Cheapest Time to Visit Puerto Vallarta

Puerto Vallarta’s peak season hotel rates reach over $400 per night, making many travelers ask about the cheapest times to visit. Smart travelers can find big savings during the low season from June to October by planning strategically.

The best time to experience Puerto Vallarta really depends on your priorities. Budget-conscious travelers get great deals in the summer months. The water stays perfectly warm at 82°F to 85°F (27°C to 29°C) for swimming, though rain becomes more likely.

This piece shows you exactly when and how to get the best deals in Puerto Vallarta. You’ll find practical money-saving strategies that make this beautiful Mexican destination available for any budget.

Understanding Puerto Vallarta’s Travel Seasons: When Prices Drop

Puerto Vallarta’s tourism follows patterns that smart travelers can use to save money. You can find the cheapest time to visit Puerto Vallarta without compromising your vacation experience by understanding when prices go up and down.

High season vs. low season price differences

Puerto Vallarta has two distinct seasons that affect your costs. The high season runs from mid-December to April when northern travelers escape their winter. Hotel prices shoot up during this time. A typical room costs about $246 per night in winter months, while you’ll pay just $132 in off-season.

These times are the most expensive:

• Two weeks around Christmas and New Year’s
• Two weeks before and after Easter (Semana Santa)

In stark comparison to this, the low season starts May 1 and goes until mid-December. Budget travelers can save big money during this time. Hotels and tour companies compete for fewer visitors by cutting their rates. North American-focused hotels offer great deals from post-Easter until Thanksgiving—sometimes right up until Christmas.

Weather’s effect on prices

The weather in Puerto Vallarta plays a big role in how prices change throughout the year. Temperatures stay in the mid-70s with hardly any rain from December through April. This perfect weather naturally costs more since temperatures rarely go below 62°F or above 80°F.

The wet season runs from June through October with higher humidity and afternoon rain. The hottest and wettest weather comes in July, August, and September. Notwithstanding that, rain usually falls in quick bursts, often late in the day or at night. This leaves plenty of sunny hours for activities.

This weather pattern creates the best time to go to Puerto Vallarta for people watching their budget. Travelers who don’t mind occasional afternoon showers can find big discounts these months. Airlines and hotels drop their prices a lot during summer. Some short-term rentals cost half as much in September compared to December or January.

Local events and room rates

Events in Puerto Vallarta create small price spikes within the broader seasonal patterns. The city welcomed about 3 million visitors with 75% hotel occupancy in just the first half of 2024. These numbers change based on what’s happening throughout the year.

Events that affect prices include:

• Independence Day (September 16): The fireworks and celebrations make flight prices go up slightly
• ArtWalks and International Gourmet Festival: These boost the high season experience but make demand higher
• Pride Celebration (May): This brings in LGBTQIA+ community members and allies
• Semana Santa: Mexican families fill the city during Easter week national vacation

The shoulder seasons—April to mid-June and October to November—give you the best mix of weather and value. These times come right after peak tourists leave but before the next wave arrives. September stands out as the cheapest month to visit Puerto Vallarta if you’re really watching your budget. Room rates hit their lowest point of the year then.

The sweet spot between price and experience comes in these transition months. The weather stays nice without high season prices. January also offers surprising deals right after New Year’s but before the winter and spring break crowds arrive in February.

Summer Bargains: June to September Money-Saving Opportunities

The hot summer months in Puerto Vallarta might put off some tourists. But smart travelers know this season brings amazing deals. Summer turns this Mexican paradise into a budget traveler’s dream with huge price cuts on hotels, activities, and flights.

June travel deals before peak rainfall

June kicks off Puerto Vallarta’s rainy season. The rain stays pretty mild compared to later summer months. This gives smart travelers a chance to grab big discounts before the heavy rain shows up in July and August.

Hotel prices start dropping big time in June. Many places slash their rates to half what they charge in peak season. The best part? You’ll see way fewer tourists around, which means you can enjoy all the popular spots without fighting crowds.

