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Puerto Vallarta

Mexico · Coast · MXN · 20.653400, -105.225300
Family friendly 7.6/10 · Rank 297 of 2 709
Best season: November-May

Best for

Puerto Vallarta is an ideal place for beach holidays, nightlife and water sports lovers. It is recommended for couples, families and young people. Least suitable for those seeking peace and quiet.

Best season

November-May

Daily budget
$105.00 (≈ 8 812 ₽ · ≈ 1 785 MXN)
For 7 days
$735.00 (≈ 61 681 ₽ · ≈ 12 495 MXN)
Puerto Vallarta is a popular resort on Mexico's Pacific coast, located in the scenic Bay of Banderas, famous for its beaches, cozy old town streets, and vibrant nightlife. The city attracts travelers with its authentic Mexican atmosphere, excellent restaurants, and opportunities for water sports. Puerto Vallarta is the perfect place for those seeking a combination of relaxing beach time and urban charm.
Summer
35.0°C
Winter
16.0°C
Sea
30.0°C
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Description and atmosphere

Energy

energetic

Pace of life

fast

Local character

Puerto Vallarta residents are friendly and open people, accustomed to tourists. The atmosphere in the city is lively and cosmopolitan.

Pros and cons

Pros

  • Scenic beaches
  • Vibrant nightlife
  • Rich cuisine
  • Many entertainment options
  • Friendly atmosphere

Cons

  • Many tourists
  • Rainy season
  • High prices in high season
  • Strong currents
Climate
Summer Temperature
Average air temperature in June–August
28.0°C
Summer Daytime Temp
Average daytime temperature in June-August
33.0°C
Summer Max Temp
Maximum daytime temperature in summer months
35.0°C
Winter Temperature
Average air temperature in December–February
22.0°C
Winter Daytime Temp
Average daytime temperature in December-February
27.0°C
Winter Min Temp
Minimum temperature in winter months
16.0°C
Summer Water Temperature
Average sea temperature in the warm season
29.0°C
Water Max Temp
Maximum water temperature in warm season
30.0°C
Rainy Season
Months with the heaviest rainfall
June-October
Sea and beach
Sand Type
Type of beach surface
sand
Sand Color
Colour of the beach sand
golden
Water Entry
Type of water entry
gentle
Waves
Level of waves
moderate
Water Clarity
Clarity of the water
clear
Best Beach
Name of the most popular beach
Playa Los Muertos
Beach
Availability of a beach
Yes
Tides
Whether tides are noticeable
No
Rip Currents
Presence of dangerous rip currents
Yes
Sunbeds
Availability of sunbeds
Yes
Beach Cafe
Availability of a cafe or bar
Yes
Toilet / Shower
Availability of toilets and showers
Yes
Lifeguards
Presence of lifeguards
Yes
Safe for Swimming
Whether swimming is safe
Yes
Sea hazards
Sea Urchins
Presence of sea urchins
None
Corals / Reefs
Presence of corals or reefs
None
Jellyfish
Presence of jellyfish
Present
Sharks
Presence of sharks
None
Overall Danger
Overall danger rating
low
Note

Puerto Vallarta is a safe resort. Beaches are equipped with lifeguards and a flag system. Main risks are strong currents on open beaches and jellyfish.

Sea urchins — details

  • Sea urchins, including Hesperocidaris asteriscus and Diadema antillarum, are found in Puerto Vallarta waters. Protective footwear is recommended when swimming.

Corals and reefs — details

  • Coral reefs with hundreds of marine species are found in Puerto Vallarta waters, especially in Los Arcos National Park. Risk of cuts on contact.

Jellyfish — details

  • Jellyfish are occasionally found off the coast during summer months. Caution is advised.

Sharks — details

  • Nurse sharks, whitetip reef sharks, whale sharks and silky sharks inhabit Puerto Vallarta waters. No attacks on humans have been recorded.
Attractions

Malecón

Scenic boardwalk with sculptures, street performers and restaurants. The heart of the city.

Zona Romántica

Historic district with cobblestone streets, galleries and the best restaurants.

Los Arcos

Natural marine reserve with arches and snorkelling.

Playa Las Ánimas

Beach with calm water, ideal for families.

Cable Car

Ride to the hill with panoramic views of the city and bay.

Best areas

Zona Romántica

Historic area with hotels, restaurants and nightlife.

Marina Vallarta

Modern area with yachts and restaurants.

Nuevo Vallarta

Resort area with hotels and beaches.

Must-try food

Tacos al pastor

Grilled pork tacos with pineapple.

Ceviche

Fresh fish marinated in lime.

Pescado a la talla

Grilled fish with garlic and chilli.

Marquesitas

Thin pastries with chocolate and cheese.

Where to go next

Sayulita

Surf town. 1 hour away.

San Pancho

Quiet beach town. 1.5 hours away.

Tequila

Town with a volcano and plantations. 2 hours away.

