Puerto Vallarta sits on the Costa Dorada (Golden Coast) of Jalisco Mexico, at the mid-point of the large Banderas Bay, where the Pacific Ocean washes the beaches between the Mexican States of Jalisco and Nayarit.
Summary
- Puerto Vallarta has a tropical climate with both extreme wet seasons and dry seasons.
- Year-round highs in the mid-80’s are for certain, thanks to the positioning of Puerto Vallarta.
- The rainy season runs from June through Mid-October, with virtually no precipitation the rest of the year.
- Even in rainy season, the rain normally falls in the late afternoon or evening, leaving the mornings and early afternoons sunny and clear.
- The best time of year to visit for hot-weather activities is from late April to early June.
- The dry season typically runs from November to May.
- The average temperature in Puerto Vallarta varies from 62°F to 90°F.
- The sea is usually calm in the morning and choppy in the afternoon, especially during the rainy season.
- The UV index is high year-round, so it is important to wear sunscreen and protective clothing.
Introduction
Puerto Vallarta and Hawaii on a map
Puerto Vallarta is located on the same latitude as the Hawaiian islands (20ºN), that’s why the city’s weather and climate are often compared to Hawaii’s own (PV city info).
Puerto Vallarta (as well as Nuevo Vallarta) is surrounded by jungle and receives considerable rain during the wet summer months.
Vallarta’s climate has very distinct dry and wet seasons during the year. In general, the Summer months have a much higher chance of rain than the Winter months, which are mostly dry.
💡 Expert Tip: When checking the Puerto Vallarta weather, remember that the region has a distinct dry season (November to May) and a wet season (June to October). If you travel during the summer wet season, do not worry; it typically only rains in short and spectacular downpours in the late afternoon or evening, leaving the rest of the day perfectly sunny and warm for beach activities!
Today’s Forecast
Do note that during the rainy season (June to mid-October) you’ll see forecasts showing clouds, rain and lightning, but this is normally something that occurs only in the late afternoon and night. Sometimes there are storms in the area and that can mean cloudy skies that stay all day long.
So whenever you are in doubt, take advantage of the webcams in Puerto Vallarta and check the weather in real-time
Weather plugin or embed here
Generalities
- Tropical wet and dry (Köppen Climate classification)
- Rainy Wet Season: June to September, most rain in September. It rains intermittently during the partly cloudy day, around an hour in total, at most.
- December, January, and February (high dry season) are hot and sunny.
- Spring and Autumn offer moderate temperatures.
- The average high is 85ºF (29.4ºC) and the low at 69ºF (20.5ºC).
- Hurricanes seldom strike Puerto Vallarta, the last significant events were Kenna (2002) and Lily (1971) before that one.
While rain can spoil a day at the beach, tropical storms can be quite beautiful and amazing, when rain seems to march across the hills and lightning illuminates the humid sky while the thick clouds advance inland from the Bay.
Runoff from the rains in the jungle and hills can turn the seawater brown in some areas, mainly around rivers and streams, detracting somewhat from the beauty of the beaches and the bay. The highest temperatures reach 90ºF (32ºC) during the summer, and the humidity can add to the perception of heat.
During the winter, the local weather changes significantly, and temperatures move into the low to mid-80sºF (28 – 30ºC), quite comfortable for a stroll on the beach and around town. Nighttime temperatures in Puerto Vallarta and Nuevo Vallarta range from the 60s to the mid-70s (19-24ºC).
See PV now, use the webcam
Puerto Vallarta Seasons
The seasons in Puerto Vallarta are always from warm to hot and there is a distinct rainy season (June to mid-October) and a dry season (last half of October to May).
- Winter (December 22 – March 21)
- Spring (March 22 – June 21)
- Summer (June 22- September 21)
- Autumn (September 22 – December 21)
About the Rainy Season
IMPORTANT:
Many think that the rainy days in Puerto Vallarta’s wet season means it rains all day and every day, that’s not the case.
