Thinking about visiting Puerto Vallarta in July but worried about the rain?
July is one of the greenest, warmest, and most tropical times of year in Puerto Vallarta. The mountains surrounding Banderas Bay become bright green, the ocean is warm, and summer brings a completely different atmosphere from the busy winter season.
It is also part of Puerto Vallarta’s rainy season, so visitors naturally have questions:
- Does it rain all day?
- Can you still take a boat tour?
- Is July a good month for snorkeling?
- Are Los Arcos and the southern beaches still accessible?
- What should you pack?
As a local boat-tour crew based at Mismaloya Beach, we spend our days on the water and understand how summer conditions affect activities around Los Arcos and Puerto Vallarta’s southern coast.
Here is what travelers should know before visiting Puerto Vallarta in July.
Is July a Good Time to Visit Puerto Vallarta?
Yes, July can be an excellent time to visit Puerto Vallarta, especially for travelers who enjoy warm ocean water, green mountain scenery, tropical weather, and a more relaxed summer atmosphere.
Puerto Vallarta’s rainy season normally runs from approximately June through October. However, that does not automatically mean continuous rain every day. Tropical showers often arrive later in the day or during the evening, although weather conditions can always change.
July may be a good fit for you when you:
- Enjoy warm water and swimming
- Prefer green jungle scenery
- Do not mind occasional tropical rain
- Want to explore beaches and outdoor attractions
- Can keep your plans somewhat flexible
- Prefer morning ocean activities
The main thing to understand is that summer weather is more changeable than winter weather. A clear morning can become cloudy later, and one part of Banderas Bay may experience rain while another remains dry.
What Is the Weather Like in Puerto Vallarta in July?
Expect July to feel hot, humid, and tropical.
Daytime conditions are usually warm, and the humidity can make it feel hotter. The ocean is also warm during July, making swimming and snorkeling especially comfortable. Recent local summer guides describe July’s water as very warm and suitable for extended swimming and snorkeling.
Rainfall becomes more common during the summer, but storms frequently develop in the afternoon, evening, or overnight.
Morning conditions can often be calmer, which is why many snorkeling tours and outdoor excursions begin early.
Weather is never guaranteed, particularly during the rainy season. Reputable boat operators should always evaluate current ocean conditions before departing rather than relying only on a general monthly forecast.
Does It Rain All Day in Puerto Vallarta During July?
Usually, no.
A common misunderstanding is that Puerto Vallarta’s rainy season means constant rain from morning until night. In reality, many summer days include sunshine, clouds, and a shorter period of heavy tropical rain.
Some days can be completely sunny. Others may experience a strong afternoon or evening storm. Longer periods of rain are possible, especially when a larger weather system is nearby.
The best strategy is to plan outdoor activities earlier in the day and leave flexible activities—such as restaurants, shopping, spa visits, or exploring the Romantic Zone—for later.
Do not cancel every outdoor plan simply because a weather app displays a rain symbol. Summer forecasts often indicate that rain is possible somewhere in the area, not necessarily that it will rain continuously at your exact location.
Is July a Good Month for Snorkeling in Puerto Vallarta?
July can be a very enjoyable month for snorkeling because the ocean is warm and comfortable.
Snorkeling visibility changes from day to day and depends on currents, waves, recent rainfall, and the exact snorkeling location. No responsible operator should promise perfect visibility every day.
One of the best-known snorkeling destinations near Puerto Vallarta is Los Arcos de Mismaloya. The protected rock formations are known for marine life, dramatic arches, natural tunnels, caves, and bird activity. The official Puerto Vallarta tourism guide recommends Los Arcos for snorkeling, diving, kayaking, paddleboarding, birdwatching, and ecotourism.
Because Los Arcos is located directly offshore from Mismaloya, tours departing from Mismaloya Beach can reach the islands quickly without crossing the entire bay.
Morning departures are generally the best choice during summer because ocean and weather conditions may be more comfortable earlier in the day.
1. Snorkel at Los Arcos de Mismaloya
Los Arcos should be near the top of any July itinerary.
These famous rocky islands rise from the water in front of Mismaloya and are one of Puerto Vallarta’s most recognizable natural attractions.
