Headed to Puerto Vallarta in November? You're in for a treat. Whether it's zip-lining through jungle canopies, swimming with dolphins in Banderas Bay, or exploring authentic Mexican mountain villages, this coastal paradise knows how to deliver year-round adventure. But November brings its own special vibe, the perfect sweet spot between the humid rainy season and the busy winter crowds, 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, from early morning whale watching to late-night cultural celebrations.
What to Expect from November's Weather in Puerto Vallarta
November marks the golden transition from rainy season to dry season, making it one of the most comfortable months to visit Puerto Vallarta. The weather settles into that perfect tropical rhythm that locals and seasoned travelers love; warm enough for all-day adventures but pleasant enough to actually enjoy them.
Average temperatures: Daytime highs hover between 28°C–31°C (82°F–88°F), while nighttime lows drop to a comfortable 18°C–21°C (64°F–70°F). The temperature contrast means you'll want layers for those cooler evenings, especially if you're dining outdoors or taking sunset sailing trips.
Rainfall: November sees a dramatic decrease in precipitation, with only 7mm to 45mm for the entire month. You'll experience about a 12% chance of rain on any given day, and when it does rain, it's typically brief and localized—perfect for ducking into a beachside café with a margarita.
Humidity: Averaging around 78%–79%, humidity is noticeably more comfortable than the sticky summer months. The air feels warm but breathable, especially with the gentle coastal breezes that pick up throughout the day.
Sea temperature: The Pacific Ocean remains beautifully warm at around 27°C (81°F), ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and all those water adventures you've been dreaming about. No wetsuit required; just your swimsuit and sense of adventure.
Daylight hours: November offers approximately 11.2 hours of daylight, with sunrise around 7:10 AM and sunset at 6:20 PM. This gives you plenty of time for full-day excursions while still enjoying those famous Puerto Vallarta sunsets that paint the sky in brilliant oranges and pinks.
Essential Packing List for Puerto Vallarta in November
Some things are must-haves in Puerto Vallarta, no matter the month. But November 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 beach and pool
Comfortable walking shoes for exploring cobblestone streets
Sturdy, closed-toe shoes for adventure tours
Top Clothing and Footwear Suggestions for November
November's pleasant temperatures and decreasing humidity make it ideal for outdoor adventures without the oppressive heat of summer or the unpredictable showers of the rainy season.
Warm Day Essentials
Cotton t-shirts, linen button-downs, moisture-wicking tank tops, lightweight shorts
Evening Comfort
Light cardigans, thin sweaters, breathable long pants, casual blazers
Adventure Ready
Quick-dry shirts, athletic shorts, sturdy hiking sandals, water-resistant day packs
Puerto Vallarta Nightlife Considerations for November
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.
November's mild weather affects your night plans in the best way possible. The comfortable temperatures mean you can focus on style without worrying about excessive heat or sudden downpours. Pack a light sweater for cooler evening breezes and keep that portable phone charger handy for long nights exploring the vibrant local scene.
Top November Experiences & What You'll Need
November in Puerto Vallarta offers incredible opportunities to experience the region's diverse adventures as the weather settles into its most comfortable patterns. The cooler temperatures and reduced humidity make it perfect for both jungle excursions and cultural celebrations, while the warm sea temperatures keep water activities at their peak.
Extreme Adventure + San Sebastián
November’s pleasant temperatures and low rainfall make it the perfect month to enjoy a unique experience that combines two different tours in a single day: Extreme Adventure, featuring thrilling zip-lines and adrenaline-filled activities in the mountains, and San Sebastián, a cultural journey through the charming colonial town of San Sebastián del Oeste.
The cool mountain air and clear skies create ideal conditions for this full-day adventure that blends excitement with tradition. No need to juggle multiple plans—this combined tour gives you seamless access to both heart-pounding action and rich cultural immersion in a UNESCO World Heritage region.
What you’ll need: closed-toe shoes with good grip, comfortable pants for zip-lining, a light jacket for higher elevations, a camera for colonial architecture, and a small backpack for your essentials.
Book the Extreme Adventure + San Sebastián Tour.
Rhythms of the Night
November's mild evenings and clear skies create magical conditions for this enchanting journey to Caletas Beach, where pre-Hispanic traditions come alive through spectacular performances under the stars.
The comfortable nighttime temperatures mean you can fully immerse yourself in this cultural celebration without the discomfort of humid summer evenings or the unpredictability of rainy season weather. This unique experience offers authentic Mexican culture in a pristine natural setting that most tourists never discover.
What you'll need for this tour: Casual evening wear suitable for beach walking, a light sweater for a boat ride, comfortable sandals, a small bag for essentials, and a camera for sunset photography.
Book the Rhythms of the Night Tour
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 (Día de los Muertos, Festival Gourmet Internacional)
- Learn basic Spanish phrases for food ordering
Documentation & Backup
- Verify passport expiration date
- Scan and email copies of passport, ID, and travel insurance
- Print physical copies of important documents
- Travel insurance verification
- Emergency contact information
24 Hours Before Departure
- Check 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 November
Planning ahead for Puerto Vallarta in November means you'll spend less time worrying about what you forgot and more time enjoying everything this incredible destination has to offer. With the right gear packed and your essentials sorted, you're set to make the most of November's unique advantages: perfect weather for jungle adventures, ideal conditions for marine encounters, and comfortable temperatures for cultural exploration that'll create memories lasting 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 November fill up fast as the destination emerges from rainy season into peak adventure conditions! Book your adventures now and secure your spot for an unforgettable trip where the Sierra Madre mountains meet the Pacific Ocean paradise.
