Dry & sunny
The weather
December is in the dry season — sunny days and very little rain. Daytime highs average 30°C (86°F) and nights 18°C (64°F). The weather station records about 1.9 days with rain and 22 mm of rainfall in the month. The sea in Banderas Bay averages 27°C (80°F), and the sun sets around 18:22.
Rain and temperature, all year
Rain (mm)High (°C)
December 2026
What's on in December 2026
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Dec 1–12
Virgin of Guadalupe pilgrimages
Puerto Vallarta's most local December tradition and the one most visitors miss. For twelve days, neighborhoods, businesses and schools march to the Our Lady of Guadalupe church, the crowned church facing City Hall.
Full guide → -
Dec – Mar
Humpback whale season
Every winter, humpback whales migrate to the warm water of Banderas Bay to mate and give birth. Watching a mother and calf — or a full breach — is the trip most winter visitors remember.
Full guide → -
Dec 16–25
Christmas & the posadas
Mexican Christmas builds for nine nights of posadas and peaks on Christmas Eve, not Christmas Day. For visitors that means one big dinner to book early, and then one of the calmest, loveliest beach days of the year.
Full guide → -
Dec 31
New Year's Eve
The whole city ends up on the waterfront. The Malecón becomes a free open-air party with a stage, street food and music, and fireworks light up the bay at midnight — visible from almost anywhere along it.
Full guide →
Tips for December
- Dry-season months are the busiest for visitors — book popular hotels and tours early.
- It's whale season — pick a licensed whale-watching operator.
- Pack a light layer for evenings and early boat trips (lows around 18°C).
Tours
Tours worth doing in December
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FAQ
Common questions
What is the weather like in Puerto Vallarta in December?
December is in the dry season — sunny days and very little rain. Daytime highs average 30°C (86°F) and nights 18°C (64°F). The weather station records about 1.9 days with rain and 22 mm of rainfall in the month. The sea in Banderas Bay averages 27°C (80°F), and the sun sets around 18:22.
Is December a good time to visit Puerto Vallarta?
Yes, if you want sunshine: December averages only 1.9 days with rain, and it's whale season.
How warm is the ocean in Puerto Vallarta in December?
About 27°C (80°F) on average in Banderas Bay (Open-Meteo, 2023–2025).