good season to visit costa rica

Best Time to Visit Costa Rica: What to Expect Month by Month

This a tough topic. The question should really be: When is the best time for ME to visit Costa Rica? Yes, the answer depends on the individual. So while we can’t answer this question for you, we can give you some information to help you make your decision.

Dry Season vs Green Season

First things first, there are two tropical seasons in Costa Rica: dry season and green season. December through April is the dry season. May through November is the green season. The dry season is also the high season as many snow birds make their escape to the tropics, and there is less rainfall. While the high season is the most popular travel time, the green season is often a favorite among Costa Rica Experts. The green season typically experiences sunny mornings (great for morning excursions) and afternoon rain showers (perfect for a rejuvenating afternoon repose). There are many perks of traveling in rainy season like discounted hotel rates, less crowds, and more active wildlife.

Varying Climates

Keep in mind that the landscapes and climates of Costa Rica vary greatly by region. The coasts are generally warmer, and the highlands are generally cooler. As you move south along the Pacific coast, humidity levels rise. The Caribbean Coast is generally hot, humid, and rainy year-round, with a short break in September and October. Please consult a Costa Rica Expert on the general climate of your destinations of interest over your travel dates.

Rain in Costa Rica by Month

Monthly Rainfall & Temperature Averages for 1960-1990

For a general idea of monthly weather conditions, The World Bank Group has a great tool that shows the average monthly rainfall and temperature in Costa Rica over 20-30 year periods. Now for the monthly breakdown…

Jump to the month you’re thinking of visiting Costa Rica to read about the weather

February & march, july & august, september & october.

The beginning of January is a peak travel season in Costa Rica, as crowds from the Christmas and New Year holidays linger. It is also dry season in Costa Rica, when clear skies accommodate travelers. The beginning months of dry season are particularly appealing as the landscape is still verdant from the recent green season, despite reduced rainfall.

Wildlife watching:  Alaska/California humpback whales; hawksbill, leatherback, green, & olive ridley sea turtles on the Pacific coast

A beautiful, clear day on the Nicoya Peninsula from Hotel Punta Islita

We’re still in dry season, and the weather remains fantastic. There is generally a spike in tourist traffic over Easter and the week leading up to it. Plan ahead for travel over Presidents’ Day weekend, Spring Break, and Easter. Hotel availability is limited over these popular travel dates, and some hotels increase rates over peak travel dates. Book early.

Wildlife watching: Alaska/California humpback whales; leatherback & hawksbill sea turtles on the Caribbean coast in March; hawksbill, leatherback, green, & olive ridley sea turtles on the Pacific coast

Related Article: Costa Rica Spring Break Survival Guide

April marks the last month of the dry season, although it can last a couple weeks longer in the arid northwest region of Guanacaste. Travelers can still enjoy clear skies, although the vegetation, particularly on the North Pacific Coast, has lost some of its vibrant green sparkle after months of little rain. April is also historically one of the hottest months of the year. If Easter falls in April, you can expect a spike in tourist traffic over the holiday. Plus, there may still be spring break travelers, so you’ll want to book your vacation well in advance.

Wildlife watching: leatherback & hawksbill sea turtles on the Caribbean coast; hawksbill, green, & olive ridley sea turtles on the Pacific coast

Green Season

The start of green season in May is a much needed cool off from the intense heat of the dry season. Temperatures begin to drop as the hotel prices and number of tourists do. May is a bit of a transition month, in which the rain picks up, but not quite at the rate of later green season months.

The rain brings out the best in Costa Rica’s flora.

In June, you’ll see a small surge in tourists as the kids get let out of school and family vacations start. Everything begins to look much more green as the rain brings the rainforest to life.

Wildlife watching:  loggerhead, green, leatherback, & hawksbill sea turtles on the Caribbean coast; hawksbill, green, & olive ridley sea turtles on the Pacific coast

It’s green season in Costa Rica, but a brief pocket of sunshine breaks up the rain in July in what locals call veranillo , or little summer. Exact veranillo days and duration vary from year to year, and may even continue into the start of August. Afternoons are rainy with typically clear mornings (perfect for morning tours). The weather is generally good, and hotel prices low. July and August are popular travel times due to less rain, family summer vacations, and active green season wildlife. Some hotels increase their prices in these months.

Wildlife watching:  Antarctic humpback whales; loggerhead, green, leatherback, & hawksbill sea turtles on the Caribbean coast; hawksbill, green, & olive ridley sea turtles on the Pacific coast

This is the peak of green season on the Pacific Coast, but don’t let the rain keep you away. Your opportunities for spotting wildlife are best in green season. Surfing and rafting are fantastic. Hotel availability, prices, and service are at their best. Plus, there are no crowds. You may even find you have the beach all to yourself.

Rain typically clears up on the Caribbean Coast in September & October.

On the typically rainy southern Caribbean Coast, the rain lightens up in September and October, making it a great time to visit. Talk with a Costa Rica Expert about the best destinations to visit during this time of year.

Wildlife watching:  Antarctic humpback whales; green, & hawksbill sea turtles on the Caribbean coast; hawksbill, green, & olive ridley sea turtles on the Pacific coast

Related Article : 10 Costa Rica Rainy Season Travel Perks

The end of November marks the start of Costa Rica’s busy season, as holidays and cold weather are a great excuse to escape. November is a bit of a bridge month, when the rain has slowed down, and the crowds begin to trickle in.

Wildlife watching: hawksbill, leatherback, green, & olive ridley sea turtles on the Pacific coast

The beginning of December is less-crowded, with difficult to predict weather. Typically, the sky clears up as the rains begin to taper off for dry season, and you can experience beautiful beach days on the Pacific Coast. In Guanacaste, the most arid region of the country, the foliage begins to turn golden. We enter peak season for travel at the end of December around the holidays. With less rain, there is more uninterrupted pool time. With that, hotel prices rise. Our advice is to book your holiday vacations well in advance to reserve the best hotel rooms and take advantage of any early bird specials.

Wildlife watching:  Alaska/California humpback whales; hawksbill, leatherback, green, & olive ridley sea turtles on the Pacific coast

Related Article : 6 Costa Rica Holiday Travel Tips

One Final Note:

I feel compelled to state that I am not a weather girl, nor can I predict the future. I only hope to bring you information to help you choose your travel dates. The best person to decide when you should visit Costa Rica is you. If a rainy afternoon would ruin your vacation, visit in dry season. If you intend to experience the rainforest in all its green glory, the green season is a great choice.

For personalized advice on when to book your Costa Rica vacation and to get a custom quote, connect with an Expert or just give us a call: (773) 935-1009 or  (800) 827-9046 .

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Best Times To Visit Costa Rica

The best time to visit Costa Rica is from mid-December to April (the dry season). This peak tourist season boasts plenty of sunshine making it an ideal time for exploring rainforests and lounging on beaches. That said, the dry season is the most popular (and expensive) time to visit. Luckily the U.S. dollar goes a long way in Costa Rica no matter the season. You'll have to book your room and tour reservations three months in advance to secure a spot. If you don't mind getting a little wet, visit between May and November when prices are at their lowest. During June and July, rain showers pause briefly, and Costa Rica's forests burst with green foliage.

While planning your trip, keep in mind that the weather varies by region. In the thick forests of the Caribbean Sea coast and Northern Plains, expect high humidity and temperatures ranging between the 70s and high 80s year-round. Conversely, in the North Pacific, prepare for lower humidity levels, but temperatures that often soar into the 90s during Costa Rica's dry months.

Weather in Costa Rica

Data sourced from the National Climatic Data Center

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Popular Times to Visit Costa Rica

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Home » Travel Planning and Inspiration » The BEST Time to visit Costa Rica: What to Expect Every Month of the Year

The BEST Time to visit Costa Rica: What to Expect Every Month of the Year

By Author Costa Rica Travel Life

Posted on Last updated: March 17, 2024

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After spending so much time in Costa Rica, I can honestly say there isn’t a bad time to visit this amazing country. It’s full of  so many incredible things to do . We’ve visited Costa Rica frequently over the years and even lived there for a time. It’s a place that captures your heart, and the natural beauty here absolutely takes your breath away.  

So you’ve decided to go to Costa Rica, but when should you go? Depending on what you’re hoping to do while you’re here or what time of year you’re booking a vacation, there are a lot of things to consider.  

Costa Rica spans two coastlines and is home to areas that can have completely different weather and “seasons” even though you’re in the same country! You’ll also want to consider if avoiding crowds or finding better hotel deals are big factors for you or if you have more flexibility to travel during a non-peak time.  

I’ve put together this complete guide to help you plan when to visit Costa Rica. After reading this blog, all that will be left for you to do is book your tickets!  

Most Popular Time to Visit Costa Rica 

While you’ll find tourists in Costa Rica all year long, the most popular time to visit is anytime from December to April. This is summer in Costa Rica and the “dry season,” so you’ll find gorgeous sunny days and warm temperatures. Because summer in Costa Rica is winter for a lot of other parts of the world, it’s a great time to escape the cold if you live somewhere that is especially chilly during those months.  

Choosing to visit during this time will give you the widest variety of places to visit with fantastic weather. However, not everywhere is ideal to visit during this exact time.

Puerto Viejo has more of a rainforest climate, so the rain falls here throughout the year. However, the rainiest months are May to July and Nov to Jan, with the driest months being February to April and August to October when Puerto Viejo has a few bursts of summer weather. While the majority of the country is experiencing the most rain during that time, it’s actually the best time to visit Puerto Viejo.  

La Fortuna is famous for its unpredictable weather! You’ll want to pack sunscreen and a raincoat, and you’ll likely need both on the same day. La Fortuna is also a rainforest area that gets rain all year. The weather is so unpredictable you can wake up to sunshine and have a misty, rainy afternoon or vice versa.

The best weather in La Fortuna is typically from January to April, when the storms from the Caribbean calm down. With that said, La Fortuna is beautiful even in November and December, just don’t be angry if you get a little rain and don’t see Arenal Volcano – it’s often covered in clouds during this time.

Costa Rica does have a dry season, as I mentioned above, along with a wet season where the country receives a lot of rain. Both seasons have their advantages depending on what you’re hoping to do, your budget, and if you’d like to avoid the crowds.  

 If you’re after some quick info, check out these frequently asked questions:

The best time to visit Costa Rica is generally December to April when it is the dry season in most parts of the country.

The cheapest time to visit Costa Rica is generally from May to November during the low or wet season.

Generally, the hottest time to visit Costa Rica is from January to March. This is especially true in Guanacaste where it’s very dry during this time.

There are two whale watching seasons in Costa Rica. One from July to November (the best season) and the other from December to March.

The rainiest months in Costa Rica are September and October, however, these are great months to visit the Caribean Coast.

Dry Season in Costa Rica (December to April) 

From December to April is Costa Rica’s dry season. This is summer here, and across most of the country, this is when you’re going to have the sunniest days. This is the peak time to come, so any popular beaches, landmarks, or destinations here will be at their busiest.  

If you’re going to the Caribbean Coast, the dry season there is more around September-October when they have a “mini summer” or January-March. This area is typically more humid all year, with the possibility of rain all the time. It’s similar to La Fortuna, where there is no true dry season, and the weather is hard to predict, even day-to-day. You could have a fantastic view of the Arenal Volcano early in the day and then have it completely covered in clouds and rain a few hours later.  

Related Read: Arenal Volcano is one of the best volcanoes in Costa Rica to visit!

Weather 

While Costa Rica is warm all the time, the dry season will see temperatures rise up to 90°F (32°C). The driest month is usually February and the warmest temperatures of the season are in March and April. It will be cooler and more humid on the Caribbean Coast during this time and extra warm and dry in Guanacaste and the Nicoya Peninsula .  

Prices  

This is the most expensive time to visit Costa Rica. Hotels may be as much as 50% more compared to other times of the year. If you’re coming during a holiday like Christmas or Easter, many hotels and rentals charge “peak rates” that are often non-refundable and further increase prices.  

Crowds 

Because this is the busiest time to visit, the crowds are the biggest during the dry season. If you’re planning a trip, you’ll need to BOOK IN ADVANCE and not just by a few days. We’re talking months ahead of time. Hotels, tours, and car rentals in Costa Rica should be booked 2-3 months before you go and more like 6 months ahead of time if you want to come during a holiday like Christmas or Easter.

If you can purchase tickets ahead of time for places you want to visit, do it! As well, I like to try to plan stops at popular attractions during the week or early in the morning to avoid crowds and traffic.   

Best places to visit  

The Pacific Coast is perfect this time of year! This is the time to  go surfing in Jac o ,  book a stay in the remote village of Drake Bay , see incredible sunsets in Santa Teresa , or go on a cruise in Tamarindo . Spending time on this coast during the dry season is amazing as you’re typically close to a beach to cool off, and so many of these places are close to all the  incredible activities Costa Rica has to offer .  

Wet Season in Costa Rica (May to November) 

From May to November, Costa Rica enters the wet or rainy season. The peak of the wet season is September and October, which are the rainiest months for much of the country and should generally be avoided for travel. However, you’ll find the best (and driest) weather from August to October on the Caribbean coast, so this is a perfect time to visit places like Puerto Viejo or Tortuguero !  

One of the advantages of the rainy season is how beautiful and green everything becomes. This is also the best time to see all the  amazing waterfalls in Costa Rica  as they are the most spectacular during this time of year.   

Weather  

Rainy, of course! But it depends on when you come. If you’re here at the beginning or end of the rainy season, you’re more likely to find clear, sunny mornings with the clouds and rain arriving in the afternoons. If you’re here in the middle of the wet season, you could be in for days (or weeks) of straight rain, depending on where you are in the country.  

Prices 

If budget considerations are top of mind, come to Costa Rica during this season. The peak and high season rates are gone, so hotels are cheaper – sometimes by as much as 30-50%. You won’t need to book a room as far in advance either. If you’re renting a car , it’s cheaper during this time also.  

To avoid the crowds, this is the time to come! Activities, tours , and beaches are a lot less busy. You may even find you have an entire spot to yourself! You won’t need to plan tours or book as far as in advance if you’re coming during this time. You’ll also find while driving around the country , traffic isn’t as heavy, so you won’t experience those delays. 

Best places to visit 

While this is the wet season for most of the country, these are the driest months for the Caribbean side. It’s one of the best times of the year to visit Puerto Viejo, Tortuguero, and Limon . You’ll find hot, sunny days with beaches that aren’t crowded because the rainy season elsewhere means many people don’t travel during this time. Make sure to try  snorkeling around Puerto Limon  or see the incredible sea turtles laying eggs around Tortuguero .  

The WORST Times to Visit Costa Rica 

September and October 

These two months are by far the rainiest in Costa Rica. You’ll find significant rain almost every day. While often you may have sunny mornings with afternoon rains, this is the most likely time when it will rain for days and not let up. Some hotels and businesses around the South Pacific area (where rainfall is measured in feet, not inches during this time!) completely close up shop until November.  

Note: This isn’t true if you’re headed to the Caribbean Coast. If you’re hoping to head to the Caribbean side of the country though, you’re in luck! This is the driest time around Puerto Viejo, and you’ll find clear, sunny, and warm days. The temperature will rise to 84°F (29°C), and there isn’t much rain. It’s the total opposite of many other regions.  

Holidays 

If you want to avoid high prices for hotels and crowds of people everywhere, try to avoid coming around the main holidays. The ones to watch out for are Christmas, New Year’s, and Easter. Costa Rica is EXTREMELY busy during these holidays.

The holidays fall during the dry season, so the weather is nice, and both tourists and locals have time off. Hotels book months in advance (6 months or more), and if you get a room, you’ll often pay peak season prices. Traffic is also an issue so if you’re traveling around the country, expect delays.  

Overview of Each Month in Costa Rica 

In January in Costa Rica, you can expect sunshine and not much rain in most areas around the country. It is especially nice to visit the Pacific Coast as it’s rainier on the Caribbean Coast during this month. January promises to be hot, but not the hottest month of the dry season.

One thing to note, it that the first week of January is one of the most popular times to visit because of New Year’s, so expect Costa Ria to be very busy. After that week, prices typically drop from peak season to high season prices.  

February is one of the driest months in Costa Rica with lots of sunshine. February is right in the middle of the dry season.

If you visit Costa Rica in February, expect it to be pretty busy with tourists as it is in the middle of high season and one of the busiest months to go. Costa Rican kids are on “summer vacation,” so expect certain destinations and attractions to be busy with locals as well as tourists.

The best places to visit in Costa Rica in February are on the Pacific Coast and in Guanacaste. Expect rain on the Caribbean side.  

March in Costa Rica will be hot, hot, hot! For most parts of Costa Rica, this is one of the warmest months of the year. It’ll be really dry in Guanacaste, so much so that some waterfalls almost disappear. With that said, March in Costa Rica is a great time to visit the South Pacific or Monteverde.

Crowds pick up in late March with tourists arriving in Costa Rica for Spring Break – especially to the party destinations like Jaco and Tamarindo. If Easter occurs in late March, watch out for prices to skyrocket, and hotels will be fully booked.   

April is the final month of the dry season in Costa Rica, so there is still lots of sunshine and warm temperatures for most of the country. April is the best time to go to the Central mountains area or along the Pacific Coast. The rainy season starts early for the southern Pacific Coast, including Drake Bay. You can expect more rain around the Uvita and Dominical areas near the end of the month.

One thing to remember if you want to visit Costa Rica in April is Easter. If Easter falls in April, book early! Easter in Costa Rica is as popular as Christmas for travel here and is one of the most important holidays in Costa Rica.  

While May in Costa Rica is officially the start of the wet season, the rain builds up as the season goes along. So you’re more likely to have sunny mornings with an afternoon shower. You can still expect lots of sunshine around the Central Pacific Coast and in places like Manuel Antonio and Jaco. A bit more rain starts to arrive in places around the Nicoya Peninsula and heavy rain around the South Pacific.  

March is not a busy time of year to visit Costa Rica – there won’t be any crowds! This is a great month to come to find better prices and less busy destinations.

