As December settles over Puerto Vallarta and before peak holiday crowds flood in, you'll find a coastal paradise in its most festive and authentic state. The city pulses with Christmas energy while maintaining comfortable temperatures and crystal-clear skies.
December arrives with ideal weather conditions—daytime temperatures hover between 73°F and 81°F, dropping to a comfortable 59°F in the evenings. The Pacific waters transform into a welcoming turquoise playground, with only gentle coastal breezes to remind you of the tropical climate. From witnessing migrating humpback whales to exploring jungle canopies, here are 20 unforgettable experiences that make December the perfect time to discover Puerto Vallarta's diverse treasures.
1. Witness Humpback Whales in Banderas Bay
Banderas Bay hosts one of Mexico's most spectacular wildlife events as humpback whales arrive for breeding season. These magnificent creatures travel over 6,000 miles from Alaska, making Puerto Vallarta one of the world's premier whale watching destinations. The calm waters provide perfect visibility for spotting breaches, tail slaps, and mother-calf interactions.
Our whale watching tours operate daily from Marina Vallarta, with expert marine guides who help you spot these gentle giants while sharing insights about their behaviors and conservation.
2. Explore Las Caletas Beach Hideaway
Escape to this secluded paradise accessible only by boat, where pristine beaches meet lush tropical jungle. December's perfect weather makes this remote location ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and hiking nature trails without the intense heat of the summer months.
The protected cove offers calm waters perfect for kayaking and paddleboarding, while the beach provides excellent opportunities for relaxation and wildlife spotting. The Las Caletas Beach Hideaway tour offers a complete beach experience with all meals included, making it an excellent value for families seeking a hassle-free day in paradise.
3. Ring in the New Year at Beach Celebrations
Experience New Year's Eve Mexican-style with beachfront celebrations featuring live music, traditional fireworks, and authentic cultural festivities under December's perfect skies. The Malecón boardwalk hosts the main public celebration with multiple stages, local bands, and food vendors serving traditional holiday treats.
The beach celebrations continue past sunrise, creating an unforgettable transition into the new year with local traditions and international travelers sharing the festive atmosphere.
4. Experience Rhythms of the Night
Journey to a magical jungle amphitheater for an enchanting evening of Prehispanic culture and contemporary performance art. December's comfortable temperatures make the outdoor venue perfect for enjoying this unique cultural experience that combines ancient traditions with modern theatrical elements.
The adventure begins with a scenic boat ride across Banderas Bay, followed by dinner and an award-winning show featuring acrobats, dancers, and fire performers. The special New Year's Eve edition offers the added excitement of watching Puerto Vallarta's fireworks from your return boat journey.
5. Soar Through Sierra Madre Canopies
Challenge yourself on our Extreme Zip Line Canopy Adventure, where 11 thrilling zip lines and multiple platforms offer breathtaking views of tropical jungle and distant ocean vistas. The dry weather ensures optimal conditions with minimal delays and perfect visibility for capturing your adventure on camera.
Our comprehensive canopy tours include crossing Mexico's longest suspension bridge, rappelling from towering platforms, and exploring the Sierra Madre mountains. Professional guides provide thorough safety instruction and share fascinating insights about the unique ecosystem surrounding you.
6. Wander the Historic Malecón Boardwalk
Stroll along Puerto Vallarta's famous oceanfront promenade, where December evenings come alive with street performers, art vendors, and festive holiday decorations. The mile-long walkway features bronze sculptures, outdoor galleries, and panoramic ocean views perfect for sunset watching. December's comfortable temperatures make evening walks particularly enjoyable, while the holiday season brings special events and live entertainment.
Street food vendors offer authentic Mexican snacks like elotes (grilled corn) and fresh fruit with chili seasoning. The Malecón connects to the historic downtown area, making it easy to explore art galleries, souvenir shops, and traditional restaurants. Don't miss the iconic seahorse sculpture and rotating dance performances in the main plaza.
7. Dive into the Beauty of Marietas Islands
The Marietas Islands National Park is a protected marine sanctuary known for crystal-clear waters, volcanic caves, and abundant sea life. December offers mild weather and generally good visibility, making it a great time to snorkel among colorful fish, rays, and even sea turtles. By late December, lucky travelers might also spot the first humpback whales returning to Banderas Bay.
The Marietas Eco Discovery Tour takes you out on large, stable catamarans and includes a stop at Majahuitas beach, where you can relax on the sand and enjoy a freshly grilled BBQ lunch.
