July in Puerto Vallarta shows a different side of the destination, and for many travelers, a deeply rewarding one. The hills behind the city turn a deep, almost impossibly vivid green, and July weather brings warm days balanced by refreshing afternoon showers. The crowds thin out dramatically compared to the November-through-April high season, giving you more space to enjoy everything from boat-access-only beaches to snorkeling in protected marine reserves.
The rainy season is real, but it follows a predictable rhythm that shapes how we plan our days. We recommend active adventures and beach time in the morning, then cultural and indoor activities later on. Structure your trip around that rhythm, and you'll find July rewards you with warm water, lush scenery, and a pace of life that feels more local and less tourist-facing than peak season. Here are the best things to do in Puerto Vallarta in July:
1. Escape to a Family Paradise at Las Caletas
Accessible only by boat, Las Caletas is a secluded beach that feels like your own private island. Surrounded by lush jungle and turquoise water, it is the kind of place where hammocks swing over the waves, waves gently lap at the shore, and you can completely unplug.
Families love the kid-friendly adventure park with zip-lining, a climbing wall, and donkey rides, while adults can snorkel, paddleboard, or enjoy animal encounters with macaws, flamingos, sea lions, and lemurs. Don't miss the floating islands, the perfect spot for a unique family photo.
In July, the surrounding greenery is at its peak, making the jungle trails and tropical vegetation even more striking. With meals, an all-day open bar, cooking lessons, mezcal tastings, and activities included, the Las Caletas Beach & Adventure Park is an all-day escape you'll be talking about long after you return home.
2. Celebrate a Summer Evening by the Bay
If you're traveling to Puerto Vallarta during the first week of July and want a festive night out, you're in for a treat. This sun-soaked destination offers an appealing mix of adventure, relaxation, and one-of-a-kind scenery.
We recommend toasting the season with wine and mezcal on a tropical beach at Las Caletas, sailing into a golden sunset aboard a luxury catamaran, or enjoying a night at the Rhythms of the Night dinner show. With warm weather and lively energy, early July in Vallarta feels anything but ordinary.
Check out all the details for the 4th of July in Puerto Vallarta and explore available activities for your dates.
3. Dive into the Beauty of Marietas Islands
The Marietas Islands are a UNESCO bioreserve and marine sanctuary known for crystal-clear waters, volcanic caves, and abundant sea life. July's warm waters and improving visibility make it a great month for snorkeling and diving here. You'll swim alongside schools of tropical fish, rays, and sea turtles.
The Marietas Islands & Beach BBQ heads to the islands in large, stable catamarans and includes a stop at the peaceful Majahuitas beach, the perfect spot to relax and enjoy a freshly grilled BBQ lunch. Exclusive to certified divers, the Marietas Islands scuba diving tour travels in specialized roofed speed boats and is led by PADI-certified instructors who know the underwater tunnels and rock formations well.
The Marietas Islands are also home to the famous Hidden Beach, a crater-like beach inside the island. Visitors must jump off the boat and swim roughly 200 feet under a rock archway, against currents. Access is limited to just a few visitors per day, and age restrictions are strict (12 to 65 years old), so if your family meets the requirements, this is an absolute sea adventure.
4. Go Mural Hunting
City murals Stroll through downtown and you'll find colorful murals tucked around nearly every corner, each one telling its own story.
Many of the most striking pieces are located just a block or two inland from the Malecón, making them easy to find on foot. Malecón improvements, so you'll find a refreshed promenade to explore alongside the murals. For street art lovers, mural hunting is the perfect excuse to wander on foot while capturing bold, eye-catching shots.
We recommend heading out closer to sunset during the summer, when the heat and UV rays begin to ease. And if a tropical downpour hits, don't worry. These brief rain showers often give way to golden skies, making your mural walk even more memorable.
5. Refresh at the Yelapa Waterfall
Yelapa is a peaceful fishing village that feels like a world away from the bustle of the city. Reachable only by boat, this tropical haven offers rustic charm, lush jungle trails, and an inviting beach with soft sand and swaying palms. As you walk through the village, you'll pass small shops, friendly locals, and colorful homes before arriving at one of its main attractions, the Yelapa waterfall.