During the wet season, it may rain a bit in the morning, a bit during the day and then most of it during the 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 during what is the warmest period of the year.
Weather in Puerto Vallarta month by month
January
January is among the coolest months of the year, but it is still quite mild and warm for anybody living in higher latitudes. You can expect the conditions to include warm sunny days and pleasant evenings.
The average temperature in the afternoon is above 20 degrees Celsius, and the sky is clear most of the time, especially when you are closer to the end of the month.
During the day, the weather is temperate and you can easily wear light clothes. Warmer clothes at night during this, the local winter, this could be a light sweater, a cotton jacket or a long-sleeve shirt, but if you are from a cold climate, you’ll be fine in short sleeves.
Temperatures start to go down before sunset, around 6 PM or 7 PM, with the low temperature in the early morning and then start to rise again when the sun comes up.
On average, there are about 2 rainy days in January. The lower ocean temperature in Puerto Vallarta attracts humpback whales, their newborns and whale sharks, but the water is still quite suitable for swimming and surfing.
| Main metrics | |
|---|---|
| Average temp. | 22°C / 72°F |
| Average High | 81ºF / 27ºC |
| Average Low | 62ºF / 16ºC |
| Max. temp. | 29°C / 84°F |
| Min. temp. | 14°C / 57°F |
| Temp. day | 24.4°C / 76°F |
| Temp. night | 20.4°C / 69°F |
| Humidity | 66% |
| Hours of sunshine | 10 hours |
| Daylight | 11 hours |
| Rain | 23mm |
| Rainy days | 2 |
| Ocean temp. | 25°C / 77°F |
February
The temperature in February is quite stable, warm during the day and cool at night; the average high maximum is about 27°C and the minimum around 16°C.
The sky is now clearing, and most days are sunny or partly cloudy. You can expect the conditions to include warm sunny days and pleasant evenings. During the day, the weather is temperate and you can easily wear light clothes. Warmer clothes at night during this, the local winter, this could be 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.
The norm is just one rainy day in February, and because it is now Puerto Vallarta’s dry season, the probability of rain by the end of the month will decrease.
Temperatures start to go down before sunset, around 6 PM or 7 PM, with the low temperature in the early morning and then start to rise again when the sun comes up. The sea temperature is table compared to January and remains quite comfortable.
Humpback whales and their babies are more common and visible in the bay area.
| Main metrics | |
|---|---|
| Average temp. | 22°C / 72°F |
| Average High | 80ºF / 26.6ºC |
| Average Low | 62ºF / 16ºC |
| Max. temperature | 29°C / 84°F |
| Min. temperature | 14°C / 57°F |
| Temp. during the day | 24.8°C / 77°F |
| Temp. in the night | 20.8°C / 69°F |
| Humidity | 66% |
| Hours of sunshine | 10 hours |
| Daylight | 11.5 hours |
| Rain | 10mm |
| Rainy days | 1 |
| Ocean temp. | 25°C / 77°F |
March
The temperature starts to rise slowly in March and on some days reaches 30°C. The night will still be cooler, so it is best to wear a light jacket or sweater, especially when sailing or visiting the mountains at sunset. Use very light clothes, this period is hotter than the previous month, there’s normally some wind, so skirts can be inconvenient, especially short and light skirts.
Rain is not common in this, the first month of the dry season and you can expect no rainy days. Bring your sunscreen!
The ocean temperature is at its coldest, but it is still suitable for all water activities and if you like me come from a cold country, the seawater will still be balmy and warm.
Humpback whales are still active in the bay, although they start leaving the area as the end of the month draws near.
| Main metrics | |
|---|---|
| Average temp. | 22°C / 72°F |
| Average High | 81ºF (27ºC) |
| Average Low | 63ºF (17ºC) |
| Max. temp. | 30°C / 86°F |
| Min. temp. | 14°C / 57°F |
| Temp. during the day | 25.3°C / 78°F |
| Temp. in the night | 21°C / 70°F |
| Humidity | 60% |
| Hours of sunshine | 11 hours |
| Daylight | 12 hours |
| Rain | 7mm |
| Rainy days | 0 |
| Ocean temp. | 24°C / 75°F |
April
April is a very warm month, and there are a few days at the end of the month that are very hot. Use very light clothes, this period is hotter than the previous one, there’s normally some wind, a bit less than in March so skirts can be inconvenient, especially short and light skirts.
