Traveling to Puerto Vallarta in August: Weather, Things to Do and Events [2023]
Are you traveling to Puerto Vallarta in August? If so, you have landed in the right place. In this post, you will find everything you need to know to plan your trip, from Puerto Vallarta weather in August to the top things to do events and useful practical tips.
Puerto Vallarta is magical all year, but some things are different depending on the month of your visit.
But before we delve into Puerto Vallarta in August, let’s talk a little bit about the city itself and why it’s a good idea to visit.
Located on the gorgeous Pacific coast of Mexico, Puerto Vallarta is a dream destination both for its old-world charm and lively resort town vibes.
Its beaches are not some of the best in Mexico, but you can find gorgeous bays and a thriving marine life to explore, the nightlife here is vibrant and fun, and the watersports activities are endless.
From its colonial buildings, beautiful neighborhoods, and popular attractions like the Malecon and Los Muertos Pier to hiking trails, shopping, delicious food, and lots of adventurous activities, the town has so much to offer.
Then there are the famous all-inclusive and boutique hotels of PV where you can spend a relaxing vacation away from everything.
With that being said, it’s time to get back to our topic for the post—weather in Puerto Vallarta in August. Let’s start with a quick glance at the weather before we get into the details.
Weather in Puerto Vallarta In August – At a Glance
Although the hottest month in Puerto Vallarta is July, the weather in Puerto Vallarta in August is still characterized by hot days, high humidity, and lots of rain.
This is due to the fact that August is one of the cloudiest and rainiest summer months and also the hurricane season.
If you are planning on visiting Puerto Vallarta in August, you should be aware of the possibility of rainy days.
However, the rain usually does not last all day and there are still plenty of activities you can still enjoy.
On the contrary, the wind is at its lowest speed in July and August in Puerto Vallarta.
In general, I wouldn’t rely too much on the weather forecast to plan my tours because the weather most likely changes last minute.
Temperature in Puerto Vallarta in August
The weather in Puerto Vallarta in August is typically hot and humid, with high temperatures.
The average high is around 91°F (33°C) while the average low is around 73°F (23°C).
August is also one of the rainiest months of the year, so there will be showers on most days to make the heat more bearable.
Precipitation in Puerto Vallarta in August
I have already mentioned lots of rain in August, so you can probably guess the chances of precipitation are higher during this month as well.
To put it into exact figures, the chances of precipitation on any given day of August are above 75%, sometimes even reaching 80%.
Sunshine in Puerto Vallarta in August
Despite being one of the summer months, August in Puerto Vallarta has some of the fewest sunshine hours.
During this time of the year, days start decreasing in length as the month goes on, with the shortest day of August being 12 and half hours long.
With rains and gray skies, you can expect around 8 hours of sunshine on average.
Though it may not be a lot, you can still fit in lots of things to do and see in those 8 hours.
Ocean water temperature in Puerto Vallarta in August
Along with the rainy season in Puerto Vallarta, the ocean temperatures also reach their peak in August.
The average ocean water temperature is around 86°F (30°C), making August one of the best months to go snorkeling and diving in Puerto Vallarta in warm waters.
The visibility underwater is excellent and the surf is calm as well.
Average wind speed in Puerto Vallarta in August
The average wind speed in Puerto Vallarta in August is around 5.3 mph, which is the lowest of the year.
Events in Puerto Vallarta in August
There are no particular events taking place in Puerto Vallarta in August but look out for turtle release that many beach hotels organize.
Pros of Visiting Puerto Vallarta in August
Visiting Puerto Vallarta in August has lots of benefits depending on the kind of vacation you have in mind. For an instance, it’s one of the best times to visit here if you’re on a budget.
There are lots of great deals on lodgings, flights, and activities. It’s also one of the warmest times of the year which is great for swimming.
The other benefits of visiting Puerto Vallarta in August are listed below.
✅ Overall the cheapest time of the year to visit Puerto Vallarta.
✅ August is considered the low season which means that you will find fewer crowds compared to the dry season.
✅ You get to choose from the best areas and lodging options in Puerto Vallarta.
✅ Warmest water temperatures of the year which makes it a great month for swimming and snorkeling without getting cold.
✅ Excellent underwater visibility for scuba diving and snorkeling.
✅ Your trip will be more intimate and laid-back.
✅ You can watch baby sea turtles hatching and being released into the water. You can also participate in the programs at hotels and camps and help release a baby turtle.