In July, the waterfall is flowing at full strength thanks to the rainy season, making it the perfect spot to cool off with a swim in its natural pool. Whether you're relaxing by the beach, taking a light jungle hike, or enjoying a slice of the village's famous pie, Yelapa lets you slow down and enjoy the moment. The Yelapa Waterfall & Majahuitas BBQ combines this visit with another stunning coastal stop, offering a full day of nature, adventure, and pure relaxation.
6. Watch Sea Turtles Nest on the Beach
July marks the beginning of one of Puerto Vallarta's most moving wildlife spectacles. Turtle nesting season Female turtles come ashore at night to dig their nests, and conservation camps along the coast protect the eggs through the roughly 45-day incubation period.
For travelers visiting in late July, you may coincide with the very first hatchling releases of the season, as eggs laid in early June begin to hatch. Several conservation programs along both the Puerto Vallarta and Riviera Nayarit coastlines welcome visitors to observe and participate under biologist supervision.
This is something you can only do in Puerto Vallarta's summer months. For families especially, watching tiny turtles make their way across the sand and into the Pacific is the kind of moment kids remember for years.
7. Get Close to Dolphins and Sea Lions
Few things create joy like spending time around marine mammals, and Puerto Vallarta offers ethical, educational time with both dolphins and sea lions. These curious, intelligent animals are always engaging to watch.
July's warm weather creates ideal conditions for enjoying this activity. Perfect for kids and adults alike, the Dolphins and Sea Lion encounters blend fun with learning at an accredited Marine Mammal Center. With options available for all ages starting at 1 year old, cooling off in the refreshing waters while swimming with dolphins or playing with sea lions makes for a great summer family day. The center is accredited by American Humane, Alliance, and IMATA, and your visit directly supports rescue and rehabilitation programs for marine mammals in the Mexican Pacific.
8. Cool Off at a Local Paletería
In the summer heat of July, Vallarta's paleterías become community oases. These spots offer artisanal Mexican popsicles (paletas) in refreshing tropical flavors like watermelon, mango, lime, and cucumber-chile. Creamy varieties like coconut or rompope (Mexican eggnog) are also favorites with locals.
Stop by a family-run corner spot, grab your paleta, stroll the Malecón, and savor sweet relief from the sun. It's simple, joyful, and a small way to connect with the daily rhythm of Puerto Vallarta life.
For something equally refreshing but with a twist, look for street stalls offering Nieves de Garrafa, hand-churned Mexican ice creams made in wooden barrels packed with ice and salt. These artisanal treats come in flavors like walnut, guanábana (soursop), mamey, nanche, and imaginative creations like beso de ángel ("angel kiss") and rose petals. Whether you go for a tangy sorbet or a floral surprise, it's a delicious way to taste tradition while cooling down.
9. Spend a Summer Night at Rhythms of the Night
July's warm evenings set the perfect stage for Puerto Vallarta's top-rated night show, and so do the elements of the season. Tropical rain showers are common in late afternoons, yet they rarely interrupt the evening at Rhythms of the Night. Cloudy skies often paint the bay with dramatic colors, turning your panoramic sunset cruise to Las Caletas into a visual feast.
If rain is in the forecast, the staff and crew come prepared with umbrellas, and roofed dining areas ensure dinner stays dry and comfortable. While the open-air theater is exposed, most acrobatic acts continue even under light rain, and cancellations are extremely rare.
Bring hand fans, insect repellent, a must this season since mosquitoes are more active in July's warm, humid conditions, and non-slip flat shoes, as the rainforest paths at Las Caletas can get slick. For an elevated evening, the VIP option includes priority boarding, oceanfront dining with wine pairing, and the best seats in the amphitheater.
10. Explore the Depths with a Dive at El Morro
Los Arcos is a bucket-list dive site for experienced divers, offering dramatic rock formations, deep swim-throughs, and the possibility of encountering large ocean life like manta rays. It is a thrilling underwater playground where every dive is different.