This is the driest month of the year, and there should be no rainy days, but the air humidity will increase over time. Be sure to bring sunscreen. As in previous months, the night is still cool.
The ocean temperature has started to rise. Most humpback whales have left Banderas Bay for cooler waters.
| Main metrics | |
|---|---|
| Average temp. | 24°C / 75°F |
| Average High | 82ºF (28ºC) |
| Average Low | 65.5ºF (18.5ºC) |
| Max. temperature | 32°C / 90°F |
| Min. temperature | 16°C / 61°F |
| Temp. during the day | 26.3°C / 79°F |
| Temp. in the night | 22.2°C / 72°F |
| Humidity | 60% |
| Hours of sunshine | 12 hours |
| Daylight | 12.5 hours |
| Rain | 5mm |
| Rainy days | 0 |
| Ocean temp. | 25°C / 77°F |
May
The month of May is known for being hot and muggy, with temperatures often exceeding 32°C. Use very light clothes, this period is hotter than the previous one, with some wind.
As humidity rises in the last few weeks of the month, the likelihood of rain will also increase, although only one rainy day in the month is the norm.
The ocean temperatures are rising and more comfortable for the locals.
| Main metrics | |
|---|---|
| Average temp. | 26°C / 79°F |
| Average High | 85.5ºF (30ºC) |
| Average Low | 71ºF (21.5ºC) |
| Maximum temp. | 33°C / 91°F |
| Minimum temp. | 18°C / 64°F |
| Temp. during the day | 27.6°C / 82°F |
| Temp. in the night | 24.1°C / 75°F |
| Humidity | 65% |
| Hours of sunshine | 12 hours |
| Daylight | 13 hours |
| Rain | 9mm |
| Rainy days | 1 |
| Ocean temp. | 26°C / 79°F |
June (Rainy season begins)
The high temperature and humidity in June increase as the month advances. Use very light clothes, this period is hotter than in May.
The weather is usually cloudy or overcast, with more frequent rains—about 10 days of rain are expected throughout the month.
Don’t think your vacation will be ruined by rain and clouds as these normally occur in the late afternoon or during the night.
The ocean conditions are very suitable for swimming, snorkeling and diving, with warm seawater and high visibility.
| Main metrics | |
|---|---|
| Average temp. | 27°C / 81°F |
| Average High | 88.5ºF (31.5ºC) |
| Average Low | 77ºF (25ºC) |
| Maximum temp. | 33°C / 91°F |
| Minimum temp. | 21°C / 70°F |
| Temp. during the day | 29.1°C / 84°F |
| Temp. in the night | 26.4°C / 80°F |
| Humidity | 77% |
| Hours of sunshine | 9 hours |
| Daylight | 13.5 hours |
| Rain | 183mm |
| Rainy days | 10 |
| Ocean temp. | 28°C / 82°F |
July (Rainy Season)
Summer in PV is also when the local rainy season starts.
Almost half of the days in July are rainy, but as mentioned, precipitation tends to fall in the late afternoon or night, so don’t expect the rainy season to fully eliminate the possibility of sunbathing (if that’s what you like).
Bring rain accessories along with you, it may be better to consider umbrellas because the heat can be quite uncomfortable for those not accustomed to the humid heat. You can buy a cheap umbrella on the street or in convenience stores if needed.
Daily average temperature goes up to around 32°C-33ºC (90°F-91ºF) on some days.
Because it is very humid unless you are a tropical person expect to sweat quite a bit, so bring extra shirts or blouses, cold showers will be a regular treat during the day. Avoid silky fabrics as they will get humid and stick to your body, this is quite disagreeable (it has happened to me :-)). A good tip is to bring along a refillable spray water bottle, use it regularly on your face and arms to cool down.