Cons of Visiting Puerto Vallarta in August
Visiting Puerto Vallarta definitely has its advantages, but there are also some cons that you should know about.
They’re not really that much of an inconvenience, but they still have an impact on your trip. I’m listing them here just so you know.
🔴 Days are typically hot and humid as August is one of the warmest month of the year
🔴 The sky is mostly overcast.
🔴 You can expect a good chance of rain on at least half the days of August.
🔴 There are usually only 8 hours of sunshine.
🔴 The surf is poor although you can still find decent waves north of Puerto Vallarta and Sayulita
🔴 You won’t encounter as much marine life as in the winter months.
Things to Do in Puerto Vallarta in August
➡️ Explore the charms of Puerto Vallarta’s Old Town
Puerto Vallarta’s Old Town is the part of town that you will immediately fall in love with. The surroundings of Old Town consist of cobblestone streets lined with colonial buildings, art shops, and adorable cafes, bakeries, and restaurants.
You can spend an entire day exploring the magical Old Town. And if you’re up for it, you can go on for a stroll along the Malecon.
A walk along the promenade is an unmissable Puerto Vallarta experience as well, so I highly recommend it.
You can take the time to appreciate the sculptures and statues, shop around, enjoy the atmospheric surroundings, and even see one of the most spectacular sunsets of your life here!
➡️ Join a tour of the nearby Marietas Islands
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 306 Reviews
Underwater visibility is at its best in August. If you’re in Puerto Vallarta during this month, missing the chance to take a tour of Islas Marietas National Park won’t be a good idea.
This group of small islands near Banderas Bay has some of the most breathtaking views to offer.
👉 Book the top-rated tour to the Marietas Island
➡️ Go on a ziplining adventure in the Sierra Madre
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Puerto Vallarta is known for its stunning beaches and watersports activities, but the town is equally breathtaking on the other side as well.
The Sierra Madre mountain range of PV is brimming with nature, and a canopy tour over it is an unforgettable experience.
The canopy tour in the Sierra Madre is one of the most popular activities in Puerto Vallarta.
Though it usually costs way more, you can book this tour for a relatively cheaper price in August and experience the thrill of seeing the rainforest from above.
👉 Book your Zip Line tour in Puerto Vallarta in advance here!
Take a stroll in the Zona Romantica
The Zona Romantica is one of the must-see areas of Puerto Vallarta. Just like the Old Town, the Romantic Zone has lots of authentic charm to it, but there are many things unique to the area.
The nightlife in the Romantic Zone is vibrant and one of the best in town. The area also has a reputation for being one of the most LGBTQ-friendly places in all of Mexico.
Then there is Los Muertos Beach and the famous pier here that will take your breath away. Suffice to say, you won’t forget the time you spend in the Romantic Zone.
➡️ Visit the incredible Puerto Vallarta Botanical Gardens
The Puerto Vallarta Botanical Gardens are simply gorgeous, and visiting them during the quiet time of August can make for a lovely day trip whether you’re going with your family, friends, or solo.
The park is perfect if you want to spend some time surrounded by serene nature. You will get to see a variety of beautiful flowers and plants here.
The Botanical Gardens are located only 30 minutes from the town, so you can just take a bus or taxi to get there.
The opening hours during August are from 10 AM to 6 PM and entrance per head costs around $200 MXN (US$10).
👉 Join a guided botanical gardens tour + Tequila testing on VIATOR
➡️ Rent a car and explore at your own pace
Yes indeed, you have heard me right. You can find cheap car rentals in Puerto Vallarta and drive around exploring the beautiful towns along the coast or up in the mountains, up to San Sebastian del Oeste one of the beautiful Mexican Pueblos Magicos.
I recommend comparing prices from different car rentals on Discovercars where you can see which company offers the best deals.
Discover Cars Mexico Review
Browse through international and local car rentals and find the best deal.
Tips For Visiting Puerto Vallarta in August
☔️ Plan your activities and excursions with rain in mind ☔️
Weather will have a huge role to play in the activities and excursions you plan on doing when you’re vacationing in Puerto Vallarta.
At least half the days of August have rain, but that doesn’t mean you won’t get any outdoor activities on those days.
You can plan your activities with rain in mind, and then there are the days with light showers or no rain that you can schedule pleasant day trips to nearby attractions.
The nightlife in Puerto Vallarta is also great, so you won’t go wrong with lots of partying on your things-to-do-in-PV list.