You’ll see why this is sometimes called the Green Season – in June in Costa Rica everything starts to turn green and lush! It is more humid with rain off and on throughout the country, often in the late afternoon. You should expect really rainy weather around Drake Bay, the central mountains, and the Caribbean Coast.

June in Costa Rica is a good time to avoid crowds and take advantage of lower prices, with hotels significantly cheaper than in high season. 

While July in Costa Rica is still in the rainy season, look out for the “little summer” (called veranillo) that typically arrives sometime in July … although it’s hard to predict exactly when. It brings a few weeks of sunny days without crowds to compete with. Normally though, expect more rain than normal on the Caribbean Coast and typical rainy season weather in the Central and South Pacific regions.  

When visiting Costa Rica in July, it is best to visit Tamarindo, Playa Flamingo , or Playa del Coco. Or head to  Tortuguero National Park  to see turtles in Costa Rica lay their eggs, as this is the start of nesting season.

In Costa Rica, August is the last month of the lighter rainy season, so still expect sunny mornings and rainy afternoons for most areas of the country. If you don’t mind doing the bulk of your exploring in the mornings, head to Central Pacific or Central Valley regions for clear mornings to see the sights. Expect the rain to start to pick up around the Tamarindo and Santa Teresa areas as well as the Caribbean Coast, and heavy rain is the norm for Monteverde. 

August is not typically a busy month in Costa Rica, so you’ll have good access to hotels with more budget-friendly rates. You can also take advantage of last-minute bookings!

Let’s not beat around the bush, September is one of the rainiest months in most areas of Costa Rica! However, it is the best time to visit the Caribbean Coast. The weather on the Caribbean side is dry and sunny – the total opposite of most of the country.

One of the best things about visiting Costa Rica in September is that not many tourists at all during this time, so you’ll find empty beaches and quieter destinations, along with good hotel rates.  

October is the second rainiest month in Costa Rica (after September.) This is also a common time for tropical storms to pass through. Hotels and some businesses actually close in September and October around the South Pacific region. Still, October is one of the best times to go to the beautiful Caribbean Coast, where the weather is gorgeous around Puerto Viejo. Don’t go to the mountains – the rain is constant, and the temperatures dip.  

November in Costa Rica is still a rainy month, but the rain starts letting up near the end of the month as the dry season starts to arrive for much of the country. If you’re planning a trip to Costa Rica in November, head to the Northern Pacific Coast for the driest weather around Tamarindo and Playa Flamingo – it’ll still be really rainy in the South Pacific and mountain towns like Monteverde . San Jose can be a bit of a gamble as the dry season can arrive in November, but sometimes the rain and wind linger until early December.  

December in Costa Rica is the end of the rainy season, so the rain starts letting up, and the dry season arrives for the Central and North Pacific as well as the San Jose area. Everything is lush and green coming out of the rainy season.

Early in the month, it’s not too crowded, but that drastically changes for the end of December. Christmas and New Year’s are incredibly popular times to visit Costa Rica – dare I say the busiest time. Hotels are often fully booked months in advance, and prices rise too. Also, expect windier conditions thanks to what is known as “Christmas winds.”  

Whale Watching Seasons in Costa Rica 

Costa Rica has the longest humpback whale watching season in the world! This is thanks to the two types of humpback whales that pass by the country during different times of the year.

The absolute BEST place to go whale watching in Costa Rica is around Uvita. Marino Ballena National Park is one of our  favorite national parks in Costa Rica , and it was established to protect this area and the whales. Take a walk out on the spectacular “Whale Tail” sandbar and  join a whale watching tour  from this area – you might just spot a mom with her baby!  

July to November Whale Watching Season 

July to November in Costa Rica is the best time to see Southern Hemisphere Humpback Whales as they migrate from Antarctica to Costa Rica. The best months are August and September, when the whales are raising their babies here. Head to the Pacific Coast to see them on a whale watching tour. Some of the best whale watching tours leave from Uvita .   

December to March Whale Watching Season

From December to March in Costa Rica, Northern Hemisphere Whales migrate from Alaska to Central America. The best months during this time are January and February to see the whales along the Pacific Coast.  

My Favorite Time to Travel to Costa Rica

My favorite time to visit Costa Rica is generally in November. This is a great time to visit anywhere north of Jaco on the Nicoya Peninsula and Guanacaste. It’s also a quiet time when you can travel cheaper and don’t need to book as far in advance!

I’ve even visited the Caribbean in November and although you get some rain, it’s usually only in the mornings.

If you’re planning to head south to the Osa Peninsula , I would choose to visit a little bit later, say January, due to the weather which can be very wet during November.

Of course, I often have a lot more time to explore than most, so those planning a once-in-a-lifetime trip should stick to the best seasons in order the maximize their holiday.

Getting Around Costa Rica

How you choose to get around Costa Rica is one of the biggest decisions you’ll make when planning your holiday here! How you do it depends on your budget, travel style, and comfort level. 

Renting a Car

Without a doubt, the number one way to explore Costa Rica is in a rental car. We book rental cars on the Discover Cars website as we have had good experiences with them in the past.

One of the things you need to watch for when renting a car in Costa Rica is the mandatory insurance that the government requires you to have. There are a lot of very cheap rentals that don’t include this mandatory insurance (TPL) in the original booking price, but there are also ones that do. To avoid additional surprise charges when you pick up your rental car, be sure to rent a car that includes the mandatory insurance when you book.

Thankfully, on Discover Cars it’s easy to tell apart the companies that include the mandatory insurance and those that don’t. The trick is you can’t pick any car on their website. In the picture below, you can see this rental car, with pick up in Jaco, includes the TPL. That means the mandatory insurance is included in the price. Any cover you get above that is extra.

Of course, I still suggest getting the full coverage offered by Discover Cars, which covers you even more.

You can  browse cars on Discover Cars here .

Book Shuttles

If renting a car isn’t in your budget, you don’t feel comfortable driving in Costa Rica , or you just don’t like driving, shuttles are the next best option. There are hundreds of shuttle routes available all over the country, and they are very affordable.

Shuttles in Costa Rica are specifically for tourists and often include pick up and drop off at your selected hotels and airports. The drivers also speak some English, and the vehicles have air conditioning. You’ll also be guaranteed a seat when you book a shuttle (which isn’t the case with the public bus system.)

To get the best price, use the website  Bookaway . They compare all the offers and prices of shuttle companies in Costa Rica so you get the best price! Honestly, we have saved so much money using Bookaway! 

You can search for shuttles online on Bookaway here.

Lastly, you can use the public bus system. On short journeys, such as from San Jose to La Fortuna or Uvita to Manuel Antonio, this system is great. However, the longer the journey the more hassle and time spent on a bus. It’s undoubtedly best to save the public bus in Costa Rica for short and straightforward trips!  

The public buses are definitely the cheapest way to get around Costa Rica, but they are not always very reliable and schedules often change without notice and delays are to be expected. The buses can also be very crowded and hot – so just be prepared!

It’s also good to speak some Spanish if you plan on riding the public bus since most drivers and ticket booth operators don’t speak English.

The BEST Things to do in Costa Rica

While there are so many fun things to do in Costa Rica , a couple of specific attractions and activities stand out amongst the rest. They are:

Explore Volcanoes

There are some impressive (and beautiful!) volcanoes that you’ll want to check out while you’re here.

Poas Volcano is known for its bright blue crater lake. Poas Volcano is most commonly visited on a day trip from San Jose. This Poas Volcano tour from San Jose is one of the best you can do since it also includes a visit to the La Paz Waterfall Gardens as well as a coffee farm.

Arenal Volcano is also one of Costa Rica’s top attractions. Arenal Volcano is located closest to the town of La Fortuna. You can book this full-day tour from La Fortuna that takes you to the volcano to hike, the famous La Fortuna Waterfall and even a hanging bridge – it’s a full day of adventure!

Chase Waterfalls

La Fortuna Waterfall is one of our favorite waterfalls in all of Costa Rica. You can easily visit it on this full-day tour in La Fortuna that also visits hot springs.

Rio Celeste is another beautiful waterfall that is famous for its bright blue water. Rio Celeste is a popular attraction to visit from Guanacaste Province and this particular tour includes transport from there. Alternatively, you can book this tour from La Fortuna or this tour from San Jose .

See the wildlife

Costa Rica is the place for wildlife lovers! One of the best places to see lots of animals in their wild habitat is at Manuel Antonio National Park . With the help of a guide you will see plenty of birds, monkeys, and even sloths! This particular tour is super popular and also has amazing reviews, so you really can;t go wrong.

There are also lots of wildlife rescue centers around the country that are worth visiting. The Jaguar Rescue Center in Puerto Viejo is one of our favorites as well as Rescate Wildlife Rescue Center in San Jose where you can book this private tour.

Pura Vida! 

I hope this guide to the best time to visit Costa Rica was helpful as you plan your own getaway. No matter when you come to visit, you’ll find some amazing adventures here. It’s great to be extra prepared, so you know what you’re getting into once you arrive and what activities are the best for when you’re coming here.

Once you arrive, you’ll fall into the Pura Vida life this country is famous for. I’m sure once you’re here, the hardest part will be leaving to go home!  

If you found this blog helpful, be sure to browse around our site a little more, we have a ton of blogs about Costa Rica. Some of our favorites include:

The BEST restaurants in San Jose

Where to stay in Jaco, Costa Rica

Complete guide to visiting La Leona Waterfall

The best times to visit Costa Rica

The tourism industry is booming in Costa Rica with more than 1.7 million tourists per year, thanks in large part to ecotourism.

Costa Rica's tropical climate and abundance of nature parks offer nonstop opportunities for forest and volcano hikes, zip lining excursions, wildlife viewing , beach time and more. Still, you'll want to be informed before deciding what time of year is best to get the most from Costa Rica's attractions and culture.

Here's some advice for choosing the best time to visit Costa Rica:

When is the best time to visit to costa rica for good weather.

Costa Rica's tropical climate is warm year-round with microclimates that differ slightly in temperature but significantly when it comes to rainfall. As a result, the average temperature for the country overall only fluctuates between the high 70s and low 80s Fahrenheit; it's the rain that's most likely to impact your travel plans.

Costa Ricans see their year as divided between the high season (the dry season, December to April) and the green season (rainy season, May to November).

For the best weather, visit Costa Rica during the dry season, typically from December to April. During these months, you can expect plenty of sunshine, minimal rainfall and warm temperatures, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities and exploring the country's rugged beaches and national parks.

However, it's worth noting that weather patterns can vary across different regions of Costa Rica.

The Cordillera Central mountains, on the Caribbean side, face dry season in September and October, which is when most of the other regions see the majority of the rain. For the majority of the country, high season is a great time for beach goers, while green season is the perfect opportunity for experienced surfers and whitewater rafting.

When is the best time to visit Costa Rica to hike Arenal Volcano

Arenal Volcano and the surrounding Arenal Volcano National Park in the center of the country are among Costa Rica's most compelling sights.

Until 2010, the volcano was considered one of the 10 most active volcanoes in the world, with molten rocks and ash emanating from the summit daily. Smoke and ash are still visible but no lava has erupted in recent years. The volcano is surrounded by lush forests laced with hiking trails, thermal hot springs and beautiful Lake Arenal.

The period of May through November sees the least precipitation at the volcano, so trails will be less slippery and temperatures should be pleasantly warm — usually in the mid-80s. Many consider this the best time to visit. (On the other hand, there are those who would say that there is no bad weather — only inappropriate clothing — and the most dramatic time to see the volcano is when clouds are on the move.)

When is the best time to see wildlife in Costa Rica

Costa Rica is a biodiversity hotspot and offers incredible experiences and adventures for wildlife enthusiasts.

The best times to see wildlife in Costa Rica are during the dry season months of December to April. During this time, animals tend to congregate around water sources, making it easier to spot them. Additionally, the lack of dense foliage makes it easier to observe birds and mammals in the trees and along the forest floor.

However, it's important to note that Costa Rica's wildlife is abundant year-round, and even during the rainy season, you can still encounter a wide variety of species. This country's nature reserves are full of monkeys, birds, wild cats, amphibians, etc. If you want to see sloths, there's a whole sloth sanctuary for that.

One of the experiences you may want to time carefully, however, is a visit to Tortuguero National Park (Place of Turtles). Also known as the "Little Amazon" of Costa Rica, this is where you can observe sea turtles nesting. Leatherback turtles nest on Tortuguero between March and May, while green sea turtles nest between July and October. In November, nesting is over but the babies may be seen hatching.

Ecotourism companies will take families on boating and kayaking excursions to see turtles nesting on the beach — from a respectful distance, of course.

When is the best time to visit Costa Rica to avoid crowds

Those who don't mind rainy afternoons will be rewarded in the green season with quiet trails, cooler temperatures and dramatic scenery. It's a trade-off for sure as dry weather makes it easier to get around and quite possibly get to experience more activities.

But even during the rainy season (May–November), most of Costa Rica doesn't receive days of constant rain; it's more common for mornings to be calm and afternoons to be rainy. So, embracing Costa Rica's rainy season may result in a truly special experience.

During this time, you'll also find lower prices for accommodations, tours and flights.

When is the cheapest time to visit Costa Rica

The cheapest times to visit Costa Rica typically fall during the country's rainy season, which runs from May to November. This period experiences lower tourism demand, resulting in more affordable prices for accommodations, flights and activities.

Flight deals to Costa Rica

The cheapest time to fly to Costa Rica can vary depending on myriad factors, including airline promotions, seasonal demand and ticket availability.

However, September, October and November offer lower airfare than the high-season months of December to April. According to Skyscanner data, September is the cheapest month to fly to Costa Rica, with potential savings of up to 19% on ticket prices compared to peak season months.

It's important to remember that prices can fluctuate, and it's always a good idea to monitor flight deals and compare prices from multiple airlines to find the best possible fares for your travel dates.

Related: 5 key tools and tips to find the cheapest airfare

How to save money on accommodation in Costa Rica

Finding inexpensive hotel rooms in Costa Rica can be possible if you plan your trip strategically and search for good deals. Some budget-friendly options include guesthouses, hostels and smaller locally-owned hotels. These accommodations generally offer more affordable rates compared to luxury resorts. Also, booking your stay during the country's low season, typically between May and November, can help you secure discounted rates.

Related: Best all-inclusive resorts in Costa Rica for beach visits or hiking trips

Of course, you can always use your points to keep costs down. Costa Rica boasts several hotel chains that cater to frequent guests with rewarding loyalty programs.

The Marriott Bonvoy program encompasses family-friendly properties like the The Westin Reserva Conchal (from 73,000 Bonvoy points per night) and the recently renovated Courtyard San Jose Escazu (from 12,500 points per night).

Hilton Honors is another renowned rewards program, with participating Curio Collection properties such as the Gran Hotel Costa Rica in San Jose (from 41,000 points per night) and the new Botanika Osa Peninsula (from 32,000 points per night) on the wild and rugged Pacific Coast.

Travelers can also explore the InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) and its IHG Rewards Club , including the InterContinental Costa Rica at Multiplaza Mall (from 36,000 points per night) and the Holiday Inn San Jose-Aurola (from 36,000 per night).

Related: New offer: Earn up to 165,000 points with these IHG credit cards

For Hyatt loyalists, one of TPG's favorite World of Hyatt redemptions is in Costa Rica: the Andaz Costa Rica Resort at Peninsula Papagayo which offers luxe rooms, excellent amenities and a gorgeous location for just 17,000 points per night during low season.

When is the best time to go surfing in Costa Rica

Generally, the country experiences two main surf seasons. The high surf season occurs from May to November, aka the rainy season. The rainy season in Costa Rica is widely regarded as the best time of year to surf, and there are several reasons for this.

Firstly, the rainy season brings bigger waves, thanks to the southwest swells from the South Pacific. This translates into prime surf conditions, especially along the Pacific shores of Costa Rica. Additionally, the rainy season experiences less wind, creating a smooth and glossy ocean surface.

While Playa Tamarindo offers mellow waves year-round, intermediate to advanced surfers particularly enjoy the larger swells found during the rainy season. During this time, the country's renowned breaks, such as Witch's Rock and Ollie's Point, come to life.

However, it's important to note that the best time for beginner surfers to visit Costa Rica is during the dry season, from December to May when the waves are smaller and more manageable.

When is Costa Rica's coffee season

Costa Rica is renowned for its high quality, 100% Arabica coffee beans. Experiencing the coffee season firsthand provides a unique opportunity to appreciate the rich flavors and aromas that make Costa Rican coffee exceptional.

The season typically runs from October to March, with variations depending on the specific region and altitude of coffee plantations. During this time, the coffee cherries ripen and are ready for harvesting. The harvest season is busy time for coffee farmers in Costa Rica, as they meticulously pick the ripe cherries by hand. It's also a significant cultural and economic event in the country, and visitors during this period can witness the vibrant activity on the plantations and even participate in coffee tours to learn about the coffee production process.

Bottom Line

If Costa Rica is on your radar, these guidelines will help you plan out the best time to visit this beautiful country. With many activities, sights and events throughout the year, there really is no bad time to visit Costa Rica.

Costa Rica Guide

Travel information and maps, the best time to visit costa rica, when should you go to costa rica.

The most popular time for Costa Rica vacations is the holiday peak season around Christmas and New Years but the best time to visit may be a couple of weeks later after the crowds thin.

The rains end in December but the forests remain lush into the new year while dry sunny weather prevails on the beaches.  It’s one of the best times for wildlife when tropical species like monkeys and sloths are joined by migrant birds from the north, humpback whales giving birth in the warm waters, and sea turtles nesting on shore.

  Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | June | July | Aug | Sept | Oct | Nov | Dec

Our personal favorite time to go to Costa Rica is July and August when there’s a bit more rain but even fewer visitors and slightly lower prices and of course it’s great to travel during the secret dry season on the Caribbean in September and October…

In fact there’s no bad time to go.  It really depends on what your travel goals and priorities are.

