Puerto Vallarta in Winter: Weather, Events & What to Do (Nov–Mar 2026–27)
Quick Answer
Winter (November to March) is the best time to visit Puerto Vallarta. You get dry, sunny days in the low 80s °F, calm seas, humpback whale season, and the year’s best food and fishing events. It is also the busiest season, so book tours and fishing charters early.
Key takeaways:
Weather: warm, sunny days, cool evenings and almost no rain
Whale season: officially December 8 to March 23, with January and February being the best months
Big November events: the 70th International Marlin & Tuna Fishing Tournament and Festival Gourmet International
Fishing: some of the strongest offshore fishing of the year
What Is the Weather Like in Puerto Vallarta in Winter?
Puerto Vallarta has a tropical climate with a dry winter season, so winter brings clear skies and very little rain.
November: Days in the low 80s °F, nights in the upper 60s. The rainy season is over and visitors start arriving.
December: Days around 82 °F, nights around 66 °F, sea around 79 °F. Holiday season and the whales arrive.
January: Days around 81 °F, nights around 64 °F, sea around 76 °F. The coolest month and peak whale season.
February: Days around 82 °F, nights around 64 °F, sea around 75 °F. The driest and sunniest weeks of the year.
March: Days in the low 80s °F, nights in the mid 60s, sea around 75 °F. Spring break and the last whales of the season.
Packing tip: Bring a light jacket for evenings and boat trips. It gets noticeably cooler out on the water, but you will not need rain gear on land in winter.
Puerto Vallarta Winter Events Calendar 2026–27
November 2026
Espontáneo Performing Arts Festival (Nov 5–14): Dance, theater and visual arts take over the city’s streets and cultural spaces.
70th International Marlin & Tuna Fishing Tournament (Nov 11–14): One of the top sport fishing tournaments on the Pacific coast, held at the Marina Vallarta pier and celebrating its 70th anniversary this year.
Festival Gourmet International (Nov 12–22): Around 30 restaurants serve special menus created by well-known chefs during this 10-day food festival.
Puerto Vallarta Half Marathon (Nov 15): The city’s half marathon takes place on Sunday, November 15.
Revolution Day (Nov 20): A national holiday with parades.
Thanksgiving Weekend (Nov 26–29): The unofficial start of high season, with many American and Canadian visitors.
December 2026
Our Lady of Guadalupe Festival (Dec 1–12): Daily processions to the downtown church make this one of Vallarta’s most beautiful traditions.
Whale Season Opens (Dec 8): Humpback whale watching tours officially begin.
Christmas and New Year’s Eve: Fireworks over the Malecón and beach celebrations.
January to March 2027
Peak whale watching in January and February
Sabores Locales Farmers Market: A weekly farmers market that runs through the season until late April.
Semana Santa / Easter (late March): One of the busiest weeks of the year, so book early.
Top 10 Things to Do in Puerto Vallarta in Winter
Go deep sea fishing. Winter brings some of the best offshore fishing of the year.
Go whale watching. The season runs December 8 to March 23, and January and February are the best months, often with baby whales too.
Walk the Malecón at sunset. In peak season you can even spot whales from the shore for free.
Snorkel at Los Arcos. The dry season brings some of the calmest seas and clearest water of the year.
Enjoy the Festival Gourmet International in November.
Take a boat to Yelapa or Las Ánimas for hidden beaches and waterfalls.
Explore the Romantic Zone for art walks, cafés and nightlife.
Hike or ride an ATV in the Sierra Madre while the weather is cooler.
Take a day trip to Sayulita or San Pancho for a relaxed surf town vibe.
Visit the weekend farmers markets for local food and crafts.
Winter Fishing in Puerto Vallarta: Why It’s Prime Season
For anglers, winter is the main event. From November through April, Banderas Bay is full of different fish species. Farther offshore, at famous fishing grounds like El Banco and La Corbeteña, winter brings red snapper along with blue and black marlin, and sailfish are also in season.
What’s biting in winter:
Dorado (Mahi Mahi) and Wahoo: November through March is the best time for both.
Sailfish and Marlin: A true trophy catch, usually practiced as catch and release.
Red Snapper, Grouper and Jack Crevalle: Great inshore action for families and beginners.
Insider tip: Charters fill up fast from Thanksgiving through Easter. Book 2 to 4 weeks ahead and choose a morning trip for the calmest water.
Ready to fish? Book your Puerto Vallarta fishing charter with Fishing Rebels. We offer private trips for beginners and experienced anglers.
Tips for Visiting Puerto Vallarta in Winter
Book early. Winter is the busiest travel period of the year, so reserve tours and accommodation in advance.
Use sunscreen. The sun is strong even when it feels mild.
Bring layers for early mornings, evenings and time on the water.
Carry pesos for markets, taxis and small restaurants.
Only book licensed tour operators for whale watching and fishing.
Frequently Asked Questions About Puerto Vallarta in Winter
Is winter a good time to visit Puerto Vallarta?
Yes. Winter is the best time to visit, with sunny and dry weather, warm days in the low 80s °F, calm seas, whale season and major festivals.
Is it warm enough to swim in Puerto Vallarta in winter?
Yes. Sea temperatures stay around 75 to 79 °F from December to February, which is comfortable for swimming and snorkeling.
When is whale season in Puerto Vallarta?
The official whale watching season runs from December 8 to March 23. January and February are the best months.
What is the coldest month in Puerto Vallarta?
January is the coolest month, with nights around 64 °F. Days are still in the low 80s.
Is winter good for fishing in Puerto Vallarta?
Yes. November through March is a top season for dorado, wahoo, sailfish and marlin, plus snapper closer to shore.
Does it rain in Puerto Vallarta in winter?
Very rarely. The rainy season ends in October, and winter is the dry season.
Plan Your Winter Adventure
Pair a morning of whale watching with a day of deep sea fishing for the ultimate Puerto Vallarta winter trip. Check charter availability with Fishing Rebels and book your spot before the season fills up.
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