Puerto Vallarta weather offers visitors a tropical paradise with sunshine most of the year.
This popular Mexican beach destination enjoys a climate that makes it ideal for vacations in any season.
Located on Mexico’s Pacific Coast in Jalisco, Puerto Vallarta’s weather patterns are predictable, making planning your perfect getaway easy.
We break down Puerto Vallarta’s weather month by month, helping you choose the best time to visit based on your preferences.
January: Perfect Weather in High Season
January brings some of the best weather to Puerto Vallarta.
The pleasant and comfortable temperatures make it a popular time for tourists escaping colder northern climates.
Temperature and Humidity
- Average high temperature: 77°F (25°C)
- Average low temperature: 64°F (18°C)
- Water temperature: Around 75°F (24°C)
- Humidity: Relatively low at around 60%
Rainfall and Sunshine
- Rainfall: Minimal with only about 0.8 inches (20mm) for the month
- Rain days: Only 1-2 days with any measurable precipitation
- Sunshine hours: About 8-9 hours of bright sunshine daily
- UV index: High, sunscreen is essential
What to Pack
For January in Puerto Vallarta, bring:
- Light clothing for daytime
- A light sweater or jacket for evenings
- Swimwear for beach days
- Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen)
- Walking shoes for exploring
Activities and Events
January is perfect for:
- Beach activities and swimming
- Whale watching (peak season)
- Outdoor dining
- City tours and excursions
- Fishing trips
The excellent weather makes January one of the busiest months in Puerto Vallarta, so expect higher prices and more crowds at popular attractions.
February: Sunny Days and Cool Evenings
February continues the trend of ideal weather in Puerto Vallarta.
The days are sunny and warm while the evenings remain pleasantly cool.
Temperature and Humidity
- Average high temperature: 77°F (25°C)
- Average low temperature: 64°F (18°C)
- Water temperature: Around 74°F (23°C)
- Humidity: Slightly lower than January, around 55-60%
Rainfall and Sunshine
- Rainfall: Very minimal, about 0.6 inches (15mm) for the month
- Rain days: Usually only 1 day with measurable rain
- Sunshine hours: 9-10 hours of bright sunshine daily
- Sky conditions: Clear blue skies most days
What to Pack
February packing should include:
- Light, breathable clothing
- Light sweater for evenings
- Beachwear and swimming gear
- Sun protection
- Comfortable walking shoes
Activities and Events
February is excellent for:
- All beach activities
- Whale watching tours (still peak season)
- Valentine’s Day celebrations (if visiting mid-month)
- Hiking in the Sierra Madre mountains
- Shopping in the Malecon area
February falls during the high tourist season, so booking accommodations and tours in advance is recommended.
March: Warming Temperatures and Clear Skies
March begins with slightly warmer temperatures while maintaining the dry, sunny conditions that make Puerto Vallarta famous.
Temperature and Humidity
- Average high temperature: 79°F (26°C)
- Average low temperature: 66°F (19°C)
- Water temperature: Rising to around 75°F (24°C)
- Humidity: Beginning to rise, around 65%
Rainfall and Sunshine
- Rainfall: Still very minimal, about 0.4 inches (10mm)
- Rain days: 0-1 days with any precipitation
- Sunshine hours: 10+ hours daily
- UV index: Very high, sun protection crucial
What to Pack
For March visits, bring:
- Light, summer clothing
- Minimal warm layers (maybe one light sweater)
- Multiple swimsuits
- Strong sunscreen (SPF 50+)
- Hat and sunglasses
Activities and Events
March is excellent for:
- Extended beach time
- End of whale watching season
- Snorkeling and diving
- Day trips to nearby villages
- Restaurant hopping in the evening
March often coincides with Spring Break, bringing younger crowds to certain resorts and beach areas.
April: Increasing Warmth Before Rainy Season
April brings warmer temperatures to Puerto Vallarta as the dry season begins to transition.