During a guided Los Arcos boat tour, visitors may:
- Cruise around the five main islands
- Observe natural arches and rock formations
- Explore permitted sea-cave areas
- Snorkel in designated areas
- Look for tropical fish
- Observe seabirds around the islands
- Learn about the geography and history of the area
Wildlife sightings and water visibility are never guaranteed. Conditions change naturally, and each visit is different.
July also has a special connection to this destination. Puerto Vallarta recognizes Los Arcos de Mismaloya Day on July 28, commemorating the area’s environmental importance and encouraging its protection for future generations.
Internal link: Link the phrase “Los Arcos boat tour” to your Los Arcos Snorkeling & Boat Tour page.
2. Explore Puerto Vallarta’s Southern Coast
The coastline south of Puerto Vallarta offers a mix of jungle-covered mountains, small communities, coves, rock formations, and beaches that are easiest to reach by boat.
Depending on the tour and ocean conditions, popular destinations can include:
- Mismaloya
- Colomitos
- Madagascar Beach
- Playa Caballo
- Las Ánimas
- Quimixto
- Majahuitas
A half-day boat adventure is a good option for travelers who want more than snorkeling but do not want to spend the entire day away from town.
Black Pearl Vallarta’s half-day experience combines Los Arcos with coastal sightseeing, sea caves, snorkeling, hidden beaches, and time to enjoy the southern side of Banderas Bay.
Internal link: Link “half-day boat adventure” to the Los Arcos 5 Islands, 3 Sea Caves and 6 Beaches tour page.
3. Visit a Waterfall During the Green Season
Summer rain brings the Sierra Madre jungle back to life and increases the flow of rivers and waterfalls.
Quimixto is a small coastal community south of Puerto Vallarta that can be reached by boat. From the village, visitors can continue toward the waterfall on foot or, when available, arrange another form of local transportation.
A full-day adventure can combine:
- A scenic coastal boat ride
- Snorkeling
- South-shore beaches
- A walk through Quimixto
- Time at the waterfall
- Lunch or relaxation near the beach
Trails may become muddy or slippery during the rainy season, so proper footwear is important. Waterfall access should always depend on current river, trail, and weather conditions.
Black Pearl Vallarta offers a full-day beach, snorkeling, village, and waterfall experience for travelers who want to see more of the southern coast.
4. Discover Mismaloya Beach
Mismaloya is much more than a place to board a boat.
The small beach sits between the Sierra Madre Mountains and Banderas Bay. It is known for its local restaurants, fishing activity, ocean excursions, and connection to the movie The Night of the Iguana, which helped introduce the Puerto Vallarta area to international visitors.
The official Puerto Vallarta tourism guide highlights Mismaloya for activities including snorkeling, diving, kayaking, paddleboarding, and traditional beachfront dining.
Visitors can spend time at the beach before or after a tour, enjoy seafood at a local restaurant, or simply take in the view of Los Arcos offshore.
5. Experience Puerto Vallarta’s July Events
Visitors traveling during July 2026 can also combine daytime ocean activities with local evening events.
The official Puerto Vallarta events calendar currently lists the Vibra Jalisco Puerto Vallarta Fan Zone, running through July 19, 2026, with concerts, entertainment, and other public activities. Event schedules can change, so travelers should confirm the latest program before attending.
Even without a special event, summer evenings are a good time to explore:
- The Malecón
- The Romantic Zone
- Los Muertos Pier
- Local taco stands
- Art galleries
- Restaurants and cafés
- Lázaro Cárdenas Park
An afternoon rainstorm can also create a cooler and more comfortable evening for walking around town.
6. Consider a Sunset and Bioluminescence Experience
Bioluminescence has become an increasingly searched-for Puerto Vallarta experience.
Bioluminescent plankton can sometimes create small flashes or glowing effects when the water is disturbed after dark. Tours commonly combine a sunset cruise with nighttime swimming or snorkeling near Los Arcos. Current 2026 Puerto Vallarta activity listings feature dedicated sunset and bioluminescence tours.
However, bioluminescence is a natural phenomenon. Its visibility varies according to plankton concentration, moonlight, water movement, weather, and other environmental conditions.
It should be presented as a natural experience rather than a guaranteed light show.
What Should You Pack for Puerto Vallarta in July?
Packing correctly makes summer activities much more comfortable.
