Flashback: Our First Trip to Puerto Vallarta — Finally Sharing the Full Story! ☀️✈️🌴

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I just realized… I never actually told you about our first trip to Puerto Vallarta (PV) here on the blog! I’ve posted bits and pieces over on Instagram, but it’s about time I gave this magical destination a proper shout-out.

We traveled in late January into early February, and honestly? It was the perfect time to go. The weather was warm (okay, hot as soon as we stepped off the plane), but still manageable — especially compared to the scorching summer heat we've heard about. I can’t even imagine walking around town during those humid summer months. Winter in Puerto Vallarta, though? Just right. 🌞


Flying into Paradise

We flew in from the West Coast and had quite a few options. While some of the more budget-friendly flights had long overnight layovers in Jalisco or Mexico City, we chose to spend a little extra and go for the direct flight. No regrets. It made our travel day so much smoother — less hassle, more time soaking up that sweet Mexican sunshine.

Our flight itself was stunning — we passed over so many different terrains: mountains, coastline, deserts, even patches of jungle. Mexico really is a land of contrasts, and seeing it from the air was a beautiful reminder of how diverse the country is.

We packed light since we were staying with a friend and didn’t want to pay extra for checked bags. A few swimsuits, light clothing, sunscreen, a hat, and sandals — that’s about all we needed.


Winter on Mexico’s West Coast 🌊

If you’re considering a visit, the Pacific Coast of Mexico in winter is a dream. Cities like Puerto Vallarta, Cabo San Lucas, and Mazatlán experience warm, sunny days with low humidity and cooler evenings. You’ll want to pack:

  • Lightweight clothing for daytime

  • A light sweater or long sleeves for the evenings

  • Sandals or breathable shoes

  • A wide-brim hat or cap

  • Plenty of sunscreen (trust us on this one!)

As for tourist levels, winter is actually high season for a reason — people from colder climates (hi, Canada and northern U.S.!) flock to PV for the warmth. So yes, expect a little crowding, especially on the Malecón and beaches, but the vibe is vibrant, not overwhelming. Just book your lodging early, especially if you're planning for January or February.

That first trip to PV definitely made an impression — so much so that we’ve decided to head back by sea on our next Mexican Riviera cruise. Can’t wait to revisit this charming town and see what’s changed… or stayed the same. Stay tuned!

— The Trekking Pawns


 

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