🦟 Prepare for the mosquitoes🦟
Mosquitos are a problem in Mexico, but they’re particularly annoying during the rainy season, so you can guess the situation in August when the wet season is at its peak.
Luckily, a few measures will make them a non-problem.
I suggest frequently using mosquito repellent and wearing full sleeves and long trousers at night.
🌞 Bring a lot of sunscreen 🌞
Puerto Vallarta’s weather in August is hot and balmy. The sun is intense even on cloudy days, so you might get sunburn if you’re not wearing sunscreen.
Such being the case, make sure you have plenty of sunscreens (ideally eco-friendly) to keep your skin protected at all times.
💧 Stay hydrated 💧
With such humidity and heat, you will want to stay hydrated whether you are going on a hike or on the beach. Bring a water bottle with you that you can refill in restaurants cafes or your hotel.
👉 Don’t forget travel insurance ⤵️
➢ Do I need travel insurance in Mexico? Yes, you do! I can never stress enough what a lifesaver it can be in unexpected situations. Although I hope I never need it, it gives me peace of mind to know that whatever happens I am covered. I have been using Safety Wing and I find it quite fair, covering a lot for its pricing level. Depending on your needs or you can compare different insurance companies on this useful site, TRAVEL INSURANCE MASTER. Make sure you read carefully what’s included before making the purchase. If you are undecided yet you can read my post on the best travel insurance for Mexico for more clarity.
Puerto Vallarta in August FAQs
Is Puerto Vallarta safe during August?
Yes. The Puerto Vallarta weather in August may not be the best, but the town is still as safe for a visit as ever.
Despite it being hurricane season, you won’t have to worry about any major storms thanks to the protection offered by Banderas Bay.
The usual common sense rules apply in any month of the year, including not flaunting your wealth, keeping your personal belonging in sight, and never walking in isolated areas at night, among others.
You can check out my post on Puerto Vallarta safety.
Protect your personal belonging from pickpocketers!
Is August a good time to visit Puerto Vallarta?
Definitely. August is when the prices are the lowest and there are no crowds, so it’s the best time to visit Puerto Vallarta if you’re on a budget.
What’s more, there are fewer tourists everywhere you go in Puerto Vallarta.
This is because August is when the rainy season peaks, so you can expect to see a lot more rain than usual.
But it also means that August is a great time to visit Puerto Vallarta if you’re looking for a more relaxed and intimate vacation.
However, if you are looking for clear skies and excellent weather, then August isn’t a good time for it.
Are hurricanes frequent in Puerto Vallarta in August?
No. On the contrary, hurricanes are rare in Puerto Vallarta, even during the hurricane season. This is because PV is protected by Banderas Bay, so the chances of a major storm hitting the city are next to none.
What is the best time of the year to visit Puerto Vallarta?
The best time to visit Puerto Vallarta depends on your preferences. If you’re looking for the perfect weather of the year, it’s between December and May.
That’s also when the majority of tourists visit PV, so it’s the High Season for tourism, which means higher prices and less availability of lodgings.
That would be the dry season ideal for whale watching and you’re more likely to see humpback whales jumping out of the water from the terrace of your beachfront hotel.
On the other hand, if you’re looking for a budget trip, August is the best time for it.
With the rainy season at its peak, the weather may not be at its best in PV, but you can still get a wonderful experience out of your vacation.
You can also get a little bit of both if you time your trip between April and June. This is when the weather is still great and the prices are far cheaper compared to the High Season.
For further reading
► The best time to visit Puerto Vallarta
► Cancun VS Puerto Vallarta: which one is best?
► Tulum vs Puerto Vallarta
► Puerto Vallarta Travel Tips
Where to Stay in Puerto Vallarta
There are many incredible hotels in Puerto Vallarta scattered around the different areas of the city. In my post on the best areas to stay in Puerto Vallarta, I explain them more in detail. Here I would like to share my top favorite hotels.
🏨 Luna Liquida
An exquisite boutique hotel in Old Vallarta with a spectacular view over the bay from the rooftop terrace where breakfast is served.
The cute rooms are decorated in a delicate combination of colors, local art pieces, and other decorative and functional objects. It just feels like a beautiful home.
Check rates and availability on Booking.com | Expedia | Hotels.com
🏨 Hyatt Ziva Puerto Vallarta
Embraced by the lush Sierra Madre, the all-inclusive family hotel Hyatt Ziva towers over its own extended private beach Las Estacas and the entire Banderas Bay that you can admire from one of the colorful, stylish rooms. Great restaurants and facilities to entertain the entire family.
