What Is Hottest Month In Puerto Vallarta

July is the hottest month in Puerto Vallarta. The temperature soars to 90°F (32°C) during daytime and stays around 76°F (24°C) at night. Beach lovers should note that the hot season lasts about 4.5 months from June 9 to October 26. The mercury consistently rises above 88°F (31°C) during this period.

The city’s temperature fluctuates between 62°F (16.7°C) and 90°F (32.2°C) throughout the year. The temperature rarely drops below 56°F (13.3°C) or climbs above 93°F (33.9°C). Water sports enthusiasts will love August the most because the sea temperature reaches a pleasant 86°F (30°C). The rainy season runs from June to October, and September’s humidity levels can reach 93%. The destination bathes in sunshine for 2760 hours yearly, averaging 7.6 hours daily. These weather patterns play a crucial role in planning your perfect Mexican coastal getaway.

Understanding Puerto Vallarta’s Climate

Puerto Vallarta’s climate creates a sun-soaked paradise for travelers on Mexico’s Pacific coast. This beautiful destination shares the same latitude as Hawaii and has fascinating weather patterns that shape every visitor’s experience throughout the year.

Tropical coastal weather explained

Puerto Vallarta nestles where the Sierra Madre mountains meet Banderas Bay, creating its own microclimate. The city experiences a tropical climate with wet and dry seasons instead of the four traditional seasons you might know. The local geography makes all the difference – mountains to the east trap moisture while the Pacific Ocean keeps temperature extremes in check.

The city’s location at 20 degrees north latitude puts it right in the tropical zone, which means warm temperatures all year round. The sun packs quite a punch here, especially between 11am and 3pm, whatever month you choose to visit. Temperature changes stay modest compared to places further north, with yearly averages ranging between 62°F (16.7°C) and 90°F (32.2°C).

Dry vs. wet season: what to expect

The year in Puerto Vallarta splits into two main seasons: dry and wet. The dry season runs from November through May with plenty of sunshine, little rain, and lower humidity. Visitors can look forward to clear skies and less than an inch of rain each month. The weather turns particularly lovely from December through April with comfortable temperatures and almost guaranteed sunshine.

The wet season takes over from June through October and brings:

• Afternoon thunderstorms that clear up by evening
• Higher humidity levels that peak around 93% in September
• Green, lush landscapes as plants thrive in the moisture
• Fewer crowds and better deals on accommodations

Most mornings stay sunny and clear even during rainy season. You’ll usually see beautiful mornings, clouds building up in the afternoon, and evening showers. All-day rain rarely happens except during the occasional tropical storm.

How temperature and humidity vary by season

Puerto Vallarta’s temperatures follow a predictable pattern throughout the year. January and February bring the coolest weather with lows around 62°F (16.7°C) and highs near 82°F (27.8°C). Temperatures climb steadily until July and August when daily highs reach about 90°F (32.2°C).

Humidity substantially affects how Puerto Vallarta’s average temperature feels to visitors. The dry season, especially February through April, keeps humidity between 55-65%, which makes warm afternoons quite pleasant. Humidity starts climbing as June approaches and peaks in September. The mix of heat and 80-90% humidity makes everything feel much more intense.

This humidity pattern explains why August and September often feel like the hottest months in Puerto Vallarta, even though July records slightly higher temperatures. The heat index – combining temperature and humidity – peaks in these late summer months and makes them feel hotter than the thermometer suggests.

These climate patterns help you pick the best time to visit. Travelers who want dry, comfortable conditions might prefer January through April. Budget-conscious visitors who don’t mind afternoon showers can save money during the wet season when the weather becomes less predictable but stays mostly pleasant.

What Is the Hottest Month in Puerto Vallarta?

Weather reports might disagree, but Puerto Vallarta’s temperature patterns tell us something fascinating about this tropical paradise. Travelers often ask about the heat levels throughout the year, and figuring out the hottest month needs more than just a quick look at temperature readings.

Average highs and lows in August

August ranks among the most sweltering times in Puerto Vallarta’s yearly weather cycle. The daily highs stay around 90°F (32°C), and they rarely go below 87°F or above 93°F. The nights don’t help much – temperatures only drop to about 76°F (24°C). The temperature stays pretty steady all month, and the thermometer hits its highest point around August 7 at 90°F.

