Trip Profile
Budget Category MODERATE $250-400/person
Perfect For
Beach Couples Family All Inclusive Culinary Adventure
Traveler Scores
Family-Friendly
9.0/10
Romance
8.5/10
Adventure
8.0/10
Party Scene
7.5/10
Relaxation
8.5/10
Travel Planning
Current Weather at Airport
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Best Months to Visit
November-May
Hurricane Season
June-November
Peak: December-April | Shoulder: May, November
Airport
Licenciado Gustavo Díaz Ordaz International Airport (PVR)
Passport Required | No Visa Required
Mexican Peso (MXN)
Spanish, English widely spoken
Explore the Destination

Get familiar with Puerto Vallarta, Mexico before you go. Browse hand-picked hotels, restaurants, beaches, and things to do, plus local tips, insider suggestions, and the small details that make a trip easier. Use the menu below for golf, spas, hikes, nightlife, and the rest.

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When to visit Puerto Vallarta

Best months
November-May
Peak season
December-April
Shoulder season
May, November
Hurricane season
June-November

Weather & climate in Puerto Vallarta

Average monthly high and low temperatures (Fahrenheit).

Month High Low Rain (in)
January 82°F 63°F 0.5
February 84°F 64°F 0.3
March 86°F 66°F 0.2
April 88°F 70°F 0.1
May 90°F 74°F 0.4
June 90°F 77°F 6.7
July 89°F 77°F 9.8
August 90°F 77°F 10.2
September 89°F 76°F 13.4
October 88°F 73°F 5.1
November 85°F 68°F 1.2
December 82°F 64°F 0.6

Puerto Vallarta quick facts

Main airport
Licenciado Gustavo Díaz Ordaz International Airport (PVR)
Language
Spanish, English widely spoken
Currency
Mexican Peso (MXN)
Typical daily cost
$250-400/person
Budget category
Moderate

Getting around Puerto Vallarta

Public transit

Extensive local bus system with routes throughout the city and surrounding areas.

Towns & neighborhoods in Puerto Vallarta

The main areas travelers stay and explore.

Zona Romantica (Old Town)

South Side

Puerto Vallarta's charming old town with cobblestone streets, Los Muertos Beach, art galleries, and vibrant nightlife. The heart of PV's LGBTQ+ scene.

El Centro (Downtown)

Central

Puerto Vallarta's historic downtown with Malecón boardwalk, church with crown, authentic Mexican culture, and local markets.

Marina Vallarta

North Side

Modern marina area with golf course, luxury resorts, yacht club, and upscale dining. More Americanized resort zone.

Nuevo Vallarta

Riviera Nayarit (North)

Planned resort community north of PV with all-inclusive resorts, wide beach, and family-friendly atmosphere.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about visiting Puerto Vallarta

The best time to visit Puerto Vallarta is November-May. Peak season runs December-April, offering the best weather but higher prices and larger crowds. Shoulder season (May, November) provides a great balance of good weather and lower prices. Note that hurricane season is June-November.

A typical daily cost in Puerto Vallarta is $250-400/person per person. Puerto Vallarta is generally considered a moderate destination.

Yes, US citizens need a valid passport to visit Puerto Vallarta. No visa is required for US citizens for short stays.

The main airport serving Puerto Vallarta is Licenciado Gustavo Díaz Ordaz International Airport (PVR). The primary language spoken is Spanish, English widely spoken. The currency used is Mexican Peso (MXN).

Puerto Vallarta offers 14 accommodation options ranging from budget-friendly to luxury resorts. Popular choices include Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit, Four Seasons Resort Punta Mita, Casa Velas.

There are 15 activities and experiences to enjoy in Puerto Vallarta. Top activities include Whale Watching Tours, Zip-lining Canopy Tours, Hidden Beach (Playa del Amor) Boat Tour.