👉 Check availability and rates on Booking.com | Expedia | Hotels.com
🏨 Villa Lola
Cozy 7-room bed and breakfast in a beautiful colonial home featuring unique decorations and local art and modern amenities.
👉 Check availability and rates on Booking.com | Expedia | Hotels.com
For further reading
🔗 Visit Cancun in August
🔗 Visit Tulum in August
🔗 The Ultimate Guide to Bacalar
🔗 How to get from Cancun to Chichen Itza
🔗 Is there Uber in Mexico city?
🔗 Renting a car in Mexico
✨ Mexico Travel Planning Guide ✨
👉 Do I need travel insurance to travel to Mexico?
I would do it if I were you. You never know what can happen and know that no matter what, you will be covered with any expenses will give you peace of mind, and make your travel worry-free. You can check out SafetyWing which I have used and find it affordable and comprehensive and also Travel Insurance Master which is great because you can insert all your information and what kind of insurance you need and their system will pull out the best insurance for your need.
🚰 Can I drink tap water in Mexico?
No, you can’t! Maybe in some areas or in some homes where they have installed water filters but to be on the safe side, I would say, never drink tap water in Mexico. Carry a water bottle with you and fill it up where you find available potable water sources. Most of the hotels have those.
🚗 Is it safe to drive in Mexico?
The short answer is: depending on where you are. Although in general if you stick to the main roads and don’t drive at night you should probably be safe. In lesser tourist areas you should probably check the local news to stay up to date. Driving in the Yucatan Peninsula is easy everywhere, even at night, although I would still avoid it. I recommend Discover Cars because the site offers the option to compare prices among different car rentals and you can add their own full coverage.
Read more on my guide on Renting a car in Mexico.
📱 Will my phone work in Mexico?
It will probably work, especially if you have a European or US phone, but your roaming rates may be to the stars (check with your SIM provider). Even if have an affordable international rate, you will be much better off by buying a Mexican SIM Card. It’s cheap, easy to set up, and it will keep you connected with your friends, family, and, more important, google Maps so you will never get lost!
🤕 Is it safe to travel to Mexico right now?
The short answer is, yes it is. However, there are parts of Mexico that are indeed troubled and you should avoid for now, and others that are super safe and easy to travel around.
Regardless of where you are you should always use some common sense rules such as, never flaunting expensive clothing, accessories, electronics, or money and keeping a low profile.
Read more on my detailed guide on safety in Mexico. If you are traveling to a specific destination I have got you covered as well:
💉 Do I need any vaccine to travel to Mexico?
No, there is no vaccine requirement (of any kind) to travel to Mexico
🇲🇽 Do I need a visa to travel to Mexico?
If you are coming from the US or Europe you don’t need a VISA to enter Mexico. Once you get in you need to fill out a form that you need to keep with you until you leave. If you don’t have it you will pay a fine.
Although the tourist visa for US and European travelers used to be 6 months long which you could easily renew by leaving the country for a couple of days and going back, nowadays they have been stricter. You may be asked how you would sustain your living and other similar questions. Sometimes they even ask you to show your credit cards.
It seems odd but they can do that. If you intend to stay longer than a usual couple of weeks’ vacation time, just be honest and explain your plans. If you are not from the US, check this site to see if you need a visa
💸 Where do I find the best travel deals for Mexico? 💸
A trip to Mexico can be expensive if you love to travel with all the comforts (like I do). There are a few tricks that will help you find the best deals. Here are my tips:
👉 DON’T travel in the high season, which is Holy week, Christmas and winter in general, and August.
👉 Book months in advance to find early booking discounts
👉 Use aggregators such as Discover Cars to find price comparisons and VRBO for vacation rentals!
👉 Look for packages flights+hotels on Expedia.
👉 Check on Booking.com or Hotels.com for hotel deals
Happy travels!!
Isabella, author, editor, and founder
A passionate traveler and photographer, in love with life and adventures, Isabella is the founder and editor of Letstraveltomexico where she shares her love for Mexico, a fascinating country that she’s proud to call home. When she’s not exploring a new place you will find Isabella in a cafe, writing on this blog, or on her other sites Boundless Roads, Mexico Cenotes and Ruins and Letstraveltocancun.com where she loves to share her travels on and off the beaten path in Mexico and around the world.