Puerto Vallarta in May Travel Guide

Are you thinking of visiting Puerto Vallarta in May? I’ve been returning to Puerto Vallarta since 2021 and have spent May here more than once. Although it’s not considered the high season, it’s still a wonderful time to visit.

May suits travelers who want warm days and fewer winter visitors, and don’t mind rising heat and humidity. I still love it, but I’d choose winter if cooler weather is your priority.

In this travel guide, I’ll go over everything you need to know about visiting PV in May, including the weather, events, and top things to do.

Puerto Vallarta Weather in May

Puerto Vallarta experiences tropical weather throughout the year with a dry and rainy season. Winter crowds usually thin out after Easter weekend, though Easter can fall in March or April. May is a hot transition month before the usual June–October rainy season; late-May showers are possible.

May, one of the spring months in Puerto Vallarta, experiences higher temperatures and relatively high humidity. The high average temperature during the day is around 90 degrees Fahrenheit (32 degrees Celsius). Humidity makes it feel hotter, so plan walks early and take breaks in the shade. The daily forecast matters more than a monthly average.

If you’re someone who doesn’t deal well with humidity, you may want to avoid visiting during May. I still love it, but it’s essential to stay hydrated and wear light, breathable clothing during your visit. It’s one of the best months to hit the beaches and cool off with some water-based activities in the waters of Banderas Bay.

Puerto Vallarta does have a rainy season, which typically runs from June and lasts until October. May is considered the transition period from the dry season to the rainy season, so you may experience some rainy days if you’re visiting during the end of the month. That said, I haven’t seen rain during my own May stays, but that isn’t a promise for your dates. The eastern Pacific hurricane season starts May 15 and runs through November 30.

Still, you may want to pack a light raincoat or umbrella in your Mexico packing list just to be safe.

May often feels quieter than winter. If you can handle the heat, it can be one of the best times to explore Puerto Vallarta at a relaxed pace. June brings a greater chance of rain.

🇲🇽 Puerto Vallarta Quick Guide 🇲🇽

✈️ Airport – The Licenciado Gustavo Díaz Ordaz International Airport (PVR) airport is a 20-minute ride to the city center. You can book an airport transfer here.

🏩 Hotels – The best websites for booking hotels and resorts are Booking.com and Expedia, which search all properties to find you the best deals. For inspiration on where to stay, head to my ultimate guide to Puerto Vallarta hotels.

🚗 Getting around – Puerto Vallarta is easy to get around by walking and Uber, but renting a car is the best way to explore the surrounding areas. Discover Cars is the best website for finding deals, which searches International and local Mexican companies.

🌊 Things to do – Puerto Vallarta is a paradise for outdoor adventure! Some of the top things to do are whale watching, yacht trips, and ATV tours.

✔️ Don’t forget travel insurance! I use and love SafetyWing, which is insurance for remote workers. For shorter trips, I recommend HeyMondo – you can get 5% off by using that link.

Water temperatures in May

The ocean generally warms up as summer approaches. Check recent conditions with your dive shop or boat operator, especially if water temperature affects your comfort.

This makes it a great time to indulge in water activities such as swimming with wild dolphins, snorkeling in Los Arcos, or even learning to dive.

You may spot turtles, rays or dolphins on a boat or snorkeling trip, but a particular sighting isn’t guaranteed by the month. Visibility and sea conditions change too.

May is outside the usual winter humpback whale-watching season. Dolphin sightings are possible year-round, though you shouldn’t book expecting a guaranteed encounter.

Events in Puerto Vallarta during May

Pride

Puerto Vallarta hosts a number of fun annual events, and one of the biggest is during May.

Puerto Vallarta pride is one of the biggest celebrations in all of Latin America! This event features parades, parties, live music, and other activities that showcase the vibrant LGBTQ+ culture and community in Puerto Vallarta.

Check the official Pride calendar for the year you’re visiting. I couldn’t confirm a published 2027 schedule as of October 2026, so don’t use old parade dates to book flights. It’s so much fun partying in the streets of Zona Romantica until the early hours of the morning, with live performances and DJs on the street.

Festival Cultural de Mayo

The Festival Cultural de Mayo is a Jalisco arts festival with a program centered on Guadalajara. It isn’t a month-long Puerto Vallarta festival, so check the actual venue before adding an event to your PV itinerary.

For local May events, check the Puerto Vallarta event calendar and individual organizers closer to your trip. A festival happening elsewhere in Jalisco may be several hours away.

Puerto Vallarta restaurant week

The latest confirmed Puerto Vallarta Restaurant Week ran May 15–June 10, 2026. Check the organizer for 2027 dates and participating restaurants before booking around it.

Fresh seafood is one of my favorite things about living in PV, and Restaurant Week gives you another reason to try a few new places.

Participating top restaurants in Puerto Vallarta offer three-course set menus with three choices per course. Compare the menu price and what’s included; drinks, tips and extras can change the final bill.

