Puerto Vallarta enjoys a great tropical climate all year-round, average daytime temperatures of 80ºF (27°C) and cooler evening temperatures during the winter months. Summers are sunny with afternoon rains, just enough to cool things off so you can enjoy your evening activities.
December to February (winter months)
Daytime: temperate and you can easily wear light clothes.
Nighttime: if you are from the area you put on some warmer clothes like a light sweater, a cotton jacket or a long-sleeve shirt, but if you are from a cold climate, you’ll be fine with short sleeves.
March to June
Very light clothes, this period is hotter than the winter months with some wind, careful with short light skirts.
Temperatures in Puerto Vallarta
July to mid-October
The rainy season begins, bring rain clothes or an umbrella which is better so you don’t have an extra layer in this hot humid weather. Get a cheap umbrella in town. It’s important that you know that it does not rain all day and every day. It may rain a bit in the morning, a bit during the day and then most of it at night, it’s intermittent and for short runs, it doesn’t get in the way of touring and enjoying the area, it is actually a blessing as temperatures actually go down. Temperatures rise to around 90 – 93ºF (32 – 34 ºC) on some days, especially during August and September and it is very humid, expect to sweat quite a bit, so bring extra shirts or blouses, cold showers will be a regular treat during the day. A good tip is to bring a water spray along to cool down.
Mid-October until the beginning of December
Temperatures decrease, the rain stops, very little wind, you should use light summer clothes, you might need long sleeve clothes in the afternoon and night if you are accustomed to high temperatures. This period is great as high season hasn’t arrived yet and you can get better deals.
What to Pack Throughout the Year
January
Hat, sunglasses, light sweater, jacket or cardigan as nights can be cool. Sunscreen.
February
Hat, sunglasses, light sweater, jacket or cardigan as nights can be cool. Sunscreen.
March
Hat, sunglasses, light sweater, jacket or cardigan as nights can be cool. Sunscreen.
April
Hat, sunglasses, light sweater, jacket or cardigan as nights can be cool. Sunscreen.
May
Hat, sunglasses, light sweater, jacket or cardigan as nights can be cool. Sunscreen.
June
Light, cool clothing, hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, travel umbrella for nightly rains, long sleeved shirt, jacket or cardigan for air-conditioned restaurants.
July
Light, cool clothing, hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, travel umbrella, long sleeved shirt, jacket or cardigan for air-conditioned restaurants.
August
Light, cool clothing, hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, travel umbrella for nightly rains, long sleeved shirt, jacket or cardigan for air-conditioned restaurants.
September
Light, cool clothing, hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, travel umbrella for nightly rains, long sleeved shirt, jacket or cardigan for air-conditioned restaurants.
October
Light, cool clothing, hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, travel umbrella for nightly rains, long sleeved shirt, jacket or cardigan for cooler evenings or air-conditioned areas. This month sees the end of the rainy season.
November
Light, cool clothing, hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, for warm sunny days; light sweater, jacket or cardigan as nights can be cool.
December
Light, cool clothing, hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, for warm sunny days; light sweater, jacket or cardigan as nights can be cool.
More in our weather section.
FAQ
- What is the safest part of Puerto Vallarta to stay in?
The Marina and the Romantic Zone are considered some of the safest areas to stay in Puerto Vallarta. Both areas are popular among tourists and offer a variety of accommodations, restaurants, and attractions. The Marina is known for its upscale atmosphere, luxury resorts, and high-end shops and restaurants. It has a very secure, controlled environment with 24/7 security personnel. The Romantic Zone offers a more authentic Mexican experience with cobblestone streets, colorful colonial buildings, and a vibrant mix of galleries, cafes, and bars. As a central tourist area, it also has a strong police presence and is considered very safe.
- Where do locals go in Puerto Vallarta?
Locals in Puerto Vallarta enjoy spending time at the city’s beautiful beaches, scenic parks, and lively local markets. Popular beach spots include Playa de Oro, Playa Las Animas, and Playa Camarones for their soft sand and calm waters. Many locals visit the Vallarta Botanical Gardens to enjoy the lush vegetation and hiking trails. They also frequent authentic local food venues like Birrieria las 3 Regiones taco stand, cafes like Cafecito Vallarta, and neighborhood bars like La Cerveceria Union. The downtown Lazaro Cardenas market is a favorite for produce, spices, crafts.
- Is Downtown Puerto Vallarta nice?
Yes, downtown Puerto Vallarta is an exceptionally nice and popular area, celebrated for its vibrant mix of historic Mexican charm and a lively beach town atmosphere. It features a picturesque historic center with cobblestone streets, colorful buildings, and the iconic Parish of Our Lady of Guadalupe church. The downtown seamlessly blends into the scenic Malecón, a beautiful oceanfront boardwalk lined with fascinating sculptures, shops, and restaurants, making it perfect for strolling and enjoying the stunning ocean views.
The area offers an excellent variety of dining, from upscale restaurants to authentic street food, along with fantastic shopping in boutiques and art galleries. Adjacent to the main center is the popular Zona Romántica (Romantic Zone), known for its trendy vibe and energetic nightlife. The entire downtown is considered safe and is very walkable, allowing visitors to easily explore its captivating blend of culture, cuisine, and coastal beauty on foot.
Tip: For an unforgettable experience, head down to the Malecón or any beachfront spot about 30 minutes before the scheduled sundown to watch the spectacular sunset over the bay.
- What is considered old town in Puerto Vallarta?
Old Town, also known as the Romantic Zone or Zona Romántica, is considered the historic heart of Puerto Vallarta. It is characterized by its picturesque cobblestone streets, classic whitewashed buildings, red-tiled roofs, and a lively mix of shops, galleries, restaurants and bars. Nestled between the Sierra Madre mountains and Banderas Bay, Old Town has a traditional Mexican village charm with its colonial architecture and slower pace compared to the rest of Puerto Vallarta. Its romantic ambience comes from the area’s natural beauty, outdoor cafes, and charming boutique hotels. Old Town offers visitors a taste of an authentic Mexican neighborhood.
Book tours & support us
- Best prices
- 100% Local Support
- 2 decades+ of experience in Puerto Vallarta
Puerto Vallarta news, tips & content
- New info every two weeks
- Free content, news, videos
- Unsubscribe at any time
Contact us via WhatsApp
- Talk with our reservations expert
- Real local and human support
- Book tours, hotels, transfers, and more.
Share this article, choose your favorite option!