Tour companies roll out their summer deals in June. Vallarta Adventures runs special “3 for the price of 2” tour packages all summer long. Airlines also cut their fares to fill up empty seats during these quieter months.

July and August: Balancing heat with huge discounts

July and August bring even better deals, but you’ll feel more heat and humidity. Many people get the wrong idea about summer weather here. The rain usually shows up in quick bursts during afternoons or evenings. Mornings and early afternoons stay sunny most of the time.

These peak summer months come with some amazing deals:

• Resorts offering up to 25% off room rates
• $100 resort credits when you stay 5 nights or more
• Family packages with free kids’ meals and kids club access
• Couples getaways that include spa treatments and private dinners

Summer makes booking tours much easier. High season means planning weeks ahead, but summer visitors can often book same-day. Some lucky folks even get free upgrades or private tours at no extra cost.

Budget travelers can find hostel beds for under $15 a night during low season. Local busses stay cheap year-round, with rides costing less than $1.

September: The absolute cheapest month to visit

September stands out as the most affordable time to visit Puerto Vallarta. This rainiest month sees the lowest tourist numbers, and hotels offer their biggest discounts of the year. You might find fewer flights since some airlines cut back their service.

The lack of tourists creates some great chances for deals. Local spots often run better specials to bring in customers. You can find bargain prices on souvenirs – especially if you like to haggle.

Budget travelers will love these September savings:

• Hotel rates hit rock bottom
• Tour companies offer their best discounts
• Airlines run special deals to fill seats
• Restaurants and bars create special offers to attract visitors

You might wonder if saving money makes up for visiting in the rainiest month. Budget travelers usually say yes. Even in September, the rain typically comes in short bursts rather than lasting all day.

Shoulder Season Secrets: Best Weather-to-Price Ratio

Smart travelers know that shoulder seasons are the sweet spot between price and weather for a Puerto Vallarta getaway. These special periods—April to May and October to November—give you the best of both worlds, something many tourists miss as they rush to visit during peak season or chase the lowest prices.

April and May: Post-spring break deals

Puerto Vallarta becomes a budget traveler’s dream right after spring break crowds leave. April kicks off the shoulder season with pleasant daily highs of 84°F/29°C and barely any rain. The mercury climbs slightly to 86°F/30°C in May, but the skies stay mostly clear.

These months shine because hotel prices take a nosedive. Room rates can drop to a quarter of their Holy Week prices once Easter and Semana Santa end. Hotels slash their rates even though the weather stays amazing—perfect for swimming without the overwhelming heat and humidity.

Restaurant Week hits in late May, giving you a chance to taste Puerto Vallarta’s famous food scene without breaking the bank. Local restaurants create special menus with reduced prices, making it a perfect time for food lovers to explore on a budget.

October and November: Perfect timing before holiday price hikes

Budget-smart travelers love October as the rainy season fades away. The temperature stays around 88°F/31°C, and you’ll see less rain while humidity stays bearable. Swimming feels great in the warm waters, and sunny days become more frequent—all this before the winter crowds arrive.

Mexican Independence Day celebrations might stretch into early October, letting you experience local culture without peak season costs. The mountains keep their beautiful green cover from summer rains, creating perfect photo opportunities.

Is November a good time to visit Puerto Vallarta for budget travelers?

Yes, it is possible that November is the best month to get the most value. The weather and prices hit a sweet spot this month. You’ll enjoy comfortable days at 77°F (25°C) and cool nights around 69°F (25°C).

November brings several perks for budget travelers:

• Rain and humidity hit yearly lows while temperatures stay warm
• Tourist crowds stay thin until after American Thanksgiving
• You’ll find plenty of flight deals and hotel rooms most of the month
• Early November’s Día de Muertos celebrations give you authentic cultural experiences

November stands out as the top choice if you want both affordability and enjoyment. Local experts say November gives you “three glorious weeks to enjoy excellent weather with fewer tourists and favorable prices”. The rain stops, holiday prices haven’t kicked in yet, and Puerto Vallarta shows off its perfect mix of great weather and reasonable costs.