Things to do in Puerto Vallarta in May

Take a party boat

One of the most popular things to do in Puerto Vallarta is to hop on a party boat cruise. This is probably my favorite thing to do in Puerto Vallarta any time of year, but May’s warm days can make a boat outing lovely. Swim only when the crew says conditions are suitable and use the boat’s safe entry and exit.

When you get back, enjoy the sea breeze as you sip on a margarita soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of a party boat. It’s a must on your itinerary for Puerto Vallarta!

Go Diving

May can be a good time to dive, but good visibility isn’t guaranteed. Ask a dive shop about conditions that week. If you aren’t certified, ask about a supervised introductory dive and its fitness requirements.

Los Arcos is one option for a dive outing, with rocky formations and marine life. Let the dive shop choose a site suited to your experience and the day’s conditions.

There are several dive operators in the area that offer guided dives for both beginners and experienced divers, making it a fantastic opportunity to discover the beauty of the ocean depths.

Swim in waterfalls

With the daytime temperatures rising in May, you can cool off by taking a refreshing dip in one of the many stunning waterfalls near Puerto Vallarta.

Options include Yelapa Falls, Quimixto, and Palo Maria, but travel and hiking time depend on the route. Rocky trails and river crossings need suitable footwear and safe water levels.

May is late in the dry season, so waterfall flow can be low. Check current conditions before going, and skip swimming or crossings during storms or high water, including rain upstream.

Experience the local cuisine

Puerto Vallarta is renowned for its diverse and delicious culinary scene. In May, you can savor the local flavors and fresh seafood that the region has to offer – with great deals during restaurant week!

From street food stalls to upscale restaurants, there are plenty of options to choose from. Don’t miss the opportunity to try local specialties such as ceviche, tacos, mole, and other traditional Mexican dishes.

You can also take a food tour to explore the culinary delights of Puerto Vallarta and learn about the history and culture behind the local cuisine.

DISCOVER MORE THINGS TO DO IN MAY

Booking hotels during May

May is usually quieter than the winter peak, but Pride and other events can make particular dates busy. Compare rates for your actual week instead of counting on a universal low-season discount.

Flexible dates can be an advantage for budget-conscious travelers if your dates are flexible. Compare the full price, taxes, cancellation terms and whether your room has AC. Check out the posts below for inspiration on where to stay.

What to pack for Puerto Vallarta in May

Light and Breathable Clothing: As May in Puerto Vallarta can be hot and humid, it’s best to pack light and breathable clothing such as cotton or linen. Bring lightweight tops, shorts, sundresses, and swimwear for warm days at the beach or by the pool.

Sun Protection: Don’t forget to pack sunscreen with a high SPF, sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat to protect yourself from the strong sun rays during the many hours of sunshine. A rashguard or cover-up can also come in handy for additional sun protection while enjoying water activities.

Water Shoes or Sandals: For activities such as snorkeling, waterfalls, or hiking, it’s a good idea to bring water shoes or sturdy sandals with good traction to protect your feet from sharp rocks or slippery surfaces.

Swimsuit and Beach Gear: Pack your favorite swimsuit, a beach towel or mat, and any beach gear you may need, such as snorkeling gear, paddleboard, or inflatable floaties.

Light Jacket or Cover-up: While May is generally warm in Puerto Vallarta, night temperatures can sometimes be cooler, especially near the ocean. Bring a light jacket or a cover-up for cooler evenings or air-conditioned spaces.

Cash and Cards: While most places in Puerto Vallarta accept credit cards, it’s always good to have some Mexican pesos on hand for small purchases, street vendors, or tips. Also, make sure to bring a credit or debit card that doesn’t charge foreign transaction fees for any card payments.

Reusable Water Bottle: Staying hydrated is important, especially in the hot and humid weather of Puerto Vallarta. Bring a reusable water bottle to fill up with purified water to reduce plastic waste and stay hydrated throughout your trip.

Beach Bag or Daypack: A beach bag or a daypack can be useful for carrying your essentials while exploring Puerto Vallarta, such as sunscreen, water bottle, camera, wallet, and other personal items.

Chargers: Check that your chargers fit local outlets and support the local voltage before packing. A plug adapter doesn’t add charging ports or convert voltage.

Travel Insurance: Check what your policy covers, its exclusions and the activities you plan to book. Cancellation, medical expenses and belongings coverage depend on the policy. Keep its contact details handy.

—

I’d choose May for beach time, seafood lunches and boat days without the winter crowds. Leave room for heat breaks, and confirm event dates before planning your whole trip around them.

If you like cooler days and want the best chance of dry weather, winter is an easier choice. If you’re happy with hot afternoons and a room with AC, May can be a lovely time to visit.

Planning a trip to paradise? Don’t miss these posts!

• The Best Puerto Vallarta Water Parks
• How to Visit Colomitos Beach
• April In Puerto Vallarta Travel Guide