The numbers tell us that August days average about 83°F (28.6°C). The ocean gets really warm too – it feels like bathwater at 86°F (30°C) by mid-August. This makes swimming and water sports really appealing.

Some weather stations say July is actually a bit warmer, with highs of 90°F and lows of 76°F. But anyone who’s been there will tell you August feels much hotter.

Why August feels hotter than other months

Three things make August Puerto Vallarta’s most uncomfortable month: constant heat, high humidity, and lots of clouds. The sky stays covered about 93% of the time. This creates a greenhouse effect that keeps all the heat trapped.

August sits right in the middle of the rainy season. You’ll see about 9.61 inches of rain spread over 15 days. The afternoon showers cool things down briefly, but afterward, the whole place feels like a sauna.

The humidity hits about 80%, and that’s what makes everything feel sticky and much hotter than what the thermometer shows. Weather experts call these “muggy days” – and August has 31 of them, which means every single day feels sticky.

Humidity and heat index explained

The “feels like” temperature (heat index) gives us a better picture of August’s uncomfortable weather. The thermometer might read 90°F, but it actually feels like 104°F (40°C) during the day. Standing in direct sunlight makes it feel even worse.

The humidity really shows its effects in August. The heat index reaches a scorching 98.6°F (37°C). That’s why people say August feels hotter than July, even though the actual temperature is a bit lower.

Puerto Vallarta’s muggy weather lasts about 8.3 months, from April through December. But August takes the crown for the worst conditions. The sticky weather can really affect you:

• You’ll sweat a lot and need more water
• Outdoor activities will tire you out faster
• Heat-related health issues become more likely

Anyone heading to Puerto Vallarta in August should be ready for serious heat and humidity. July might show higher numbers on paper, but August brings the toughest weather conditions you’ll face all year.

Puerto Vallarta Weather by Month: A Quick Overview

The puerto vallarta weather by month guide helps travelers choose the best time to visit this coastal paradise. Here’s a seasonal breakdown that will help you plan your Mexican adventure.

January to March: Cool and dry

Puerto Vallarta’s winter months create perfect conditions for tourists who want sunshine without excessive heat. Daytime temperatures reach 81°F (27°C) while nights cool down to 62°F (16°C). These comfortable conditions continue through February. March temperatures stay steady with highs of 82°F (27°C).

The weather stays remarkably dry during this season. January sees just 0.66 inches of rain. February becomes even drier with 0.46 inches, and March receives a mere 0.23 inches. The humidity stays between 76-78%, but steady ocean breezes of 7-10 mph make it feel pleasant.

These months give visitors a chance to spot whales, since December kicks off the prime viewing season.

April to June: Warming up

Spring brings warmer days to Puerto Vallarta. April keeps its pleasant feel with 83°F (28°C) highs and nighttime temperatures around 65°F (18°C). Many visitors find this time perfect – warm enough to enjoy the beach without summer’s heat.

May’s temperatures climb to highs of 86°F (29°C) with lows of 71°F (21°C). Real summer heat arrives in June as daytime temperatures reach 89°F (31°C). Nights stay warm at 76°F (24°C).

Rain patterns show dramatic changes this season. April stays extremely dry with 0.07 inches of rain. June welcomes the rainy season with 3.92 inches, usually coming as afternoon storms.

Beach lovers enjoy June’s ocean temperatures of 82°F (28°C). Local guides describe it as “very warm and perfect for a day of fun”.

July to September: Hot and rainy

Summer brings Puerto Vallarta’s most intense weather. July heats up to 90°F (32°C) with humidity reaching 79%. August feels even more intense with 91°F (33°C) highs and 80% humidity.

Rainfall peaks during these months. July gets about 7.75 inches, August tops out at 9.61 inches spread across 15 rainy days. September follows with 8.36 inches.

Local wisdom says that “Even in rainy season, the rain normally falls in short bursts, most often at night, with most days being hot and dry”.

October to December: Cooling down again

Fall brings milder weather back to Puerto Vallarta. October stays warm with 90°F (31°C) highs, but rain drops to 2.52 inches. November cools things down with highs of 87°F (30°C) and lows of 69°F (20°C).

December wraps up the year with comfortable 82°F (28°C) days and 64°F (18°C) nights. Rain becomes scarce at 0.24 inches, making it great for holiday travel.