If you have a time of year in mind select a month from the drop down menu to access a summary of weather and rainfall, tides, prices, lodging availability, wildlife migrations, bank and school holidays, local fiestas and festivals , plus other seasonal information.  If you’re still overwhelmed by the possibilities g et our personalized suggestions …

Costa Rica Eliminated ALL Covid Related Travel Restrictions as of April 1, 2022

• No testing  required
• No vaccination  required
• No “pase de salud”  electronic health pass required
• No travel insurance  required
• No QR codes  required

Perfect destination to avoid indoor risks – Costa Rica’s outdoor activities, al fresco dining, and if you’d like, even airy luxury tent lodging mean the freedom to relax.

When is the Best Weather?

The best weather depends on where as well as when.  There are a number of distinct microclimates in Costa Rica and it can be flooding in one zone but bone dry in another.

We’ve visited at every time of year and while there are advantages to the high dry season (see suggested itineraries ) we often prefer the low rainy season (referred to by the tourism board as the “Green Season”).

Other comparisons and suggested alternatives are noted in the summary of each month linked in the drop down menu.

Don’t forget while browsing all the weather and climate data that one of the reasons you’re visiting Costa Rica is because it’s covered in amazing rain forests, and surprise, surprise – it rains in the rainforest.

If you’re only looking for sunny days on the playa then Costa Rica has a zone and season that guarantees that too – January , February and March are bone dry in Guanacaste (the northwest beach area).

Crowds, Costs and Other Factors?

There used to be distinct high and low travel seasons in Costa Rica but the secret is out.  July and August are almost as popular as December and January.

There are still cost differences depending on dates.  For example, Christmas and Easter peak weeks are nearly twice as expensive as the average and the shoulder months (May/June and  Sept./Oct./Nov.).

This handy budget calculator can help you compare costs and estimate travel expenditures based on your what? when? where? and how? preferences.

If you’re going to travel over Christmas, New Years or Easter you should book about a year in advance for the best selection and some small boutique hotels and lodges are filled even further in advance.  Shifting your travel by a few days away from the holidays can make a huge difference.

If there are other factors you’re wondering about let us know and we’ll do our best to help figure out the best time to go.

NOAA noted the end of the El Niño weather pattern in August of 2019 which means a return to normal rainfall patterns for 2020.

Ash from intermittent eruptions of Turrialba volcano occasionally disrupted operations at San Jose (SJO) airport between 2015 and 2018.  Although the activity continues it hasn’t been a problem for operations heading into 2020 – see Choosing an Airport for more info.

Quick Monthly Summaries

Use these quick descriptions to get the big picture of good, better and best then click on any month for details.  You may also want to try the best time quiz to determine when you should visit. 

The New Year is one of the most popular holidays for Ticos, Europeans and snow birds from the U.S. to head to the beach.  It’s very sunny, warm, crowded and expensive.  Wait a couple of days and you’ll discover one of Costa Rica’s best kept travel secrets.  Around January 5th the prices drop, the crowds disappear and there are four to six weeks of perfect weather.  The rainy season just ended so the forests are still green and lush and the rafting rivers and canyoneering waterfalls still have plenty of flow.  – BEST TIME

The number of travelers starts to pick up in February.  The dry season is well established and the trees of the tropical dry forests on the Pacific side in Guanacaste and Nicoya are dropping their leaves.  The rivers in the central mountains still have plenty of water and the Caribbean side is in it’s normal pattern of afternoon showers.  February is a great time to visit the Osa Peninsula and it’s the beginning of the nesting season for the Quetzales in the cloud forests. – BEST TIME

March & April

These two months get lumped together because they’re very similar.  It’s busy because of north American spring breaks and mobbed the week of Easter when the Costa Ricans all go on vacation at once.  The southern, central and eastern parts of the country are still green but some river levels drop too low for rafting.  The northwest is bone dry, the trees are bare and the rivers are reduced to trickles there. – BETTER TIME

May & June

The transition into the rainy season is gradual with showers starting in May and picking up in June.  The dry season dust is settling and the rivers are filling up.  The wildlife breathes a sigh of relief as things cool down a little and the tourists all but disappear.   Sea Turtle nesting is in full swing on many of the beaches for many species. – GOOD TIME

July & August

This is the best off-peak time to visit Costa Rica.  Costa Rica is a great escape from the snow but it’s also a fantastic summer beach destination and the rains typically let up a bit this time of year.  Inland the rivers are at their best for rafting and waterfall rappelling.  The Sea Turtles are still around and the Antarctic Humpback whale pod is taking up residence in the warm waters of the Golfo Dulce.   – BEST TIME

September & October

This would be a good choice if you want the whole Pacific side and central mountains to yourself.  These are the rainiest two months in those zones and the grey weather is accompanied by the biggest discounts of the year.  The Caribbean side on the other hand is enjoying its driest weather.  – BEST TIME FOR THE CARIBBEAN

November & December

The first six weeks are something of a gamble for weather and could easily be the wettest of the year or relatively dry anywhere in Costa Rica.  Discounts are available and reservations are easy to come by.  By the last two weeks of the year it usually drying out in the Pacific northwest but come rain or shine it’s the peak season with the highest prices and biggest crowds everywhere in the country.  – GOOD TIME

Other Bests in Costa Rica

This menu links to our suggestions for other “bests” in Costa Rica – places, wildlife watching, activities, secrets and more.

Best Time to Travel to Costa Rica – Weather in Costa Rica

Home | Travel | Central America | Costa Rica | Best Time to Travel to Costa Rica – Weather in Costa Rica

Knowing the best time to travel to Costa Rica is essential when planning your trip. If your calendar is wide open, I recommend choosing the months of the year that have the ideal conditions for the activities you want to do in Costa Rica. On the other hand, if you have fixed dates, it helps to know about the weather in Costa Rica so you can better organize your itinerary.

Essentially, Costa Rica has two seasons: the dry season, which runs from December to April , and the green or rainy season, which runs from May to November. However, there are many microclimates throughout Costa Rica that don’t entirely adhere to these seasons. This is why there is so much biodiversity in this country. The wealth of species and stunning landscapes make for a unique trip, but you should still put some thought into the planning process.

Best time to travel to Costa Rica – Weather in Costa Rica

To be fair, you can visit many attractions in Costa Rica year-round, but it’s not always comfortable touring the country during bad weather. Costa Rica is definitely one of those places where the weather can completely change your experience. For example, we have some friends who went during the rainy season and could hardly leave the hotel. On the other hand, we once visited in October, which is by no means the best month to travel to Costa Rica , and we had pretty good luck with the weather.

At the end of the day, it’s important to be aware of the climate. In this guide, I’ll help you choose the best time to travel to Costa Rica by sharing insights and tips on weather conditions and the peak times to visit for certain activities.

Before we begin, I have to ask, do you have travel insurance for Costa Rica ? This country is full of volcanoes, waterfalls, and other beautiful places that require you to travel along rocky roads and by boat. It’s not hard to imagine potential injuries or accidents. For peace of mind, I recommend Heymondo insurance , which is the company we use whenever we travel. You can use our Heymondo discount code if you decide to buy a policy from them, too.

5% OFF your travel insurance

Best time to travel to Costa Rica

As I mentioned, Costa Rica has two seasons but many microclimates where the weather can vary throughout the year. Costa Rica’s dry season runs from December to April, and the green season, which is when the heavy rains fall, runs from May to November.

If you’re deciding when to go to Costa Rica , the best time to travel will depend on which places you want to visit. Or maybe it’s the other way around: you have fixed vacation dates and you want to know where to go and what to do during that time of year.

Of course, weather can be unpredictable sometimes, so remember that you can’t guarantee you’ll have ideal conditions, no matter how much planning you do. While basking in the sun on a Caribbean beach in October, the rest of the country could be drenched in rain. One thing I can tell you, though, is that you won’t be cold, as Costa Rica is close to the equator, where winter is virtually nonexistent.

Weather in Costa Rica – What is the climate like in Costa Rica?

Costa Rica has 13 different regional climate zones, each with a unique microclimate. The country also has coastlines along the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea, while inland, there are mountain ranges full of volcanoes. All these factors influence Costa Rica’s climate.

When trying to figure out the best time of year to travel to Costa Rica , keep in mind that it’s cooler and rainier in the mountains and sunnier closer to sea level. Below, I’ll give you some general information about the rainfall and temperature in Costa Rica .

Average temperature in Costa Rica

Since the country has so many different climate zones, calculating the average temperature of Costa Rica can be complicated. However, they each have an average temperature index, so we can separate them: coastal areas and low-altitude regions, and mountainous areas.

The coastal/low-altitude areas have an average temperature of 27°C (81°F), while the mountainous regions have an average temperature of 12°C (54°F).

During the dry season, the average temperature jumps to 25°C (77°F), but it gets even warmer in the coastal zones. Therefore, the best time of year to travel to Costa Rica if you want to visit both the Caribbean and Pacific beaches is between February and March.

Average rainfall in Costa Rica

Just like the average temperature, the average annual rainfall in Costa Rica depends on where you’re looking. Of course, most of the precipitation occurs during the green (rainy) season.

If we talk about Costa Rica in general, there are usually scattered showers between May and November. The exceptions are September and October, which typically get a lot of rain all over the country (23 days per month of intense rain, on average). From December to April, there is very little rainfall, with some parts of the country getting no rain at all.

Dry season in Costa Rica (December-April)

Overall, the best time to visit Costa Rica is from December to April. This is the dry season in Costa Rica , so you’ll have the lowest chance of rain. If you go during this time, you’ll have more flexibility with your plans, so it’s much easier.

However, you already know that the climate in this country has many particularities, so here is more info about the month-by-month changes:

Costa Rica in December

December is one of the most popular months to visit Costa Rica , so the prices during this time are usually a little more expensive due to tourist demand. This is especially apparent around Christmas and New Year’s. Most tourists come from the United States, where winter temperatures at northern states are very low, making Costa Rica the ideal vacation spot.

Moreover, availability is limited, so if you’re still deciding where to stay in Costa Rica , I recommend booking an accommodation as soon as possible.

On the other hand, December is a transition month between Costa Rica’s green season and the dry season, so the weather can be a bit unpredictable. We took our first trip to Costa Rica in December, and we had incessant rain for the first 2 weeks. That said, if we had gone to the Caribbean beaches, we would have had spectacular weather.

If you’re visiting Costa Rica in December and catch some sunny days, I recommend going to the Monteverde Cloud Forest . It’ll be quite a sight since the surrounding vegetation will be bright green after the rainy season. I did this tour and absolutely loved it.

Costa Rica in January

If you’re a beach lover, January is the best month to visit Costa Rica . During the month, the beaches on Costa Rica’s Pacific coast are ideal for swimming and sunbathing. While there is always a small chance of isolated showers – usually in the afternoon – the weather’s never bad enough to ruin a beach day.

Two places that you must visit no matter what are the beaches of Santa Teresa and the beaches of Guanacaste , two true paradises. Here, you can take advantage of the gentler waves that hit the Pacific coast after the dry season, and sign up for surf lessons . If you didn’t know, Costa Rica is one of the most famous surfing meccas in the world, so don’t miss the opportunity to get started in this sport.

If you have flexile travel dates, try to avoid the first week of the month, since there will still be a lot of tourists on winter break, and prices will be high.

Also, if you’re thinking of visiting Tortuguero, on the Caribbean side of the country, I would advise against it since this is a stormy time of year for that region. Tortuguero normally gets consecutive days of rain, so you won’t be able to fully appreciate your tour. Fortunately, you can find better conditions in the southern part of the Caribbean, such as Puerto Viejo  and Manzanillo .

Costa Rica in February

February is one of the best times to travel to Costa Rica . This month has a similar climate to January, but the rains are even less frequent, and warm weather prevails in almost the entire country. If your priority is to travel cheaply , this month offers a considerable drop in prices. Plus, the December and New Year’s crowds have gone back home.

This is also a good time to spot humpback whales in Costa Rica , as there are quite a few off the Pacific coast. The first time I saw them was during this tour , and I was moved to tears. It’s one of the excursions in Costa Rica that I sign up for every time I visit the country.

February is also the ideal month to visit the best national parks in Costa Rica . You can see animals in Costa Rica year-round, but February has much less rain and pleasant temperatures, so it’s a much better experience. A good place to go wildlife viewing is the wonderful Manuel Antonio National Park , where you can take this 3-hour excursion . It’s a fabulous tour, so I recommend it regardless of when you travel.

Costa Rica in March

March is one of the overall best months to visit Costa Rica since this is when the entire country experiences good weather. The first two weeks of March are particularly great, but if you wait a bit longer, your vacation could coincide with the Easter holiday, which means more tourists and higher prices.

Something to highlight is that Guanacaste experiences very hot temperatures during this time, with highs reaching 37ºC (99ºF). However, this cruise  along the magnificent beaches of Tamarindo can help you beat the heat. It includes a snorkeling session in which you can cool off and see colorful tropical fish.

Costa Rica in April

April is the last month of the dry season in Costa Rica , so it usually starts to rain during the last couple of weeks of the month. Of course, this month is high season in many parts of the world, so many international tourists flock to the country. This means prices will be higher in April, and it’ll be harder to make last-minute plans since tours and accommodations will be filled up.

I recommend taking advantage of the last few weeks of good weather to go hiking through the volcanoes of Costa Rica , one of the country’s greatest attractions. Personally, visiting the Poas Volcano is an incredible experience. If you want to go with a guide, I recommend this tour . The natural environment of this volcano is fascinating, and the crater itself is 300 m (985 ft) deep and 1.32 km (0.8 mi) in diameter,  making it one of the largest in the world. Inside, there is a green lagoon, so the entire experience is breathtaking.

Rainy season in Costa Rica – Green Season (May-November)

The rainy season in Costa Rica begins in May and goes through December. Indeed, it rains a lot during this time, but if you travel to Costa Rica during these months, you’ll find the cheapest prices and fewer crowds at the tourist sites. If you have no other option, don’t worry. The rainy season is known as the green season for a reason: the jungles, forests, and flowers are at their peak splendor.

To give you an idea, a typical day can have many variations in weather: it starts with a bright day of sunshine and ends with heavy rain. You may also experience heavy rain for several consecutive days; it’s called the rainy season for a reason!

Costa Rica in May

May is a somewhat finnicky month during the rainy season in Costa Rica . Similar to December, May  is a transition month, this time, from the dry season to the green season. As such, the weather conditions become quite unpredictable, with May getting lots more rain than at the end of the year.

If you plan your vacation for the first few weeks of May, you may have a better chance of enjoying sunny days, but conditions will progressively worsen throughout the month.

If this is your only time to visit, I recommend going to some of the best waterfalls in Costa Rica . There are a lot, so it will be difficult to choose, but you can take a look at our guide to see my favorites. I can tell you that, for me, the Río Celeste waterfall should be on any itinerary, regardless of when you travel. If you like hiking and spending time in nature, you’ll love this 4-hour excursion , which allows you to explore this green space in depth.

Costa Rica in June

June is not a good time to visit Costa Rica . Not only does it get tons of rain, but tourists rush here in droves for summer vacation.

However, there is always something to do in Costa Rica, no matter the time of year. So if you have no choice but to travel in June, you should go to Tortuguero . It will rain a lot, but you’ll also be able to see leatherback, hawksbill, and loggerhead turtles nesting on its beaches. This is one of the most impressive experiences in the country, so check out  this excursion , which lets you enjoy this natural spectacle to the fullest.

June is also a great month to go diving in Costa Rica since the country’s marine biodiversity flourishes during the rainy season.

If you’re lucky, you might get what they call Summer of San Juan , which lasts about a week and occurs between the second half of June and the first half of July. During this time, the summer rains let up, especially in Guanacaste, so you can enjoy the beach in the middle of the rainy season. The problem is that it is impossible to know when this phenomenon will occur, or how long it will last.

Costa Rica in July

If you have the option of choosing when to go to Costa Rica , you should avoid July . While your trip could coincide with the Summer of San Juan , it’s impossible to know ahead of time.

During this month, the mornings are clear and the afternoons may have some rain, so you could organize your itinerary so you do most of your activities in the first part of the day. It’s a good idea to stay in one of the best hotels in Costa Rica  so you can comfortably rest while waiting out the rain.

Of course, the opposite happens on the Caribbean coast. If you’re vacationing here, I suggest going to Tortuguero National Park since this is when green, hawksbill, and loggerhead turtles spawn.

Costa Rica in August

August is one of the best times of the year to visit Costa Rica since not many tourists come here during this month. On the other hand, August is the middle of the green season in Costa Rica , so you can expect abundant rain.

The advantage is that prices are lower than at other times of the year, so you can find luxury hotels in Costa Rica at super affordable prices. In addition, the vegetation is super lush, so you can appreciate the intense colors, smells, and sounds of the forest.

In general, it will rain steadily throughout August, but there will also be humpback whales returning to the Pacific coast. If you get a day with good weather, you must take this excursion to see these gentle giants.

Costa Rica in September

September is not a good time to visit Costa Rica since this month experiences heavy rain just about every day. This causes the roads to become blocked off, so even if you   rent a car , you’ll have a lot of trouble getting around.

Now, if September is your only chance to go, I recommend vacationing on the Caribbean side. Despite being the green season in Costa Rica the Caribbean coast experiences the opposite weather conditions, so you can hang out on the beach.

I like the beaches of Manzanillo , which are picture-perfect: white sand, palm trees, and crystal-clear waters. It’s the perfect place for those who want to vacation in paradise. Another excellent option is the picturesque town of Puerto Viejo , which has some of the best beaches in Costa Rica.

Costa Rica in October

Similar to September, October is not the best time to visit Costa Rica weather-wise . The exception is if you go to the Caribbean coast. In that case, you should check out Punta Uva and Playa Cocles.

As a general rule, the rainy season isn’t a good time to take car tours or excursions that go inland. However, you may enjoy visiting some of the popular cities in Costa Rica . Most cities have a wide range of activities, many indoors, so you can make good use of your vacation.

That said, we took one of our trips during October and really lucked out with the weather. We were able to visit the entire country except for Corcovado, which was inaccessible due to the rains.

Moreover, this is one of the best months to go rafting in Costa Rica since the rivers are really flowing from the rain. Rafting is common here, so you’ll find tours for all skill levels. I did this tour on the Pacuare River, and it was one of the coolest things I did during my trip.

