Best time to visit Puerto Vallarta, Estado de Jalisco

• Whale watching: From December to March, humpback whales mate and calve in Banderas Bay. Several tour operators offer excursions to see them up close.
• Snorkeling and scuba diving: Explore the underwater caves at Los Arcos and the marine life around the Marietas Islands. Dive shops are found along the beaches.
• Hiking in the Sierra Madre: Trails near Mismaloya lead to waterfalls like Palo Maria, and the Vallarta Botanical Gardens offer a dip in the crystal-clear Rio Los Horcones.
• Water sports: Go jet skiing, parasailing, or kitesurfing (especially in Bucerias from February to May). Surfing spots are a short drive north in Nayarit.
• Turtle repatriation programs: Join a conservation tour where you help protect sea turtle eggs and release hatchlings into the ocean (season runs May–October).
• Sailing and fishing: Charter a yacht or join a fishing trip for species like sailfish, marlin, and dorado. The bay's calm waters are ideal for sailing.
• Horseback riding: Several ranches offer rides into the hills or through jungle trails, from a few hours to multi-day adventures.

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• The Malecon: A lively oceanfront boardwalk filled with shops, restaurants, and street performers (mimes, breakdancers, artists).
• Zona Romantica: The historic old town with cobblestone streets, boutique hotels, and a vibrant dining and nightlife scene.
• Vallarta Botanical Gardens: Located 24 km south, these gardens feature thousands of plant species in a tropical dry forest ecosystem, plus a river for swimming.
• Bay of Banderas: One of the largest and deepest bays in the world, home to dolphins, manta rays, and seasonal humpback whales.
• Marietas Islands: A protected national park offering snorkeling, birdwatching, and the famous hidden beach.
• Los Arcos: Underwater rock formations and caves that are a prime spot for snorkeling and diving.

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• March 15 – June 7: Comfortable temperatures (avg 25.5°C) with very low rainfall (0.5 mm), low cloud cover, and plenty of sunshine. This window offers high comfort and fewer crowds before summer.
• October 24 – December 11: Similar temperatures (avg 25.4°C) with slightly more rain (1.5 mm) but still pleasant. A good shoulder season with manageable crowds.
• December to March: Best for whale watching and dry, sunny weather, but also the busiest and most expensive period.
• May to October: Sea turtle nesting season; visitors can participate in conservation releases. Rain is more likely, especially mid-June through October.
• Avoid Holy Week (Semana Santa) and Christmas if you prefer quieter beaches and lower prices.

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• Airport transport: Walk past the timeshare touts to the official taxi kiosk or use ride-hailing apps. City buses (marked "Centro") cost around M$22 (Jan 2026) and take 20–30 minutes to the Zona Romantica.
• Getting around: Local buses are cheap (around M$10, Jan 2026) and frequent. Buses marked "Tunel" go directly to the Zona Romantica via a bypass tunnel.
• Currency: Carry some cash (Mexican pesos) for small purchases and street food, as not all businesses accept credit cards. ATMs are widely available.
• Safety: The tourist police patrol popular areas. Avoid political demonstrations and stay aware of your surroundings. For emergencies, dial 911.
• Health: Drink bottled or treated water. Immodium is available over the counter if needed.
• Budget tip: Save souvenir shopping for Guadalajara, where prices are generally lower.

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