Puerto Vallarta in January
Great time to visit
Peak season means perfect weather but brutal crowds and prices. The dry heat and endless sunshine make it obvious why everyone flocks here in January.
Weather
January brings the driest, most comfortable weather of the year. Humidity drops to bearable levels around 65%, and rain is practically non-existent. Expect sunny skies with occasional light clouds rolling in from the Pacific.
27°C high18°C low1 rain days
Crowds & Cost
peak crowds
~$180/day average
Events & Festivals
- •Three Kings Day (January 6)
- •Vallarta Restaurant Week
January Tips
- •Book accommodations 3-4 months ahead - prices triple during peak season
- •Make dinner reservations early, especially for oceanfront restaurants in Zona Romántica
- •Pack layers - evenings can be surprisingly cool
All Months
November through April gives you perfect weather — 80°F days, 65°F nights, and almost zero rain. This is peak season though. Hotels double their rates and restaurants fill up by 7pm. Book everything in advance.
May and October work as shoulder seasons. You'll get occasional rain showers but also empty beaches and hotel deals. October can be humid after the summer rains, but hurricane season mostly misses Puerto Vallarta.
June through September brings the heat and humidity. Daily highs hit 90°F with 80% humidity. Afternoon thunderstorms cool things down but also flood the cobblestone streets. Some restaurants close during August. On the plus side, hotel rates drop 40% and you'll have beaches mostly to yourself.
Avoid Easter week and Christmas week unless you enjoy crowds and inflated prices. Mexican families vacation here during those times, which creates a fun local atmosphere but also means everything costs more.
Puerto Vallarta Scores
Solo
8/10
Couples
9/10
Families
8/10
Adventure
6/10
Budget
6/10
Luxury
8/10
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