Weather in Puerto Vallarta: Climate, Seasons, and Average Monthly Temperature

The weather in Puerto Vallarta is tropical, very pleasant, sunny, and warm most of the year. The summer months tend to be hotter, more humid and rainier than the other seasons, so some people prefer to avoid travel there from June to September—although it's a great time to find good deals! Peak travel time is November through March, and that’s when Puerto Vallarta’s weather is at its best. This Pacific coast destination is situated at the same latitude as Hawaii, and its weather and climate are very similar to what you would expect there. Read on for more information about the climate and temperatures in Puerto Vallarta, so you can plan the timing of your trip, what to do while you’re there, and what to pack.

Fast Climate Facts

• Hottest Months: August (83 degrees Fahrenheit / 28 degrees Celsius)
• Coldest Month: January (72 degrees Fahrenheit / 22 degrees Celsius)
• Wettest Month: September (average rainfall: 4.75 inches)
• Windiest Month: May (average wind speeds: 6 mph)
• Warmest Water Temperatures: August (86 degrees Fahrenheit / 30 degrees Celsius)

Rainy Season and Hurricanes

Rainy season in Puerto Vallarta runs from June through September—with some rain in October—and very little the rest of the year. During the rainy season, it's very rare for it to be overcast and rainy all day; usually, the rain comes in short bursts, sometimes along with thunder and lightning in the late afternoon and evening, with some sunshine peeking through during the day. Thunderstorms can be thrilling to watch from the comfort of a dry spot, and some visitors consider them as impressive as Puerto Vallarta’s legendary sunsets.

Hurricane season in Mexico lasts from June to November, but Puerto Vallarta has a low risk of being hit by hurricanes. Its location within the Bay of Banderas and backed by the Sierra Madre mountains offer the city some natural protection, so it’s unlikely to receive much damage from tropical storms.

Spring in Puerto Vallarta

The weather starts to heat up in April, and by May, you’ll see average highs in the mid-80s Fahrenheit. Tourist crowds lessen in the springtime with a couple of notable exceptions: Mexican tourists descend on Mexico’s beach destinations en masse during the Easter holidays, so be aware and make reservations early if you’ll be visiting at that time. Puerto Vallarta also receives some spring breakers, although they usually stick to a couple of resorts (and the nightclubs) and don’t take over the whole city.

What to pack: Bring your warm-weather clothing and beachwear, as well as a few dressier outfits for evening outings. You may want to carry a sweater or shawl for indoor spaces with air conditioning, but you likely won’t need it outside. Don’t forget to pack sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat.

Summer in Puerto Vallarta

Puerto Vallarta is hot and rainy during the summertime. You can expect highs in the 90s, and it tends to be quite humid, although rain mostly falls in the afternoon and at night, so it won’t necessarily interfere with any of your sightseeing plans. You’ll find the best deals on airfares and hotel rates at this time of year, so it can be an excellent time to visit if you're looking for a budget getaway, and as a bonus, you'll avoid the high season crowds. A few restaurants and tourist attractions close during the low season, so check in advance that you'll be able to do your desired activities.

What to pack: Pack a rain jacket or umbrella along with your warm-weather clothing and beachwear. Choose breathable fabrics like cotton and linen and avoid silky fabrics. Since it’ll be hot and humid, you may find yourself wanting to change clothes more often than usual, so bring a few extra tops or t-shirts. If you are doing any activities near the jungle, you should bring along insect repellent.

Fall in Puerto Vallarta

Rainy season continues into September, and October sees some rain, although much less than previous months. Temperatures are cooling off a bit, ranging between the mid-70s and high 80s. November sees more comfortable weather as well as an increase in tourists. 

What to pack: Bring a light sweater or jacket for evenings. Along with your beachwear and warm weather clothes, you may like to have some long pants and long-sleeved shirts. 

Winter in Puerto Vallarta

Weather-wise this is the best time to visit, and tourists know it, so there are more people in general, and it can be difficult to find discounted rooms and flights. Temperatures may dip around sunset, with average lows around 60 degrees. It’s still warm and sunny in the middle of the day, however. This is whale watching season, and several exciting cultural festivals take place during this time of year, especially throughout December with the celebrations of Our Lady of Guadalupe as well as Christmas holidays.

What to pack: Evenings can be cool, so long sleeves may be in order, and bring along a jacket or sweater in case it gets chilly. Daytime is still warm, so bring along your swimsuit and other beach necessities, and as always, pack the sunscreen.