December creates a special atmosphere in Puerto Vallarta. Visitors call “Christmas in Puerto Vallarta an exceptional experience”. The month also marks the return of whale watching season.

How the Rainy Season Affects the Heat

Rain and heat work together to create Puerto Vallarta’s unique weather experience. Many visitors ask how rain affects the hot summer temperatures. The answer lies in the region’s weather patterns.

When the rainy season starts and ends

The rainy season in Puerto Vallarta runs from June through mid-October. The amount of rain changes a lot during these months. The wettest period is from July through September, with August being the rainiest month. You can expect rain about 14 days in August. These rainy days happen right when the heat feels most uncomfortable.

The seasons change slowly. May brings the first few scattered showers before the rain picks up in June. The skies start to clear by mid-October as the rain tapers off. This matches perfectly with temperatures starting to drop from their summer highs.

Afternoon storms and evening humidity

The rainy season in Puerto Vallarta follows a daily schedule you can count on. The day starts with clear, sunny skies. By afternoon, clouds build up over the Sierra Madre mountains. This pattern plays a big role in how hot it feels during the warmest month in Puerto Vallarta.

Around 5pm, storm clouds gather and create amazing lightning shows over Banderas Bay. These storms might last just an hour or go on all night. The rain itself stays warm, which makes it feel very different from rain in cooler climates.

After each downpour, the humidity shoots up. This makes Puerto Vallarta’s average temperature feel much hotter than what the thermometer shows. August stands out because every single day feels humid or worse.

Travel tips for the wettest months

Some tourists worry that rain might ruin their vacation plans during these months. The good news is that rain usually falls late in the afternoon or at night. Mornings stay perfect for tours and beach time. Puerto Vallarta’s layout means rain can be very local – it might pour in one area while staying dry just a kilometer away.

Plan outdoor activities before 2pm to stay comfortable. Pack clothes that dry fast and enjoy watching the evening storms as part of your trip. Good shoes help you walk safely on wet streets. Many people actually choose this season because there are fewer tourists and hotel prices drop quite a bit.

Water Temperature and Outdoor Comfort

The puerto vallarta water temperature is a vital part of enjoying your vacation, not just the air temperatures. Beach lovers who want to know what is hottest month in Puerto Vallarta should understand how ocean temperatures change with seasons. This knowledge can make your water activities more enjoyable.

Puerto Vallarta water temperature by month

Ocean temperatures around Puerto Vallarta follow a yearly pattern. July through October gives you the warmest swimming conditions. The water stays at 77°F (25°C) in January and cools slightly to 76°F (24°C) during February and March. Spring brings steadily rising temperatures that reach 80°F (27°C) by May.

The tropical summer kicks in with June’s water warming up to 83°F (28°C). Water temperatures peak in July and August, reaching an amazing 86-87°F (30-31°C). September keeps these bathwater-warm conditions at 86°F (30°C). The temperatures then start dropping through October (86°F/30°C) and November (83°F/28°C).

Best months for swimming and snorkeling

June through November gives you perfect swimming conditions with water temperatures staying above 82°F (28°C). Water clarity changes a lot by season though, which affects your underwater experience. January through May typically has 25-45 feet visibility. This works fine for casual snorkeling but might limit diving adventures.

The period from June through December brings better visibility ranging from 30-100 feet. These months are great for underwater photography and watching marine life. September stands out as an excellent time for water activities with its combination of warm water and clear visibility. Many divers prefer summer months despite occasional afternoon rain.

How ocean temps affect beach days

Your beach experience depends heavily on water temperature, especially since puerto vallarta average temperature can feel too hot in summer. The 86°F ocean water barely cools you down during August’s intense heat. One visitor shared their experience: “In August it will be warm enough to be completely NOT refreshing”.

Winter months from December to February offer more pleasant beach days. The ocean temperature of 77°F (25°C) provides real refreshment. You’ll feel a nice cooling effect when moving between sunbathing and swimming.

Puerto Vallarta welcomes swimmers year-round. Your choice of when to visit should depend on whether you prefer warmer or cooler water rather than worrying about if you can swim at all.

