Mexico, North America
Puerto Vallarta in May
Last dry month and a real value pick. Vallarta Pride takes over the Zona Romantica for a week of events.
The straight answer
May is a good month to visit Puerto Vallarta. Last dry month and a real value pick. Vallarta Pride takes over the Zona Romantica for a week of events.
- Weather
- Dry, highs near 87F (31C), humidity creeping up
- Crowds
- 2 of 5
- Prices
- 3 of 5
What May is like in Puerto Vallarta
May is the last dry month in Puerto Vallarta. Highs reach about 87F (31C), humidity creeps up toward the end of the month, and the sea is warm and inviting. The winter crowds are gone and prices drop, making this a real value pick. Late May usually brings Vallarta Pride, which fills the Zona Romantica with a week of parties and events.
May suits budget-minded couples, families who want warm water and quieter beaches, and LGBTQ+ travelers coming for Pride. It is hot at midday, so plan outdoor time for mornings and evenings. If you want whales or cooler air, pick January or February instead.
Make the most of May
What is especially good about Puerto Vallarta this month.
Vallarta Pride
Most years in late May, the Zona Romantica hosts a week of events and a parade along the Malecon. Hotels in that area fill up fast.
Warm, calm swimming
The water is at its most comfortable for kids before the rainy season stirs up the bay.
Dry-season prices drop
Hotels offer some of their best rates of the dry season, and restaurants are easy to get into.
What to pack for May
- Breathable, quick-dry clothes
- High-SPF, reef-safe sunscreen
- A sun hat for midday heat
- Sandals and a light outfit for evenings out
Our timing tip
If you are not coming for Pride, check its dates and consider staying outside the Zona Romantica that week, or pick early May for quieter streets.
Book Puerto Vallarta for May.
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- Hotels for May
Hotels. Expedia
Hotels in Puerto VallartaOpens a hotel search for Puerto Vallarta in May, dates filled in. Book early for the best months: the good rooms go first.
- Rentals on Vrbo
Vacation rentals. Vrbo
Vacation rentals in Puerto VallartaWhole homes, condos and villas. Usually the better deal for families and groups, with a kitchen and room to spread out.
- Tours and tickets
Tours and tickets. Expedia
Tours and tickets in Puerto VallartaTimed-entry tickets, day trips and guided tours in Puerto Vallarta for May. Popular slots sell out in the best months.
What's on in May
Vallarta Pride
Late May, most years
A week of parties, a parade along the Malecon, and events across the Zona Romantica. Hotels in the area fill up.
Things to do in Puerto Vallarta
The Malecon and Centro
Walk the waterfront at sunset, then climb into the old town to the Guadalupe church's crown. Evenings are when the Malecon comes alive.
Whale watching in Banderas Bay
December through March. Go with a licensed operator; many trips leave from the Marina and Nuevo Vallarta.
Zona Romantica and Los Muertos Beach
The liveliest neighborhood in town, with the pier, beach bars, and the best walking-and-eating streets.
Yelapa and the south shore
A water taxi from Los Muertos pier reaches Yelapa, Las Animas, and Quimixto. Yelapa's waterfall walk and slow village pace make a great day.
Vallarta Botanical Garden
About 30 minutes south in the mountains, with orchids, a river to swim in, and good birding. Best in the green season or early in the dry season.
Marietas Islands
A protected national park with strict daily limits; the famous hidden beach requires a permit and a licensed tour. Book ahead in high season.
Beat the crowds
- Avoid Christmas to New Year and the Semana Santa week; the rest of the dry season is busy but manageable.
- Take whale-watching and Marietas trips on the first departure of the morning, when the bay is calm and boats are fewer.
- Late April and May give you dry weather and much lower prices after the Easter rush.
- Stay in the Zona Romantica or Centro rather than the Hotel Zone if you want to walk everywhere and skip taxis.
Know before you go
- September into early October: some restaurants and smaller hotels close for staff vacation or renovation. Call ahead for specific places.
- Whale tours only run from December to March. Outside those months, the humpbacks are gone.
- The Marietas Islands are periodically closed for environmental recovery and have daily visitor caps. Check with licensed tour operators before you plan around them.
- Hurricane season runs June through November, peaking August to October. Direct hits are uncommon, but storms can disrupt flights and boat tours.
Puerto Vallarta in May, quick answers
Is May a good time to visit Puerto Vallarta?
May is a good month to visit Puerto Vallarta. Last dry month and a real value pick. Vallarta Pride takes over the Zona Romantica for a week of events.
What is the weather like in Puerto Vallarta in May?
Dry, highs near 87F (31C), humidity creeping up.
Is Puerto Vallarta crowded in May?
May is one of the quieter months in Puerto Vallarta; most sights can be done without long waits.
What is happening in Puerto Vallarta in May?
Vallarta Pride (late may, most years).
Keep planning Puerto Vallarta.
The months either side, and the best one if this is not it.
Also at their best in May
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