Comparing Costs: What You’ll Save in Low Season vs. High Season

Budget travelers can stretch their vacation dollars thanks to the huge price differences between high and low seasons in Puerto Vallarta. These price gaps make it easier to plan the cheapest time to visit Puerto Vallarta with confidence.

Accommodation price differences by month

Puerto Vallarta’s hotel rates change drastically throughout the year. December tops the list as the most expensive month with rooms averaging $604 per night. September gives you the best deals at about $272 per night.

Budget hotels show even bigger swings in prices. You’ll pay just $53 per night during low season compared to $98 in high season. Luxury properties aren’t immune to these changes either – their rates drop from $615 in peak season to $330 during quieter times.

Food and dining cost variations

Food costs stay more stable than hotel prices throughout the year. People typically spend around $53 per day on food in Puerto Vallarta. The prices do shift a bit as restaurants roll out special deals during slower months to bring in customers.

Restaurants extend their happy hours and offer 2-for-1 deals on drinks when business slows down. Street food remains a great deal all year – you can grab three tacos and two soft drinks for $7-$10 any time of year.

Activity and tour pricing fluctuations

Tour companies slash their prices substantially in low season. To name just one example, see Vallarta Adventures – they cut prices by 30-40% during summer. Their “Rhythms of the Night” tour costs $125 in low season but jumps to $179 during peak times.

Summer deals get even better when some operators offer 3-for-2 tour packages. This makes June through September perfect for travelers who want to pack in lots of activities without breaking the bank.

Transportation savings during off-peak times

Transportation follows similar seasonal patterns. Taxi fares jump up by 50% during high season. A ride from Old Town to Marina Vallarta costs $5-$6 in low season but rises substantially during winter.

The total savings between peak and off-peak seasons add up quickly. A week-long vacation with everything included – hotels, food, activities, and getting around town – can cost half as much in September compared to December or January.

Hidden Money-Saving Tips Beyond Timing

Smart travelers can stretch their vacation budget in Puerto Vallarta by picking the right time, place to stay, eat, and play. Local residents and seasoned travelers use these money-saving tips all year round, whatever the season.

Neighborhood selection for budget travelers

The right neighborhood choice can save you money in Puerto Vallarta. Downtown locations might cost more at first but you won’t need expensive transportation. Budget travelers should consider 5 de Diciembre neighborhood. It sits close to the Malecon with fewer tourists and better access to Playa Camarones beach.

Versalles stands out as a budget-friendly option that’s just a short walk from popular spots. Nuevo Vallarta’s rental prices are lower than downtown’s, and you’ll get more space too. The inland parts of Emiliano Zapata give you a real Mexican feel with great food options without paying beachfront prices.

Local transportation hacks

Puerto Vallarta’s bus service is the best deal in town at just 10 pesos (under $1) per ride. These busses cover the entire city and run to nearby towns like Bucerias or Sayulita for only $2-3. A trip to Boca de Tomatlan costs about 20 pesos each way, making hidden beaches easily accessible.

Official pier kiosks beat tour company prices for water transport. A round-trip boat ride to Yelapa costs around 400 pesos with your return trip included. Staying within walking distance of attractions can eliminate transport costs completely.

Affordable food options by season

Great food deals are available year-round in Puerto Vallarta. Street tacos cost between 50 cents to $1 each. Tacos Memo in Emiliano Zapata is a local favorite. Food Park PV Gastro Bar in the Hotel Zone serves tasty bites from $3-9.

Comida corrida (fixed-price lunch) gives you the best value. The price includes soup or salad, main dish, dessert and a drink. Restaurants offer longer happy hours and special deals during low season when tourist numbers drop.

Free and low-cost activities year-round

Puerto Vallarta is rife with free attractions, including:

• The iconic Malecon boardwalk with ocean views and street shows
• Mirador de La Cruz lookout with amazing bay views
• Zona Romantica’s lively streets and Los Muertos Beach
• Weekly art walks and farmers markets (November-April)

Las Animas Beach hike costs nothing except maybe a drink at beachfront restaurants. A local bus to Mismaloya or Boca de Tomatlan takes you to beautiful beaches and nature spots for just a few pesos.

