October) can also be a great time to visit, as the landscape is lush and green.
Crowds
Puerto Vallarta can get very crowded during peak season (December to April), with hotel prices and airfares rising accordingly. If you prefer to avoid crowds, consider visiting during the low season (June to October), when there are fewer tourists and better deals on accommodations.
Activities
What you want to do on your vacation can also influence the best time to visit Puerto Vallarta. For example, if you’re interested in whale watching, the dry season (November to May) is the best time to visit. But if you’re looking to surf, the rainy season (June to October) might be a better option.
Budget
Your budget is also an important factor to consider when planning your trip to Puerto Vallarta. Prices for accommodations, food, and activities can vary widely depending on the time of year. If you’re on a tight budget, consider traveling during the low season when prices are generally lower.
Health and Safety
It’s important to take into account any health and safety concerns when planning your trip to Puerto Vallarta. For example, hurricane season runs from June to November. And it’s important to monitor weather reports if you’re traveling during this time.
By considering these factors, you can plan a trip to Puerto Vallarta that meets your needs and expectations. Whether you visit during peak season or low season, there are always plenty of things to see and do in this beautiful city on Mexico’s Pacific coast.
Best Activities for Each Season in Puerto Vallarta
Puerto Vallarta is a vibrant and diverse city with plenty to offer visitors throughout the year. Whether you’re looking for relaxation or adventure, there are activities to suit every taste and preference. Here are some of the best activities to enjoy in each season in Puerto Vallarta.
Dry Season (November to May)
- Whale Watching: During the dry season, humpback whales migrate to the warm waters of Banderas Bay. Take a whale-watching tour for an epic experience and the chance to see these majestic creatures up close.
- Beaches: With clear skies and warm temperatures, the dry season is the perfect time to hit the beaches. Playa Los Muertos and Playa Mismaloya are two of the most popular beaches in Puerto Vallarta.
- Zip-Lining: Get your adrenaline pumping by taking a zip-lining tour through the jungle canopy. Many tour companies offer zip-lining experiences in the hills outside of Puerto Vallarta.
- Snorkeling and Scuba Diving: The warm waters of Banderas Bay offer excellent snorkeling and scuba diving opportunities. Explore the vibrant marine life and coral reefs that thrive in these waters.
Rainy Season (June to October)
- Waterfalls: With more rainfall during the rainy season, the waterfalls outside of Puerto Vallarta come to life. Visit the picturesque Cascada El Salto or the impressive Colomitos Waterfall for a refreshing escape from the heat.
- Surfing: The rainy season brings larger waves to the beaches, making it an ideal time for surfing. Playa La Lancha and Sayulita are two of the best surf spots near Puerto Vallarta.
- Cultural Festivals: The rainy season coincides with several cultural festivals in Puerto Vallarta, including the Gourmet Festival in November and the International Film Festival in March.
- Jungle Tours: The lush jungles around Puerto Vallarta are at their most vibrant during the rainy season. Take a guided tour through the jungle to see exotic wildlife and beautiful plant life.
No matter what time of year you visit Puerto Vallarta, there are plenty of activities to enjoy. Whether you prefer adventure or relaxation, this city on Mexico’s Pacific coast has something for everyone.
Which is the best time for you?
In conclusion, the best time to visit Puerto Vallarta depends on your preferences and what you’re looking for in a vacation. If you’re looking for great weather and plenty of sunshine, the dry season from November to May is the best time to visit. However, if you’re looking for fewer crowds and great deals, the rainy season from June to October is a good idea.
No matter when you visit Puerto Vallarta, you can expect excellent weather, stunning scenery, and plenty of activities to keep you busy. With strict health and safety measures in place, you can enjoy your vacation while staying safe and healthy. So pack your bags and get ready!
