When is the best time to visit Costa Rica?

Costa Rica’s Seasons: Dry vs Rainy

Costa Rica’s climate is tropical, but it varies significantly by region. Broadly, the country has two main seasons:

Dry Season (December – April): Known locally as “summer,” this period is perfect for beach days, hiking, and sightseeing. Expect sunny skies, low humidity, and warm temperatures. It’s also the busiest time for tourism, particularly on the Pacific coast.

Rainy Season / Green Season (May – November): Characterized by intermittent afternoon showers, lush greenery, and cooler temperatures. The rain does not usually last all day, making this season ideal for wildlife spotting, quieter attractions, and lower prices.

Pro tip: While the Pacific coast sees heavier rains during the green season, the Caribbean coast tends to be drier during this time, making it an excellent alternative for beach vacations when the Pacific is wet.

Costa Rica’s microclimates mean that highlands like Monteverde or the Central Valley can be cooler than the coastal areas, and cloud forests often remain misty even during the dry season, creating a magical landscape perfect for photography and nature tours.

Costa Rica Weather by Month: What to Expect

Here’s a detailed month-by-month breakdown to help you plan your trip, with extended insights, activities, and travel tips:

January – Peak Dry Season

Weather: Sunny, dry, with average highs around 79–86°F (26–30°C) and minimal rainfall.

Why Visit: January is ideal for beachgoers, surfers, and hikers. The skies are clear for exploring volcanoes like Arenal and Rincon de la Vieja, and for scenic drives along the Pacific coast.

Activities: Surfing in Tamarindo or Jaco, hiking trails at Manuel Antonio National Park, zip-lining through Monteverde Cloud Forest, or exploring the lava fields of Poas Volcano.

Events: Fiestas of Palmares, a two-week-long festival with parades, rodeos, music, and traditional food.

Travel Tip: Book early, as accommodations fill up fast during this peak month.

February – Sunny Escapes

Weather: Consistently warm and dry, averaging 80°F (27°C).

Why Visit: February is perfect for snorkeling, scuba diving, and exploring remote beaches. Water clarity is excellent along both coasts.

Activities: Whale watching near Marino Ballena National Park, guided rainforest tours, coffee plantation visits, and volcano treks.

Travel Tip: A great month for romantic getaways, honeymooners, or families avoiding the Easter crowd.

March – Adventure & Festivals

Weather: Dry season continues; warm temperatures and minimal rainfall.

Why Visit: March is a popular month for travelers seeking sun and adventure. Surfing, zip-lining, and hiking are all ideal at this time.

Activities: Visit Arenal and Monteverde Cloud Forest, go white-water rafting in Pacuare River, or explore the coral reefs of Cahuita National Park.

Events: Semana Santa (Holy Week) — expect vibrant parades and cultural celebrations.

Travel Tip: Easter week draws crowds; plan accommodations and activities in advance.

April – Warmth & Transitional Dry Season

Weather: Dry season ending; temperatures can peak around 88°F (31°C).

Why Visit: Ideal for surfing, beach days, and exploring Costa Rica’s national parks before the rainy season begins.

Activities: Surfing in Playa Hermosa, exploring waterfalls in La Fortuna, and guided jungle tours.

Travel Tip: Inland areas like Monteverde or Cerro de la Muerte may be slightly cooler; pack light layers for comfort.

May – Start of Green Season

Weather: Occasional rain showers; temperatures slightly cooler than dry season.

Why Visit: May is a hidden gem month with fewer crowds, lower prices, and flourishing landscapes.

Activities: Wildlife spotting in Corcovado National Park, rafting in Pacuare, hiking through Monteverde, and exploring Arenal’s hot springs.

Travel Tip: Mornings are typically sunny, so plan outdoor activities early.

June – Lush Landscapes & Wildlife

Weather: Rainy season in full swing, but mornings often clear.

Why Visit: Jungle treks and waterfalls are spectacular; fewer tourists allow for a more peaceful experience.

Activities: Visit Tortuguero for turtle spotting, go canopy touring in Monteverde, or enjoy waterfall rappelling in the rainforest.

July – Veranillo (Little Summer)

Weather: Short dry spells amidst green season; sunny mornings, afternoon showers.

Why Visit: Off-peak tourism, vibrant wildlife, and lower prices.

Activities: Surfing, sea turtle watching, hiking in Arenal, and exploring remote Pacific beaches.

