March is the perfect time to visit Puerto Vallarta, with pleasant weather and less intense heat and humidity. With temperatures between 60°F and 70°F, days are ideal for outdoor adventures, while cooler evenings invite leisurely strolls.
This mild weather draws more visitors, making the city livelier and accommodations pricier. Don't miss the weekly Farmer’s Markets, running through March in locations like Marina Vallarta and Olas Altas. These markets highlight local crafts, fresh food, and the region’s vibrant culture. Here are the top 20 things to do in Puerto Vallarta in March:
1. Get Close to the Humpbacks in Banderas Bay
From mid-December to March 23rd, Banderas Bay becomes a whale-watching hotspot. Guided boat tours take you close enough to see humpbacks and their calves. At the end of the season, calves are more active, and the chances of seeing breaches are higher.
If you're lucky, you might catch a tail slap or a full breach. With a good guide, you'll learn to spot and appreciate their behaviors, and you can listen to the whales' songs through an onboard hydrophone. Whale Watching Photo Safari takes you out on a small inflatable speedboat, ideal for photography. January and February are the best months for whale activity, and you'll get a complimentary second tour if no whales are seen from December 20th to March 1st.
2. Wander the Cobblestone Streets of Old Town
Some places just invite you to wander, and the Zona Romántica is one of them. With its cobblestone streets lined with art studios, cafés, and boutique shops, it's a delight to explore. Right at its heart is Los Muertos Beach, where palapas dot the shoreline, and it's not uncommon to hear musicians serenading diners.
Also known as Old Town, this is one of Puerto Vallarta's most walkable areas, just south of the Cuale River. Los Muertos Pier is a local landmark, and it looks especially lovely at sunset when the sky turns orange over the bay.
We recommend exploring in the morning or early evening, when temperatures are mild and the streets feel lively without being too busy. Wear comfortable shoes for the cobblestones, and leave time to stop at a café or a beachfront palapa along the way.
3. Share the Water with Dolphins and Sea Lions
If you’ve ever dreamed of swimming with dolphins and sea lions, Puerto Vallarta makes it possible, responsibly. Ethical tour operators put education and conservation front and center. You can share the water with these friendly creatures and learn about the local marine ecology.
For an unforgettable encounter, Vallarta Adventures offers a Dolphins and Sea Lions Tour. For the beginning of spring break, dolphin experiences are ideal for the little ones in the family, offering both education and unforgettable memories.
4. Spend a Day at a Beach Only Boats Can Reach
Las Caletas Beach & Adventure Park is a secluded cove tucked between palm trees and rolling hills, and you can only reach it by boat. The crossing alone feels like leaving the ordinary behind, and the day that follows suits March well. The ocean can still be cool this time of year, so the beach offers plenty to do beyond swimming.
You can hang in the iconic hammocks suspended over the waves, snorkel in crystal-clear water full of colorful marine life, and meet macaws, flamingos, sea lions and rays. Adrenaline seekers can head to Adrenaline Cove, while little ones can enjoy the Kids Adventure Park with zip-lining, a climbing wall and donkey rides.
For a more laid-back day, join a cooking lesson, a margarita-making class or a mezcal tasting. We recommend water shoes and sun-protective clothing for the beach. The day includes the scenic boat ride across the bay, an all-day open bar, a buffet lunch and snorkeling equipment.
5. Stroll Through Streets Painted in Bloom
In March, jacarandas and bougainvillea burst into bloom, painting the streets with vibrant purples and pinks. Take a leisurely walk along Paseo de los Cocoteros in Nuevo Nayarit, or explore the charming murals behind the church in Puerto Vallarta’s Downtown. The blossoms create a breathtaking, dreamy landscape of color and beauty, perfect for a romantic stroll or photography.
6. Watch a Night Spectacle by the Sea
ALMA, Rhythms of the Night - Classic begins with a sunset cruise across Banderas Bay to a beach you can only reach by sea. A candlelit dinner awaits at the water's edge. Once the light fades, a world-class show of acrobatics, dance, live music and storytelling unfolds in a natural open-air amphitheater carved into the jungle.
On the way back, the boat keeps a lively atmosphere, and in season you may spot whales along the route. March evenings are warm and mild, which suits an outdoor night like this. We recommend arriving ready for a long evening, with a light layer for the boat ride back. The night includes an open bar on board and during dinner.
7. Cruise to Fishing Villages Beyond the Road
Imagine crossing Banderas Bay by speedboat to fishing villages you can only reach by water. In Quimixto, you visit a fisherman's home and watch handmade tortillas being prepared. In Yelapa, a mule ride follows the river through lush greenery, with pelicans and herons along the way.
The day ends on Pizota's quiet beach with a grilled buffet lunch beneath tall palms. You can also snorkel in a secluded cove, kayak, paddleboard or relax in a hammock, and humpback whales may appear on the crossing in winter months. Sea Safari: Horses, Quimixto Waterfall & Beach BBQ is a practical way to see the south coast in one day, with the open bar, snorkeling gear and guided walks included.
