Headed to Puerto Vallarta in April? You're in for a treat. Whether it's beach days, jungle adventures, or late-night dancing, this place knows how to deliver. But every month brings its own vibe, so a little planning goes a long way.
This guide gives you the lowdown on what to expect, what to bring, and how to make the most of your trip without overthinking your packing list. Consider it your cheat sheet for showing up ready for whatever Puerto Vallarta throws your way.
What to Expect from April's Weather in Puerto Vallarta
April transforms Puerto Vallarta into a paradise of perfect climate conditions, offering visitors that rare sweet spot between tropical warmth and refreshing comfort. The weather pattern establishes itself with remarkable consistency, delivering sun-drenched days that transition into pleasantly cool evenings. This creates the ideal environment, whether you're looking to lounge peacefully on golden beaches or embark on exhilarating outdoor excursions through jungle and sea.
Average temperatures: Daytime highs regularly reach 30-32°C (86-90°F), with some days pushing even hotter. Nighttime temperatures drop to a comfortable 16-20°C (61-68°F), creating pleasant evening conditions that feel refreshingly cool compared to the heat of the day.
Rainfall: April is one of the driest months of the year, with virtually zero precipitation (around 0.1-5mm for the entire month). While rain is rare, occasional brief showers can occur, so it's wise to have a small umbrella or light rain gear just in case.
Humidity: Levels remain relatively low throughout the month, with the air feeling dry rather than sticky. The tropical conditions that arrive later in the year haven't kicked in yet, making outdoor activities much more comfortable.
Sea temperature: The ocean averages a delightful 25°C (77°F), making it ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and water sports. The warm waters are perfect for both casual beachgoers and adventure enthusiasts.
Daylight hours: Expect long, sun-filled days with about 12-12.6 hours of brilliant sunshine. Sunrise occurs around 7:36 AM while sunset paints the sky near 8:11 PM, giving you plenty of time to explore both day and evening activities.
Essential Packing List for Puerto Vallarta in April
Some things are must-haves in Puerto Vallarta, no matter the month. But each time of year comes with its own little surprises that any smart traveler would want to plan for. The goal is to bring exactly what you'll use and nothing more, though let's be honest—perfect packing is more of a dream than a science.
Travel Documents & Money
Passport (valid for 6+ months)
Physical copies of passport/ID
Travel insurance documents
Mexican pesos (cash)
Credit cards (notify bank of travel)
Emergency cash in USD
Electronics & Power
Phone charger + car charger
Portable power bank (high capacity)
Universal power adapter
Waterproof phone case
Camera + extra memory cards
Headphones/earbuds
Health & Safety
Prescription medications (extra supply)
Basic first aid kit
Insect repellent
Hand sanitizer
Sun-protective clothing
After-sun care/aloe vera
Practical Items
Plastic bags for wet/dirty clothes
Travel-sized laundry detergent
Quick-dry towel
Reusable water bottle
Clothing and Accessories
Multiple swimsuits (2-3 recommended)
Lightweight, breathable t-shirts/tank tops
Shorts and swim shorts
Underwear (quick-dry recommended)
Sleepwear/pajamas
Beach cover-ups or sarongs
Light layers for air-conditioned spaces
Dressy outfits for upscale restaurants/nightlife
Sun hat with a chin strap
Sunglasses with a strap
Footwear
Flip-flops or comfortable sandals for the beach and pool
Comfortable walking shoes for exploring cobblestone streets
Sturdy, closed-toe shoes for adventure tours
Top Clothing and Footwear Suggestions for April
April's warm, dry conditions call for lightweight, breathable fabrics that keep you comfortable during long, sunny days while accommodating cooler evening temperatures.
