Daytime beach & pool

• Breathable tank tops, t-shirts, or linen button-downs
• Casual shorts, sundresses, or lightweight pants
• Beach cover-ups or kaftans for lunch transitions
• Comfortable sandals for walking the beachfront property

Resort dining & evenings

• 2–3 resort-casual outfits for Inizio (sundresses, polo shirts, nice shorts)
• Comfortable shoes for dinner and evening walks
• Light cardigan or wrap for air-conditioned indoor spaces
• Optional: one slightly nicer outfit for special occasions

Exploring Puerto Vallarta

• Comfortable walking shoes for the Malecon and downtown
• Day-trip outfits that transition from beach to town
• Small crossbody bag for phone, cash, and essentials
• Light layers for air-conditioned shops and restaurants

For younger kids

• Kid-safe sunscreen SPF 50+ (reef-safe mineral formula)
• Rash guards or UV swim shirts for extended sun protection
• Swim diapers if needed for pool use
• Floaties or puddle jumpers (if your child uses them)
• Beach toys (buckets, shovels) for sand play
• Small toys or activities for travel days and downtime
• Stroller or baby carrier for walking around the resort and town

For older kids & teens

• GoPro or waterproof camera for pool and beach memories
• Snorkel gear if they have their own preferred fit
• Card games or travel-size board games
• Extra phone charging cables and power banks
• Comfortable athletic wear for beach activities
• Sunglasses and hats they'll actually wear

Water & adventure essentials

• Water shoes or aqua socks (useful for rocky beach areas and boat excursions)
• Dry bag (10-20L) for boat trips and beach transfers
• Personal snorkel mask if you prefer your own fit
• Quick-dry microfiber towel for day trips
• Underwater camera or GoPro for snorkeling at Los Arcos
• Seasickness tablets if you're sensitive to boat motion

Day-trip comfort items

• Extra sunscreen (you'll reapply more on boat tours)
• Electrolyte powder or tablets for hot days
• Lightweight backpack or day bag for town visits
• Compact rain jacket or poncho (especially June–October)
• Bug spray for jungle or hillside excursions
• Cash in small bills (pesos) for tips, street vendors, and local shops

Dry season (November–May)

This is peak season with comfortable temperatures, lower humidity, minimal rain, and beautiful beach weather— evenings can be slightly cooler with ocean breezes.

• Bring a light sweater or cardigan for evening breezes off Banderas Bay
• Pack long pants or maxi dresses for cooler nights
• Sun protection remains critical—UV is intense year-round
• Water temperature is comfortable (mid-70s°F)
• Ideal conditions for boat tours and snorkeling

Rainy season (June–October)

Expect higher humidity, warmer temperatures, and afternoon showers—but rain typically passes quickly and doesn't dominate entire days. September and October see the most rainfall.

• Pack breathable, moisture-wicking fabrics (linen, cotton blends)
• Add a lightweight rain jacket or compact umbrella
• Bring water-resistant sandals that dry quickly
• Anti-frizz hair products and extra after-sun lotion
• Insect repellent becomes more important with increased mosquito activity