Puerto Vallarta Weather in August: What to Expect

If you found your way to this article, you’re probably thinking about a trip to Puerto Vallarta in August and wondering what the weather might be like. After plenty of winter and spring visits, I decided to find out for myself about Puerto Vallarta weather in August. And even though I enjoyed it — actually more than I thought — there are a few disadvantages to visiting Puerto Vallarta in the rainy season. Let’s get into it.

Puerto Vallarta Weather Overview

Located along Mexico’s Pacific coast, the weather in Puerto Vallarta is warm year-round. The temperatures might fluctuate a bit but it never gets much hotter than 95F or colder than 55F. Like most subtropical locations, Puerto Vallarta has two seasons — a rainy season, running June through October and a dry season, November through May. Also, keep in mind that hurricane season runs June through November.

The two weather seasons coincide with high and low tourist season as well. The busiest time of the year is November through Easter – when most North Americans visit. But by the end of April and the beginning of May, the snowbirds have gone home and the crowds have really thinned out.

All of that being said, rain and weather don’t know months. I’ve been to Puerto Vallarta a few times in June and experienced more cloudy days than in August. Also, having a rainy season doesn’t mean you can’t have rain in the dry season. Although it’s rare, Puerto Vallarta has been known to experience rain in the winter months and has even experienced drought conditions in the rainy season.

Puerto Vallarta Weather in August

Puerto Vallarta weather in August is hot and very humid but conditions can vary from year to year. Normal daytime temps range in the mid 90’s with nighttime lows in the mid 70’s. Temps in the 90’s may not seem all that hot for some people but the real challenge is the is the humidity, which can reach 86% or more, making it feel much hotter.

For visitors from the deep south, or Florida, you probably won’t be bothered by these temperatures too much. However, if you are someone from drier climates like California, the Pacific Northwest or Canada then that humidity can be really intense. Personally, I think it’s the perfect pool weather.

Most days start off sunny, with clouds building in the afternoon and the heaviest showers in the evening. August is the second rainiest month, averaging around 10 inches of rainfall. Light daytime showers can be common but they usually don’t interfere with activities. It’s the evening storms — with lightning — you’ll want to plan around.

How Rain Affects Puerto Vallarta

If you’ve never been caught in a tropical downpour, just know it can totally change your plans – walking around or going is not so easy. Part of that is due to the Sierra Madre Mountains surrounding the city. Once it starts to rain high in the mountains, the water rushes down and streets become rivers.

Walking on sidewalks can also be difficult and umbrellas are practically useless in the hard tropical rain and wind. Since the streets are narrow and prone to flooding, splashing by passing cars is a real hazard during and even after the rain stops it takes awhile before you can actually walk around downtown and not get wet.

And as if getting splashed isn’t enough, the rain brings something else with it — mosquitoes. With the summer rains, these pesky insects become much more common, especially in the evenings. Besides the nuisance factor, there’s an increased risk of mosquito-borne illnesses like dengue fever during the rainy season.

While all this might sounds miserable, it’s not as bad as it sounds. As long as you know what to expect and go prepared, Puerto Vallarta’s August weather it’s totally manageable — and can still a good time to be there. Out of the nine nights I was there near the end of August, only two evenings had rain heavy enough to change my plans.

Advantages of Visiting Puerto Vallarta in August

Now that you know what the weather might be like in Puerto Vallarta in August, let’s talk about why it’s still a great time to visit. One of the biggest advantages is the smaller crowds. Fewer people means more availability and better prices on accommodations.

There’s no shortage of places to stay in Puerto Vallarta. In all the tourist neighborhoods, hotels drop their rates during low and shoulder season. In some cases you can find accommodations for less than half the price of what they are in December and January. Airfare is cheaper too.

Fewer people in town also means you can walk right into restaurants and actually get reservations for those special dinners. Shorter waits, less noise, more fun.

It’s also easier to book tours to places like las Islas Marietas and other day trips from Puerto Vallarta. And while you’ll miss the whales, summer is the best opportunity for turtle releases.

August is also one of the best months for the ocean. The water is warm — ideal for swimming, snorkeling (a bit murky in August but still worth it) or just floating. If sitting on the beach with nowhere to be is your thing, August is a much quieter experience.

Disadvantages of Visiting Puerto Vallarta in August

Now for the downside. With fewer visitors in town, some businesses take the opportunity to close for a break after the busy season. It’s not uncommon for restaurants to shut down temporarily — this also happens in September. During my visit, a few places near our condo that I wanted to try were closed for the entire month.

Another disadvantage is reduced entertainment choices. During peak season, Puerto Vallarta offers a wide variety of live performances and shows. You’ll always be able to find live music in bars and restaurants year round but in general the overall vibe is just quieter and less energetic after the end of May.

One more thing I noticed in August was what I would describe as tourist fatigue. It seemed that everyone was tired and just “over” tourist season. Service was a bit lackluster. I love Puerto Vallarta and its people with all my heart but for the first time I felt like I was a nuisance and I had never experienced that before. (It definitely won’t keep me from returning.)

Tips for Visiting Puerto Vallarta in August

If you decide to visit Puerto Vallarta in August, there are some things you can do to make your vacation more enjoyable despite the weather. First, consider staying somewhere other than Downtown or the Romantic Zone. These neighborhoods are my favorites and are cute but they tend to have narrow cobblestone streets that are difficult to navigate during or after the rain.

