Puerto Vallarta has a tropical climate, which means it's warm almost year-round. But not every month is the same: prices, crowds, surf, and rainfall change a lot. This guide helps you choose when to come based on what you're after.
The two main seasons
High season: November to April
The dry months, with temperatures between 72°F and 86°F (22-30°C), clear skies, and low humidity. This is the favorite season for Canadian and US travelers escaping winter. It's also when the whales are here.
Pros: perfect weather, calm sea, events all month, nightlife at its peak.
Cons: prices up to 40-60% higher, restaurants need reservations, beaches packed.
Low season: May to October
The hot, humid months. Temperatures of 77-91°F (25-33°C), high humidity, frequent afternoon rain (especially July-September). Rain tends to be intense but brief: it falls in the afternoon and clears up fast.
Pros: lower prices, half-empty beaches, lush green nature, more personalized service.
Cons: rougher sea, possible tropical storms (August-October), some businesses close for vacation.
Month by month
January
Most popular month. Perfect weather (72-82°F / 22-28°C), peak whale season. High prices. Book 2-3 months in advance.
February
Similar to January but with more cultural events. Valentine's Day draws couples — book restaurants weeks in advance.
March
Last whale-watching month. Easter Week may fall here or in April — avoid if you don't like crowds.
April
Transition month. Weather still excellent, fewer tourists after Easter Week. Great value-for-money.
May
A favorite of many locals. Hot but no rain yet. Prices drop noticeably. Vallarta Nayarit Gastronómica festival.
June
Rainy season starts. Humid heat. Vallarta Pride at the end of the month — big, colorful, inclusive.
July-August
Wettest and hottest months. Mexican school holidays, lots of domestic visitors. Mid-to-high prices at family hotels.
September
Quietest month of the year. Fewer tourists, heavy rain, possible hurricane. For adventurers on a tight budget.
October
Rain starts to ease. May Festivals are also celebrated here. Prices climb at the end of the month as high season begins.
November
High season begins. Spectacular weather, light crowds in the first 2 weeks. The best value-for-money window of the year.
December
Guadalupe Festivities (Dec 12) with colorful pilgrimages. Christmas and New Year's are pricey and packed. Book 4-6 months ahead.
Recommendation by travel style
- Romantic honeymoon: February or November. Perfect weather, clear sunsets.
- Family vacation: April or July (Mexican holidays) / December (international). Balance of weather and availability.
- Budget trip: May-June or September. Best prices of the year.
- Surf and water sports: July-September. Best waves.
- Whale watching: January-February. Peak season.
- Art & culture: November-March. ArtWalk active, festivals, full galleries.
Final tip
If you can come in May or November, those are the "shoulder" months with the best of both seasons: good weather, reasonable prices, and few tourists. Locals call them the "magic" months.