Here's something that surprises many visitors. Underwater visibility in Puerto Vallarta is actually better in summer than winter. Winter plankton blooms reduce clarity more than summer rain events do, and July water temperatures reach up to 85°F (30°C), making it comfortable for extended dives. With calm seas and excellent visibility improving across the month, July is an ideal time to explore. Sign up for a dive excursion and discover what lies beneath the surface.
11. Discover Colonial Charm in San Sebastián del Oeste
Tucked in the Sierra Madre mountains, San Sebastián del Oeste is a peaceful colonial town offering cobblestone streets, 18th-century architecture, and cool mountain breezes. Escape the coastal heat and take a scenic drive to this historic Pueblo Mágico where time slows down and local traditions are alive in every corner.
In July, the surrounding hills are lush and green, perfect for enjoying panoramic views and visiting coffee farms or agave plantations. You'll also enjoy artisanal tequila tastings and a traditional three-course Mexican lunch in a rustic old house surrounded by gardens. Book the San Sebastián del Oeste Day Trip for a blend of culture, nature, and tranquility. We recommend a morning departure to return before afternoon rain, when mountain roads can get slippery.
12. See the Bay Glow with Bioluminescence
One of July's most extraordinary natural phenomena happens after dark. Bioluminescent plankton in the waters around Los Arcos marine sanctuary glow when disturbed, creating trails of blue-green light as you move through the water. The effect is present year-round but especially vivid during summer when warmer water temperatures increase plankton activity.
The most dramatic viewing happens inside the dark sea caves of Los Arcos, where swimmers trigger the glow against total darkness. We recommend planning your visit around a new moon for minimal moonlight and maximum effect. This is one of those rare things that feels closely tied to the summer season and unlike what many travelers expect during peak months.
13. Visit a Colorful Town Square
Head to El Parque de los Azulejos, for one of Puerto Vallarta's most photogenic corners. This public park is covered in intricate, hand-laid tile mosaics that transform its pergolas, benches, and central kiosk into colorful works of art. It's a dream backdrop for photos.
By day, local vendors set up stalls around the square, selling embroidered textiles, beach bags, and souvenirs. As the sun sets, the park's small amphitheater comes to life with folkloric dance performances and light-hearted comedy shows that bring together locals and visitors in a joyful celebration of culture. July is Mexico's domestic summer vacation period, so you'll find the square buzzing with Mexican families, which gives the whole scene a more local feel than during the international high season.
14. Catch a Pop-Up Art Fair or Street Performance
Wander through the Romantic Zone or along the Malecón in July, and you may find yourself surprised by spontaneous bursts of art and music. Local artisans set up pop-up markets with handmade jewelry and paintings, while fire dancers, guitarists, and breakdancers create energy on the street.
One of the most iconic performances happens near sunset, when Los Voladores de Papantla take to the skies, literally, performing their ancient, gravity-defying ritual that's as mesmerizing as it is meaningful. This ceremony carries deep cultural significance and has been practiced for centuries.
15. Soar Through the Jungle on a Zip Line Adventure
Feel your heart race as you zip through lush treetops on one of Mexico's most thrilling zip line courses. The Extreme Adventure, Wildest Bridge, ATV & Ziplines includes Superman, Mexico's longest and fastest zipline stretching over 1,200 meters, plus rappelling, ATV off-road routes, a skydiving simulator wind tunnel, and a pendulum free-fall jump.
With the rainforest at its most lush in July, the canopy below you is a wall of green. All lines use double safety systems meeting international ACCT standards, and bilingual guides lead the way. This one is perfect for thrill-seekers wanting to experience the Sierra Madre from above.
16. Hummingbird Watching Season at Vallarta Botanical Garden
From May 15 to October 31, the Vallarta Botanical Garden becomes the perfect place to witness the beauty of hummingbirds. During this season, the gardens transform into a living sanctuary, where dozens of hummingbirds and other migratory birds can be observed feeding on tropical flowers and darting among lush greenery.