August – Active Wildlife & Adventure

Weather: Similar to July; lush landscapes and warm temperatures.

Why Visit: Rainforests are alive with activity; fewer tourists allow for more personalized wildlife tours.

Activities: Whale watching along the Pacific coast, guided night jungle tours, exploring Osa Peninsula’s Corcovado National Park, with vibrant wildlife.

September – Peak Green Season

Weather: Rainiest month on Pacific coast; Caribbean coast remains relatively dry.

Why Visit: Surfers and adventure seekers enjoy uncrowded attractions.

Activities: White-water rafting, jungle hikes, waterfall explorations, and coffee plantation tours.

October – Lush & Quiet

Weather: Heavy rainfall continues; cooler temperatures than dry season.

Why Visit: Rainforests are vibrant, waterfalls are full, and wildlife spotting peaks.

Activities: Birdwatching, jungle photography, visiting cloud forests, and exploring remote beaches.

November – Shoulder Month

Weather: Rain begins to taper off, leading into dry season.

Why Visit: Excellent month for jungle treks, waterfalls, and fewer tourists.

Activities: Surfing along the Pacific coast, volcano hiking, wildlife tours in Corcovado.

December – Return of Dry Season

Weather: Sunshine returns; occasional showers early in the month.

Why Visit: Perfect for festive holidays, sunny beaches, and adventure activities.

Activities: Zip-lining, surfing, snorkeling, national park exploration, and Christmas festivities on the beach.

Travel Tip: Early booking is essential for peak holiday season.

Costa Rica for Wildlife Lovers

Costa Rica is home to over 500,000 species of animals. Timing your visit can maximize wildlife sightings:

May–November (Green Season): Best for rainforest creatures — sloths, toucans, monkeys, and jaguars.

August–October: Whale watching along the Pacific coast.

Sea Turtles: Nesting season peaks July–October on Tortuguero and Caribbean beaches.

Birdwatching: Over 900 species, best spotted during wet season when migratory birds arrive.

Insider Tip: Hire a local guide for wildlife tours — they know the best locations and times, increasing your chances of seeing rare animals like jaguars or ocelots.

Adventure & Activities by Season

Surfing: Pacific coast (Dec–Apr), Caribbean (May–Nov).

Rafting & Kayaking: May–November for stronger river flows.

Hiking & Volcanoes: Dry season offers optimal visibility; green season for lush scenery and fewer crowds.

Scuba Diving & Snorkeling: Year-round, with peak visibility Dec–Apr.

Festivals and Cultural Events

Fiestas of Palmares (January): Two-week festival with parades, rodeos, and music.

Dia del Boyero (March): Celebrates ox-cart drivers with colorful festivities.

Independence Day (Sept 15): National celebrations with parades and fireworks.

Easter / Semana Santa: Religious processions across the country.

Christmas & New Year: Perfect for festive beach escapes.

Local Music Festivals: Throughout the year, especially during dry season.

When to Visit for Fewer Crowds or Budget Travel

May–June, September–November: Lower accommodation rates, fewer tourists, and lush green landscapes.

Travel Tip: Book flexible rentals and tours to take advantage of off-peak deals.

Where to Stay in Costa Rica

Stay in stunning vacation rentals in Costa Rica near beaches, rainforests, or volcanoes. Options range from luxury villas in Manuel Antonio to eco-lodges in Monteverde.

Ready to plan your Costa Rica getaway? Start booking your dream vacation rental today and secure your perfect tropical escape.

FAQs About the Best Time to Visit Costa Rica

What is the hottest month in Costa Rica? April is typically the hottest month.

When is the rainy season? May–November (green season).

Can you visit during the wet season? Absolutely! Mornings are sunny, crowds are smaller, and wildlife is abundant.

When is the best month for wildlife? Green season (May–November), especially for sea turtles and whale watching.

What months are best for beaches? Dry season (Dec–Apr) for sun and calm seas.

Is Costa Rica safe for adventure travel year-round? Yes, with appropriate preparation for rain in the green season.

So, when is the best time to visit Costa Rica?

For sunny beaches and dry adventures, visit December–April. For wildlife spotting, lush rainforests, and fewer crowds, head to Costa Rica May–November.

No matter the season, Costa Rica offers unforgettable landscapes, vibrant culture, and world-class hospitality, so start planning your trip and book your vacation rental now to secure the best experience.