Mexico › Puerto Vallarta › PV in March
Updated: April 12, 2026
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March is one of the most popular months to visit Puerto Vallarta, and for good reason: the weather is about as reliable as it gets. You are firmly in the dry season, meaning warm, sunny days and cool, comfortable evenings. However, because the weather is so dependable, you are also at the peak of the high season. Visiting in March requires a balance between enjoying the perfect outdoor conditions and navigating higher prices, busier beaches, and the shifting dates of major holidays like Easter and Spring Break.
The Verdict: March is an excellent choice if your priority is reliable beach weather, outdoor dining, and active days on the water. It is less ideal for bargain hunters or travelers seeking a quiet, secluded escape. I have found that early March usually offers the best balance: the whale watching is still productive and the town feels vibrant without the extreme congestion that can arrive later in the month during major holiday weeks.
March At-A-Glance: Best and Worst
- Best for: Reliable sunshine, whale watching (early in the month), mountain hiking, and comfortable evening walks without the summer humidity.
- Less ideal for: Finding hotel deals, avoiding crowds, or travelers who want “bath-water” ocean temperatures.
Crowds, Prices, and the Calendar
Because March falls during the peak winter escape window, hotel rates remain high and flights are often pricier. You should book your accommodation and high-demand tours at least three to four months in advance.
Spring Break and Semana Santa: The vibe in town can change significantly depending on the calendar. Spring Break (typically mid-March) brings a younger, high-energy crowd to the Marina and the Malecon. Semana Santa (Holy Week) is one of Mexico’s biggest travel weeks; the dates shift every year, so check the calendar before booking. When Holy Week falls in late March, expect packed beaches, heavy traffic, and a festive, loud atmosphere as domestic tourism peaks.
Puerto Vallarta Weather in March
March is typically one of Puerto Vallarta’s driest and most comfortable months. Expect daytime highs around 82°F (28°C) and evening lows near 63°F (17°C). While the afternoons are hot, the lack of humidity makes it feel much more manageable than the summer months.
The Evening Cool-Down: This is what I call “light jacket weather.” The temperature drops noticeably once the sun goes down, making it perfect for outdoor dining, but you will want a sweater or light layer for dinner or boat rides back to shore.
Ocean Conditions: The Pacific is swimmable in March, with water temperatures around 75°F (24°C). It feels “fresh” compared to the Caribbean and is noticeably cooler than the local water in August. Most people are fine for a swim, but if you are a casual snorkeler who gets cold easily, a rash guard is a smart addition for longer sessions.
March vs. Other Months
- March vs. February: The weather is very similar, though March is slightly warmer during the day. Whale watching is generally more dependable in February, but the beach weather in March is marginally better for swimming.
- March vs. April: April begins to see a rise in temperature. If you visit in March, you get the benefit of the final weeks of whale season; by April, most whales have migrated north.
Is March Good for Whale Watching?
March is the tail end of the Humpback Whale season in Banderas Bay. While sightings are still common, they are generally less dependable than the peak months of January and February. By late March, many mothers and calves are beginning their journey north. If whale watching is your main priority, try to schedule your trip for the first half of the month.
Where to Stay in March
- Zona Romántica: The heart of the action. Best for walkability, nightlife, and the famous Los Muertos Beach. Expect it to be very crowded in March.
- Centro / 5 de Diciembre: A great mix of local life and tourism with excellent hillside views. Usually offers slightly better value than the Romantic Zone.
- Hotel Zone & Marina: Best for traditional resorts and easy logistics. The Marina is a popular hub for the Spring Break crowd.
- Conchas Chinas: A quieter, more upscale residential area just south of town. Great for villas but requires a taxi or Uber to get to dinner.
Beach Expectations: Pacific vs. Caribbean
It is important to set expectations: Puerto Vallarta is a Pacific destination known for stunning sunsets, jungle-backed coves, and deep blue water. It is not a “powdery white sand” destination like Cancun. If you are coming mainly for long, turquoise-water beach days, Puerto Vallarta is better for boat trips to secluded coves (like Yelapa or Las Animas) than for “perfect” sand right in front of the hotels.
Best Things to Do in March
- Boca de Tomatlan Hike: Because it isn’t humid yet, this is the best time for the coastal hike to Las Animas. The trail is manageable and leads to beautiful, swimmable coves.
- Vallarta Botanical Gardens: The dry March air makes for a pleasant day exploring the mountains. Many tropical flowers are in bloom, and the river at the bottom of the gardens is usually clear.
- Marietas Islands: A popular boat trip. Note that many tours do not include Hidden Beach access due to strict permit limits. If that specific beach is your goal, verify your permit with the operator before booking and be aware that sea conditions may still prevent entry.
- Outdoor Dining: Take advantage of the weather. March is the prime month for “feet in the sand” dinners at sunset.
Common March Mistakes
- Forgetting a Light Layer: The afternoon sun is intense, but the breeze on a boat or the air at an outdoor restaurant in the evening can feel genuinely chilly. Pack a light sweater or pashmina.
- Underestimating Traffic: If you take a day trip to Sayulita or San Pancho, leave early. Traffic on the highway north of town can be very slow on busy March weekends.
- Not Booking Sunset Dinners: The most popular restaurants with sunset views will be fully booked weeks in advance during the March high season.
- Relying on “Reef-Safe” Labels: Marketing terms are vague. If you plan to snorkel in protected areas like Los Arcos, bring a mineral-based sunscreen (zinc or titanium) to truly protect the marine life.
Planning and Logistics
- Airport Transportation: Rideshare rules at PVR can be confusing. In practice, many travelers walk across the pedestrian bridge to the left of the airport exit to meet an Uber or InDrive. If you want the simplest curbside option, pay for an airport taxi at the official kiosks inside the terminal.
- ATMs and Cash: Airport exchange booths are usually less competitive than bank ATMs. Use a bank-affiliated ATM, and always decline the “conversion” offered by the machine to get the best rate from your own bank.
- Bugs: Mosquitoes are usually less of an issue in March than in the rainy season, but you should still bring repellent if you are staying in a garden hotel or planning jungle hikes.
- Water Safety: While the bay is generally calm, always check the beach flags. High-season winds can occasionally create strong undertows, especially on the North Shore.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Puerto Vallarta too crowded in March?
It is busy. You will need to wait for tables at popular restaurants, and the Malecon will be crowded in the evenings. However, the energy is part of the appeal for many people.
Do I need a wetsuit for snorkeling?
Most people are fine without one for short swims. However, the water is cool enough that if you plan on a long snorkeling tour at Los Arcos, a thin rash guard or “shorty” wetsuit will keep you comfortable.
Is March a good time for fishing?
Yes, it is a productive month for Mahi-Mahi and Striped Marlin, though the water hasn’t reached the peak temperatures required for giant Yellowfin Tuna.
Does it rain in March?
Rain is extremely rare in March. You can usually plan outdoor weddings or boat trips with high confidence that the weather will hold.
