Headed to Puerto Vallarta in December? You're in for a treat. Whether it's beach days, jungle adventures, or late-night dancing, Vallarta delivers. December marks the start of the magical dry season, when humpback whales arrive in Banderas Bay, and the weather settles into near-perfect conditions.
With warm, sunny days averaging 82-86°F and refreshingly cool evenings dipping to 59-68°F, you'll experience the best of both worlds – perfect beach weather during the day and comfortable temperatures for exploring the charming malecón at night.
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 – from spontaneous whale watching excursions to romantic sunset sailing adventures and everything in between.
What to Expect from December's Weather in Puerto Vallarta
Average temperatures: Daytime highs hover between 82-86°F (28-30°C), making it perfect for beach activities and outdoor adventures. Evenings bring a welcome cooldown to 59-68°F (15-20°C), creating ideal conditions for strolling the malecón or dining al fresco without the oppressive heat of summer months.
Rainfall: December falls squarely in Puerto Vallarta's dry season, with minimal precipitation averaging just 10- 25 mm for the entire month. You'll encounter mostly sunny skies with occasional cloud cover, but rain is so rare it rarely disrupts outdoor plans. This makes December one of the most reliable months for consistent adventure activities.
Humidity: Moderate humidity levels range from 66-77%, creating comfortable conditions that feel pleasantly moist without being oppressive. Morning humidity tends to be higher and decreases as temperatures rise throughout the day, making midday adventures surprisingly comfortable.
Sea temperature: The Pacific maintains a delightful 79°F (26°C) throughout December – absolutely perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and water sports. The warm ocean temperature, combined with calm, clear waters, makes this an ideal time for marine adventures and whale-watching excursions.
Daylight hours: You'll get about 11 hours of daylight and around 7 hours of sunshine daily. While December brings some of the year's shortest days, there's still plenty of time for morning adventures and afternoon beach relaxation before the sun sets over Banderas Bay.
Essential Packing List for Puerto Vallarta in December
Some things are must-haves in Puerto Vallarta, no matter the month. But December brings its own little surprises that any smart traveler will 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 dream than science.
Travel Documents & Money
Passport (valid for your stay)
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 beach and pool
Comfortable walking shoes for exploring cobblestone streets
Sturdy, closed-toe shoes for adventure tours
Top Clothing and Footwear Suggestions for December
December's warm days and cool evenings call for versatile pieces that transition seamlessly from beach adventures to evening strolls through downtown Puerto Vallarta.
Daytime essentials: lightweight cotton or linen t-shirts, breathable tank tops, comfortable shorts, and flowy sundresses for warm, sunny hours.
Evening comfort: a light cardigan or thin sweater, long pants or maxi skirt, denim jacket, and a lightweight pashmina for cooler nights.
Adventure ready: moisture-wicking athletic wear, quick-dry shorts, closed-toe hiking shoes, and a windbreaker for boat excursions and jungle outings.
Puerto Vallarta Nightlife Considerations for December
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.
December's weather affects your night plans. Pack a light jacket and hair ties for cool evening breezes, and comfortable backup shoes for long nights exploring the malecón. Don't forget a portable phone charger and waterproof phone case for beach clubs.
Top December Experiences & What You'll Need
December in Puerto Vallarta opens the door to moments you can only live this time of year, from the start of whale season to calm seas made for sailing and a hidden beach club that only comes alive under starlit skies.
ALMA, Rhythms of the Night
Picture setting sail into a golden sunset toward a jungle cove accessible only by boat. Once ashore at Las Caletas, you follow candlelit pathways to a table at the edge of the sea, wine glass in hand, before a world-class performance of acrobatics, dance, and live music unfolds beneath the stars. December's low humidity and gentle evening breezes make every part of this evening feel effortless, and ALMA, Rhythms of the Night is simply the easiest way to be there.
What you'll need: Comfortable closed-toe shoes (no heels), light sweater or jacket for the ocean breeze, bug repellent, small amount of cash for photos and souvenirs, camera for the sunset views.
Puerto Vallarta Sunset Cruise, Adults-Only
December delivers some of the year's most spectacular sunsets over Banderas Bay, with clear skies and mirror-calm water. Imagine watching golden light spill across the Sierra Madre from the deck of an elegant French sailboat, cocktail in hand, as the coastline drifts by and the sky shifts through pink and violet. The Puerto Vallarta Sunset Cruise, Adults-Only pairs gourmet tapas with a premium open bar so all you have to do is settle in and let the evening happen.
What you'll need: Sunglasses, a light sweater for ocean breezes, comfortable non-slip shoes, a camera for sunset photos, and a small amount of cash for dock fees.
Majahuitas Beach Party
Every Saturday in December, a secluded cove south of the bay transforms into a jungle-meets-ocean sanctuary where international DJs spin beneath swaying palm trees. As the sun drops, hundreds of candles line the shoreline and laser lights sweep through the tropical canopy while you dance on warm golden sand. The dry season makes boat access reliable and the evenings pleasantly cool, and the Majahuitas Beach Party hands you the whole day, from Mediterranean-Mexican cuisine to Balinese beds facing the Pacific.
What you'll need: Swimsuit and beachwear, hat, comfortable sandals, towel, sunglasses, money for extra food and drinks throughout the day.
Pre-Departure Preparation Timeline
2-3 Weeks Before Departure
Digital Preparation
- Download offline maps
- Create 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 that 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 December
Planning ahead for Puerto Vallarta in December 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 December's unique advantages – from perfect whale watching conditions to ideal sailing weather and comfortable temperatures for exploring both jungle adventures and vibrant nightlife.
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 December fill up fast as this marks the start of peak season! Book your adventures now and secure your spot for an unforgettable trip where the Sierra Madre meets the Pacific.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much cash should I pack for Puerto Vallarta?
Plan for a mix of Mexican pesos and small USD bills. Most restaurants and tour operators take cards, but taxis, tips, and street vendors run on cash. Around 500 to 1,000 pesos per person daily covers meals and small purchases comfortably.
Bring some pesos before you fly and withdraw more from an ATM once you arrive for the best rate. Keep a bit of emergency USD tucked away separately, just in case.
Is a dinner show in Puerto Vallarta a formal-dress affair?
Not at all. Evenings at open-air venues in Puerto Vallarta stay relaxed, even for the most iconic performances. Comfortable resort wear works perfectly, think a sundress, linen shirt, or nice pants paired with closed-toe shoes you can actually walk in on uneven pathways.
For ALMA, Rhythms of the Night, add a light sweater for the boat ride across Banderas Bay and skip heels, since you'll walk candlelit jungle trails.
What should I add to my packing list for a full-day beach party in December?
Bring layers you can shed and reclaim as the day turns into evening. A swimsuit, a cover-up, sunglasses, and comfortable sandals handle the daylight hours, while a light jacket keeps December's cool ocean breezes in check once the sun drops.
For the Majahuitas Beach Party, pack a small crossbody bag with a phone charger, cash for extras, and a change of clothes for dancing after dark.