Family Friendly
Suitable for families with children
Yes
Nightlife
Level of nightlife
high
Getting there
Nearest airports
Licenciado Gustavo Díaz Ordaz International Airport (PVR).
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Visa
Visa requirements
visa-free (180 days)
Best Season
Months with the most comfortable weather
November-May
Accommodation
Hostel (Dorm Bed)
Average price for a hostel dorm bed
$20.00
≈ 1 678 ₽ · ≈ 340 MXN
3-Star Hotel
Average price for a 3-star hotel room
$70.00
≈ 5 874 ₽ · ≈ 1 190 MXN
4-Star Hotel
Average price for a 4-star hotel room
$120.00
≈ 10 070 ₽ · ≈ 2 040 MXN
5-Star Hotel
Average price for a 5-star hotel room
$250.00
≈ 20 980 ₽ · ≈ 4 250 MXN
Villa / House
Average nightly rate for a villa or house
$200.00
≈ 16 784 ₽ · ≈ 3 400 MXN
Apartment
Average nightly rate for an apartment
$90.00
≈ 7 553 ₽ · ≈ 1 530 MXN
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Food and drinks
Lunch at a Cafe
Average price for lunch at a casual cafe
$8.00
≈ 671 ₽ · ≈ 136 MXN
Dinner at a Restaurant
Average check for dinner at a nice restaurant
$25.00
≈ 2 098 ₽ · ≈ 425 MXN
Coffee (Cappuccino)
Average price for a cappuccino
$3.00
≈ 252 ₽ · ≈ 51 MXN
Beer (0.5L)
Average price for a 0.5L beer
$3.00
≈ 252 ₽ · ≈ 51 MXN
Water (1.5L)
Average price for a 1.5L bottle of water
$1.00
≈ 84 ₽ · ≈ 17 MXN
Pizza
Average price for a pizza
$9.00
≈ 755 ₽ · ≈ 153 MXN
Burger
Average price for a burger
$7.00
≈ 587 ₽ · ≈ 119 MXN
Dessert
Average price for a dessert
$4.00
≈ 336 ₽ · ≈ 68 MXN
Fast Food Combo
Average price for a fast food combo
$7.00
≈ 587 ₽ · ≈ 119 MXN
Transport
Airport Taxi
Average taxi fare from the airport to the city centre
$15.00
≈ 1 259 ₽ · ≈ 255 MXN
Public Transport
Average price for a single public transport ticket
$0.50
≈ 42 ₽ · ≈ 9 MXN
Short Taxi Ride
Average fare for a short taxi ride
$5.00
≈ 420 ₽ · ≈ 85 MXN
Car Rental (per day)
Average daily rate for an economy car rental
$40.00
≈ 3 357 ₽ · ≈ 680 MXN
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Activities and rentals
Bike / Scooter Rental
Average daily rate for a bike or scooter
$10.00
≈ 839 ₽ · ≈ 170 MXN
Motorbike / Scooter Rental
Average daily rate for a motorbike or scooter
$20.00
≈ 1 678 ₽ · ≈ 340 MXN
Excursion
Average price for an organised excursion
$40.00
≈ 3 357 ₽ · ≈ 680 MXN
Yacht / Boat Cruise
Average price for a boat cruise
$70.00
≈ 5 874 ₽ · ≈ 1 190 MXN
Tiqets — museums & landmarks Puerto Vallarta Partner
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Shopping
Shopping
Average amount spent on shopping
$50.00
≈ 4 196 ₽ · ≈ 850 MXN
Souvenirs
Average amount spent on souvenirs
$10.00
≈ 839 ₽ · ≈ 170 MXN
Tourist SIM / Internet
Average price for a tourist SIM card
$15.00
≈ 1 259 ₽ · ≈ 255 MXN
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Frequently asked questions
Puerto Vallarta: when is the best time to go?
The best season for a holiday is November-May. At this time of year the weather is the most comfortable: minimal chance of rain, moderate humidity and optimal air temperature. This is also when the tourist infrastructure runs at full capacity — all hotels, restaurants and entertainment are open. If you want to save money, consider the period right after the high season ends: accommodation prices are lower, and the weather is still pleasant. You can check the temperature by month in the match-by-month tool.
Puerto Vallarta: what is the weather like in summer?
In summer, the air warms up to an average of +35.0°C, during the day — up to +33.0°C. This is a great time for beach holidays and long walks. Sunscreen is recommended during the peak hours from 11:00 to 16:00.
Puerto Vallarta: what is the weather like in winter?
In winter, the air temperature stays around +16.0°C, during the day — up to +27.0°C. For the winter period these are very comfortable figures that allow swimming and sunbathing. Evenings can be cooler, so a light jacket will not go amiss.
Puerto Vallarta: what is the sea temperature?
The sea near the resort warms up to an average of +30.0°C in the warm season. This water temperature is considered ideal for long swims — you can stay in the sea for hours without discomfort. The water is comfortable for both adults and children. If you want to know the exact temperature by month, use the match-by-month tool.
Puerto Vallarta: when is the rainy season?
The rainy season falls on June-October. During this period rainfall is more frequent, but usually short — the rain lasts 1-2 hours, after which the sun comes out again. Humidity is higher, so being outside may be less comfortable. At the same time, accommodation and flight prices during the rainy season are significantly lower — an excellent option for a budget holiday.
Puerto Vallarta: what are the beaches like?
The beaches here are with a "sand" surface, golden sand, clear water. The most popular beaches: Playa Los Muertos. The beaches have sunbeds and cafes and bars.
