Quick verdict
Peak season: Jan–Apr, Nov–Dec. Shoulder: May, Oct. Low: Jun–Sep.
Puerto Vallarta has a tropical wet-and-dry climate — dry season (November-May) is sunny and warm, wet season (June-October) is hot and humid with daily afternoon thunderstorms.
What's the weather like in Puerto Vallarta by month?
Each month classified as peak (best balance of weather and value), shoulder (a step in either direction), or low season.
Why visit Puerto Vallarta during Jan–Apr, Nov–Dec?
Excellent — dry, sunny, temperatures rising through the season. April and May are particularly pleasant.
Shoulder season (May, Oct) trades a small weather concession for noticeably smaller crowds and softer prices — often the sweet spot for travelers who want flexibility.
Low season (Jun–Sep) is when prices fall hardest. Expect weather extremes (heat, humidity, cold, or rain depending on the destination) and reduced hours at some seasonal businesses, but the trade-off can be worth it if budget or solitude matters more than perfect conditions.
What festivals and events happen in Puerto Vallarta?
- Vallarta PrideMay
The largest LGBTQ+ Pride celebration in Latin America — week-long parties, parade, and events centred on the Romantic Zone. Books out hotels months ahead.
- Día de los Muertos1-2 November
Day of the Dead — altars (ofrendas) throughout the Romantic Zone and Malecón, the "Catrina" parade in central PV, the Cuale Cultural Centre stages a major altar exhibition.
- Festival Gourmet InternationalNovember
Two-week food festival featuring Michelin-starred guest chefs at PV's top restaurants; the most prestigious culinary event on the Pacific coast.
- Festival of the Virgin of Guadalupe1-12 December
Twelve days of nightly processions to Our Lady of Guadalupe Church — neighbourhoods, businesses, and schools each take a night to walk down to the church singing hymns. Genuinely Mexican religious occasion.
- Restaurant WeekMay
Two weeks of fixed-price tasting menus at PV's top restaurants (MX$450-750 for 3 courses) — the chance to eat at expensive places at half-price.
Cooler & warmer in North America this November
If Puerto Vallarta's November weather isn't your match, here are the closest North America alternatives at different temperatures. Distances are from Puerto Vallarta.
Cooler
See the full ranked list: All North America destinations in November →
Frequently asked
When is the best time to visit Puerto Vallarta?
The best time to visit Puerto Vallarta is Jan–Apr, Nov–Dec. Puerto Vallarta has a tropical wet-and-dry climate — dry season (November-May) is sunny and warm, wet season (June-October) is hot and humid with daily afternoon thunderstorms. These months balance comfortable weather, manageable crowds, and prices that haven't yet hit peak-season highs.
When is the cheapest time to visit Puerto Vallarta?
Low-season months in Puerto Vallarta run Jun–Sep. Flights and hotels typically run 20-40% cheaper than peak. The trade-off is weather (which is why these months are off-peak) and some businesses operating shorter hours, especially in smaller seasonal destinations.
What's the weather like in Puerto Vallarta year-round?
Summer averages around 28°C (82°F) and winter averages around 22°C (72°F) in Puerto Vallarta. Puerto Vallarta has a tropical wet-and-dry climate — dry season (November-May) is sunny and warm, wet season (June-October) is hot and humid with daily afternoon thunderstorms. Hurricanes are rare (Banderas Bay's mountain wall provides some shelter) but the September-October peak season has occurred. Sea temperature stays 25-29°C year-round.
What festivals or events are happening in Puerto Vallarta?
Notable events in Puerto Vallarta: Vallarta Pride (May); Día de los Muertos (1-2 November); Festival Gourmet International (November). The largest LGBTQ+ Pride celebration in Latin America — week-long parties, parade, and events centred on the Romantic Zone. Books out hotels months ahead.
How many days do I need in Puerto Vallarta?
Most travelers spend 3-5 days in Puerto Vallarta, which covers the main neighborhoods, top attractions, and a half-day day trip. Add a day if you're visiting during peak season when crowds slow you down, or if you're combining Puerto Vallarta with nearby destinations.
More peak-season picks for Puerto Vallarta's best months
See every destination at its peak in each of Puerto Vallarta's best months.
Full guide
Puerto Vallarta travel guide →
Cost, food, neighborhoods, transit, and hand-picked things to do.
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