What's the Weather Like in Puerto Vallarta in December?
Although December is technically winter in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, the weather is still extremely mild thanks to the city's positioning so close to the equator. The month is characterised by long, sun-filled days and minimal rainfall the perfect time to visit to catch some winter sun.
Temperature
Like the rest of the year, December sees temperatures that can reach 30°C and above during the hottest parts of the day, but on average you can expect temperatures to hang around 23°C. At night the air cools down considerably, with average low temperatures of 15°C. It's a good idea to pack layers if you're visiting Puerto Vallarta at this time of year t-shirts, shorts, and swimwear will suffice for during the day, but you'll probably need a thin cardigan or jumper for when the sun goes down. Remember to slip some suncream into your luggage as well, as the sun is still strong in December.
Rainfall
Winter in Puerto Vallarta is also the dry season, so December sees only a small amount of rainfall around 25mm throughout the month. It's highly unlikely you'll get caught in any showers so it's not vital for you to pack an umbrella, although you might want to just to stay on the safe side.
Sunshine Hours
Thanks to its location, Puerto Vallarta sees a lot of sunshine even through the winter months. In December you can expect to see around 10 hours of sunshine per day, providing you with plenty of time to get out and about in the city as well as soak up the winter sun on the beaches.
Sea Temperature
The dry season is the best time to visit the beaches in Puerto Vallarta because, well, there's no rain to have to shelter from. This means the coastline is busier at this time of year, but there's plenty of sand for everyone. Plus, the sea temperatures are a surprisingly warm 27°C in December, providing the perfect conditions for swimming, snorkelling, and the variety of watersports on offer along the shoreline.
December may be winter, but it's also the dry season (November - May) in Puerto Vallarta, which means long, sun-filled days and hardly any rain. The crowds do pick up at this time of year, but there is so much to see and do in the city that you'll hardly notice!
Hotels for Puerto Vallarta in December
Villa Premiere
Villa Premiere is a luxury boutique hotel right on the beachfront in Puerto Vallarta. There's an in-house spa and fitness centre, as well as beachside massage services and morning yoga classes that take place right by the sea. Guests can enjoy their own slice of private beach, as well as the 2 swimming pools with poolside bars and three gourmet restaurants. Rooms are stylish and spacious with spectacular views out across the bay from the private balconies and terraces.
Now Amber
Dreams Vallarta Bay Resorts & Spa is a luxury resort and spa located right on the beach. The modern design is fresh and stylish, and rooms are large with private balconies and terraces overlooking the sea. There is also a world-class spa with a range of relaxing treatments, a selection of 6 upmarket restaurants, a golf course, and a swimming pool.
Hotel Azteca
For more of a budget accommodation option, check into the Hotel Azteca which is a modest but comfortable hotel in the heart of the city. The design is simple with typical Mexican touches like brightly coloured furnishings and exposed-brick walls, plus all rooms have free access to WiFi and there's a restaurant on-site.
Beaches for December for Puerto Vallarta
December is a great time to hit the beach in Puerto Vallarta because it's the dry season which means that the chance of rain is very slim. Visitors flock to the beautiful shorelines of the city at this time of year, soaking up the amazing winter weather and exploring the vast and colourful underwater world. There are plenty of beaches to go around, whether you're looking for hidden coves or large stretches of sand with watersports opportunities.
Punta Negra
For a peaceful patch of sand, head to Punta Negra, which is just outside the downtown area of the city. It's mainly a residential area which is why it's so quiet and it boasts sprawling white-sands and the lapping waves of the Pacific Ocean. There are some unusual rock formations, too, as well as the opportunity for surfing when the waves are up.
Restaurants and Bars for Puerto Vallarta in December
OkJosé!
OkJosé! is a small, traditional Mexican restaurant tucked away off the beaten path in Puerto Vallarta. It has an intimate atmosphere with typical Mexican design including rich red décor and dark wooden furniture. There is a lively atmosphere and on the weekends there are often live bands and dancing, whilst the menus are filled with delicious Mexican dishes that use only the freshest ingredients, including speciality fish dishes like shrimp Cholula and red snapper Veracruzana style, speciality beef dishes like Don Jose steak and Sancho Plancha pork ribs, as well as salads, soups, and vegetarian options.
Things to Do in Puerto Vallarta in December
Galeria Olinala
The Galeria Olinala is a great place to visit for art lovers and culture vultures. The small space exhibits a range of colourful, traditional dance masks that stem from all over Mexico and beyond. Here, visitors can learn more about the performances in Mexican culture as well as the customs and dress that go with them. The Gallery boasts the oldest ethnographic collection in the city and there are often celebratory shows to highlight how the masks are, and were, used.
Vallarta Casino
If you're feeling lucky, head to Vallarta Casino in the centre of the city. You can try your hand at one of the numerous tables or stick to the slot machines. In addition, the casino regularly plays live sporting events, and there is a well-stocked bar for all your refreshment needs.