8. Step Back in Time in a Colonial Mountain Town
San Sebastian del Oeste is a Pueblo Mágico founded in 1605 as a silver mining settlement, set in the Sierra Madre about 90 minutes from Puerto Vallarta. White adobe buildings, tile roofs, cobblestone streets and a church with a blue dome surround a peaceful central square. The mountain air is cooler than on the coast, which makes it a pleasant change of pace in March.
You can tour a family-owned silversmith workshop, taste freshly brewed coffee at a traditional organic coffee farm, and visit agave fields before an artisanal tequila tasting. A traditional three-course Mexican lunch rounds out the day. We recommend comfortable shoes for the cobblestones and a light layer for the cooler hours. This small-group day trip includes knowledgeable local guides, a guided walking tour, museum entrance and free time to explore at your own pace.
9. Spend a Slow Morning Among the Orchids
The Vallarta Botanical Gardens sit in the Sierra Madre foothills, a short drive south of the city, where the air feels greener and a little cooler than on the coast. With hundreds of species, including many native to the region's cloud forests, it's a feast for plant lovers. March is also a lovely time to see orchids in the collection.
Walking paths wind through the gardens, and nature talks deepen your appreciation for the local flora. We recommend comfortable shoes and sun-protective clothing, since you will spend most of the visit outdoors. Stop by the café for a snack before you go, and enjoy a slower day after the beach.
10. Hike Into the Jungle and Rappel a Waterfall
Between the coast and the Sierra Madre, Puerto Vallarta has trails for every kind of hiker. March brings mild days and cooler mornings, making it a comfortable month to be on foot. We recommend starting early, carrying plenty of water, and wearing sturdy shoes and sun-protective clothing.
Hiking through tropical rainforest, rappelling next to a waterfall and riding a mule up to the ridge all fit into one day on Outdoor Adventure, Ziplines & Waterfall. You reach the jungle by speedboat across Banderas Bay and an off-road ride in a Unimog 4x4 truck. The route includes a zipline circuit and hillside water slides, so it suits travelers who want hiking with a bit of extra adventure.
11. Swim Into a Secret Beach
Swimming through a short cave tunnel and emerging onto a small beach inside a volcanic crater, open to the sky, is a moment that stays with you. The Marietas Islands are a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and National Park. Snorkeling in the protected waters and spotting blue-footed boobies are part of the visit.
March sits at the tail end of the humpback season, so you may also see a whale on the crossing. We recommend a small group and a guide who knows the tunnel, since you swim the passage with expert staff. Hidden Beach Marietas Islands takes you there by speedboat across Banderas Bay.
12. Take the Wheel on a Jungle Trail
Climbing into the Sierra Madre on a Polaris RZR, with the engine rumbling and the jungle opening up around each bend, is a very different way to see the coast. The route is a hand-carved trail through rocky stretches, steep hills and stream crossings. It ends with a short hike to a hidden waterfall and a crystal-clear swimming pool, a welcome reward after the dust.
The day starts with a ride through downtown Puerto Vallarta in a vintage yellow Unimog truck, with views of Los Arcos along the coast. Your guide shares the city's history and points out local plants and animals once you reach the trail, so keep an eye out for tropical birds. We recommend closed shoes and clothes you don't mind getting muddy. The All Terrain Puerto Vallarta ATV Tour includes safety equipment, experienced guides, fresh fruit and purified water.
13. Dance Under the Stars on a Jungle Beach
A secluded cove where the Sierra Madre jungle meets the Pacific fills with hundreds of candles along the shoreline at sunset, while laser lights play across the canopy. Every Saturday, international DJs bring electronic music to this beach, which you can only reach by boat. Hidden spaces like suspended nets, a mirror garden and giant nests are tucked among the trees, and a bridge turns into a glowing portal at twilight.
Enjoy a three-course gourmet dinner, and the bar features tropical mixology with Raicilla, Mezcal and signature cocktails. We recommend arriving early to enjoy the golden sands, Balinese beds and boho-chic lounges before the music builds. Majahuitas Beach Party includes the boat ride, five alcoholic drinks and the full DJ lineup.
14. Cook a Mole That Starts at a Cacao Farm
This journey through rural Jalisco links farms, markets and kitchens into one continuous story. The drive winds through the Sierra Madre foothills past mango, watermelon, papaya, pineapple and corn fields on the way to San Juan de Abajo. By the time you cook, you have already met the people and places behind the ingredients.
Each stop shows how Jalisco's produce shapes its cuisine. At the organic cacao farm, you follow chocolate from tree to cup and taste traditional cacao drinks that are bitter, earthy and ceremonial- nothing like commercial sweetened chocolate. You also stop at a honey shop and a traditional tortilleria, where you roll your own tortillas. Pueblos Culinary Tour ends beside a lagoon, where a local chef guides you through preparing Mole Negro and salsas. For more on learning to cook in the area, see our Puerto Vallarta cooking class guide.
15. Create Your Own Tequila to Uncork at Home
The drive to Tequila, Jalisco, winds through blue agave fields that seem to glow in the morning light. At the legendary José Cuervo distillery, a private VIP tour explains what distinguishes blanco from añejo before the real fun begins. Then join a blending session to mix your own personalized tequila under expert guidance.