Bring:
- Lightweight, breathable clothing
- Swimsuit
- Quick-drying towel
- Hat
- Sunglasses with a secure strap
- Reef-conscious sunscreen
- Reusable water bottle
- Light rain jacket or poncho
- Insect repellent
- Waterproof phone pouch
- Sandals with good grip
- Comfortable walking shoes
- A dry change of clothes
For waterfall tours, avoid relying only on loose flip-flops. Trails can be uneven, wet, and muddy during July.
For boat tours, bring only what you need. Small bags are easier to protect from spray and take up less room onboard.
Are Boat Tours Safe During Puerto Vallarta’s Rainy Season?
Boat tours can operate during the rainy season, but every departure should depend on the actual weather and ocean conditions.
Rain alone does not always make a tour unsafe. Wind, waves, visibility, thunderstorms, tropical systems, and official advisories are more important factors.
The Eastern Pacific hurricane season officially runs from May 15 through November 30. That does not mean Puerto Vallarta experiences a hurricane throughout this period; it means tropical conditions must be monitored carefully during those months.
Before departing, a responsible captain should consider:
- Current wind and wave conditions
- Thunderstorm activity
- Visibility
- Official marine information
- The swimming ability of the group
- The planned route
- Safe alternatives when conditions change
Travelers should follow their captain’s instructions and remain flexible. It may occasionally be necessary to change a snorkeling location, adjust the itinerary, delay departure, or reschedule.
Safety should always be more important than following the exact original plan.
Which Puerto Vallarta Boat Tour Is Best for July?
The right tour depends on how much time you have and what you want to experience.
For a Short Snorkeling Experience
Choose a two-hour Los Arcos snorkeling and boat tour.
This is a good option for travelers who primarily want to see the islands, explore the rock formations, and snorkel without committing to a longer excursion.
For Snorkeling and Hidden Beaches
Choose a half-day Los Arcos and southern-coast adventure.
This offers more variety, including snorkeling, coastal scenery, sea caves, beaches, and additional time on the water.
For a Complete Day of Exploration
Choose a full-day beach, snorkeling, and waterfall adventure.
This is best for active travelers who want to combine the ocean, local communities, jungle scenery, and a waterfall in one day.
Black Pearl Vallarta also offers private boat tours for families, couples, groups, and travelers who prefer a more flexible itinerary.
Frequently Asked Questions About Puerto Vallarta in July
Is Puerto Vallarta too rainy in July?
July is part of the rainy season, but it does not necessarily rain all day. Many days include clear or partly cloudy mornings followed by rain later in the day.
Can you snorkel in Puerto Vallarta in July?
Yes. The ocean is warm, and snorkeling tours continue to operate when weather and water conditions are safe. Visibility varies daily.
Is Los Arcos open during July?
Los Arcos can be visited throughout the year, subject to marine conditions, local regulations, and any temporary safety restrictions.
What is the best time for a boat tour in July?
Morning departures are generally preferred because heat, wind, and storm development may become more noticeable later in the day.
Is July good for visiting waterfalls?
July’s rain helps restore rivers and waterfalls, but trails can become muddy and water flow can become stronger. Always visit with current local guidance.
Do tours operate when it rains?
Light rain may not cancel a tour. Thunderstorms, strong winds, rough seas, or unsafe conditions can require a change, delay, or cancellation.
Is Puerto Vallarta busy in July?
Puerto Vallarta remains active during the summer, particularly with families traveling during school vacations. The atmosphere is generally different from the peak winter season.
Experience Puerto Vallarta With a Local Crew
July shows a greener and more tropical side of Puerto Vallarta.
You can snorkel around Los Arcos, explore the southern coastline, visit beaches accessible by boat, discover Mismaloya, and combine an ocean adventure with the jungle and waterfalls of the Sierra Madre.
The key is to begin early, pack for tropical weather, remain flexible, and choose a local operator that places safety ahead of a fixed itinerary.
Black Pearl Vallarta is a family-owned local boat-tour company based at Mismaloya Beach. Our tours include convenient pickup from the Pemex station in Zona Romántica, transportation to Mismaloya, snorkeling equipment, and guidance from an experienced local crew.
Whether you have two hours, half a day, or a full day, there is an adventure designed to help you experience the best of Puerto Vallarta’s southern coast.
BOOK HERE or Call or WhatsApp: +52 322 318 7726