Puerto Vallarta: is it safe to swim in the sea?
Swimming is allowed here, but standard precautions should be taken. The overall danger level in the sea is rated as low — you can swim and enjoy water sports without worry. Lifeguards are on duty on the beaches.
Puerto Vallarta: what are the sea hazards?
The sea contains: jellyfish. Puerto Vallarta is a safe resort. Beaches are equipped with lifeguards and a flag system. Main risks are strong currents on open beaches and jellyfish.. It is recommended to swim in special shoes and avoid contact with marine life.
Puerto Vallarta: how much does a holiday cost?
A holiday for one person will cost around $105.00 (≈ 8 812 ₽ · ≈ 1 785 MXN) per day. The daily budget includes: a 3-star hotel, lunch at a cafe, dinner at a restaurant, drinking water, two public transport trips. Flights are not included in the calculation. You can calculate the cost of your holiday in more detail in the trip planning calculator across all 70 parameters.
Puerto Vallarta: how much does accommodation cost?
Accommodation is available for every budget: a hostel dorm bed — $20.00 per night, a 3-star hotel room — $70.00 per night, a 4-star hotel — $120.00 per night, a five-star hotel — $250.00 per night, an apartment — $90.00 per night, a villa — $200.00 per night. In high season prices can be 20-30% higher, and in low season — lower.
Puerto Vallarta: how much does food cost?
Food is one of the main expense items: lunch at an affordable cafe — $8.00, dinner at a restaurant — $25.00, a cup of cappuccino — $3.00, a 0.5L beer — $3.00, a 1.5L bottle of water — $1.00. You can eat significantly cheaper at markets and street cafes.
Puerto Vallarta: how much does transport cost?
a taxi from the airport — $15.00, a single public transport ticket — $0.50, a short taxi ride — $5.00, car rental — $40.00 per day. Public transport is the most budget-friendly way to get around.
Puerto Vallarta: what is there to see?
Among the main attractions are: Malecón — Scenic boardwalk with sculptures, street performers and restaurants. The heart of the city.; Zona Romántica — Historic district with cobblestone streets, galleries and the best restaurants.; Los Arcos — Natural marine reserve with arches and snorkelling.; Playa Las Ánimas — Beach with calm water, ideal for families.; Cable Car — Ride to the hill with panoramic views of the city and bay.. These places are worth visiting first to get a full impression of the destination.
Puerto Vallarta: what local food should I try?
Be sure to try the local cuisine: Tacos al pastor — Grilled pork tacos with pineapple.; Ceviche — Fresh fish marinated in lime.; Pescado a la talla — Grilled fish with garlic and chilli.; Marquesitas — Thin pastries with chocolate and cheese.. Local dishes are an important part of the travel experience.
Puerto Vallarta: what are the best areas to stay?
For accommodation you can consider the following areas: Zona Romántica — Historic area with hotels, restaurants and nightlife.; Marina Vallarta — Modern area with yachts and restaurants.; Nuevo Vallarta — Resort area with hotels and beaches.. The choice of area depends on your preferences: active or relaxing holiday.
Puerto Vallarta: is a visa required?
Visa: visa-free (180 days). Before your trip, be sure to check the current requirements with official sources, as the rules may change.
Puerto Vallarta: how do I get from the airport?
The nearest airport — Licenciado Gustavo Díaz Ordaz International Airport (code PVR). You can get from the airport to the centre by taxi, the average cost is $15.00. Public transport is also available — a more budget-friendly option.
Puerto Vallarta: what is the currency and how much money should I take?
Currency — MXN. It is recommended to have cash for small expenses and a bank card for larger purchases. The approximate daily budget is $105.00 (≈ 8 812 ₽ · ≈ 1 785 MXN). Check the current exchange rate before your trip.
Puerto Vallarta: is it suitable for a holiday with children?
Yes, the destination is excellent for a family holiday with children. It has all the necessary infrastructure: well-maintained beaches, cafes and restaurants with children's menus, and entertainment for all ages.
Puerto Vallarta: what is the nightlife like?
Nightlife is rated as high. There are plenty of bars, clubs and restaurants that stay open until morning.
Puerto Vallarta: where can I go nearby?
Nearby you can visit: Sayulita — Surf town. 1 hour away.; San Pancho — Quiet beach town. 1.5 hours away.; Tequila — Town with a volcano and plantations. 2 hours away.. These places are convenient to visit on a day trip.

Putivator rating

7.6/10
Overall rank: 297 of 2 709
Rank among coastal: 197

Best season

November-May

Useful information

Currency: MXN
Coordinates: 20.653400, -105.225300