The result goes into a commemorative bottle with your custom blend, a time capsule that tastes like this trip whenever you open it. A three-course gourmet lunch with tequila pairings closes the day. Private Tequila Tour & Jose Cuervo Distillery is a practical way to enjoy it all in one day, with a dedicated guide and a small private group.
16. Spend a Day in Two Surf Towns
The day starts with a roadside stop for exotic fruits and traditional local sweets, then a stroll through San Pancho, a quaint town of just 3,000 inhabitants known for its spectacular murals and Huichol heritage. You sample savory antojitos made with fresh local ingredients and learn how Huichol culture shapes the town's art and identity. Next, visit Sayulita, a Pueblo Mágico where surf culture, an art community, and papel picado banners fill the streets.
Both towns have artisan stalls, galleries, and boutiques with handcrafted jewelry, textiles, beachwear, and artwork, and you have free time to browse at your own pace. We recommend comfortable shoes and some room in your bag. Sayulita & San Pancho is a practical way to see both with bilingual guides, tastings and a short guided introduction to the local culture included.
17. Walk the Malecón at Sunset
As evening approaches, the Malecón becomes the place to be. This mile-long boardwalk runs along the bay in downtown, and locals and visitors fill it as the sky turns orange. Street performers entertain, sand sculptors showcase their art, and public sculptures line the way.
We recommend arriving about an hour before sunset, so you can walk the full stretch without rushing. Food vendors and cafés tempt you at every turn, and many people end the stroll with dinner nearby. For ideas on where to eat, see our guide to the best restaurants on the Puerto Vallarta Malecón. Occasionally, carnival rides appear, adding to the fun for families out for the night.
18. Ride the Waves at a Water Park Only Boats Can Reach
Ocean Mania Water Park sits in a natural reserve where the tropical jungle meets the Pacific, and you can only reach it by speedboat. The day is built for anyone who wants more action than a regular beach day. March suits it well, with warm sunny days and a lively energy on the bay.
You can spin through hairpin turns on the Thriller jet boat, glide above the water on a tandem parasail, and try the FlowRider surfing simulator. The park also features a rotating inflatable called the Spinner, an ocean zip line, hillside water slides and a banana boat ride. Between rides, you snorkel and meet the sea lions at the Marine Mammal Center.
We recommend water shoes and sun-protective clothing, since you will spend most of the day in and around the water. The day includes the speedboat ride across the bay, lunch on oceanview terraces and an open bar after all the activities.
19. Taste Your Way Through the Local Markets
Local markets are one of the easiest ways to taste Puerto Vallarta on your own schedule. From fresh seafood to traditional delicacies, the city's culinary scene is diverse and inviting. Mercado Municipal Rio Cuale is a good place to start, with local produce, handmade goods and authentic Mexican eats under one roof.
March is a lively time to go, since the weekly Puerto Vallarta farmers' markets are running and the city is buzzing. We recommend going in the morning, when the produce is freshest, and the temperatures are mild. Bring cash in small bills and an open appetite, and take your time moving from stall to stall.
20. Catch the Golden Hour Under Sail
Watching the Sierra Madre mountains and Puerto Vallarta's skyline glow in golden light from the water is worth planning an evening around. You sail aboard a French Beneteau monohull or a Leopard catamaran in a small group, which keeps the mood intimate and relaxed.
Gourmet hors d'oeuvres made with fresh local ingredients arrive alongside a premium open bar with made-to-order cocktails and wines. A highly trained crew looks after the sailing, so you can simply enjoy the view. Puerto Vallarta Sunset Cruise, Adults-Only is our adults-only option, best suited to couples and romantic occasions.
Your March Is Waiting
By the end of a March in Puerto Vallarta, you will have more stories than days to tell them. Some will come from the water, some from the mountains, and a few from a quiet moment you never planned. That is how this place works, and we love watching travelers find their own version of it.
When you are ready to build your days, take a look at all our tours.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is March a good time to visit Puerto Vallarta with kids?
Yes, March works well for families, since the days are mild and many activities suit a range of ages. Children who like to climb, zip and splash tend to enjoy a full day outdoors.
Las Caletas Beach & Adventure Park has a dedicated area just for little ones, and parents can relax nearby. We recommend packing swim layers, water shoes and a hat, and planning a slower evening afterward so everyone recharges.
Can I do more than one activity in a single day?
Yes, most travelers pair a morning activity with a relaxed afternoon or a sunset stroll. Choosing one main outing per day keeps the pace comfortable and leaves room for surprises.
Full-day outings involving boats or long drives usually take up the whole day, so give them their own slot. Shorter options, like a walk through Old Town or an evening show, fit easily around them. Spreading the plans across several days helps you enjoy each one without rushing.
What should I wear for a day on the water in Puerto Vallarta?
Light, quick-drying clothes with sun-protective layers work best, along with a swimsuit, a hat and water shoes. A light layer is handy for the boat ride back, since the breeze can feel cool as the sun sets.
Ocean Mania Water Park is reached by speed boat, and you spend most of the day in and around the water. We recommend keeping valuables to a minimum and bringing a dry change of clothes for the ride home.