Instead, look into accommodations in the Marina – San Tropico Petit Hotel would be perfect — or the Hotel Zone. Both areas offer hotels and resorts with on-site restaurants. That way, if it rains in the evening, your dinner plans won’t be affected — you can stay dry and still enjoy a great meal without having to leave the property. Plus, most resorts offer some kind of entertainment or activities in the evenings. You won’t be bored if you stay in.

Booking in a condo with a kitchen is also useful. I know most people — including me — don’t want to cook on vacation, but having a kitchen gives you the flexibility to keep a few food items on hand so you’re not forced to go out in bad weather. We (my daughter and I) stayed at Loft 268 in the Romantic Zone and loved our one bedroom condo and small kitchen.

Another bonus of staying in a condo is that along with rooftop pools many have common areas like gyms, game rooms and outdoor cooking areas on the roof as well. Our pool was even partially covered. I wouldn’t want to be up there when it’s lightning but otherwise those spaces are some of the best places to wait out the rain instead of in a small hotel room.

We also stayed at the Marriott Puerto Vallarta Resort & Spa and Hotel Rosita. Even though we loved both of these very different hotels — they each have onsite restaurants — but the Marriott offered more of a variety of food and has some nightly entertainment. It’s great for rainy evenings. Plus, there’s an onsite spa. I can’t imagine anything better than getting a massage or having a soak when it’s rainy.

Safety Tips for Visiting Puerto Vallarta in August

If you visit Puerto Vallarta in August, it’s important to always be mindful of the weather. It is hurricane season and tropical storms can pop up rather quickly. A weather app like Windy or AccuWeather on your phone — along with a few other helpful apps for traveling in Mexico — helps you avoid getting caught unaware.

Beach and water safety during the summer is also important. If you’re planning to swim, pay attention to the warning flags along the beach. A red flag means strong currents or unsafe conditions. Yellow is caution and purple is for wildlife. When in doubt, just stay out of the water — conditions can change fast, especially after a storm, so don’t take any chances.

Puerto Vallarta has more than a few rivers flowing out of the mountains to the beach. After heavy rain, it’s best to avoid swimming where the rivers flow into the ocean. It might look okay but the rivers can carry debris and even sewage after a storm. Swimming or even wading can be dangerous. Sticking to the hotel pool is much safer after the rain.

What to Pack for August in Puerto Vallarta

There’s a saying that there’s no bad weather only bad clothes — meaning if you prepare for the weather then there’s really no bad weather. That might be true for some weather but maybe not as accurate for tropical weather. But it never hurts to be prepared so here are a few things you might need for Puerto Vallarta in August:

• Sunscreen – Even on overcast days, the UV index is high and you can burn quickly.
• An umbrella – Handy for sudden downpours, as long as it’s not too windy.
• Rain poncho – A lightweight poncho is better than a jacket in the humid heat.
• Closed toe shoes – Helpful for walking on wet streets or avoiding splashes after the rain.
• A book, a game or a deck of cards – perfect rainy day activities
• Mosquito repellant – Essential in the evenings or after rain when mosquitoes are most active.
• After-Bite Stick or Cream – Just in case you do get bitten.
• Quick-Dry Clothing – Helps with comfort and drying off faster after sudden rain or sweat.
• Reusable Water Bottle – Stay hydrated in the heat (and eco-friendly, too).
• Lightweight Daypack or Waterproof Bag – To carry essentials and keep valuables dry.
• Hat and Sunglasses – For sun protection during peak hours.
• Portable Fan – Helpful for staying cool in the midday heat.
• Small Flashlight – In case of a power outage during a storm (not common, but possible).
• Copies of Important Documents in a Ziplock Bag – Just a smart idea during rainy season travel.
• Camera Cover or Waterproof Case – Protect your devices from sudden downpours or splashes.

FAQ

Is August a Good Time for Puerto Vallarta?

It depends on what you’re looking for. August is hot, humid and officially rainy season but that doesn’t mean it’s a bad time to visit. Crowds are low, prices are better and the city is lush and green. If you can handle the heat and plan around the evening rain, August is a perfectly good time to go.

Is August Hurricane Season in Puerto Vallarta?

Yes — hurricane season in Mexico runs June through November with August and September being the most active months. Direct hits on Puerto Vallarta are rare but tropical storms can pass through the region and cause heavy rain and rough surf. Download a weather app like Windy or AccuWeather and keep an eye on conditions while you’re there.

What is the Rainest Month in Puerto Vallarta?

September is typically the rainiest month in Puerto Vallarta. August comes in close behind, averaging around 10 inches of rainfall. Most rain falls in afternoon and evening showers rather than all day downpours.

Is it Worth Going to Puerto Vallarta in August?

Yes — especially if budget matters. August is low season across most of Mexico which means lower hotel rates, fewer crowds and easier access to tours and restaurants. The trade off is heat and humidity but for many travelers that’s a worthwhile exchange.

August in Puerto Vallarta Final Thoughts

Visiting Puerto Vallarta in August might not be everyone’s first choice but for travelers willing to take a chance on the rainy season, the payoff is real — fewer crowds, better prices, lush green scenery and warm ocean water. Pack smart, be flexible with plans and don’t forget the bug spray. With the right attitude August offers a quieter, more budget-friendly version of one of Mexico’s best cities.

Ready to plan your Puerto Vallarta trip? I’ve been traveling to PV for years and I’d love to help you put together the perfect itinerary. Email me or fill out this easy form and let’s get started.

More Puerto Vallarta Reading

• Best Restaurants & Where to Eat in Puerto Vallarta
• How do You Say Puerto Vallarta
• Is Puerto Vallarta Safe?
• Things to Know Before Visiting Mexico

See you south of the border!

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