8. Explore San Sebastian del Oeste
Journey to this authentic colonial mountain town on our San Sebastian del Oeste Day Trip, where 400 years of Mexican history come alive through cobblestone streets and preserved Spanish architecture. The comfortable mountain drive takes you to a cooler altitude that provides a refreshing change from coastal humidity. This UNESCO World Heritage candidate reveals centuries of culture through its historic churches, traditional haciendas, and local artisan workshops.
The town offers authentic Mexican dining experiences, tequila tastings at local distilleries, and opportunities to connect with genuine mountain traditions. Our cultural tour includes raicilla (regional moonshine) tastings and demonstrations of traditional crafts like leather working and wood carving.
9. Sail Through Banderas Bay at Sunset
December evenings provide the perfect backdrop for luxury sailing adventures across Mexico's largest natural bay. The gentle trade winds and mild temperatures create ideal sailing conditions, while the clear skies offer unobstructed sunset views over the Pacific.
Our sunset sailing tour combines the romance of sailing with premium amenities, including open bars and gourmet appetizers. The special New Year's Eve sailing edition extends past midnight, featuring the traditional "12 Grapes" celebration and prime viewing of Puerto Vallarta's fireworks display.
10. Hunt for Treasures in Zona Romántica
Explore Puerto Vallarta's vibrant arts district, where December brings special holiday markets, gallery openings, and cultural events perfect for discovering unique Mexican crafts. The cobblestone streets of Old Town feature authentic galleries, boutique shops, and artist studios showcasing local talent. December's comfortable weather makes walking tours particularly enjoyable, while the South Side Shuffle street parties (held biweekly) create festive evening atmospheres.
Local artisans sell handcrafted jewelry, pottery, textiles, and folk art at prices significantly lower than resort shops. The area also offers excellent restaurants serving traditional Mexican cuisine, rooftop bars with ocean views, and coffee shops perfect for people watching. Don't miss the weekly farmers market featuring organic produce and artisanal foods.
11. Savor Traditional Holiday Cuisine
December in Puerto Vallarta offers unique opportunities to experience authentic Mexican Christmas cuisine, with special dishes like chiles en nogada, seasonal tamales, and festive ponche navideño. Street vendors along pilgrimage routes serve traditional holiday foods, while local restaurants offer special Christmas menus featuring both Mexican and international favorites.
The central plaza and Mercado Municipal provide the most authentic dining experiences, with family-run stalls serving pozole, buñuelos, and ensalada de Noche Buena. Evening walks through decorated downtown streets reveal numerous food vendors offering authentic seasonal specialties like traditional tamales and warm punch drinks.
12. Snorkel at Los Arcos Marine Reserve
Dive into Mexico's premier marine protected area on our Los Arcos Scuba Adventure, where calm waters and excellent visibility create perfect conditions for underwater exploration. This iconic rock formation hosts over 300 marine species, including colorful tropical fish, sea turtles, and rays. Our professional guides provide all equipment and marine education, making this accessible for beginners while offering advanced sites for experienced divers.
The boat journey to Los Arcos often includes dolphin sightings and whale watching opportunities when migration season starts. The gentle currents and clear waters ensure optimal conditions for underwater photography and marine life observation.
13. Experience Majahuitas Music Festival
Join this unique beachside music festival accessible only by boat, where electronic beats meet pristine natural settings under December's perfect skies. The secluded beach location provides an intimate festival atmosphere with crystal-clear waters for swimming and sandy areas for dancing. December's ideal weather eliminates concerns about rain disruptions while providing comfortable temperatures for all-day outdoor events.
The festival includes multiple music stages, beach bars, and food vendors serving both local and international cuisine. The New Year's Eve edition transforms the beach into Puerto Vallarta's most spectacular celebration, with extended hours past midnight, special performances, and unforgettable beach festivities. Ring in the new year in paradise as you dance barefoot in the sand under starlit skies with the sounds of waves mixing with music.
Transportation via boat adds to the adventure while ensuring an exclusive experience away from mainstream tourist crowds. We provide round-trip boat service, making this hidden celebration accessible without the hassle of figuring out complicated logistics.
14. Bike Through Coastal Villages
Grab a bike and explore charming coastal communities like Bucerías and La Cruz de Huanacaxtle, where December's perfect weather makes cycling comfortable and enjoyable. The flat coastal roads provide easy pedaling with stunning ocean views and opportunities to stop at authentic seafood restaurants and local markets.