Smart travelers know how to plan the perfect Mexican getaway by understanding Puerto Vallarta’s climate patterns. July stands as the hottest month with temperatures hitting 90°F (32°C). August feels even more intense because of its overwhelming 80% humidity levels and constant mugginess. Such tropical heat can make afternoon outdoor activities quite challenging.

Each year brings predictable weather cycles that help visitors choose their ideal travel dates based on their priorities. Sun-seekers and comfort-lovers might enjoy the January-April window with its sunny days and cool pleasant evenings. Budget travelers can benefit from substantially lower prices during the rainy season from June through October. They should plan their activities early before the typical afternoon showers begin.

Beach and water lovers should watch for ocean temperature changes. These range from 76°F (24°C) in February to a warm 86°F (30°C) in August. Such variations and rainfall patterns can affect beach time quality and water activities. Summer months give divers better visibility between 30-100 feet, which makes up for occasional afternoon rain.

Weather patterns play a crucial role in trip planning to Puerto Vallarta. Every season brings something special – winter’s whale watching, rainy season’s lush greenery, and spring’s perfect beach days. Reliable weather forecasts help travelers pack the right gear and schedule activities around typical daily weather cycles.

Puerto Vallarta’s tropical charm keeps drawing visitors back, whatever the season. This beloved Mexican coastal destination has something exceptional to offer throughout the year. 

Here are some FAQs about what is hottest month in Puerto Vallarta:

What is the warmest month in Puerto Vallarta?

The hottest month in Puerto Vallarta is typically July, with average highs reaching 90°F (32°C) and high humidity levels. Many travelers wonder what is the hottest month in Puerto Vallarta because the summer months bring intense tropical heat. The what is the hottest month of the year in Puerto Vallarta question often comes up when planning beach vacations, as July offers the warmest ocean temperatures too.

¿Cuál es el mejor mes para ir a Puerto Vallarta?

The best months to visit are November through April when temperatures are pleasant and rainfall is minimal. While not the what is hottest month in Puerto Vallarta period, these months offer ideal beach weather with highs around 82°F (28°C). This dry season provides perfect conditions for outdoor activities and exploring the city.

What is the coldest month in Puerto Vallarta?

January is the coolest month, with average lows of 62°F (17°C), quite different from the what is the hottest month in Puerto Vallarta temperatures. While still warm compared to northern winters, evenings can feel chilly when coming from the daytime heat. This contrasts sharply with July’s intense heat that answers what is the hottest month of the year in Puerto Vallarta.

Is Puerto Vallarta too hot in July?

July is indeed very hot, being the what is hottest month in Puerto Vallarta with high humidity making it feel even warmer. While some find the what is the hottest month in Puerto Vallarta temperatures uncomfortable, others enjoy the truly tropical experience. Afternoon showers can provide temporary relief from the peak summer heat.

How much does it cost to live in Puerto Vallarta?

Monthly living costs range from $1,500-$3,000 for comfortable expat living, depending on lifestyle. This is relevant when considering the what is the hottest month of the year in Puerto Vallarta since air conditioning costs increase during summer. Budgets should account for higher electricity use during the hottest months.

What is hurricane season in Puerto Vallarta?

Hurricane season runs June through November, overlapping with the what is hottest month in Puerto Vallarta period. While storms are rare, September sees the highest risk, unlike the dry heat of July which answers what is the hottest month in Puerto Vallarta. Travel insurance is recommended during this season.

What is the cheapest month to go to Puerto Vallarta?

September is typically the cheapest month, though it falls in both hurricane season and the what is the hottest month in Puerto Vallarta period. You’ll find great hotel deals but will experience high humidity and occasional rain showers. This contrasts with the pleasant but more expensive winter months.

¿Por qué es famoso Puerto Vallarta?

Puerto Vallarta is renowned for its beautiful beaches, vibrant Malecon boardwalk, and stunning sunsets. While the what is the hottest month in Puerto Vallarta brings intense heat, the city’s charm shines year-round. Its mix of Mexican culture, water activities, and nightlife make it a premier vacation destination.

¿Cuántos días son suficientes en Puerto Vallarta?

A 5-7 day stay allows time to enjoy beaches, tours, and downtown, regardless of the what is hottest month in Puerto Vallarta season. Shorter trips work in winter, but during the what is the hottest month of the year in Puerto Vallarta, you may want extra pool/beach time to handle the heat. The duration depends on your tolerance for warm weather.