The ocean temperature continues to rise, and visibility for divers and snorkelers is very good, especially near coral reefs.
| Main metrics | |
|---|---|
| Average temp. | 27°C / 81°F |
| Average High | 90ºF (32ºC) |
| Average Low | 77ºF (25ºC) |
| Maximum temp. | 33°C / 91°F |
| Minimum temp. | 21°C / 70°F |
| Temp. during the day | 29.17°C / 85°F |
| Temp. in the night | 26.5°C / 80°F |
| Humidity | 81% |
| Hours of sunshine | 8 hours |
| Daylight | 13.5 hours |
| Rain | 336mm |
| Rainy days | 15 |
| Ocean temp. | 29°C / 84°F |
August (Rainy Season)
August and September are the rainy summer season months with the most precipitation. The highest temperature often exceeds 33°C, and it rains for half of the days of the month, but mostly during the afternoons and evening, so it tends to be even enjoyable as temperatures go down a bit and help make outings and nightlife more fun.
Bring rain clothes or an umbrella along and plan some activities for rainy days. I recommend umbrellas because the heat can be overwhelming for those not accustomed to the humid heat, so no raincoats or ponchos. You can buy a cheap umbrella on the street/in a store if needed. Expect to sweat quite a bit, so bring extra shirts or blouses, cold showers will be a regular treat during the day. Avoid silky fabrics as they will get humid and stick to your body, this is quite disagreeable (it has happened to me :-)). A good tip is to bring along a refillable spray water bottle, use it regularly on your face and arms to cool down.
The weather, as mentioned is very hot and humid during these months. The ocean temperature reaches its maximum temperature, hovering around 30°C. The water is calm and visibility is excellent, making it ideal for snorkeling and diving.
| Main metrics | |
|---|---|
| Average temp. | 27°C / 81°F |
| Average High | 90.5ºF (32.5ºC) |
| Average Low | 76ºF (24.5ºC) |
| Maximum temp. | 33°C / 91°F |
| Minimum temp. | 21°C / 70°F |
| Temp. during the day | 30.2°C / 86°F |
| Temp. in the night | 26.6°C / 80°F |
| Humidity | 84% |
| Hours of sunshine | 8 hours |
| Daylight | 13 hours |
| Rain | 350mm |
| Rainy days | 15 |
| Ocean temp. | 30°C / 86°F |
September (Rainy Season)
The rainy season and the heat continues during September. Though the temperature goes down a bit, the weather was still very hot and humid. If you arrive this month bring rain clothes or better consider umbrellas because the heat will be uncomfortable for those not accustomed to strong humid heat. If you don’t bring rain accessories along, you can buy a cheap umbrella on the street or in one of the local stores if needed.
The daily average temperature is around 30 – 32 ºC (85 – 90ºF) 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. Avoid silky fabrics as they will get humid and stick to your body, this is quite disagreeable. A good tip is to bring along a refillable spray water bottle, use it regularly on your face and arms to cool down.
Rain is very common but less than in previous months. The ocean conditions are the same as in August, with warm water, gentle waves and high visibility.
| Main metrics | |
|---|---|
| Average temp. | 27°C / 81°F |
| Average High | 90.5ºF (32.5ºC) |
| Average Low | 76ºF (24.5ºC) |
| Maximum temp. | 33°C / 91°F |
| Minimum temp. | 21°C / 70°F |
| Temp. during the day | 30.2°C / 86°F |
| Temp. in the night | 26.6°C / 80°F |
| Humidity | 84% |
| Hours of sunshine | 8 hours |
| Daylight | 13 hours |
| Rain | 350mm |
| Rainy days | 15 |
| Ocean temp. | 30°C / 86°F |
October (Rainy Season ends)
October starts very much like September, hot, humid and rainy. You can buy a cheap umbrella on the street if needed. The weather, as mentioned is quite hot and humid during these months.
