November through April is when Puerto Vallarta truly shines. The rainy season has ended, humidity drops, and temperatures settle into the perfect 75-85°F range. It's also when the city is busiest and most expensive. Here's what you need to know.
The Weather Advantage
High season exists for a reason: the weather is genuinely perfect. Days are warm and sunny, nights are pleasantly cool (sometimes requiring a light jacket), and rain is rare. The ocean is calm and warm, ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and water activities.
December through February tends to be the most comfortable, with lower humidity than late spring. March and April see temperatures climbing toward 90°F, giving a preview of the coming summer heat.
Whale Watching Season
One of the biggest draws of high season: humpback whales. From mid-December through late March, hundreds of humpbacks migrate to Banderas Bay to breed and give birth. You can often spot them spouting from shore, but a whale watching tour gets you close enough to hear them breathe and, if you're lucky, witness a breach.
January and February are peak whale watching months. Tours sell out quickly during this time, so book a few days in advance to secure your spot.
Sample prices for whale watching tours:
$1,500 - $2,500 MXN per person ($85-$140 USD). Most tours are 3-4 hours and include a marine biologist guide.
What's Open (That Isn't in Low Season)
High season brings Puerto Vallarta to life in ways that low season simply can't match:
- Farmers Markets: The popular Saturday market at Lazaro Cardenas Park and Thursday markets only run November-April
- Art Walks: Wednesday Malecón art walk and Friday South Side Shuffle gallery walk
- Theater & Shows: Many venues have their full performance schedule
- Day trip boats: More frequent water taxi schedules to Yelapa and southern beaches
- Beach clubs: All beach clubs fully staffed with daily events
Some restaurants also only open during high season, and many that operate year-round reduce hours or close certain days during the slower months.
Crowds and Prices
Let's be direct: high season means higher prices and more tourists. Hotel rates can be 30-50% higher than low season. Popular restaurants need reservations. The beach gets crowded.
The busiest periods are:
- Christmas/New Year's (Dec 20 - Jan 5): Peak of the peak. Book everything months ahead.
- Guadalupe Festival (Dec 1-12): The city's biggest celebration. Hotels fill up.
- US Thanksgiving week: Popular with American travelers
- Spring Break (March): Some increase in younger tourists, though PV is more family-oriented than Cancún
- Semana Santa (Easter week): Mexican families vacation. Extremely busy.
Shoulder Season Sweet Spots
Want great weather without peak crowds? Consider these windows:
- Early November: High season just starting, many snowbirds haven't arrived yet
- Mid-January to mid-February: After holiday crowds depart, before spring break
- Late April: Prices dropping, weather still excellent before summer humidity arrives
Tips for High Season Visits
Do This
- ✓Book accommodation early: Especially for December/January and Easter
- ✓Make dinner reservations: Popular spots book up, especially on weekends
- ✓Book tours in advance: Whale watching, Marietas Islands, popular day trips
- ✓Go to beaches early: Arrive by 9-10am for the best spots and calmest water
- ✓Explore beyond downtown: Neighborhoods like Versalles and 5 de Diciembre are less touristy
Avoid This
- ✗Waiting until arrival to plan: Spontaneity is harder when things book up
- ✗Beach time at midday: The sun is intense; morning or late afternoon is better
- ✗Only staying in one area: Each neighborhood has different character worth exploring
Is High Season Worth It?
Yes, with some caveats. The weather is unbeatable, the city is at its most vibrant, and experiences like whale watching only happen during these months. Yes, you'll pay more and navigate more tourists, but you're getting Puerto Vallarta at its best.
If crowds stress you out or budget is the priority, low season (June-October) offers dramatically lower prices and a more local feel, just with humidity, afternoon rain, and some seasonal closures. For most first-time visitors, high season is the way to go.