Costa Rica in November

Finally, November is a transitional month, as Costa Rica’s green season changes over to the dry season. This means that the weather conditions aren’t the best, but if you go to the Caribbean coast, you can enjoy some dreamy beaches and sunny days.

Plus, the prices decrease a bit during this time, so you can find a lot more budget-friendly tours and accommodation options.

When is the best time to travel to Costa Rica?

The best time of year to visit Costa Rica depends on your preferences and the places you want to visit. I can already tell you that if you want to see all the areas and experience the most popular activities, you’ll have to do so over the course of several trips. That’s what we’re doing, but we don’t mind visiting this gorgeous country multiple times.

To make it a bit easier for you, I’ll tell you the best time to go to Costa Rica for wildlife, the beach, and more.

Best time to visit the Pacific beaches of Costa Rica

The best time to visit the beaches on Costa Rica’s Pacific coast is from December to March, during the dry season.

Moreover, February and March have the cheapest prices, so it’s a good time to visit Tamarindo and other popular beaches in Guanacaste .

The Pacific coast gets most of its rainfall in September and October, so if you travel during these months, I recommend spending more time on the Caribbean beaches.

Best time to visit the Caribbean beaches of Costa Rica

The Caribbean beaches of Costa Rica aren’t as affected by the seasons . In fact, it can rain here any time of year, although it’s pretty rare from September to April. This is a bit odd, considering the Pacific beaches get a lot of rain in September and October. Regardless, if you want to go to Caribbean paradises like Puerto Viejo and Manzanillo , the best time to go to Costa Rica is between September – April.

The area of Tortuguero and the northern Caribbean is another story since it usually rains a lot throughout the year.

Best time to visit Corcovado National Park

It rains a lot all year round in Corcovado National Park , so try to plan your itinerary so you visit during the least rainy time. The best time to visit Corcovado is from December to April, during the dry season.

Be aware that sometimes, this area is inaccessible due to heavy rain . This includes Drake Bay , where most Corcovado excursions, like the one we did , begin. I’m not saying you shouldn’t visit Corcovado during the rainy season, but you should make sure it’s accessible to visitors before you go.

Best time to go surfing in Costa Rica

You can enjoy surfing in Costa Rica year-round , especially on the Pacific coast.

During the rainy season (May to November), the Pacific coasts delight the most advanced surfers. In particular, the Nicoya Peninsula is one of the best places to catch some waves. Tamarindo and Santa Teresa  are some fan favorites, but there are other smaller towns you can head to if you don’t like crowds.

Jacó and other areas of Puntarenas have good waves all year round, too, especially during the rainy season. If you’re a beginner, the beginning and end of the season (both rainy and dry) are good times to go surfing.

As for the Caribbean beaches, the best time to visit is from January to March . During these months, the beaches of Puerto Viejo de Talamanca  and other areas of the Caribbean are filled with surfers.

Best time to go diving in Costa Rica

If you plan to go diving in Costa Rica , you’ll be pleased to hear that you can do it all year round. However, many people say that the rainy season in Costa Rica is the best time for diving since the waters are filled with more migratory marine species. If you want to know more, I recommend reading our guide to better delve into the topic.

The most incredible places to go diving are mainly in the Pacific. Cocos Island stands out, but keep in mind that you can only reach this uninhabited island via a 10-day liveaboard. Caño Island , a protected marine park next to Corcovado, is a more accessible area, particularly for less experienced divers. If you’re interested, check out this incredible diving excursion from Drake Bay or this excursion to the Catalina Islands  from Tamarindo.

Best time to see turtle nesting in Costa Rica

One of the most common questions is when is the best time to visit Costa Rica for turtles . You can watch turtles nesting and laying their eggs in Tortuguero National Park . The best time to go is during the rainy season, although you’ll see different turtle species depending on the month.

Leatherback turtles come to the beaches between April and June, while green turtles prefer nesting from July to October. Hawksbill turtle nesting usually occurs between May and October, while loggerhead turtles spawn from May to September.

This means that the best time to see turtle nesting in Costa Rica is from April to October . It’s possible to spot turtles nesting outside these months, but it’s not common.

Best time to see whales in Costa Rica

Late December – early April and late July – early November are Costa Rica’s peak seasons for whale watching . These months coincide with the annual migration cycle of humpback whales.

The best place to go whale-watching in Costa Rica is the Pacific, specifically from Uvita , where you can find tours to Marino Ballena National Park.

Best time to visit Tortuga Island

Tortuga Island is on the west coast of Costa Rica, so the best time to go there is between December and May. During this time, you can enjoy warm temperatures and very little chance of rain.

The best time to visit Tortuga Island

When is the cheapest time to travel to Costa Rica?

Many times, the best time to travel to Costa Rica depends not only on the weather but also on the prices. To visit this country on a budget, I recommend reading our guide on cheap flights to Costa Rica . Also, consider staying in one of the best hostels in Costa Rica , where you can save money without sacrificing comfort.

Many tourists plan their trips for the rainy season since it’s the cheapest time to travel to Costa Rica . However, they end up not enjoying their trip at all because of all the rain.

If you ask me when the best time to go to Costa Rica is , I’d say February. The weather is good, and the prices aren’t too high. March can also be a great time to go, as long as your dates don’t coincide with Easter.

Of course, if you don’t mind visiting during the rainy season, consider traveling at the end of October or November. You shouldn’t have a problem finding cheap vacation packages during this time. By November, most roads will have already reopened after the heavy rains, which is an important thing to consider if you want to rent a car in Costa Rica .

In conclusion, what’s the best time of year to visit Costa Rica?

As you’ve probably figured out by now, there is no best or worst month to travel to Costa Rica. You simply have to accept that it’s impossible to enjoy all the attractions of this beautiful country in one trip. You’ll have to plan separate vacations to experience the Pacific and Caribbean beaches, turtle nesting, national parks, and whale tours.

To wrap up, here is a chart showing which months are best for specific activities:

I hope you have a better idea of the best time of year to visit Costa Rica so you can enjoy your vacation to the fullest. Don’t hesitate to leave me a comment if you have any other questions. I’d be happy to help!

Ascen Aynat

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Costa Rica Travel Information

When is the Best Time to Visit Costa Rica?

February 1, 2024 By Sammi 48 Comments

If you’re thinking about visiting Costa Rica but not sure when, then bookmark this blog post.

We will talk all about the best time to visit Costa Rica in this post, depending on factors such as what kind of Costa Rica vacation you want, how much your budget is and who you are traveling with.

Quick Intro

The best time to visit Costa Rica is during the country’s dry season or “summer” which is December through April. This time of year is also Costa Rica’s high tourism season thanks to the endless sunny days and high temperatures. These months are the busiest tourist times in Costa Rica.

On the other hand, rainy season is a good time to visit Costa Rica for those traveling on a budget and those who want to visit in less busier times. However, this means that there are possibilities of rain, rainstorms and thunderstorms.

Average year round temperatures do not vary greatly in Costa Rica so no matter what time of year you visit, you will generally have all sunny days.

Costa Rica Facts

• Capital city is San Jose
• In Central America. Nicaragua is to the north, Panama to the south
• Official language is Spanish with many indigenous languages spoken. English is widely spoken in touristic areas like San Jose , Guanacaste , Jaco , Manuel Antonio , Puerto Viejo de Limon and La Fortuna .
• Currency: the Colon. Current exchange rate approximately 515 CRC to 1 USD. Read about handling money in Costa Rica
• GMT-6 time zone.
• Drives on right hand side of road
• Uses 110 Volts
• Two major international airports : Juan Santamaria International Airport in Alajuela province (airport code SJO) and Guanacaste Airport in Guanacaste province (airport code LIR).

Anytime is a good time for visiting Costa Rica and seeing all its natural beauty! However, there are some very important things to know before you blindly choose a month to go to Costa Rica.

First, let’s go more in detail about Costa Rica weather because it is one of the deciding factors for when the best time to visit Costa Rica is for your trip. If you want sun, sun and more sun, then the dry season is the best time to visit Costa Rica.

Remember, Costa Rica experiences typical tropical climate with two distinct seasons: dry and rainy. Average year round temperatures do not vary much, but the amount of rain certainly does.

Dry Season to Escape the Rain

If you’re coming to Costa Rica to escape the rain or snow, the best times to travel to Costa Rica are December through end of April . These are months are Costa Rica’s dry season and known as Costa Rica’s “summer.”

For anyone wanting to escape the North American or Europe dreary winters, dry season is the best time to visit Costa Rica.

Key things to know about visiting Costa Rica during dry season

• This is the high tourism season so it is the most expensive and crowded time in Costa Rica due to high volume of tourists and snow birds.
• February is normally the driest month. March and April are the hottest.
• Average day time and night time temperatures do not fluctuate much at all.
• You have to book your hotels, car rentals and tours at least 2-3 months before your trip. If you are visiting over Christmas , New Years, spring break or Easter, book at least 4-6 months out. These are peak season times. Some hotels and vacation rentals get booked 6+ months out!
• Temperatures soar well into the 90s F (32 C) and above on the Northern Pacific coasts in February and March. It is a bit cooler on the Central and South Pacific Coast and Caribbean Coast but it is significantly more humid. It is drier on the North Pacific coast ( Guanacaste coast and Nicoya Peninsula ) but with higher temperatures. San Jose, Central Valley and mountain area temperatures hover around the high 70s F (24-26 C) during the day.
• The rainforest areas such as the Caribbean sea, Central and South Pacific Coast and Northern Highlands may rain during dry season randomly. We visited Dominical in February once and it actually poured rain for 2 days straight.

Rainy Season for Less Crowds and Cheaper Prices

Costa Rica’s rainy season is generally from middle of May – end of November and this is considered as Costa Rica’s “winter” or “green season” due to the intense lush rainforest foliage that bursts into life with the rain. For this reason, tourist prices are cheaper and the crowds thin out.

If you’re traveling on a budget, rainy season months are the best time to go to Costa Rica since rates are lower. Hotel prices, car rentals, tours and restaurants are a bit cheaper during the green season, particularly October which is the slowest month.

Key things to know about visiting Costa Rica in rainy season (green season)

Not sure if you should visit in rainy season? Read our tips for visiting Costa Rica in rainy season here.

• Rainy season temperatures do not really vary from dry season. It does get cooler but not much. On average it is around 10 F degrees cooler than dry season.
• October is the rainiest month for most of the country. May, June, September and October can also be very rainy in places like the Central and South Pacific coast, the mountains and Northern Lowlands.
• On the Caribbean coast, October is the summer month. These are Tortuguero , Limon and Puerto Viejo de Talamanca .
• On the coasts, a normal rainy season day is dry and cloudy in the morning, then intermittent rains in the late afternoon, evenings and nights. In mountainous and rainforest areas, it can rain in early afternoons or even mornings. You will still have sunny mornings during rainy season, but it may get cloudy quickly.
• As it tends to rain more in the late afternoons and nights, places like Arenal Volcano National Park may close early or not allow visitors if there are lightning/thunderstorms.
• You may need to rent a 4×4/4wd for your itinerary. Make sure to check the road conditions in Costa Rica. Some roads may be impassable or bridges may collapse for heavy rains in remote areas.
• Some businesses may close during September/October green season months, have limited availability or undergo construction. Hotel prices are much cheaper and some tour companies offer green season rates.
• There is a “little summer” in July where it stops raining and dries up for a week or so. This is normally around mid July. July is also a busy month because of families coming during summer vacation. Make sure to book your cars and services at least 2 months out if visiting in July and August.

If you’re visiting in rainy season, make sure to pack appropriately. Check out our guide to packing for rainy season in Costa Rica and our guide to packing for Costa Rica.

The Caribbean Coast

If you’re going to the Caribbean coast ( Tortuguero , Limon and Puerto Viejo ), it doesn’t follow the strict rainy/green season months. On the Caribbean coast, it is generally wetter all year round, except during September and October which are considered their “summer” months. It is also much more humid with temperatures in the high 80s F (31 C).

The driest month on the Caribbean coast is typically October. January to March are usually sunny with swells and good snorkeling. November and June are typically more rainy. October is the best month to visit Puerto Viejo or the Caribbean coast because it’s the summer month. You’ll be able to see all the gorgeous beaches on the Caribbean side with great weather.

The busy tourism months for the Caribbean coast are August and September, particularly Tortuguero as that is peak Green sea turtles nesting season, so there are lots of tourists that go to Tortuguero National Park.

Holidays to Keep in Mind

There are 2 times of the year where it is extremely busy and you will want to avoid if you’re on a budget or want to avoid crowds. These are what we call “peak season.” If you visit during these times of year, make sure to book everything at least 4-6 months beforehand!

Christmas/New Years

If you are spending your Christmas in Costa Rica , book ASAP! Hotels and car rentals go super fast and it is really expensive during these times. Vacation rentals, resorts and luxury hotels can book up even up to one year out. Places like Manuel Antonio National Park , Tabacon hot springs and Poas Volcano National Park sell out days in advance so get your tickets early!

Semana Santa (Easter)

Easter week usually coincides with American/Canadian/European spring break. That week is as busy as Christmas in Costa Rica so book your hotels and cars as soon as possible.

Shoulder Months for the Best of Both Dry and Rainy Seasons

If you ask us what are our favorite months in Costa Rica, we love the shoulder months of May, June and November, the transition months between dry and green season. National parks are not as crowded and the weather is still very good.

November is when the rain starts letting up. There is also a lull after Thanksgiving until mid December. May and June is when the rain starts but you’ll still get plenty of hot sunny and humid days. The crowds die out and we start getting good swells for surfing. Personally for us, the shoulder months are the best times to travel to Costa Rica.

The Best Time to Visit Costa Rica for Activities

Nature and wildlife.

Wildlife watching is great any time of the year but the best time to visit Costa Rica for wildlife spotting is the rainy season. The months of August, September and October are optimal months to see humpback whales in Costa Rica . For sea turtles in Costa Rica , May – November are the best months.

For scuba diving in Costa Rica , February and March are the best time to dive with the giant oceanic manta rays. However, water temperatures are very cold during those months.

If you want to birdwatch , January through July is the best time to see Resplendant Quetzals in the cloud forest such as Monteverde , San Ramon, San Vito and San Gerardo de Dota.

Nature lovers will have a great time visiting Costa Rica any time of the year, however the rainy season can make it a bit harder to spot animals as they will hide in the rain.

Check what are the best time to visit Costa Rica for wildlife like toucans, dolphins, sea turtles and sloths in our Costa Rica wildlife post.

Waterfalls become much fuller in the rainy season. However, with the extra rain, the color of the waterfall may turn to a murky brown.

For example, Rio Celeste is a sky blue river in the Tenorio Volcano National Park. Sometimes when it has been raining a lot, the river may turn brown. This has more chances of happening in October, November and December. The La Fortuna waterfall and La Paz Waterfall Gardens may turn brown or be full of debris during rainy season.

Additionally, waterfalls may become too full. When we visited Nauyaca Waterfalls in August, a tropical storm just passed through so the waterfall pool overflowed so much that we couldn’t swim.

Water Activities

All adventure activities are fantastic any time of the year in Costa Rica! However, rainy season is better for water activities. White water rafting is super fun in rainy season as rivers are much fuller. However, if there is a storm, rafting tours may have to be cancelled so that is one risk of booking rafting tours during the rainy season.

Fishing is great during rainy season with lots of possibilities to catch tuna, snapper and mahi mahi. Surfing is amazing in the rainy season in Costa Rica thanks to the swells and better offshore winds.

You can still visit a beautiful beach or two during rainy season. We do recommend to go in the morning to avoid rains in the afternoons and nights.

Best Month to Visit Costa Rica – What Each Month is Like

January & february.

Tons of tourists for the New Year, starts to decrease a few days after the 1st. The 2nd to last week of January is a great time to visit since it’s great weather, prices go back to normal after the New Year and still a bit green. Hot, but not quite as hot as the following months. Great time for dry season travel for both beaches and rain forest. Read more about January in Costa Rica.

February is super busy and is right at the boom of high season. If you are visiting Costa Rica during these months, you have to purchase tickets well in advance for places like Manuel Antonio National Park. Read more about February in Costa Rica.

March & April

Hottest times of the year for most of the country. Peak season is during spring break and Easter Week. Very expensive to travel. Super hot, very dry for Guanacaste, looks like a desert and waterfalls are reduced to a trickle and rivers dry up. Good time for the South Pacific/Osa Peninsula. Great time for Monteverde for birding. May start getting some rains end of April up in the mountains or rainforest areas.

May & June

Transition months from dry to rainy (aka green season). Landscapes start turning green with the first rains and temperatures cool down a little bit. Less tourists than previous months but still a good chunk. Very humid, cloudy with on and off rains in the country. Low winds.

Costa Rica’s Pacific coast gets more swells, making May and June awesome months for surfers to catch big barrels.

More tourists because of summer break up in North America and mid winter break in Costa Rica. Great weather, has a “little summer” with sunny days. Excellent for water activities.

Best month for wildlife such as whales, turtles and dolphins. Beginning of the month sees lots of tourists, end of the month starts dying down. Common to have sunny skies in the morning and rainy afternoons/evenings.

September and October

Most popular time for Europeans, especially on the Caribbean as that side starts raining less. Still great time for wildlife, rains a bit more often. Cheapest time to travel because this is the lowest tourism month of the year so you will find more empty beaches, laid back town centers and limited nightlife in October.

October can be very rainy for most of the country. Common for tropical waves and storms to pass through.

Still rainy but can start letting up a little bit. Beginning of November doesn’t have many tourists, towards the end of the month is when the snowbirds come down. Best time to see the turtle nesting season, especially the Olive Ridley sea turtles during the arribadas (mass arrivals) at Ostional Wildlife Refuge.

Rainforest areas and high elevation mountain areas still rainy. Coastal areas start seeing less and less rain towards the end of the month.

The high season generally starts around mid December for the winter holidays. Rain starts to let up during December in Costa Rica but you still may get some random on and off short rains. Rainforest areas still have rain and the beginning of December can still see some big storms.