December's dry season ensures dust-free riding conditions with minimal traffic on back roads. The coastal route offers numerous beach access points for swimming breaks and photography opportunities.
15. Rappel Down Tropical Waterfalls
Challenge yourself with waterfall rappelling adventures in the Sierra Madre, where December's dry season reveals the most spectacular cascades and safest climbing conditions. Professional adventure guides provide all technical equipment and safety instruction, making this extreme sport accessible to beginners with proper fitness levels.
Outdoor Adventure combines rappelling with zip-lining, ATV rides, and river swimming for comprehensive mountain experiences. December's comfortable temperatures make the physical exertion more enjoyable, while clear weather ensures optimal safety conditions.
16. Browse Mercado Municipal
Step into Puerto Vallarta's vibrant market scene (https://www.vallarta-adventures.com/en/blog/puerto-vallarta-farmers-markets) that begins in November and thrives through December. The region hosts weekly farmers' markets where locals and visitors gather to browse fresh produce, artisanal foods, and handcrafted goods. These markets have become popular family activities where the community comes together to celebrate local culture.
The markets feature dozens of stalls selling organic fruits and vegetables, handmade jewelry, clothing, and prepared foods at reasonable prices. December's festive atmosphere brings special holiday items, seasonal flowers, traditional Christmas ingredients, and unique artisan gifts, making it perfect for authentic souvenirs.
17. Ride Horses Along Pristine Beaches
Experience the freedom of horseback riding along Puerto Vallarta's coastline with our Sea Safari and Horseback Riding adventure. Trot along golden beaches with the Sierra Madre mountains as your backdrop, blending ocean and jungle scenery that showcases the region's natural beauty.
This experience welcomes all skill levels, from beginners to experienced riders. Professional wranglers match you with the perfect horse and provide thorough instruction. The relaxed pace lets you absorb the coastal scenery while spotting native wildlife along the shore.
18. Celebrate Fiestas Guadalupanas
Immerse yourself in Mexico's most cherished religious celebration as Puerto Vallarta honors the Virgin of Guadalupe from December 1-12. This UNESCO-recognized cultural heritage event features over 400 processions filled with traditional dances, mariachi music, and elaborate floats winding through downtown streets. December 12th brings the grand finale with up to 20,000 participants joining the Pilgrimage of the Favored.
Street vendors offer authentic holiday foods like tamales, pozole, and ponche navideño, while artisan markets display religious crafts and traditional artwork. The celebration culminates each evening with fireworks and night processions. Join the festivities by following processions from the Woolworth department store to the iconic Church of Our Lady of Guadalupe.
19. Shop for Authentic Mexican Crafts
December in Puerto Vallarta brings special artisan markets and holiday craft fairs featuring authentic Mexican folk art, textiles, and handcrafted gifts. Local artisans offer Talavera pottery, Oaxacan textiles, silver jewelry from Taxco, and hand-carved wooden items at significantly lower prices than resort shops. The holiday season provides the best selection of traditional Christmas decorations and seasonal crafts made by local artists.
Artisan markets in the Zona Romántica and central plaza offer opportunities to meet creators and learn about traditional crafting techniques. Many shops provide shipping services for larger purchases, while smaller items make perfect gifts or personal mementos. Bargaining is expected and culturally appropriate, creating engaging interactions with local vendors.
20. Discover Vallarta Botanical Gardens
Explore these top-rated botanical gardens, where 20 acres of preserved Sierra Madre ecosystem showcase Mexico's incredible biodiversity. December's dry season provides perfect conditions for hiking the extensive trail system, while cooler temperatures make the 4-mile round-trip comfortable for all fitness levels. The garden features the world's largest collection of Mexican native orchids, plus endangered species conservation programs and vanilla plantations.
Why Visit Puerto Vallarta in December?
December delivers the perfect Puerto Vallarta experience: ideal 73-81°F temperatures, minimal rainfall, and crystal-clear skies for all outdoor adventures. The month combines peak whale watching season with authentic Mexican Christmas celebrations and comfortable beach weather.
The real adventures await beyond typical resort areas—book comprehensive tour packages for whale watching, jungle canopies, cultural immersions, and marine explorations. Enjoy expert guide services and seamless transportation while maintaining flexibility for spontaneous local discoveries like street food tastings and artisan markets. December rewards travelers willing to venture beyond expected tourist paths with authentic cultural celebrations, world-class wildlife encounters, and perfect weather for every adventure.