October First Half (still some rain)
The daily average temperature goes up to around 32ºC (90ºF) on some days, so you’ll still be sweat quite a bit, so bring extra shirts or blouses, cold showers will be a regular treat during the day. Avoid silky fabrics as they will get humid and stick to your body, this is quite disagreeable (it has happened to me :-)). A good tip is to bring along a refillable spray water bottle, use it regularly on your face and arms to cool down.
Average High: 90ºF (32ºC) / Low 76ºF (24.5ºC)
The ocean temperature and conditions are similar to September, and the sea is warm and clear.
October Second Half (rain ends)
In the second half of October, rain tapers down and the sky starts to clear up all through the day. Temperatures and humidity start to relax a bit, it becomes temperate, rains stop, there isn’t much breeze.
Light summer clothes are recommended and at night you can also use a long sleeve blouse or shirt when going out to a restaurant or bar.
This period is recommended for those that want to avoid the high season in Puerto Vallarta and the high prices, but still, enjoy a warm climate during their stay.
The ocean temperature and conditions are similar to September, and the sea is warm and clear, rain runoff from the rivers clears up and the sea regains its crystal-clear emerald-blue color.
| Full October weather stats | |
|---|---|
| Average temp. | 26°C / 79°F |
| Maximum temp. | 32°C / 90°F |
| Minimum temp. | 20°C / 68°F |
| Temp. during the day | 29.7°C / 85°F |
| Temp. in the night | 26.3°C / 79°F |
| Humidity | 81% |
| Hours of sunshine | 9 hours |
| Daylight | 11.5 hours |
| Rain | 131mm |
| Rainy days | 5 |
| Ocean temp. | 29°C / 84°F |
November
November’s weather is quite comfortable, especially when comparing it to the hot and humid rainy season months. Temperatures and humidity continue to go down, it becomes temperate, rains stop, there isn’t much breeze.
During the day the temperature is warm and goes over 31°C for a short time during the afternoon on some days. There are a few showers in the afternoon or night, but the dry season is definitively here.
Light summer clothes are recommended and at night you can also use a long sleeve blouse or shirt when going out to a restaurant or bar.
The ocean’s temperature is still very warm. A few humpback whales arrive close to the end of November, the whale watching season is about to begin.
This part of the year is recommended for those that want to avoid the high season in Puerto Vallarta and the high prices, but still, enjoy a comfortable climate during their stay.
| Main metrics | |
|---|---|
| Average temp. | 25°C / 77°F |
| Average High | 86ºF (30ºC) |
| Average Low | 69ºF (20.5ºC) |
| Maximum temp. | 31°C / 88°F |
| Minimum temp. | 18°C / 64°F |
| Temp. during the day | 27.9°C / 82°F |
| Temp. in the night | 24.1°C / 75°F |
| Humidity | 74% |
| Hours of sunshine | 10 hours |
| Daylight | 11 hours |
| Rain | 22mm |
| Rainy days | 1 |
| Ocean temp. | 28°C / 82°F |
December
First half of December
December is a wonderful month in Puerto Vallarta, warm and comfortable during the day and cool at night.
There may be a few afternoon or night showers, but nothing that’ll ruin a day at the beach or your stroll around town.
Light summer clothes are recommended and at night you can also use a long sleeve blouse or shirt when going out to a restaurant or bar. This period is also recommended for those that want to avoid the high season prices and crowds in Puerto Vallarta, but still, enjoy a comfortable climate during their stay.
First Half of December: Average High: 84ºF (29ºC) / Low 66ºF (19ºC)
Second half of December
You can expect the conditions to include warm sunny days and pleasant evenings.
During the day, the weather is temperate and you can easily wear light clothes. Warmer clothes at night during this, the local winter, this could be 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.
Temperatures start to go down before sunset, around 6 PM or 7 PM, with the low temperature in the early morning and then start to rise again when the sun comes up.
The ocean water temperature is now around 25°C, which is still suitable for most or all water activities.
