Best Time to Visit Puerto Vallarta
Recommended: Nov-Apr, dry season
By Labeeb Mirza · Published September 8, 2026 · Updated September 8, 2026
When to go
November through April is dry season: consistent sun, lower humidity, warm water. December through March overlaps with humpback whale season in Banderas Bay (confirm exact dates with a tour operator before booking, as the window shifts slightly year to year). June through October is rainy season with real afternoon downpours and hurricane risk on this coast, though most storms pass without direct hits. Shoulder months (May, November) are a reasonable compromise: fewer crowds, still mostly dry.
Month by month in Mexico
Puerto Vallarta sits in Mexico, so the country's broader seasonal pattern applies. Depends heavily on which of these five cities. Roughly November through April is the dry season nationwide and the safest bet overall. June through November is hurricane season on the Pacific and Caribbean coasts, which hits Puerto Vallarta and Cancun directly. Mexico City's highland climate is mild almost year-round; the Yucatan gets brutally hot and humid April through August.
Nov-AprDry season across most of the country. Best overall window for all five cities, and peak pricing to match, especially over the December holidays.
Early NovDay of the Dead falls around Nov 1-2. Oaxaca and Mexico City draw huge crowds for it; book months ahead if that's the draw.
May-JunHot and dry before the rains start. Mexico City stays pleasant; Yucatan heat and humidity are already building toward miserable.
Jun-NovHurricane season on both coasts. Puerto Vallarta and Cancun see afternoon storms and real hurricane risk, worst Aug-Oct. Prices drop, but check forecasts before booking non-refundable stays.
Jul-AugRainy season inland too, usually short afternoon downpours rather than all-day washouts in Mexico City, Oaxaca, and Guadalajara.
DecDry, mild, and the most expensive month everywhere thanks to Christmas and New Year's demand, especially the coasts.
About the author
Labeeb Mirza runs paid acquisition for an online used-car marketplace, across Google Ads, Meta, Reddit, TikTok, StackAdapt, Bing, and CTV/YouTube.