For this reason, the first two weeks of December are not as crowded. But then around mid December, it will start getting crazy packed for Christmas and New Years. Very expensive to travel.

Very windy in December, this is normal and known as “Christmas winds.” By mid to end of December, the coasts see very little rain.

When you should visit Costa Rica will mostly depend on what you want.

So if you want:

• To avoid the rain: Come in dry season, December – April for most of the country. October for the Caribbean.
• To travel on a budget: Travel during the green season or shoulder months.
• Get the best of both dry and rainy season: Come during the shoulder months of May, June and November.

Need some ideas for itineraries? Check out our favorite Costa Rica itinerary ideas!

Costa Rica Vacation Checklist

• First time to Costa Rica? Read our First Time in Costa Rica guide.
• Not sure how to move around Costa Rica? Read our How to Get Around Costa Rica guide to find the best transportation method for you.
• Click the link to get our detailed Costa Rica Packing List so you know what essential items to bring.
• Do not forget to purchase Travel Insurance for your trip to Costa Rica.
• Stay connected by purchasing a prepaid SIM Card in Costa Rica.
• Save money with Mytanfeet Deals for tours and hotels. Save more money with our Costa Rica Car Rental Discount.

Join our mailing list and get our free Costa Rica eBook!  

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The Best Time to Visit Costa Rica for Wildlife, Surfing, and Fewer Crowds

By Amber Port

Costa Rica is easy to love with its awe-inspiring landscape and infectious atmosphere. With so much to offer, the best time to visit Costa Rica depends on what you're looking to do during your holiday. Whether you're off wildlife spotting or chasing swells, spending time in this picturesque Central American nation quickly teaches visitors what the “pura vida” lifestyle is all about. Below, see the best months to plan a Costa Rican getaway for surfing, budget travel, whale spotting, and more.

The best time to visit Costa Rica for good weather

If you’re looking to catch some sun, we recommend visiting Costa Rica between December and April. This is when temperatures are at their best, averaging 80 degrees Fahrenheit, with the hottest temperatures in March and April reaching around 97 degrees Fahrenheit. The chance of rainfall is low during these months, with an average of 61% humidity, making it more manageable than the rainier seasons.

The best time to visit Costa Rica for wildlife spotting

Costa Rica is full of opportunities to spot wildlife, no matter what season you decide to head to this beautiful country. There are numerous national parks and wildlife refuges, all boasting unique sights. If you’re looking to spot sea life, we recommend visiting between July and August–it’s the optimal time for whale spotting in Dominical and sea turtles in Tortuguero National Park . And if you’re a sloth lover, then you’re in luck. Costa Rica’s Manuel Antonio beach is an excellent place for sloth spotting.

Costa Rica has numerous national parks and wildlife refuges perfect for nature lovers.

The best time to visit Costa Rica for lower prices

We’d recommend visiting in the early and later months of the off-season, like May and September. Costa Rica is a popular destination with North American travelers, so traveling before the high season and school holidays means you are more likely to save some money on accommodations and flights. The best weather spans from December to April, coinciding with the holiday season in North America, so this also tends to be a more expensive time to visit Costa Rica.

The best time to visit Costa Rica for surfing

It depends on your experience level. If this is your first foray into surfing, visiting in the dry season is the perfect time. March and April bring tame waves–perfect for learning how to surf . If you’re an experienced surfer, the green season (May to November) is for you, with September and October bringing the biggest swells.

For tame waves and sunny skies, beginner surfers should plan to visit Costa Rica in March and April.

The best time to visit Costa Rica for fewer crowds

If you want to avoid crowds , we’d recommend visiting at the beginning and end of the rainy season–May and October. The dry season between December and April will bring many tourists, as will the summer months as families head down during the school holidays.

This article was originally published on Condé Nast Traveller UK .

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The best time to visit Costa Rica: planning your trip wisely

When is the best time to visit Costa Rica? This article breaks down each month in Costa Rica and explains what the weather, crowds, and cost of travel are like.

Gabrielle Budget Travel With Gabby

Feb 06, 2023

Costa Rica is easily one of the best Central American countries to visit . It has diverse wildlife, stunning natural landscapes, delicious local food, and a thriving backpacker scene. 

Flights to Costa Rica are quite cheap from elsewhere in the Americas, especially the south of the USA. So whether you’re backpacking through South and Central America, doing a Worldpackers work exchange , or just looking for a quick tropical getaway, Costa Rica is an amazing country to explore.

If you’ve decided to visit this country, you may be wondering when is the best time to visit Costa Rica . 

Because it’s such an incredible country, there is no bad time to visit . But when considering the best time to travel to Costa Rica , there are three main factors: weather, crowds, and cost .

Better weather means more crowds and higher costs of accommodation, flights, and tours. Less desirable weather means fewer crowds and cheaper costs . 

So the best time of year to travel to Costa Rica really depends on which of these three factors matter to you the most.

In this article, I’ll explore the best time to visit Costa Rica. First I’ll give a brief overview of weather in Costa Rica. Then I’ll break down each month and explain what the weather, costs, and crowds will be like. Then you can decide when is the best time for your visit based on this information!

Planning a trip to Costa Rica? Don't miss the  11 best things to do in Costa Rica  and  How to master solo travel in Costa Rica .

Overview of weather in Costa Rica

Costa Rica has pretty consistent temperatures year round. It is always warm but not too hot, so it has a very desirable climate. The temperature can range from 60 degrees Farenheit at lowest to 80 degrees Farenheit at highest, on average (15 to 26 degrees Celcius).

The main seasons in Costa Rica are:

Rainy season is, of course, very wet. It rains almost every day and the rain can last for hours. Thunderstorms and monsoons are common. 

Dry season has the best weather, with lots of sun and the occasional rain shower.

The Green season is in the middle. Mornings are often sunny and clear and rain is common in the afternoon.

The temperature and weather can also vary depending on the region you visit. Coastal regions tend to be warmer and the highlands in the center of the country tend to be cooler. The humidity can also increase the further south you go.

So weather in Costa Rica is very warm, humid, and sometimes wet. This is why the country is so rich in wildlife and biodiversity.

Regardless of when you visit or where you visit, check the weather report daily because sun and rain can both occur at any time.

When is the best time to visit Costa Rica?

Based on this overview, the best time to travel to Costa Rica depends on what you’re looking for .

I’ll now explain what the weather in each month is usually like. That way you can decide the perfect month for your visit based on weather, crowds, and cost.

Weather in Costa Rica: December, January, February, March, and April

These months make up the Dry Season , which is also peak tourist season. The weather is hot and sunny almost all the time with very little rainfall. Also, the rainy season has just ended so the forests are flourishing and the waterfalls are lush.

Because of the nice weather, this is the most desirable time to visit Costa Rica . Due to the nice weather and holidays like Christmas, New Years, Easter, and Spring Break, this is also the busiest time to visit Costa Rica. 

Crowds are at their highest, especially in the most touristy areas. Flights and accommodation are also at their most expensive, and it is essential to book everything in advance in case things sell out.

So this time of the year is great for those who want amazing weather with the lowest chance of rain. Some people only get holiday time over December and January as well, so this is an ideal time to visit Costa Rica.

Travelling to Costa Rica in May and June

May marks the beginning of the Green Season . It is also shoulder season for tourism, meaning it is right in the middle of peak season and low season. 

When considering weather, crowds, and cost, May could potentially be the best month to visit Costa Rica . There is a good chance of many sunny days, crowds die down after the holidays, and prices are reasonable.

During Green Season, there is some rain but it’s usually in the afternoon or evening and it might not rain every day. There is a good mix of sunny and rainy days. Having an early beach day or booking a morning tour is a good idea, so you can relax later in the day when it rains.

Prices and crowds both usually drop in May because peak season ends. National Parks and beaches in Costa Rica are less crowded, and the surf is usually really good. 

So May and June are ideal for travelers looking to save some money and escape the crowds, as long as you don’t mind some rain here and there.

Visiting Costa Rica in July and August

These months are similar to May and June, in terms of weather. It is still the Green Season , so there is often clear mornings and rainy afternoons. 

This is a good time to spot wildlife, including sea turtles in Tortuguero National Park and whales in Dominical.

However, there is a small spike in prices and crowds due to Summer Holiday season. Prices and crowds are still lower than the Dry Season, but May or June are better months for those looking to skip the crowds and save money .

Weather in Costa Rica: September, October and November

September marks the start of the Rainy Season , which is also low season for tourism.

This is generally the least desirable time to visit Costa Rica because the weather is extremely wet. It rains almost every day, though there is the occasional sunny day. But most days are overcast and extremely humid.

Sometimes the rain gets so heavy that there is flooding and roads will close. This can disrupt travel plans, especially in remote regions with less transport options. The rain also makes wildlife spotting more difficult.

If you don’t mind rain, there are actually some benefits to visiting Costa Rica during low season. There are barely any crowds, so you may have lots of attractions all to yourself. Flight prices are super cheap as well. 

By mid-November, the rain slows down as well. You’ll start to get better weather and still enjoy low crowds and prices.

If you’re also wondering when is the best time to travel for surfing in Costa Rica, September through November is great . Storms bring big swells and the beaches aren’t crowded at all. The water is still nice and warm too.

I personally visited Costa Rica during Rainy Season. I found insanely cheap flights, and I still had an epic time despite the rain.

If you meet other backpackers through hostels or work exchanges in Costa Rica , you can all make the most of the weather and still have fun. If you’re traveling on a budget, this is the best time to travel to Costa Rica.

Be part of a volunteer program in Costa Rica

As with all travel, the biggest expense is accommodation. But, with  Worldpackers , that's not an issue. There's a great selection of volunteering opportunities in Costa Rica to help you save on accommodation costs. 

Besides saving money, you'll meet fellow travellers from around the globe and learn new skills.

Some of the work-exhange opportunities in Costa Rica, includes:

• Help promote an eco-village in Drake Bay .
• Yoga, Farming, cooking and more in this Holistic Center .
• Be part of the staff of a hostel in Ballena Bay .

To know more about Worldpackers, you can read  How to volunteer abroad using Worldpackers  and  Traveling with Worldpackers: your top questions answered .

So when is the best time to travel to Costa Rica?

I would say overall, May or November are the best months to visit Costa Rica . 

These months lie in between peak season, so the crowds are low and prices are pretty cheap. There may be some rain, especially in early November. But rain can be fun, especially when swimming in waterfalls and exploring the rainforest.

However, if you want the best weather, December and January are ideal. If you want the cheapest prices, visit in October. If you want to see wildlife, visit in July or August. Basically, there is no bad time to visit Costa Rica! 

Keep exploring Central America with these articles:

• The safest Central American countries to visit .
• 11 amazing things to do in the Dominican Republic .
• The 10 best places to volunteer in Central America .

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Gabrielle Boucher

Budget Travel With Gabby

Hello! I am a 25 year old from the USA with a knack for traveling on a budget. I fell in love with traveling while studying in Europe, and that love grew even more when I started volunteering abroad in South America. Since then, I've worked odd jobs and volunteered all over the globe while cultivating passions for hiking, wildlife photography, food, wine, animals, permaculture, and more!

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The Best Time to Visit Costa Rica

With so many things to do in costa rica, here’s what you need to know about when to visit..

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Volcanoes and hot springs are just a few of Costa Rica’s draws.

Photo by Esdelval/Shutterstock

Costa Rica really is the land of pura vida (the good life), with more than its fair share of natural beauty and biodiversity. On both the country’s Pacific and Caribbean coastlines, you can expect a tropical climate year-round.

For many visitors, the best time to visit Costa Rica is during its dry season, December through April, which locals call summer. The wet season, May through November, sees a lot of rain. On the Pacific coast and in many inland areas, May through August is the shoulder season, with fewer visitors and the chance of better deals. You’ll have rain (often just one short downpour per day), but not the heavier rains of September, October, and part of November.

Here’s the best time to visit Costa Rica, depending on what you have planned for your trip.

The best time to visit Costa Rica for hot springs and volcanoes

• Best months: December–April, May–August

The Caribbean and Cocos tectonic plates come together just off Costa Rica’s west coast, and the resulting clash produces volcanoes and burbling hot springs. The capital city of San José lies in a meseta (high plateau) ringed by volcanic peaks; in downtown you’ll see street signs with volcano icons directing you toward one of the many peaks in the vicinity, like Irazú and Poás. December through April is when the views are the best from the volcanoes out over the mountain ranges, and early morning, before the clouds roll in, is the best time of day for visibility.

In the Northern Zone, the still-active Arenal Volcano rises out of the highland plain like a whale breaching the ocean’s surface. The Arenal area is a haven for lovers of hot springs, best during dry season (December to April) but also delightful during shoulder season (May to August), when crowds thin and prices drop.

The best time to visit Costa Rica’s beaches can depend on which coast you want to visit.

Courtesy of atanasmalamov/Unsplash

The best time to visit Costa Rica for the beaches

• Best months: December–April (Pacific coast), August–October (on the Caribbean coast)

Costa Rica’s dry season offers daytime temperatures in the mid-80s and the best chance of perfect beach weather. Beaches that combine gentle waves with gorgeous scenery include those at Manuel Antonio National Park and Samara on the Pacific coast and Playa Chiquita on the Caribbean coast.

The weather on the Caribbean side is different from the weather in the rest of the country: If it’s raining in the rest of Costa Rica, head for the Caribbean, where August through October often sees ideal beach weather.

Related: 17 Beautiful Beaches in Costa Rica

Surfers of all levels can enjoy the waves of Costa Rica.

Photo vy FtLaud/Shutterstock

The best time to visit Costa Rica for surfing

• Best months: December–April (for beginners), May–September (for advanced surfers), December–January on the Caribbean coast (for experts)

Surfing is a huge draw here year-round, with hundreds of breaks on both coasts. Beginners will generally be more suited for conditions during the dry season, from December through April. Those looking for big waves should go for swells created by the rainy season, from May to September (while avoiding the heavier rains of October and November). This holds for surf spots on the Nicoya Peninsula , the Central coast, and at the fabled surf town of Pavones on the southern Pacific coast, known for a left-breaking wave that gives the longest ride in the country.

On the Caribbean coast, Puerto Viejo has the Salsa Brava, a thick wave that rears up from deep water and breaks onto a shallow reef. This right reef break is the biggest wave in Costa Rica, at its challenging best in December and January.

Come to Costa Rica during the dry season for a better chance of seeing birds like the toucan.

Courtesy of Zdeněk Macháček/Unsplash

The best time to visit Costa Rica for birding

• Best months: December–April

Costa Rica is home to nearly 900 neotropical birds, including macaws, hummingbirds, and the resplendent quetzal. The latter, with its impossibly long iridescent green tail, can be spotted in Monteverde Cloudforest Preserve and in Los Quetzales National Park , especially from January through March. Up north, Caño Negro National Wildlife Refuge hosts millions of birds as they arrive to winter over from December to April. The dry season is also a good time to visit Palo Verde National Park and spot such species as the roseate spoonbill, white ibis, and the endangered jabiru stork.

Visitors can see Costa Rican wildlife at Manuel Antonio National Park and the Osa Peninsula.

Courtesy of Adrián Valverde/Unpslash

The best time to visit Costa Rica for wildlife watching

• Best months: July–August, May–November

You can spot monkeys, sloths, and the raccoon-like coatimundis year-round. Fans of sea turtles will want their visit to coincide with the arrivadas , when thousands of turtles come ashore to lay their eggs in the sand. On the Caribbean coast, nesting is most active in July and August. Meanwhile, on the Pacific coast, commune with enormous leatherback turtles at Las Baulas National Marine Park or olive ridleys at Ostional National Wildlife Refuge; nesting is at its peak during the rainy season from May through November.

Cocos Island National Park is one of the best places for underwater exploration—but you’ll need to book passage on a live-aboard scuba diving boat to access the area’s abundant sea life.

Photo by Ethan Daniels/Shutterstock

The best time to visit Costa Rica for snorkeling and scuba

• Best months: December–April, September–October

Although diving can be good year-round, Costa Rica’s west coast has the best visibility from December through April. Calm and secluded bays are your best bet for snorkeling from shore; try Playa Bassey or Playa Penca in Northern Guanacaste or Manuel Antonio on the Central Pacific. If you want to venture farther into the water, Isla del Caño, a biological reserve off the Osa Peninsula, is one of the best spots in the country for reef fish, sea turtles, rays, and sharks.

Unlike the rest of the country, the Caribbean coast tends to be dry in September and October, which means better visibility. Visit Cahuita National Park for sea life here, which includes blue parrotfish, sea horses, rays, and reef sharks.

To learn about ancient Indigenous civilizations in Costa Rica, visit the Guayabo National Monument.

Photo by Marco Lissoni/Shutterstock

The best time to visit Costa Rica for experiencing Indigenous culture

• Best months: Year-round

Learning about Indigenous culture can be enjoyed at any time. Head southeast to the Caribbean beach town of Puerto Viejo, where native Cabécar, Bribrí, and Kèköldi guides give tours of their ancestral homelands, teaching visitors about the natural history of the area, as well as about the food, customs, and culture of their communities. ATEC is a well-respected ecotourism company that can arrange such visits. (August to October provide nicer weather for these tours.)

If you’ll be in Costa Rica around New Year’s, make time to see the Boruca’s Dance of the Devils , a ritual reenactment of the Spanish Conquest. Dancers wear elaborate wooden masks thought to bestow the power to fight the evil of the Spanish invaders.

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When is the best time to visit Costa Rica?

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The best time to visit Costa Rica is between December and April, when the weather is at its driest and brightest. We’d also recommend traveling in the country’s green season, from May to June or in November. This is when you catch the seasons in transition, and the national parks are quieter.

Costa Rica’s wildlife is hard to rival and a key attraction of the country, as long as you miss September and October’s heavier rainfall. It’s a tropical country, so you should be prepared for rain at any time of year, even in the dry season. It’s this rainfall that makes Costa Rica so lush and beautiful.

Average temperatures are consistent across the year, with highs between 74°F and 79°F, and lows between 59°F and 63°F.