Puerto Vallarta rewards smart travelers with amazing deals. You can cut your hotel costs in half by visiting during the low season from June to October. September gives you the best deals with the biggest savings. Summer brings short afternoon showers but they don’t get in the way of the many activities and experiences available in the city.

The sweet spot for visitors comes during April-May or October-November. These shoulder season months give you perfect weather conditions without the high prices of peak season.

Your vacation dollars can go much further with some smart choices. The neighborhoods of 5 de Diciembre and Versalles offer budget-friendly stays. Local busses and street food let you experience Puerto Vallarta’s magic without spending too much.

Smart planning and money-saving tips make Puerto Vallarta available to everyone. Careful travelers can enjoy this Mexican paradise at prices that are nowhere near what peak season visitors pay. You still get the same beautiful beaches, vibrant culture, and warm hospitality that make Puerto Vallarta a special place.

Here are some FAQs about the cheapest time to visit Puerto Vallarta

What is the cheapest time of year to go to Puerto Vallarta?

The cheapest time to visit Puerto Vallarta is during the low season, which typically runs from late April to early December. During this period, you can find discounted hotel rates and flight deals, making it the most affordable time to travel. If you’re looking for the cheapest time to visit Puerto Vallarta, consider planning your trip between May and November.

What is the best month to go to Puerto Vallarta?

The best month to visit Puerto Vallarta is generally November or March, when the weather is warm and dry, and the crowds are smaller compared to the peak winter season. These months offer ideal conditions for outdoor activities and beach relaxation. For many travelers, this is considered the best time to visit Puerto Vallarta.

What is low season in Puerto Vallarta?

The low season in Puerto Vallarta runs from late April to early December, coinciding with the warmer and rainier months. This is the cheapest time to visit Puerto Vallarta, as hotels and flights often offer significant discounts. Travelers who don’t mind occasional rain showers can enjoy a more budget-friendly and less crowded experience.

What is the cheapest time to vacation in Mexico?

The cheapest time to vacation in Mexico, including Puerto Vallarta, is during the low season from late spring to early fall. This period, particularly from May to November, offers lower prices on accommodations and flights. It’s the best time to visit Puerto Vallarta for budget-conscious travelers.

What is the coldest month in Puerto Vallarta?

The coldest month in Puerto Vallarta is typically January, with average temperatures ranging from 60°F to 80°F (15°C to 27°C). While it’s still warm compared to many destinations, it’s cooler than other months. This makes January a pleasant time to visit for those who prefer milder weather.

How many days is enough in Puerto Vallarta?

A 5- to 7-day trip is usually enough to explore Puerto Vallarta’s beaches, historic sites, and nearby attractions. This duration allows you to enjoy the best time to visit Puerto Vallarta without feeling rushed. You’ll have plenty of time to relax and experience the local culture.

What is the rainy month in Puerto Vallarta?

The rainiest months in Puerto Vallarta are typically August and September, during the peak of the rainy season. While this is the cheapest time to visit Puerto Vallarta, be prepared for frequent afternoon showers. Despite the rain, the lush greenery and fewer crowds can make it a rewarding time to visit.

What month is hurricane season in Puerto Vallarta?

Hurricane season in Puerto Vallarta runs from June to November, with the highest risk occurring in September and October. While this is the cheapest time to visit Puerto Vallarta, travelers should monitor weather forecasts and consider travel insurance. The likelihood of a direct hurricane hit is relatively low, but storms can bring heavy rain.

Can you swim in the ocean in Puerto Vallarta?

Yes, you can swim in the ocean in Puerto Vallarta, as the water is generally warm and inviting year-round. The best time to visit Puerto Vallarta for swimming is during the dry season from November to April when the weather is sunny and calm. Always check local conditions for safety, especially during the rainy season.