Walking along the scenic trails, visitors can admire the dazzling colors, rapid wingbeats, and unique behavior of these fascinating birds in their natural habitat. The gardens also hold over 300 varieties of orchids, a butterfly sanctuary, and a lesser-known swimming spot along a river that runs through the property, making it a full-day destination.
The combination of flora, peaceful surroundings, and constant movement of these tiny creatures makes each visit special. Plan for a morning arrival and consider staying for lunch at the on-site restaurant before afternoon rains begin. Hummingbird season is a rare opportunity to connect with nature and enjoy one of Puerto Vallarta's most rewarding spectacles.
17. Snorkel Through the Arches of Los Arcos
Los Arcos Marine Park features stunning granite rock formations that rise dramatically from the ocean, creating natural arches and caves waiting to be explored. Beneath the surface, the underwater world comes alive with colorful reef fish, tropical species, rays, and even sea turtles gliding through the clear waters. These unique rock structures make the area one of the most iconic snorkeling spots in all of Puerto Vallarta.
July offers excellent visibility and warm water, making it one of the best times of year to snorkel here. Water temperatures reach around 84°F, and the improved summer clarity means you'll see more than many winter visitors do. Whether you're a beginner or seasoned snorkeler, the Luxury Yacht & Snorkeling provides everything you need, including gear, expert guidance, and a relaxing journey on a Leopard catamaran yacht to and from the marine park. It's a peaceful and awe-inspiring way to connect with the ocean.
18. Dance Under the Stars at Majahuitas Beach
Tucked away on a beach accessible only by boat, the Majahuitas Beach Club is one of the most unique nightlife spots Puerto Vallarta has to offer. Imagine dancing barefoot in the sand while world-class DJs spin under the stars, surrounded by swaying palm trees, glowing lights, and the sounds of the ocean.
With July's warm nights and fewer crowds, it's the perfect time to enjoy this one-of-a-kind celebration. In addition to the music, you'll find gourmet Mediterranean-Mexican cuisine, craft cocktails featuring local spirits like raicilla and mezcal, and chill-out lounges right on the shore. Hidden spaces throughout the venue include suspended nets under the canopy, a mirror garden, and giant nests.
Whether you're coming for the beats, the beach, or both, the Majahuitas Beach Party is the ultimate place to let loose and make summer memories.
19. Watch a Storm Roll In from the Beach
July evenings often deliver a spectacle of nature. As the rainy season builds momentum, late-day storms roll in from the sea, painting the sky with dramatic clouds and flashes of lightning. Locals and visitors alike gather on the beach to witness the show.
It's calming and cinematic. Watch the waves swell, thunder echo in the hills, and the sky burst into shades of violet and gold. When the storm passes, the fresh breeze and cooler air are a reward in themselves. If you're near the Mirador Cerro de la Cruz viewpoint (about a 20-minute walk from the Zona Romántica), post-storm light over the bay at golden hour is a visual experience specific to rainy season that dry-season visitors never see.
20. Glide Above Banderas Bay on a Parasailing Ride
Soaring high above Banderas Bay gives you a whole new perspective on Puerto Vallarta. With the ocean stretching below and the jungle-covered mountains behind you, parasailing is one of the most peaceful and exciting activities you can have. There is no engine noise, no crowds, just the breeze, the view, and the gentle sway of your harness as you float up to 165 feet in the sky.
In July, the skies are usually clear and bright through the morning, and the sea breeze is just right for smooth gliding. You'll spot beaches, boats, and perhaps even a dolphin or two from above. Whether you go solo or share the tandem flight with a partner, this activity is pure joy. Book your Parasailing Tour and see Puerto Vallarta from a new angle.
21. Explore Traditional Villages on a Pueblos Tour
Step into rural life on this guided journey through the charming villages surrounding Puerto Vallarta. As you wander through quiet streets and countryside roads, you'll see colorful homes, centuries-old churches, and lively plazas that reflect the area's deep cultural roots. This tour offers an inside look at local traditions, with stops at an organic cacao farm, a honey shop, and a hands-on cooking class where you'll learn to prepare authentic Mole Negro using indigenous ingredients like chocolate and dried chiles.