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Month-by-month guide for traveling in Costa Rica

Visiting Costa Rica in January - April

Costa Rica’s high season brings the least amount of prolonged rainfall; though tropical showers are always to be expected in a country with such plentiful rainforest. This season brings many visitors, particularly in January and over Easter, with busier national parks and beaches but wonderful conditions for viewing wildlife, trying adventure activities and relaxing on jungle-fringed coastlines.

Visiting Costa Rica in May - June

The official start of Costa Rica’s ‘green season’. While rainfall does indeed become more frequent, this is still interspersed with plenty of warm sunshine; particularly in the Central Valley, Caribbean Coast and Northern Pacific. National parks are quieter, so you can spend longer periods observing the wildlife without interruptions. Surfers will also enjoy this time of year, with increasing swells on the country’s best surfing beaches.

Visiting Costa Rica in July - August

Rainfall is increasing, but this does not deter all visitors; particularly those with school-age children heading to Costa Rica to enjoy its wealth of adventure activities. This is also a great time to see green sea turtles on the coastline of the Tortuguero National Park , and the beginning of whale watching season around Dominical . For those looking for some beach time, sunshine can still be found on the far northern Pacific coast, which receives the lowest year-round rainfall in Costa Rica.

Visiting Costa Rica in September - October

This is the height of Costa Rica’s wet season and travel is not recommended. Prolonged heavy rainfall makes wildlife spotting challenging, while roads will be muddy and sometimes impassable due to higher river crossings or landslides, making exploration beyond the main highways difficult.

Visiting Costa Rica in November - December

The end of the heavy rains can be difficult to predict, with some heavy rain still to be expected until the end of November, but by mid-December the worst will certainly be over.

Costa Rica Climate Guide

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Best Time to Visit Costa Rica in 2024

Boasting incredible wildlife, lush rainforests, impressive volcanoes, and stunning coastlines – Costa Rica makes the perfect playground for outdoor and nature lovers. Whether you’re looking to learn how to surf or go hiking high up between the clouds, there are lots of great things to do in this diverse country. But what time of the year is the best time to visit Costa Rica? Discover when this tropical paradise sees fewer crowds, what activities to do each season, and when it’s most affordable time to travel to Costa Rica.

What is the Weather like in Costa Rica?

Costa Rica is a beautiful lush country in Central America that’s known for its tropical climate, with temperatures ranging between 22 – 28 °C throughout the whole year. 

The Central Valley has a perpetual spring climate with damp jungle and cloud forests, the perfect home base for Costa Rica’s incredible wildlife. In the evenings and high up in the mountains, temperatures cool down, dropping to a minimum of 15 °C. 

There are two distinct seasons in Costa Rica; the rainy season and the dry season. During each period, you can choose from different activities, making this an incredible country to visit anytime in the year. 

Also read: the complete 2-week Costa Rica itinerary

Rainy Season 

Filled with lush jungles and beautiful green scenery, Costa Rica heavily relies on rainfall in order to thrive.

• The rainy season in Costa Rica, also known as the Green season, runs from May through November . The transition is gradual, with showers starting in May and picking up in June. 
• The rainiest areas during this period are the central mountains, volcanoes, and the southern Pacific coast. The average annual rainfall is over 5000 mm here! 
• While rainfall does become more frequent during these months, the days still get plenty of warm sunshine. Especially the mornings are sunny, with afternoon storms later in the day. 
• Roads are susceptible to landslides and flooding, so it’s important to ask locals about the road conditions before heading out. A 4WD vehicle is not necessary unless you’re traveling to the country’s more rural areas. Read more about driving in Costa Rica .
• National parks such as those around La Fortuna and Monteverde are much quieter during the rainy season. This allows you to spend longer periods observing the stunning wildlife without any interruptions.

• Generally, the dry season in Costa Rica runs from December through April , with March and April being the hottest months. 
• Expect sunny skies, lesser clouds, and little rainfall during this period, with warm temperatures reaching up to 30 °C – perfect for spending time on the beach. 
• This is also the busiest and most expensive time in Costa Rica, with lots of people visiting from all over the world.
• Areas become much drier, but there are still plenty of beautiful views to discover during this time of the year.

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High and Low Season 

The busiest time to visit Costa Rica is between mid-December and April, when the country has drier and sunnier days. This period brings in many visitors, spending their time in popular national parks and beach destinations such as Manuel Antonio . Accommodations fill up faster, and rental agencies sell out of vehicles quicker, meaning you might have to book months in advance.

Over the years, the shoulder season has also seen an influx in tourism, with more people visiting between late June and August.

If you’re planning to rent a car in Costa Rica, we recommend using  Sunny Cars  because all insurances needed are included in the price  displayed on their website . No hidden costs.

Christmas and New Year’s

With its warm weather and beautiful scenery, Costa Rica makes the perfect winter getaway for foreign visitors looking to escape the cold. Because of this, the country is one of the most popular destinations to visit during the holiday season. 

Between December and January, especially around Christmas and New Year’s, prices and crowds are at their peak. This means that you’ll likely pay top dollar for flights and accommodations during this time. It’s, therefore, better to visit a couple of weeks later when crowds thin and prices drop.

Check here if you need a visa to enter Costa Rica

Best Time to Visit Costa Rica 

Though the country has different seasons, each with its qualities, there’s really no bad time to visit Costa Rica . There are less expensive times to visit, periods with less rain, and different activities in each season: all factors that can make up your mind about when to visit the country. 

Whether it’s hiking through incredible national parks in the shadow of a volcano, surfing on the gentle waves in front of white sandy beaches, or spotting Costa Rica’s impressive wildlife, there are plenty of things to do throughout the year.

Book this popular La Fortuna canyoning tour!

Best Months to Visit Costa Rica for Nature & Waterfalls

Costa Rica is covered in beautiful nature, from dense cloud forests to differently-colored beaches and powerful waterfalls. Nothing tops walking under the rainforest’s canopy, listening to all the jungle sounds as the clouds slowly drift between the greenery. 

Hike conditions are the best during the high season because of favorable weather. The trails are generally dry during this period and fewer close due to landslides or floods. Most waterfalls will still flow but aren’t as powerful as they can be once the rain comes in. 

If you’re visiting between May and November, nature appears lush and green, and waterfalls are at their fullest, plummeting down with a powerful force. Though roads are muddier and rainfall is more frequent, this is still a good time to visit Costa Rica to go hiking.

Read: The complete guide for the Rio Celeste waterfalls in Costa Rica

Best Time to Visit Costa Rica for Surfing

Known as one of the top surfing destinations in the world, Costa Rica has become a hot spot for surfers, especially beginners. With 1200 KM of coastline and popular surf towns such as Santa Teresa , you’ll have plenty of opportunities to practice the sport. 

While it’s possible to surf year-round, if you’re an intermediate to advanced surfer looking for big waves, the best time to visit Costa Rica is between June and September. Swells are then at their highest along the north Pacific coast, but you can avoid the heavy rains that typically come in October. 

If you’re a beginner looking to learn the sport, visit in the drier months of December – April. This period has smaller waves but brings in plenty of wind to keep you cool during the hot summer afternoons. 

Best Time to Visit for Beaches and Relaxation

Costa Rica makes a fantastic summer beach destination, with soft black and white sandy coastlines on both sides of the country. Average daytime temperatures range between 28 – 30 degrees, cooling only slightly in the evenings.

Between December and March, the country (especially the northern Pacific region) becomes far less humid and experiences less rain. The ocean also gets calm, clear, and inviting for a swim or surf session.

Though the seasons along the Pacific Coast are more well-defined, the Caribbean coast tends to be less predictable when it comes to the weather. Nevertheless, both sides are well worth a visit on your Costa Rica itinerary during either season. 

Read more: 12 best beaches in Costa Rica

Spotting Wildlife

If you’re looking to catch a glimpse of Costa Rica’s vibrant sea life, such as sea turtles and whales, there are a few different times you can visit. 

Between December and March, you can witness humpback whales migrating from the north along Costa Rica’s Pacific coast. You can spot them again migrating from the south between July and October. Costa Rica also sees five out of seven species of sea turtles, and nesting is in full swing on the beaches during the rainy season! 

• On the Pacific coast, olive ridley turtles nest in large numbers between August and November. Baby turtles are spotted from October through January. 
• On the southern Caribbean coast, leatherback turtles nest from March through June, and babies can be seen from May – July. 
• Along the coastline of Tortuguero National Park , you’ll be able to see green sea turtles. They nest from July to September, and baby turtles hatch between August and November.

The Best Months to Visit Costa Rica for the Fewest Crowds

The best time to visit Costa Rica is during the green season, with quieter beaches, waterfalls with fewer visitors, and more accommodation options. Group sizes are also much smaller during this time, with fewer hotel guests and less noise in general.

Around mid-April, the peak tourist season wraps up, and crowds start to thin. But, the weather tends to remain relatively dry, making it a good time to visit for fewer crowds. Between October and early December is the least busy time of the year to visit Costa Rica. This is, however, also the peak and tail end of the green season, which comes with more frequent rainfall.

Tip: Costa Rica is a popular destination for families, so school holidays such as spring break, summer vacation, and winter holidays are peak tourist times.

Cheapest Time to Travel to Costa Rica

Sometimes referred to as the Switzerland of Central America, Costa Rica is known to be a more expensive destination within this part of the world. Especially during the high/holiday season, which coincides with the drier months, accommodation and vehicle rental prices surge.

Because of this, the cheapest time to travel to Costa Rica is in the green season during May, June, September, October, and November. During this time, accommodation prices are at their lowest, and flights to Costa Rica are much more affordable. On top of that, you’ll also be rewarded with the lush scenery that emerges during the country’s rainy period. 

Budget tip!  The currency in Costa Rica is Colones. Save on exchange fees by converting your own local currency to Colones with a  Wise card . You can use this card to withdraw Colones from the ATM in Costa Rica or pay by card at most shops. Some restaurants charge USD by default, but it will significantly affect the total bill if you ask them to charge Colones.  Get a Wise card here; it’s free!

Best Months to Visit Costa Rica Overall

Though every month in Costa Rica offers its own rewards, the very best time to visit Costa Rica is from late April to early May. During this time, the seasons transition from dry to rainy, and the landscape becomes incredibly lush and vibrant. 

Although there’s some rainfall, this doesn’t persist all day, leaving plenty of room for spotting wildlife and relaxing on the beaches. Tourism also drops, with smaller crowds and more affordable prices for tours, accommodations, and flights.

Do I Need Insurance to Visit Costa Rica? 

No matter how long you’re traveling or what you plan to do on your Costa Rica itinerary, we recommend purchasing single-trip travel insurance. The country itself is safe, though unforeseen circumstances can happen – such as an injury while surfing in Puerto Viejo or a canceled flight while standing at the San Jose airport. 

It’s something you hope you’ll never need but can save you from a massive headache in case you do. Because of this, we use HeyMondo for all of our trips. They also have 24/7 doctors available in their app for all your questions. 

Travel Insurance Don't forget a travel insurance for your Costa Rica trip! Heymondo covers medical emergencies, theft, delays, cancellations, lost luggage, and more, with 24/7 worldwide assistance and medical chat. As a Salt in our Hair reader, we've got you 5% off! Check Heymondo here

Do I Need a Visa for Costa Rica?

Most passport holders do not need a visa to enter Costa Rica. However, a valid passport and a ticket are required to prove that you will exit the country within 90 days. 

Check here if you need a visa to enter

Top Tips for Costa Rica

• Even if you’re visiting in the dry season, rainstorms can hit unpredictably. Therefore, it’s always a good idea to be prepared with weatherproof clothing and equipment such as raincoats and waterproof bags. 
• Costa Rica lies close to the equator, meaning it’s got powerful sun, even during the rainy periods. Make sure to wear reef-safe sunscreen , a hat, and cover up with clothing. 
• Though the country is known for its wildlife, such as monkeys and sea turtles, always keep a respectful distance.  
• Bring your non-toxic mosquito repellent! Mosquitos and sandflies are common in Costa Rica, especially during the wetter months and in more humid areas.

Where to Stay in Costa Rica

From beach huts with views over turquoise waters in Uvita to lodges in La Fortuna , only a short distance away from powerful waterfalls, there are many incredible accommodation options in Costa Rica. 

• San Jose:  Casa 69 ,  Grano de Oro Hotel , and  Escalante Hostel
• Puerto Viejo:  Le Cameleon ,  Shawandha Lodge , and  Pagalu Hostel
• Tortuguero:  Mawamba Lodge  and  All Rankins Lodge
• La Fortuna:  Casa Luna ,  Sangregado Lodge , and  Poshpacker Hostel
• Monteverde:  Los Pinos Lodge ,  Chira Glamping , and  Outbox Hostel
• Santa Teresa:  Lua Villas ,  Somos
• Manuel Antonio:  The Falls Hotel  and  Teva Hostel
• Uvita:  Seren Glamping ,  Karandi Hostel , and  Uvita Paradise

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Tortuguero National Park: 6 Best Things To Do (Costa Rica)

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When Is the Best Time to Go to Costa Rica?

While December through April is the most common target timeframe (based on the weather), January and February are quite possibly the most favorable times to travel to Costa Rica if you’re looking to avoid the rainy season and holiday/spring break crowds.

However, your time of year to visit mostly depends on what you’d like to see, what your budget is, and when you have time to travel. Visiting from May to November offers lower prices and occasional rain (but still plenty of sunshine).

Temperatures are typically between 75° and 82° year-round. It all depends on your goals for your trip, whether that be targeting the best weather or the best prices.

There are three primary travel seasons in Costa Rica based on weather: high/peak season, shoulder season and green/low season. Each season will affect the availability and price of lodging, types of activities available, festivals, and other events. Keep this in mind when planning your itinerary , whether it be a family trip , a honeymoon , or an adventure vacation where you have specific destinations and activities in mind.

Everyone should visit the rainforest on their trip, and you should expect some rain when going on excursions. It’s only natural! We recommend that you review the weather patterns and climate zones throughout Costa Rica. Travelers looking to avoid the rain as much as possible should plan their trips according to the appropriate weather patterns and seasons. It’s best to let itinerary designers guide your decisions.

Visiting Costa Rica During the Dry Season & Spring Break

The dry season (and tourist peak season) in Costa Rica begins around the United States Thanksgiving holiday, in late November. The peak tourist season lasts from mid to late April (spring break in the US). The summer or dry season tends to begin in January and extends into April.

The tourism’s peak season schedule is driven by school vacation schedules so that the entire family can travel together. It also happens to be right around the time that people from up north are seeking warmer, summer-like conditions. Aside from mid-November through December, this time frame coincides with summer (the “dry season”) in Costa Rica, which for the most part means a lot less rain during your travels through the country.

The weather for the last couple of weeks in November and the month of December can be hard to predict. There are years when the rain is prevalent and others when the sunshine dominates. While this time of the year is considered to be part of the summer season, it’s necessary to understand that the weather can be unpredictable during the end of November and the beginning of December. You must be prepared for both rain and sunshine.

Visiting Costa Rica During the Rainy Season

The months of September into December tend to be wet and rainy throughout most of Costa Rica. The Guanacaste region, along with the Pacific Coast and Central Valley, tends to experience wetter days. While the sunshine does come out, mostly in the mornings, this is the best time of the year to take a budget-friendly trip to Costa Rica. Not only are the prices lower, but there are fewer travelers here.

Contrary to the rest of Costa Rica, the Caribbean Coast experiences gorgeous weather during the months of September and October. The lesser-visited Caribbean or ‘Limon’ Coast has sunny skies, calm blue waters, and scorching hot temperatures during these two months and tends to be the location of choice for those visiting at this time of the year. A trip through the mountains of the Caribbean slope to the coast during these two months is one of the best-kept secrets and offers travelers an alternative to the rain.

Visiting Costa Rica and its magnificent ecotourism attractions during the green season can be a wonderful experience. Rivers run higher, the rainforest becomes a little more mystical, and even Guanacaste’s dry forests turn green and lush. During this season, throughout most of the country, it rains at nearly the same time every day. For this reason, planning activities and outings are highly possible.

Driving can sometimes be difficult during the green season due to the lack of bridges and poor road conditions. Many of the more unkempt roads can become nearly impassable, although a professionally designed itinerary combined with professional transportation services can help you reduce the probability of getting stuck.

Visiting Costa Rica During the Shoulder Season

Costa Rica’s shoulder or “green season”, is the third season within the travel industry, and it is a wonderful time of year to travel. This term is currently used to refer to the timeframe from May through mid-August. Generally speaking, this time of year coincides with the summer vacation for schools in the United States and Canada.

June and July are very busy months with family vacations and student travel groups. May and August tend to be less busy, attracting visitors who have flexibility with their travel dates.

The typical weather pattern during these months consists of morning sunshine into the early afternoon. The sun gives way to clouds and tropical thunderstorms in the afternoon and evening. These storms can pass through an area rather quickly, other times they can stay into the night. A full day of sunshine and/or a full day of rain is not out of the question either but is not normal during these months.

The ‘green season’ offers a great blend of the summer and rainy season and while you should expect rain, you should get your fair share of sunshine as well.

Month-by-Month Breakdown

Here is a breakdown of what it will be like in Costa Rica by month. This insight will help you in your research, but you can also contact us for one-on-one help with planning your trip.

January is the first truly dry month of the Costa Rican dry season. The first half of the month is also great from the perspective of weather but it tends to be somewhat crowded and peak season surcharges can make the first week one of the most expensive all year. The second half of January is one of the most popular times for a Costa Rica vacation. Learn more.

February is the heart of the dry season for Costa Rica’s Pacific beaches & Central Valley (San José, Alajuela, etc.) There is almost no rain in the western and central regions of Costa Rica. In February, visitors will experience sunny & hot weather – perfect for your mid-winter Costa Rica Escape. When the rain comes, it typically showers in the afternoon, evening or overnight. The chance of rain on the Caribbean side is still fairly high; however, this region of the country still receives plenty of sunshine, too. Many say that February is a great month for a trip. Learn more.