Humpback whales are now enjoying the protection and comfort of Banderas Bay
Second half of December: Average High: 81.5ºF (27.5ºC) / Low 63.5ºF (16.5ºC)
| Stats for December | |
|---|---|
| Average temp. | 23°C / 73°F |
| Max. temperature | 30°C / 86°F |
| Min. temperature | 15°C / 59°F |
| Temp. during the day | 25.3°C / 78°F |
| Temp. in the night | 21.3°C / 70°F |
| Humidity | 71% |
| Hours of sunshine | 10 hours |
| Daylight | 11 hours |
| Rain | 25mm |
| Rainy days | 2 |
| Ocean temp. | 27°C / 81°F |
Weather Data
Average temperatures in Puerto Vallarta
Temp. Highs
Temp Lows
Average rainfall in Puerto Vallarta
Humidity
Rainy Days
Average Annual data
| High | Low | |||||
| °C | °F | °C | °F | Humidity | Rainy Days | |
| January | 28.8 | 83.8 | 16.7 | 62.1 | 67% | 2 |
| February | 29 | 84.2 | 16.3 | 61.3 | 65% | 1 |
| March | 29.3 | 84.6 | 16.9 | 62.4 | 65% | 0 |
| April | 29.9 | 85.8 | 17.2 | 63 | 67% | 0 |
| May | 31 | 87.8 | 20.2 | 68.4 | 68% | 1 |
| June | 32.3 | 90.1 | 22.8 | 73 | 69% | 11 |
| July | 33.3 | 91.9 | 22.9 | 73.2 | 69% | 16 |
| August | 33.7 | 92.7 | 23 | 73.4 | 70% | 15 |
| September | 33.6 | 92.5 | 22.9 | 73.2 | 70% | 16 |
| October | 33.6 | 92.5 | 22.2 | 72 | 68% | 5 |
| November | 32.3 | 90.1 | 19.7 | 67.5 | 67% | 1 |
| December | 29.9 | 85.8 | 18 | 64.4 | 68% | 2 |
| Yearly Average | 31.4 | 88.5 | 19.9 | 67.8 | 68% | 70 |
Weather Forecasts for PV
- Weather Forecast Map (Weather Underground)
Current Weather Conditions and Three Day Forecast for Vallarta. - AccuWeather (Weather Maps & Forecast for PV)
Another reliable weather data and forecast site.
Satellite Images
- Satellite view Weather.com
- Eastern Pacific Visible Satellite NOAA for cloud cover
- Collection of satellite images by Mexico Weather Stations (SMN)
Storm Warnings and Tracking
- National Hurricane Center
- Tropical Weather Outlook Data Sources for the Eastern Pacific
- Hurricane Central & Cyclone Warnings Mexican Meteorological Service
Other Weather Related Links
- Tide Predictor Great data for sailors and surfers
- Puerto Vallarta Mexico average water temperature / external
- Wind Speed (miles per hour) & Tide Predictor
- Satellite Image of the World from Space zoom and pan available
- Vallarta Mexico Weather and Radar Maps
- Jet Stream Analyses (North America – Part of Mexico)
- Local time / Time Zones / Daylight Saving Time
Playa Camarones downtown Puerto Vallarta
Graphs
Precipitation per month in Puerto Vallarta
Average Puerto Vallarta temperatures °F
PV Weather Webcam
Webcam plugin here
Puerto Vallarta Hurricanes
FAQ
The absolute best time for perfect weather is from late November through April. During these months, the humidity drops, the skies are bright blue, and temperatures comfortably hover in the mid 70s to low 80s (Fahrenheit), making it ideal for outdoor excursions.
No. A common misconception about the Puerto Vallarta rainy season is that it ruins vacations. In reality, the mornings and early afternoons are usually clear and hot. The rain typically arrives as passing tropical thunderstorms in the late afternoon.
Yes! The Pacific Ocean water is warm enough for swimming year round. In the winter, water temperatures average 75 degrees Fahrenheit (24 degrees Celsius), and during the summer, they can reach a bath like 85 degrees Fahrenheit (29 degrees Celsius).
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