Headed to Puerto Vallarta in October? 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.
October sits at the sweet spot where Puerto Vallarta's rainy season winds down and the weather starts its transition toward the perfect dry months ahead. You'll find warm Pacific waters, lush jungle landscapes from recent rains, and that perfect balance of adventure weather without the peak summer crowds. 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 October's Weather in Puerto Vallarta
October brings hot, humid days with the lingering effects of the rainy season gradually giving way to sunnier skies. It's a month of transition that offers some of the year's most rewarding travel experiences if you know what you're getting into.
Average temperatures: Daytime highs consistently hover between 31°C to 33°C (88–91°F), occasionally climbing to 34°C (93°F). Nighttime temperatures drop to a comfortable 20°C to 23°C (68–73°F), making evenings perfect for strolling the Malecón or dining al fresco.
Rainfall: You'll see about 25mm (1 inch) of rain spread across 3-4 days, though storms tend to be intense but short-lived, typically arriving in late afternoon or evening. Early October sees more frequent showers, while conditions dry out considerably as the month progresses.
Humidity: Expect very high humidity levels above 80%, which makes the heat feel more intense than the thermometer suggests. This tropical moisture creates that sticky feeling that makes lightweight, breathable clothing essential for comfort.
Sea temperature: The Pacific Ocean remains comfortably warm at around 27–29°C (81–84°F) in October—perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and water sports. Underwater visibility improves as the month progresses, thanks to calmer seas and the end of the rainy season.
Daylight hours: You'll enjoy about 12 hours of daylight with approximately 7 hours of sunshine per day. The UV index remains very high at 10, so sun protection isn't optional – it's mandatory for any time spent outdoors.
Essential Packing List for Puerto Vallarta in October
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 beach and pool
- Comfortable walking shoes for exploring cobblestone streets
- Sturdy, closed-toe shoes for adventure tours
Top Clothing and Footwear Suggestions for October
October's hot, humid days and warm evenings call for strategic clothing choices that keep you comfortable while transitioning from beach to restaurant to adventure activity.
Heat-Beating Essentials
Moisture-wicking tank tops, quick-dry shorts, lightweight cotton dresses, breathable linen shirts
Humidity Helpers
Loose-fitting clothing, natural fiber blends, sleeveless options, anti-chafe shorts for walking
Rain-Ready Pieces
Packable rain jacket, quick-dry pants, water-resistant sandals, compact umbrella
Puerto Vallarta Nightlife Considerations for October
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.
October's weather affects your night plans. Pack a mini umbrella and waterproof makeup for rain, extra deodorant and blotting papers for hot humid nights, and breathable fabrics that won't cling when the humidity peaks. Don't forget a portable phone charger and backup shoes for long nights out exploring everything from zona romántica to downtown hotspots.
Top October Experiences & What You'll Need
October offers perfect conditions for Puerto Vallarta's most thrilling adventures, with lush jungle landscapes from recent rains and ideal temperatures for outdoor activities. Here are three must-do experiences that showcase the best of what this month has to offer.
Extreme Zipline Canopy Adventure
October's post-rain jungle is at its most vibrant, making this the perfect time to soar through the lush Sierra Madre canopy on a fast zipline. The cooler mornings and reduced rainfall create ideal conditions for this adrenaline-pumping adventure that combines ziplining, ATV rides, and unique experiences like a hillside water slide. The natural reserve setting means you'll see the tropical forest at its most spectacular.
What you'll need for this tour: Closed-toe athletic shoes with good grip, comfortable moisture-wicking sportswear, extra change of clothes, quick-dry towel, biodegradable bug repellent
All-Terrain ATV Adventure
The mountain trails are perfectly conditioned in October – not too muddy from heavy rains but still offering that authentic off-road adventure through the Sierra Madre's most scenic routes. This journey involves serious ATV action through hand-carved mountain trails, with opportunities to explore the natural beauty of the region.
What you'll need for this tour: Sturdy closed-toe shoes, swimsuit and quick-dry towel, complete change of clothes including extra shoes, biodegradable sunscreen, insect protection
Sayulita ATV Cultural Adventure
October's moderate evenings provide enjoyable conditions for the cultural walking tour portion. After navigating rugged terrain on powerful Polaris RZRs, you'll explore the famous artistic surf town of Sayulita with its vibrant street art, local boutiques, and authentic Mexican atmosphere. However, skies may remain humid with occasional lingering rain, which can limit panoramic views from mountaintop lookouts.
What you'll need for this tour: Valid driver's license, complete change of clothes, biodegradable sunscreen for high UV exposure, quality sunglasses, comfortable walking shoes for Sayulita exploration
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 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 October
Planning ahead for Puerto Vallarta in October 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 October's unique advantages – from lush jungle landscapes to perfect ocean temperatures – 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 October fill up fast! Book your adventures now and secure your spot for an unforgettable trip where the Sierra Madre Mountains meet the Pacific Ocean in perfect harmony.