March falls right in the middle of Costa Rica’s dry season. This is also the month for Spring Break in the United States, which means you may notice lots of family vacations and student group trips through Costa Rica. During the month of March, travelers can expect plenty of sun, very low amounts of rain, and a drier climate overall.

Sometimes, in Guanacaste, there can be small forest fires that release smoke into the air. In other regions, many trees are flowering, resulting in an amazing “color-changing” season for visitors. Learn more.

April is pushing towards the end of the Costa Rican dry season. Temperatures are ideal throughout the country in April; very hot & sunny on the beaches with slightly cooler temperatures in the mountains and the central valley where San José is located. What little rain falls usually comes in the afternoon, evening or overnight. Many travelers are surprised to find that Guanacaste’s Pacific Northwest region looks more like a desert than a jungle. Learn more.

May is the beginning of the “shoulder season” which means the weather is changing from dry to rainy in Costa Rica and the weather is a bit more unpredictable. As you might guess, the weather starts out dry but by late May rainy season weather patterns are in greater effect. Especially with Costa Rica’s weather, there’s no way to predict this precisely. The rains begin earlier on the Caribbean coast, where it is generally wetter all year round, except during the Caribbean summer in September and October. May is a great transition period for travelers as they return to school after Spring Break but before summer vacation. The beaches and lowlands experience high temperatures, while mid-elevations, like the Central Valley & San José, are 5-10 degrees cooler. Temperatures at high elevations (such as Monteverde and Chirripó ) can be 20 or even 30 degrees cooler. Learn more.

June is a transition month for the weather in Costa Rica, but it is considered part of the “green season”. The majority of the rain showers in June fall in the afternoon, evening or overnight. There is plenty of sunshine in the mornings and the beaches are excellent early in the day. This month tends to be a busier month for travelers due to summer vacation schedules in the United States and Europe. Once again, you can expect to see many Costa Rica family vacations & volunteer groups traveling through Costa Rica in June. In June the rainy season usually hits the Caribbean a little earlier than the Pacific. Learn more.

July is smack-dab, right in the middle of Costa Rica’s rainy season. However, during July, Costa Rica experiences a short mid-year, mini-dry season. This “veranillo” or “little summer” as it is called in Costa Rica, typically takes place sometime between mid to late July and the beginning of August. Rainfall decreases significantly for three or four weeks especially in the northern Pacific and is replaced by endless sunshine and impressive sunsets. The entire month of July is a great time to visit, with hot sunny days to enjoy the beach and afternoon and evening rains to cool off so that you can enjoy the evening. Due to student travel & school schedules, there are still numerous Costa Rica family vacations taking place at this time of the year. Learn more.

August is in the middle of the rainy season but there is a lull in the rain at the end of July and the beginning of August. This is especially true in Guanacaste. The Caribbean side is solidly in the rainy season weather pattern with some rain nearly every afternoon and/or evening. August is a great time of year in Costa Rica if you have some flexibility in your schedule. August tends to be a quieter month and there are often deals to be found throughout the country, which can be great for honeymoon vacations where couples want a more relaxed atmosphere, don’t mind a little precipitation and are on a budget. Learn more.

September & October

September and October are very rainy months in Costa Rica, specifically on the western side of the country and through the mountain ranges. Expect rain if exploring the beaches on the Pacific coast and  also the Central Valley. There will oftentimes be mornings filled with sunshine that succumb to rain later in the day, so mornings are ideal for outdoor activities. Extensive rainfalls and windy conditions are common in the Osa Peninsula and Southern Pacific coastal areas. During this time, lodging and tourist activities are often suspended until Thanksgiving timeframe. The Caribbean side of the country gets a break in September and October. These months generally bring clear weather especially in the southern Atlantic beach areas of Cahuita , Puerto Viejo , and Manzanillo . Learn more about the months of September and October .

The weather in November is a roll of the dice. In an average year, the northern and central beaches, as well as the mountains, will get significant rainfall on most days. They typically enjoy a pattern of sunny mornings and days with most of the showers in the afternoon or evening. Early in the month the southern Pacific and the Osa Peninsula are still quite rainy. Lodges and tour operators that have shut down during the exceptionally wet months of September and October resume operations as the weather begins to dry towards the end of the month. The end of November and the United States holiday of Thanksgiving begins another busy travel season. Learn more.

December is another transitional month for weather and it is quite unpredictable. The Central Valley usually enjoys the crisp freshness of the “vientos navideños” or “Christmas winds” starting in early December. The month begins slowly with lower prices and low hotel occupancy. The first two weeks of December are a great time to enjoy Costa Rica all to yourself. By the holidays, the high season has begun, hotels have a tendency to sell out at very high, peak season prices and excursions and adventures are fully booked. Learn more.

Visiting Costa Rica During the Holidays

The super-high season for tourism has little to do with the weather in Costa Rica, but more with demand in the country based on vacation schedules for foreigners and visitors.

The two to three weeks around Christmas & New Year’s are extremely busy for the travel industry in Costa Rica. Oftentimes demand exceeds supply during this timeframe and people who start their planning later are left with few or no options for their trip. For this reason alone, if you want to plan a Christmas vacation or New Year’s Trip – start early! Easter Break or Semana Santa also experiences a bustle, but for the most part, super-peak season encompasses the holiday break in December & January. In general, visiting during the high and super-high seasons means that prices will be higher; however, much of the pricing compares favorably to many other tropical tourist destinations throughout the world during this time period, such as Hawaii.

Many hotels, activities, and points of interest might be slightly more crowded, but Costa Rica has a plethora of amazing tour options to choose from within close proximity no matter where you are in the country. In many cases, certain parks or attractions limit the number of visitors allowed to avoid an overcrowded or unenjoyable experience or for conservation purposes.  

So, When Should You Plan Your Trip?

We can answer that question in so many different ways! It all depends on what you envision for your dream vacation in Costa Rica. We at Costa Rica Escapes are experts when it comes to enjoying this beautiful country, so let us help you plan the perfect trip at the perfect time for you.

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The best time to visit Costa Rica is between mid-December and April , but it all depends on what you want to get out of your trip. If you want beach days and outdoor adventures, then the dry season December to April is the obvious answer. That said, this is the most popular time to visit, which means busy coastal resorts and higher prices.

Best months to visit Costa Rica

Costa rica peak season, costa rica rainy season, costa rica dry season, best time of year for turtle-spotting, average temperature and rainfall, festivals and holidays in costa rica.

The best time to visit Costa Rica is from mid-December to April. The dry season boasts plenty of sunshine, making it an ideal time for wildlife-spotting, lounging on Costa Rica's best beaches and outdoor activities like hiking, kayaking and white water rafting.

If you can, try to avoid peak season (the North American winter months). This is the most popular (and expensive) time to travel to Costa Rica . If you travel, then, you should weigh up the weather against the cost and the crowds. Bear in mind that you’ll have to book accommodation around three months in advance to secure a room

If you don't mind getting a little wet, visit Costa Rica between May and November when accommodation prices are low. Rain showers pause during June and July, offering a brief window for wildlife-spotting. Travellers keen to head off the beaten track should avoid September and October . This is when the rain is at its heaviest and the remote areas are inaccessible by road.

Tips from Roberto

Costa Rica Travel Expert

"Explore Costa Rica's hidden gem, the 'veranillo,' or little summer, in July or early August. This brief, beautiful season offers sunny days and cool evenings, perfect for experiencing the country's vibrant wildlife and serene beaches without the crowds. It's a unique window to enjoy Costa Rica's lush landscapes and tranquillity." 

Make sure to visit the beaches in Cape Uvita ©Shutterstock

The best months to visit Costa Rica are November, April (after Easter) and May, when the rains have either just started or just died off, and the country is refreshed, green and relatively untouristy. But that does not mean you can't visit Costa Rica in other months.

Weather in Costa Rica in January

The weather in Costa Rica in January is typically warm and humid, with average temperatures ranging from the low 80s to the mid 80s Fahrenheit (27-29°C) during the day and the low 70s to mid 70s at night (22-24°C). Coastal areas like Nicoya tend to be more humid, while the central valley has a more mild climate. January is considered the dry season in many parts of the country, although rain is still possible in some regions.

Read more about the weather in Costa Rica in January .

Weather in Costa Rica in February

February weather in Costa Rica is generally similar to January, with warm and humid conditions prevailing throughout the country. The dry season continues in most parts of the country, although some areas may experience occasional rain showers. Overall, February is the best time to visit Costa Rica for those who enjoy warm and tropical weather.

Read more about the weather in Costa Rica in February .

Weather in Costa Rica in March

The weather in Costa Rica in March is warm and humid, with average temperatures ranging from the low 80s to the high 80s Fahrenheit (27-30°C) during the day and the low 70s to mid 70s at night (22-24°C). This is the transition period between the dry season and the rainy season, so some parts of the country may experience occasional rain showers, while other areas remain relatively dry. Coastal regions tend to be more humid, while the central valley has a milder climate.

Read more about the weather in Costa Rica in March .

Costa Rica Sunset at Manuel Antonio Antonio National Park ©Shutterstock

Weather in Costa Rica in April

In April, the weather in Costa Rica begins to shift as the rainy season starts in many parts of the country. Average temperatures range from the low 80s to the high 80s Fahrenheit (27-30°C) during the day and the low 70s to mid 70s at night (22-24°C). Coastal regions tend to be more humid. Rain is more frequent in April, especially in the afternoons, so you should be prepared for some wet weather. However, it is still possible to have sunny and warm days as well.

Read more about the weather in Costa Rica in April .

Weather in Costa Rica in May

The weather in Costa Rica in May is warm and humid, with average temperatures similar to April. This is the heart of the rainy season in many parts of the country, so you should expect frequent rain, especially in the afternoons. Despite the rain, May is the best time to visit Costa Rica if you enjoy lush and green landscapes like in Monteverde .

Read more about the weather in Costa Rica in May .

• Weather in Costa Rica in June

This is the height of the rainy season in many parts of the country, so be prepared for some heavy rains, just like May. Coastal regions tend to be more humid, while the central valley has a milder climate. It’s a great time for adventure seekers, with activities such as rafting and kayaking or hiking the Arenal volcano .

Read more about the weather in Costa Rica in June .

Arenal volcano ©Shutterstock

Weather in Costa Rica in July

July is still part of the rainy season in Costa Rica, so you can expect warm and humid conditions with frequent rains. Average temperatures range from the low 80s to the high 80s Fahrenheit (27-30°C) during the day and the low 70s to mid 70s at night (22-24°C). Coastal regions tend to be more humid, while the central valley has a milder climate. If you are looking for lush and green landscapes and activities such as rafting and kayaking, this is your month.

Read more about the weather in Costa Rica in July .

• Weather in Costa Rica in August

In August, the weather in Costa Rica is still warm and humid. This is still the rainy season in many parts of the country, so you should expect frequent rain, especially in the afternoons. Also, keep in mind that July and August are typical holiday months for European travellers, so expect higher prices and a bit more crowds. Despite the rain, August can still be a good time to visit Costa Rica.

Read more about the weather in Costa Rica in August .

Weather in Costa Rica in September

September marks the transition between the rainy season and the dry season in Costa Rica. This means that you can expect a mix of sunny and warm days, as well as occasional rain showers. Average temperatures range from the low 80s to the high 80s Fahrenheit (27-30°C) during the day and the low 70s to mid 70s at night (22-24°C). September is the best time to visit Costa Rica if you enjoy warm and tropical weather and are not bothered by the occasional rain shower.

Read more about the weather in Costa Rica in September .

The famous hanging bridge in Monteverde © Shutterstock

Weather in Costa Rica in October

October is the beginning of the dry season, which is the best time to visit Costa Rica, in many parts of the country, so you can expect sunny and warm weather, with occasional rain showers. Next to that, you visit Costa Rica just before the high season which usually starts in December.

Read more about the weather in Costa Rica in October .

Weather in Costa Rica in November

November is the heart of the dry season in many parts of the country, so expect mostly sunny and warm weather, with occasional rain showers. Just like October, this is a perfect month to avoid the crowds that are coming in in December.

Read more about the weather in Costa Rica in November .

Weather in Costa Rica in December

Expect mostly sunny and warm weather, with occasional rain showers. December can be a great time to visit Costa Rica if you enjoy warm and tropical weather, as well as for outdoor activities such as hiking, surfing, and wildlife viewing. Additionally, this is a peak travel season for many tourists, so visitors should plan accordingly and book accommodations in advance. December is also a great time to see whales in Uvita .

Read more about the weather in Costa Rica in December .

Areal view on Manuel Antonio National Park ©Shutterstock

Costa Rica is generally booked solid during the peak season, between December and April , when bargains are few and far between. The crowds peter out after Easter, but return again to an extent in July and August. Travellers who prefer to play it by ear are much better off coming during the low or rainy season (euphemistically called the “green season”) when many hotels offer discounts. The months of November, April (after Easter) and May are the best times to visit, when the rains have either just started or just died off, and the country is re-freshed, green and relatively untouristy.

The rainy season in Costa Rica runs roughly from May to mid-Novomber . The weather in Costa Rica usually gives way to afternoon rains and sunny mornings. The rains are heaviest in September and October and, although they can be fierce, will impede you from travelling only in the more remote areas of the country – the Nicoya Peninsula especially – where dirt roads become impassable to all but the sturdiest 4WDs.

In the dry season (roughly mid-Nov to April), the weather in Costa Rica is mostly just that: dry all day, with occasional blustery northern winds blowing in during January or February and cooling

Five species of marine turtle visit Costa Rica’s shores: greens, hawksbills, leatherbacks and olive ridleys, and the strange blunt-nosed loggerhead. The loggerhead seems not to nest in Costa Rica, but can sometimes be seen in Caribbean coastal waters.

Turtle nesting takes place mostly at night, when hundreds of turtles come ashore at a certain time of year. The turtles tend to visit the same beach each time and lay hundreds of thousands of eggs.

The best time of year to visit Costa Rica for turtle-spotting varies, depending on the species. Loggerhead turtles come ashore at Marino Las Baulas National Park on the western Nicoya Peninsula from October to February . Alternatively, you can see them at Tortuguero National Park and Gandoca-Manzanillo Wildlife Reserve from March to May.

A little later in the year, from July to October , green turtles return to their favoured nesting grounds in Tortuguero, with some turtles travelling 2000km to reach their breeding beaches. Hawksbills also come ashore at beaches in Tortuguero, Santa Rosa and Marino Ballena.

Just a few beaches along the Pacific coast, principally Playa Nancite in Santa Rosa and Ostional Wildlife Reserve, olive ridleys storm the sands in their thousands – unusually, often during the day. This event is known as an arribada, and it lasts from July up until November.

We've put together an average temperature and rainfall chart to help give you a rough idea of what to expect of the weather in Costa Rica in any given month. We've looked at three of the country's most popular areas - each very different - to help you get an overall picture: San José , the capital, in the mid-west of the Central Valley; Tortuguero on Costa Rica’s Caribbean coast; and Manuel Antonio on the central Pacific coast.

In the wet season (roughly May to mid-November), you can expect sunny mornings and afternoon rains.

Though you shouldn’t expect the kind of colour and verve that you’ll find in fiestas in Mexico or Guatemala, Costa Rica has its fair share of lively holidays and festivals, or feriados, when all banks, post offices, museums and government offices close. In particular, don’t try to travel anywhere during Semana Santa, Holy (Easter) Week: the whole country shuts down from Holy Thursday until after Easter Monday, and buses don’t run. Likewise, the week from Christmas to New Year is invariably a time of traffic nightmares, overcrowded beach towns and suspended transport services.

Provincial holidays, such as Independence Day in Guanacaste (July 25) and the Limón carnival (the week preceding Oct 12) affect local services only, but nonetheless the shutdown is drastic: don’t bet on cashing travellers’ cheques or mailing letters if you’re in these areas at party time.

• January 1 New Year’s Day. Celebrated with a big dance in San José’s Parque Central.
• January Fiesta de Palmares. Two weeks of dancing, music and horse parades in the small town of Palmares.
• February Puntarenas Carnival. A week of parades, music and fireworks at the end of the month.
• February/March Monteverde Music Fest. National and international musicians gather in the cloud forest town for a month of song and dance.
• March 19 El Día de San José (St Joseph’s Day). The patron saint of the San José Province is celebrated with fairs, parades and church services.
• Ash Wednesday Countrywide processions; in Guanacaste, they’re marked by horse, cow and bull parades, with bullfights (in which the bull is not harmed) in Liberia.
• Holy Week (Semana Santa) Dates vary annually, but businesses will often close for the entire week preceding Easter weekend.
• April International Arts festival. San José plays host to two weeks of theatre shows, concerts, dance performances and art exhibitions.
• April 11 El Día de Juan Santamaría. Public holiday to commemorate the national hero who fought at the Battle of Rivas against the American adventurer William Walker in 1856.
• May 1 El Día del Trabajo (Labour Day). The president delivers her annual “state of the nation” address while everyone else heads to the beach.
• May 29 Corpus Christi Day.
• June 29 St Peter’s and St Paul’s Day.
• July Virgen del Mar (Virgin of the Sea). Elaborately decorated boats fill the Gulf of Nicoya on the Saturday nearest to the 16th, celebrating the patron saint of Puntarenas.
• July 25 El Día de Guanacaste (Guanacaste Province only). Celebrations mark the annexation of Guanacaste from Nicaragua in 1824.
• August 2 El Día de La Negrita (Virgin of Los Angeles Day). Worshippers make a pilgrimage to the basilica in Cartago to venerate the miraculous Black Virgin of Los Angeles (La Negrita), the patron saint of Costa Rica.
• August 15 Assumption Day and Mother’s Day.
• September 15 Independence Day, with big patriotic parades celebrating Costa Rica’s independence from Spain in 1821. The highlight is a student relay race across the entire Central American isthmus, carrying a “freedom torch” from Guatemala to Cartago (the original capital of Costa Rica).
• October 12 El Día de la Raza (Columbus Day; Limón Province only). Centred on the carnival, which takes place in the week prior to October 12.
• November 2 All Souls’ Day. Families visit cemeteries to pay their respects to their ancestors.
• Christmas Week The week before Christmas is celebrated in San José with fireworks, bullfights and funfairs.
• December 25 Christmas Day. Family-oriented celebrations with trips to the beach and much consumption of apples and grapes.
• December 27 San José Carnival. Huge parade with colourful floats and plenty of music.