Sun Protection Essentials
Wide-brimmed hats, UV-blocking sunglasses, lightweight long sleeves, and rash guards for water activities
Hot Weather Comfort
Cotton t-shirts, linen shorts, breathable tank tops, moisture-wicking athletic wear
Evening Versatility
Light cardigan or jacket, casual sundresses, comfortable walking sandals, stylish closed-toe shoes
Puerto Vallarta Nightlife Considerations for April
Puerto Vallarta's nightlife spans beach clubs, rooftops, and local bars, so pack versatile pieces that go from casual to dressy. Bring two breathable dressy outfits, comfortable, stylish shoes, and a light layer for A/C. A small crossbody bag is perfect for essentials while dancing.
April's dry, warm evenings are ideal for extended nightlife exploration. Pack extra deodorant and blotting papers for warm nights, and don't forget a portable phone charger and backup shoes for long nights out exploring the Malecón and Zona Romántica.
Top April Experiences & What You'll Need
April in Puerto Vallarta offers incredible opportunities to experience the region's diverse adventures as the weather settles into its most favorable patterns. The warm temperatures and low humidity create perfect conditions for both thrilling jungle excursions and beachside relaxation, while the consistently sunny days and comfortable ocean temperatures keep water activities at their absolute peak.
Outdoor Zip-Line Adventure
April's dry conditions and clear skies create ideal circumstances for this award-winning jungle adventure. With no rain to worry about and excellent visibility, you'll experience thrilling ziplines, waterfall rappelling, and jungle exploration without weather concerns disrupting this 6.5-hour mountain experience.
What you'll need for this tour: Closed-toe athletic shoes, comfortable sportswear, a light sweater for mountain elevations, bug repellent and biodegradable sunscreen, and an extra change of clothes for post-waterfall activities.
Ocean Mania Water Park
The warm April seas and cloudless skies make this the perfect month for a full day of water thrills. With sea temperatures at 25°C and virtually guaranteed sunshine, you'll enjoy parasailing, jet boats, FlowRider surfing, and marine encounters under ideal conditions for over 6 hours of aquatic adventure.
What you'll need for this tour: Swimsuit and towel, water shoes for rocky areas, sun-protective clothing and repellent, a change of clothes and shoes, and a valid ID for locker checkout.
Las Caletas Beach Hideaway
April's exceptional weather makes this exclusive beach escape even more magical. With abundant sunshine and calm seas, you'll have perfect conditions for hammock lounging, adventure cove activities, snorkeling in crystal-clear waters, and cultural experiences on this acclaimed private beach.
What you'll need for this tour: Swimsuit and hat, heat protective clothing and bug repellent, a light sweater for the evening boat ride, extra money for optional spa treatments, and unique animal encounters.
Pre-Departure Preparation Timeline
2-3 Weeks Before Departure
Digital Preparation
- Download offline maps
- Create a trip playlist for different moods
- Download translation apps to learn basic Spanish phrases
- Research weather patterns for the month
- Book accommodations and activities
- Reserve popular tours
Cultural & Culinary Research
- List of must-try dishes for the season
- Local festivals and events
- Learn basic Spanish phrases for food ordering
Documentation & Backup
- Verify passport expiration date
- Scan and email copies of passport, ID, travel insurance
- Print physical copies of important documents
- Travel insurance verification
- Emergency contact information
24 Hours Before Departure
- Check the weather forecast updates
- Confirm offline maps are downloaded
- Charge all electronics
- Pack carry-on essentials
Airport/Travel Day
- Comfortable travel outfit
- Entertainment for flight
- Empty reusable water bottle
- Snacks for travel day
- Important documents in carry-on
You're All Set for Puerto Vallarta in April
Planning ahead for Puerto Vallarta in April means you'll spend less time worrying about what you forgot and more time enjoying everything this incredible place has to offer. With the right gear packed and your essentials sorted, you're set to make the most of April's unique advantages and create memories that'll last long after you're back home.
Ready to dive into Puerto Vallarta's best experiences? Don't leave your must-do activities to chance – the most popular tours and attractions in April fill up fast! Book your adventures now and secure your spot for an unforgettable trip.
