Mexico, North America
Puerto Vallarta in November
Dry season returns, the jungle is still lush, and the whales start arriving by late month or early December. Thanksgiving week is busy.
The straight answer
November is a good month to visit Puerto Vallarta. Dry season returns, the jungle is still lush, and the whales start arriving by late month or early December. Thanksgiving week is busy.
- Weather
- Drying out, highs near 88F (31C)
- Crowds
- 3 of 5
- Prices
- 3 of 5
What November is like in Puerto Vallarta
November brings the dry season back. Highs sit near 88F (31C), humidity falls, and blue skies return, while the jungle is still lush from the summer rains. Prices sit in the middle, and the town feels fresh and ready for winter. The first whales may arrive at the very end of the month or in early December. Thanksgiving week is busy.
November suits families, couples, and first-timers who want sunny weather without peak holiday prices. It is a strong choice for most people. If whales are your top priority, push your trip into January or February for the best odds.
Make the most of November
What is especially good about Puerto Vallarta this month.
Dry season, green hills
You get sunny days with the jungle still at its greenest, a mix you only find early in the dry season.
Last turtle releases
Hatching season is still going, so families can often join an evening release.
Before the holiday rush
Early November offers dry weather and easy bookings before Thanksgiving and Christmas crowds arrive.
What to pack for November
- Light summer clothes
- A thin layer for evening breezes
- Reef-safe sunscreen
- Walking shoes for the cobblestone Centro
Our timing tip
Book early if you want Thanksgiving week, or come in the first half of November for the best mix of price, weather, and space.
Book Puerto Vallarta for November.
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- Hotels for November
Hotels. Expedia
Hotels in Puerto VallartaOpens a hotel search for Puerto Vallarta in November, 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 November. Popular slots sell out in the best months.
What's on in November
Sea turtle hatching season
Roughly July through December
Olive ridley turtles nest on area beaches. Local conservation camps run evening hatchling releases, which are a highlight for kids.
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 November, quick answers
Is November a good time to visit Puerto Vallarta?
November is a good month to visit Puerto Vallarta. Dry season returns, the jungle is still lush, and the whales start arriving by late month or early December. Thanksgiving week is busy.
What is the weather like in Puerto Vallarta in November?
Drying out, highs near 88F (31C).
Is Puerto Vallarta crowded in November?
Crowds in Puerto Vallarta are moderate in November; timed bookings still help at the biggest sights.
What is happening in Puerto Vallarta in November?
Sea turtle hatching season (roughly july through december).
Keep planning Puerto Vallarta.
The months either side, and the best one if this is not it.
Also at their best in November
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