It’s the last month before humidity starts increasing significantly.
Temperature and Humidity
- Average high temperature: 82°F (28°C)
- Average low temperature: 70°F (21°C)
- Water temperature: Around 77°F (25°C)
- Humidity: Increasing, around 70%
Rainfall and Sunshine
- Rainfall: Slight increase to about 0.6 inches (15mm)
- Rain days: 1-2 days with brief showers
- Sunshine hours: Still abundant at 9-10 hours daily
- Weather patterns: Occasional late afternoon quick showers
What to Pack
April visitors should bring:
- Very light, breathable clothing
- Minimal layers
- Multiple swimsuits
- Waterproof sunscreen
- A small umbrella or light rain jacket (just in case)
Activities and Events
April is ideal for:
- Beach lounging
- Swimming and water sports
- Easter celebrations (if Easter falls in April)
- Fishing excursions
- Sunset cruises
April begins shoulder season, with slightly fewer tourists and more moderate prices than peak months.
May: Transition to Rainy Season
May represents a transition month in Puerto Vallarta as the dry season ends and the region prepares for summer rains.
Temperatures climb while humidity starts becoming more noticeable.
Temperature and Humidity
- Average high temperature: 86°F (30°C)
- Average low temperature: 73°F (23°C)
- Water temperature: Warming to 79°F (26°C)
- Humidity: Higher, around 75-80%
Rainfall and Sunshine
- Rainfall: Increasing to about 0.8 inches (20mm)
- Rain days: 3-4 days with afternoon showers
- Sunshine hours: Still plenty at 8-9 hours daily
- Weather pattern: Sunny mornings, possible afternoon showers
What to Pack
For May in Puerto Vallarta, bring:
- The lightest clothing possible
- Quick-dry fabrics
- Swimwear
- Rain protection
- Waterproof bag for electronics
Activities and Events
May is good for:
- Morning beach activities
- Indoor activities in the afternoon
- Cinco de Mayo celebrations (early month)
- Shopping in air-conditioned malls
- Restaurant exploration
May offers good value for travelers, with lower hotel rates and fewer crowds before the summer vacation season begins.
June: Beginning of Rainy Season
June marks the official start of the rainy season in Puerto Vallarta.
The weather becomes noticeably more humid, and afternoon storms become regular occurrences.
Temperature and Humidity
- Average high temperature: 88°F (31°C)
- Average low temperature: 75°F (24°C)
- Water temperature: Around 82°F (28°C)
- Humidity: High, often 80-85%
Rainfall and Sunshine
- Rainfall: Increases significantly to about 6 inches (150mm)
- Rain days: 10-12 days with precipitation
- Sunshine hours: 6-7 hours daily
- Weather pattern: Sunny mornings, afternoon, and evening thunderstorms
What to Pack
June visitors should pack:
- Very lightweight clothing
- Quick-dry fabrics
- Waterproof footwear
- Rain jacket or poncho
- Waterproof phone case
Activities and Events
June is suitable for:
- Morning beach visits
- Indoor activities like museums and art galleries
- Swimming (ocean is very warm)
- Restaurant dining
- Shopping between rain showers
June offers excellent value with significantly lower hotel rates and fewer international tourists, though you’ll need to plan around afternoon rain.
July: Heart of the Rainy Season
With hot temperatures and regular rainfall, July brings the full rainy season experience to Puerto Vallarta.
The rain typically comes in heavy afternoon bursts rather than all-day drizzles.