July is an especially beautiful time to visit these pueblos. The landscapes are green, fruit trees are heavy with produce, and village life carries on at a relaxed pace. You'll gain a deeper appreciation for the flavors and traditions that make this region so unique. The Pueblos Culinary Tour is a rich and rewarding activity that connects you with the people and stories of rural Jalisco.
22. Horse Ride Through Jungle Trails and Coastal Views
The Sea Safari tour is a full-day adventure that blends land and sea for an activity you won't soon forget. Start your journey with a scenic boat ride along the coastline before arriving at remote fishing villages accessible only by water. Visit traditional homes in Quimixto, take a mule ride along the picturesque Yelapa River through lush greenery, and explore Pizota, a fishing village of just 100 residents where you'll enjoy a beach BBQ.
In July, the landscape is especially lush, with flowing rivers and waterfalls adding to the adventure. The rainy season brings the Yelapa waterfall to life, ideal for a refreshing dip. You might also spot tropical birds and playful iguanas along the way. The Sea Safari offers the perfect mix of action and relaxation, with expert guides to lead the way through Puerto Vallarta's wild and wonderful countryside.
23. Explore Puerto Vallarta's Raicilla and Mezcal Scene
Most visitors know about tequila, but Puerto Vallarta has its own agave spirit, raicilla. Legally and culturally distinct from both tequila and mezcal, raicilla is specific to the Jalisco coast and Sierra Madre, and it's treated as a genuine point of local pride. The city's raicilla and mezcal bar scene has grown into something worth dedicating an afternoon to.
Tasting the distinctions between tequila, mezcal, and raicilla side by side is an education you can only get in this region. And since raicilla bars and tasting rooms are indoors, this is an ideal activity for those unpredictable July afternoons when a tropical downpour hits. Turn what might feel like lost time into one of the most genuinely local activities in town.
For a deeper look at the agave world, the Private Tequila Tour & Jose Cuervo Distillery takes you to the town of Tequila, Jalisco, for a VIP visit at the legendary José Cuervo distillery, including a personalized blending session where you create your own tequila to take home.
What to Pack for a July Trip
July's heat, humidity, and rainy season rhythm call for specific preparation. Here's what we recommend bringing.
Sun and heat protection. Sun-protective clothing like rash guards and wide-brim hats, UV sunglasses, and a reusable water bottle. UV intensity is extreme even on overcast days.
Rain gear. A compact rain poncho or packable rain jacket, quick-dry clothing, and waterproof sandals or water shoes. You won't need an umbrella all day, but you'll want rain protection for those afternoon bursts.
Mosquito prevention. EPA-registered repellent with DEET (30%+) or picaridin. This is the most important item on the list. Mosquitoes carrying dengue are active during the daytime, so apply repellent in the morning before heading out, not just at dusk.
Activity gear. Closed-toe shoes for mountain and jungle excursions, a lightweight sweater for mountain day trips where temperatures are cooler, and a change of clothes if you're doing water activities in the morning and dinner plans in the evening.
Final Thoughts
Puerto Vallarta in July invites you to slow down, connect, and truly savor the season. Whether you're diving in waters with better visibility than winter, watching sea turtles nest on a moonlit beach, sampling artisanal paletas, or dancing barefoot at a hidden beach party, July offers a mosaic of activities you'll carry with you long after the sun sets on your trip.
The rainy season brings a rhythm to each day that, once you lean into it, feels like an advantage. Sunny mornings for adventure, dramatic afternoons for culture and tasting, and golden post-storm evenings that remind you why you came.
Ready to turn your dream getaway into reality? We help travelers plan safe, seamless, and memorable activities across Puerto Vallarta and the Riviera Nayarit. From high-thrill excursions to tranquil day trips, you can count on our safety and health standards, bilingual guides, and up-to-date weather knowledge to help you prepare for the best adventure possible. Explore all tours and experiences and book your July trip today.