Temperature and Humidity
- Average high temperature: 90°F (32°C)
- Average low temperature: 76°F (24°C)
- Water temperature: Very warm at 84°F (29°C)
- Humidity: Very high, often 85-90%
Rainfall and Sunshine
- Rainfall: Heavy at about 10 inches (250mm) for the month
- Rain days: 15-18 days with precipitation
- Sunshine hours: 5-6 hours daily, mostly in the morning
- Weather pattern: Bright mornings, afternoon downpours
What to Pack
July packing essentials include:
- The lightest possible clothing
- Multiple changes of clothes for humid conditions
- Good rain gear
- Waterproof bags
- Insect repellent
Activities and Events
July is best for:
- Early morning activities
- Indoor attractions
- Swimming (between rain showers)
- Restaurant sampling
- Spa treatments
July visitors benefit from the lowest hotel rates of the year and can find excellent deals on accommodations, though outdoor activities require flexible scheduling.
August: Peak Rainfall Month
August continues the pattern of hot, humid weather with frequent rainfall.
This is typically the month with the highest precipitation in Puerto Vallarta.
Temperature and Humidity
- Average high temperature: 90°F (32°C)
- Average low temperature: 76°F (24°C)
- Water temperature: Very warm at 85°F (29°C)
- Humidity: Extremely high, 85-90%
Rainfall and Sunshine
- Rainfall: Heaviest of the year at about 12 inches (300mm)
- Rain days: 18-20 days with some precipitation
- Sunshine hours: 5-6 hours daily, primarily morning
- Weather pattern: Sunny mornings, afternoon, and evening storms
What to Pack
August visitors should bring:
- Minimal, lightweight clothing
- Extra changes of clothes
- Quality rain gear
- Waterproof phone and camera protection
- Anti-humidity hair products
Activities and Events
August is appropriate for:
- Indoor shopping
- Museum visits
- Morning beach time
- Restaurant exploration
- Spa days
August offers the best hotel deals of the year, with many properties offering significant discounts to attract visitors during this wet month.
September: Continuing High Humidity
September maintains the pattern of hot, humid days with regular rainfall, though precipitation begins to decrease slightly from August’s peak.
Temperature and Humidity
- Average high temperature: 90°F (32°C)
- Average low temperature: 75°F (24°C)
- Water temperature: Remains warm at 85°F (29°C)
- Humidity: Still very high, 80-85%
Rainfall and Sunshine
- Rainfall: Still heavy but decreasing to about 10 inches (250mm)
- Rain days: 15-16 days with precipitation
- Sunshine hours: Increasing to 6-7 hours daily
- Weather pattern: Sunny mornings, afternoon rain less guaranteed
What to Pack
September packing should include:
- Lightweight clothing
- Quick-dry fabrics
- Rain protection
- Waterproof bags
- Cooling products for comfort
Activities and Events
September is suitable for:
- Indoor and morning activities
- Mexican Independence Day celebrations (mid-month)
- Restaurant sampling (many offer rainy season specials)
- Shopping
- Cultural tours
September is a low-season month with excellent hotel deals and fewer tourists, making it good for budget travelers who don’t mind working around rain showers.
October: Transition Away from Rainy Season
October marks the beginning of the transition back to drier weather.
While still receiving significant rainfall, the storms’ frequency and intensity decrease.
Temperature and Humidity
- Average high temperature: 88°F (31°C)
- Average low temperature: 73°F (23°C)
- Water temperature: Staying warm at 84°F (29°C)
- Humidity: Decreasing slightly to 75-80%
Rainfall and Sunshine
- Rainfall: Decreasing to about 4 inches (100mm)
- Rain days: 8-10 days with precipitation
- Sunshine hours: Increasing to 7-8 hours daily
- Weather pattern: More sunny days, fewer guaranteed afternoon showers
What to Pack
October visitors should bring:
- Lightweight clothing
- Light rain gear
- Beach attire
- Sun protection
- Evening layer for slightly cooler nights
Activities and Events
October is good for:
- More reliable outdoor activities
- Beach time
- Day of the Dead preparations (late month)
- Boat tours
- Hiking (as trails dry out)
October represents a good value month with decreasing rain and increasing sunshine while offering lower season prices.
November: Return of Dry Season
November marks the clear return to the dry season in Puerto Vallarta.
Rainfall drops dramatically, humidity decreases, and temperatures become more moderate.
Temperature and Humidity
- Average high temperature: 84°F (29°C)
- Average low temperature: 70°F (21°C)
- Water temperature: Slightly cooler at 82°F (28°C)
- Humidity: Much lower, around 70%
Rainfall and Sunshine
- Rainfall: Minimal at about 1 inch (25mm)
- Rain days: Only 2-3 days with any precipitation
- Sunshine hours: Abundant at 8-9 hours daily
- Weather pattern: Consistently sunny days, clear evenings
What to Pack
November packing list should include:
- Light daytime clothing
- Light sweater for evenings
- Beach gear
- Sun protection
- Walking shoes for exploring
Activities and Events
November is excellent for:
- Full-day outdoor activities
- Beach time
- Day of the Dead celebrations (early month)
- Whale watching (season begins)
- Outdoor dining
November brings the beginning of high season with perfect weather, though prices increase and bookings become more important.
December: Start of Peak Tourist Season
December brings the return of perfect weather conditions and the beginning of the busiest tourist season in Puerto Vallarta.
Temperature and Humidity
- Average high temperature: 79°F (26°C)
- Average low temperature: 66°F (19°C)
- Water temperature: Around 79°F (26°C)
- Humidity: Comfortable at 65%
Rainfall and Sunshine
- Rainfall: Very minimal at about 0.8 inches (20mm)
- Rain days: Only 1-2 days with any precipitation
- Sunshine hours: 8-9 hours of bright sunshine daily
- Weather pattern: Consistently clear and sunny
What to Pack
December visitors should bring:
- Light clothing for daytime
- Light sweater or jacket for evenings
- Swimwear
- Sun protection
- One warmer layer for cooler evenings
Activities and Events
December is perfect for:
- All outdoor activities
- Beach days
- Holiday celebrations
- Whale watching (good season)
- Shopping at markets for gifts
December brings holiday crowds and higher prices, especially during Christmas and New Year’s weeks when reservations are essential.
Best Time to Visit Puerto Vallarta: Weather Summary
After reviewing Puerto Vallarta’s weather month by month, here’s a summary to help you choose the best time for your visit:
Dry Season (November to May)
- Pros: Minimal rainfall, comfortable humidity, perfect beach weather
- Cons: Higher prices, more tourists, cooler ocean temperatures (especially December-February)
- Best for: Beach activities, outdoor adventures, whale watching, comfortable sightseeing
Rainy Season (June to October)
- Pros: Lower prices, fewer tourists, warmest ocean temperatures, lush green landscapes
- Cons: Regular afternoon rainfall, high humidity, some outdoor activities limited
- Best for: Budget travel, quiet beaches, swimming in warm water, indoor activities
Shoulder Seasons (May and November)
- Pros: Good weather with fewer tourists, moderate prices, warm ocean
- Cons: May has an increasing rain chance, November has decreasing ocean temperatures
- Best for: Value seekers wanting good weather without peak season crowds
The perfect time to visit Puerto Vallarta depends on your priorities.
Those seeking perfect weather regardless of cost should visit during January-March.
Budget travelers willing to work around afternoon rain will find excellent values during June-September.
Those seeking a balance of good weather and reasonable prices prefer May or November.
Conclusion: Planning Your Puerto Vallarta Trip Around the Weather
Puerto Vallarta’s weather creates two distinct travel seasons, each with advantages.
The dry season from November to May offers reliable sunshine and comfortable temperatures, perfect for maximizing outdoor activities.
The rainy season from June to October provides budget-friendly options for travelers willing to plan around afternoon showers.
No matter when you visit, Puerto Vallarta offers something unique every month.
Consider your priorities—perfect weather, budget considerations, or specific activities like whale watching—and choose the month that best aligns with your ideal vacation experience.
With proper planning and the right expectations, Puerto Vallarta delivers a memorable tropical getaway in any season.