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written by Ties Lagraauw

updated 01.04.2024

Ties is a true world explorer - whether it be for work or leisure! As Content Manager at RoughGuides, and the owner of Dutch travel platform Reis-Expert.nl , Ties is constantly on the move, always looking for new destinations to discover.

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THE JOURNAL

Travel Inspiration

The Best Time to Go to Costa Rica: A Month-by-Month Guide

The Modern Travel Agency

https://www.foratravel.com/the-journal/best-time-to-go-to-costa-rica

Want to know the best time to go to Costa Rica for your next escape? We’ve got you covered with a month-by-month breakdown, plus tons of when-to-travel-to-Costa-Rica FAQs — like when to check out Costa Rica’s beaches, wildlife and more. 

Want VIP treatment, hotel perks and expert travel recs? Book with Fora and you’ll unlock A+ perks at all the best places to stay in Costa Rica (for the same price as booking alone), along with personalized travel tips and suggestions that’ll take your trip to the next level.

When’s the best time to go to Costa Rica? First, you need to understand the country’s 3 distinct climates

Before we get into the nitty gritty of the best time to visit Costa Rica, it’s helpful to know the difference between the country’s three major regions. 

Region 1: The Pacific coast

Costa Rica’s sunny northern Pacific coast sees the bulk of the country’s tourism because the weather is glorious. This is especially true during the dry season, which runs from December to April for most of the coast. During this period, expect minimal cloud cover and rain, and temperatures ranging from the mid-70s to the low-90s — perfect for beach days. 

The rainy season runs from May to November, but this can still be a great time to visit Costa Rica. Most mornings are still sunny and temperate, with showers or storms mostly occurring in the afternoon. 

The southern half of Costa Rica’s Pacific coast, which includes the Osa Peninsula and Manuel Antonio National Park, is notably wetter throughout the year. But if you’re staying at a Costa Rica jungle resort , we find that the rain enhances the gorgeous rainforest experience.

Region 2: Central Valley & Highlands

If you’re looking for a breathtaking escape into nature, Costa Rica’s central regions — which include the Central Valley and Highlands — are an excellent destination almost any time of the year. Generally, these regions enjoy mild, spring-like temperatures all year. 

The rainy and dry seasons here loosely match the Pacific coast’s, but it’s worth noting that because of the central regions’ varying elevations, there’s a lot more variety in terms of humidity, rain and temperature.

Some of the coolest natural landmarks in Costa Rica are native to this region, like Arenal Volcano and the magical Monteverde biological preserve: a “cloud forest” marked by extremely low cloud cover and an almost smoky, ethereal appearance. 

Want to check out the Central Valley or Highlands for yourself? Connect with Fora to book and plan your Costa Rica vacation.

Region 3: The Caribbean coast

Known for its chill, bohemian vibe, Costa Rica’s Caribbean coast is for travelers who want to kick back and relax. The weather is a bit warmer on average, and it’s more humid. But it’s also stunningly beautiful and lush all year — because unlike the Pacific and central regions, Costa Rica’s Caribbean coast doesn’t have a true dry season.

It does rain slightly less here from February to April, but there’s a minimal difference. Despite the frequent rainfall, the Caribbean coast still offers beautiful beaches and unique wildlife encounters (like sea turtles!) so it’s every bit as worthy a destination as the other regions if you don’t mind a little rain during your trip. (Otherwise, the best time to go Costa Rica’s Caribbean coast is during early spring.)

Check out the best Caribbean Costa Rica resorts if you’re interested in staying in this gorgeous region.

When is Costa Rica’s rainy (or “green”) season?

Costa Rica’s rainy or “green” season runs from May to November in the Pacific and central regions, with the southern half of both regions receiving a bit more rain on average.

Rainfall is common throughout the year on the Caribbean coast, however. So if you want to avoid excessive rain, the best time to go to Costa Rica extends between December and May on the northwest Pacific coast.

The best time to go to Costa Rica: month-by-month breakdown

Here’s a month-by-month breakdown of the best times to go to Costa Rica.

January & February: the busiest months in Costa Rica

January and February are peak travel months in Costa Rica. The weather around the country is gorgeous, with less rain and comfortable temperatures. And because of the international crowd, Costa Rica nightlife hits a fever pitch. 

Several of the country’s coolest cultural festivals are held during these months, too, like las Fiestas de Palmeras and The Envision Festival , both of which vibrantly celebrate Costa Rica’s traditions.

Finally, the potential wildlife encounters during these months are particularly exciting. Tropical birds are at their most lively and humpback whales can be seen migrating north on the Pacific coast.

March & April: the hottest months on Costa Rica’s Pacific coast

March and April are only slightly less busy than January and February because many countries around the world are on spring break. 

The Pacific coast sees its hottest temperatures of the year (low 90s, on average), but this only makes beaches and rainforests more lovely to explore (or relax on). 

Connect with Fora for the lowdown on the coolest things to do this time of year in Costa Rica.

May, June, July & August: crowds and prices drop with the rainy season, but ecotourists and surfers can take advantage

May and June kick off the best time to go to Costa Rica if you want to avoid crowds and save a little money without sacrificing too much of what makes the country so awesome to visit. The rainy season is usually in full swing by early-to-mid May (except for along the Caribbean coast, where it rains regularly all year), so tourism sees a sharp decline over these four months.

If you’re interested in nature escapes and adventure, though, this is the best time of the year to visit Costa Rica because the rains bring a whole new level of greenery to the country’s rainforests and parks. As the rainy season reaches full blast, rivers and waterfalls create a magical atmosphere for sightseeing and watersports.

And speaking of watersports, ocean swells and fewer crowds create gnarly conditions for surfers of all skill levels. And these conditions only get better as summer progresses. 

In the meantime, check out these guides to a Costa Rica girls’ trip or a Costa Rica bachelorette trip for some inspiration. 

September & October: shoulder season & the best time to go to Costa Rica to see turtles

Travel to Costa Rica reaches a relative low in September and October but is no less incredible. You can generally find the best prices on accommodations ( connect with Fora to plan and book your stay) and experiences, and ocean conditions are still great for watersports. Best of all, this is turtle hatching season on the Caribbean coast, with tens of thousands of baby sea turtles beginning their mad dash to the Atlantic.

The only downside is that the rainy season generally reaches its peak during this period, so if you’re not keen on getting drenched, you may want to wait another month or so.

November & December: the rainy season dwindles, surf season peaks and a festive spirit takes hold

By November, the rainy season is beginning to taper off, arguably leading to the best time to go to Costa Rica’s Pacific coast. On the opposite coast, conditions in the Caribbean Sea make beaches unusually clear for scuba diving and snorkeling. 

November also kicks off Costa Rica’s holiday season, lending the country a joyful ambiance with tons of festivities.

The best time to go to Costa Rica for specific experiences

Wondering about the best time to go to Costa Rica for X , Y or Z ? We have you covered.

Is there a “best time to go to Costa Rica for good weather?”

Yes and no. It’s probably better to ask if there’s a good time to go to Costa Rica to avoid the rain, which would be December through April on the west coast and in the central regions (it always rains on the Caribbean coast). That said, even during the rainy season, certain places on the west coast, like the gorgeous Las Catalinas, only see light rainfall (check out our Las Catalinas itinerary ).

Otherwise, Costa Rica generally has great weather all year long. For personalized recommendations, book and plan your trip with Fora .

When’s the best time to visit Costa Rica’s cloud forests?

This varies by forest, unfortunately. Many of Costa Rica’s cloud forests have unique weather patterns because of their varying elevations and proximity to either ocean. If you let us know which forest you’re most interested in, we can hook you up with the best places to stay in either region. (Check out some amazing Costa Rica jungle resorts , in the meantime.)

What are the best months to observe Costa Rica’s wildlife?

Costa Rica is one of the most biodiverse countries in the world, so you’re going to see a lot of nature no matter when you visit. But if you want to know the absolute best time to go to Costa Rica to see its bountiful wildlife… it still depends . 

You’re more likely to notice wildlife during the dry season since a lack of rainfall improves visibility. However, wildlife activity rises and falls throughout the year, and rainfall is only one of dozens of factors that impact wildlife activity. 

If there are particular critters you’d like to see — vibrant poison dart frogs (don’t touch!), adorable white-faced capuchins, goofy three-toed sloths, water-skimming green basilisks (not to be confused with Hogwarts -dwelling serpents)...the list goes on — we can do the legwork of finding out the best time to go.

Check out our Costa Rica nature travel guide for an example itinerary. 

Is there a best time to go to the beach in Costa Rica? What about the best time for surfing?

Costa Rica’s picture-perfect beaches are worth visiting virtually any time of year. Of course, they do get more crowded during the dry season, which coincides with peak travel season. 

As for surfing, the best time to go — depending on your skill level — is November or December, between peak rainy season and the incoming dry season. The rainy season itself is also great for surfing because there are fewer crowds and the ocean swells create consistent waves.

Want privacy? Book your trip with Fora to unlock sweet perks at the best resorts in Costa Rica for couples .

When should you travel to Costa Rica to avoid crowds? Is this the most affordable time to visit Costa Rica?

The rainy season, and particularly September and October, is the best time to go to Costa Rica if you want to avoid crowds and save money on the best accommodations. The best part is that even though it rains nearly every day during Costa Rica’s rainy season, the mornings are usually clear, so you can still enjoy adventures. 

Pro tip: complimentary room upgrades are generally more likely if you stay during the low or off season.

Plan & book your trip with Fora and we’ll help you find your best time to go to Costa Rica

Ultimately, the best time to go to Costa Rica depends on what you want to do and see while you’re there. When you plan and book your trip with Fora, we’ll make sure you visit when it makes the most sense for your interests and schedule. Better yet, we’ll ensure you get awesome hotel perks, insider travel recommendations and more extras to make your trip an unforgettable experience. Fill out the form below to get started.

Need more Costa Rica travel inspiration? Check out our guide to the best places to visit in Costa Rica for the first time or the best all-inclusive resorts in Costa Rica for families . 

Not sure Costa Rica’s the right choice for your next vacay? Maybe one of these Fora guides will cover your desired destination:

When Is the Best Time to Go to New Orleans? Your Full Guide

The Best Months to Visit Japan for Cherry Blossoms & More

When’s the Best Time to Visit Puerto Rico?

The 8 Best Places to Visit in Spain for First-Timers

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Two Weeks in Costa Rica

Travel and Moving Blog

Best Time to Visit Costa Rica

• Jenn and Matt
• Practical Travel

103 Comments

Last Updated: June 15, 2020

If you live somewhere that gets cold, you probably can’t wait to plan your getaway to Costa Rica. But when is a good time of year to travel to Central America? In this post, we’ll cover the best (and worst) time to visit Costa Rica based on weather, peak travel times, cost, and more.

Dry and Rainy Seasons

Costa Rica has two distinct seasons. A dry season runs from December through April, and a rainy season runs from May through the end of November. The peak travel season when most people visit coincides with the dry season, and conveniently, North America’s and Europe’s winters.

Dry Season: The Safest Time to Visit

Benefits of traveling during dry season.

We’ll explain why the rainy season really isn’t that bad below, but if you’re one of those people who is worried about rain ruining your vacation, plan to visit during the dry season. Most areas of the country see little to no rain between mid-December and April, so you don’t have to worry about having to change your plans based on the weather. 

The dry season is also the best time to visit certain attractions in Costa Rica. Poas Volcano , for example, tends to get fogged in during the rainy months and could be that way during your entire stay. But during the dry season, you’re likely to get to see it with clear skies.

Certain hikes are also better in the dry season. If you’re trekking Mt. Chirripo, you’ll have the best chance of seeing both the Caribbean Sea and Pacific Ocean from the top during the dry months. Similarly, the Rio Celeste Waterfall gets muddled with sediment during rainstorms, skewing its characteristic bright blue hue. And the trails at parks and reserves in the wet Southern Zone, like Corcovado National Park , tend to get very muddy during the rainy season. Visibility for snorkeling is also better when there’s less rain and runoff to cloud the water.

Drawbacks of Traveling During Dry Season

That said, there are some drawbacks to the dry season. Most importantly, it can be extremely hot at times. O ne year, w e spent a dry season living at the beach in Guanacaste, and temperatures often peaked in the mid or upper 90s (32°C) during the day. Other areas on the Pacific coast can be just as bad, and places farther to the south tend to be more humid.

Because of the heat and lack of rain, it also can get very arid and less tropical in certain parts of the country. The normally green vegetation in Northern Guanacaste tends to get dry and turn brown by the end of March, with many trees losing their leaves. Rivers sometimes dry out later in the dry season too, which can turn exciting Class IV whitewater rapids into more modest Class II or III. Some waterfalls are the same way, changing from a gush to a mere trickle or even disappearing completely.

Hedge Months of the Rainy Season: A Good Time to Visit if You’re Flexible

If you are somewhat flexible with your plans, consider visiting Costa Rica during the so-called hedge months in between seasons. Late November to mid December and May through August are great times of year to travel. Not only will temperatures be a bit more enjoyable and the rainforest nice and green, you’ll also avoid the big crowds and get better prices. Hotels and rental cars are cheaper, and tour prices are easier to negotiate.

Keep in mind that you’re not giving up a fantastic vacation by traveling during the rainy season. It seldom rains all day every day during the majority of the season, so as long as you build some flexibility into your itinerary, you should still be able to do everything you want.

TIP: If you’re planning a visit to Costa Rica during the rainy months, take the time to carefully select your destinations. Some regions of the country are wetter than others and best avoided altogether during the low season. Here’s a post all about the weather in Costa Rica, which includes information about rainfall in the different regions over the course of a year: Weather in Costa Rica .

Times to Avoid

Rainiest months.

As we said, many areas of Costa Rica are very nice during much of the rainy season. But if you have just a week or two to get away, there are certain times of year you’ll want to avoid. The rainiest months in general are September and October. During this time, you could have several days in a row with prolonged periods of rain, which can make it difficult to get out and explore.

For this reason, we recommend avoiding travel to Costa Rica during this time for all but the most adventurous travelers. One exception is the Caribbean coast (places like Puerto Viejo de Talamanca and Cahuita ), which is a great place to go in September and October because it is typically dry.

Other times of year that you may want to avoid are certain holidays. The weeks around Christmas and New Years are the busiest travel times in Costa Rica. Many locals get time off during the week leading up to Christmas, all the way until after New Years, and go on holiday with their families. Not only that, but this is a popular time for tourists to travel as well.

The same is true for Semana Santa (Easter week) . Many locals get time off during the week leading up to Easter and start the party the weekend before the holiday week. The whole country is busier in general during these times, but beach towns tend to see the most traffic.

Another consideration for those on a budget is that prices are highest during the holidays. You’ll notice, for example, that most hotels and vacation rentals charge peak rates, which are often non-refundable.

TIP: If you’re planning to visit Costa Rica around Christmas or Easter, start early. Hotels and rental cars are usually booked months in advance. You can still have the best picks for lodging, though, if you plan far enough ahead.

Here are some takeaways about the best time to visit Costa Rica:

• Visit during the dry season (December through April) if you’re worried about the rain.
• If you’re more flexible, visit during the hedge months of late November to mid December and May through August to save some money and avoid the crowds.
• Avoid the peak rainy season, September and October, unless you’re visiting the Caribbean coast.
• Avoid the weeks around Christmas, New Years, and Easter, especially if you’re on a budget or don’t like crowds.

We hope these tips give you some insight into the best time to visit Costa Rica. Of course, if your options are limited and you can travel only during the busy holiday weeks or rainiest months, there is really no bad time to visit. You can always find a small town to retreat to during peak travel times. And thanks to the country’s many microclimates, you can still find places in Costa Rica with sunshine even during the height of the rainy season that will have you wondering where all the tourists are.

Have a question about when to visit Costa Rica? Ask us below.

Looking for more information to plan your trip start here:.

• Costa Rica: Your Two-Week Itinerary – Detailed guide to the best places to visit and things to do in two weeks.
• Cost of Traveling in Costa Rica – What to budget for your trip. Breakdown of costs for hotels, transportation, food, and tours.
• Itinerary Help – Planning a trip for the holiday season and want to avoid the crowds? Or are you wondering where to go to avoid the rain? We can design you a custom itinerary. Check out our Itinerary Help page for more information.

What’s the Best Month to Go to Costa Rica?

Costa Rica, the land of pura vida and breathtaking landscapes, is a Central American gem that attracts travelers from all over the world. It’s easily one of my top recommended destinations for travelers who love a multi-dimensional destination. From the Cloud Forest’s treetops to the epic waves along the coast, Costa Rica offers endless adventure all year round.

Due to where the country is located and its diverse vegetation, the climate in Costa Rica varies depending on the region and time of year. One of the most important things to consider when deciding what’s the best month to go to Costa Rica is your itinerary and the activities you are most excited about.

You wouldn’t want to plan beach days just to discover you’ve hit Costa Rica’s rainy season. Similarly, expecting lush rainforest hikes but finding muddy trails would be a huge bummer.

That’s why in my guide, I’ve got all the info you need to decide when is the best month to go to Costa Rica for you.

In a hurry and need help quick?

Making last-minute plans for your Costa Rica itinerary. We’ve got you covered. Our recommended hotels and tours for a getaway are listed below.

Recommended hotels:

• Hostel:   Selina San Jose
• Budget Hotel:  Conchal Hotel
• Mid Range Hotel:  Hotel Lomas del Volcan
• Family Hotel:   Planet Hollywood Costa Rica
• Luxury Hotel:   Nayara Gardens

Recommended tours:

• Arenal Volcano Full-Day Combo Tour with Lunch and Dinner
• Manuel Antonio Park Nature Guided Tour
• Tortuga Island Tour with Costa Cat
• North Fields Cafe: Craft Specialty Coffee and Chocolate Tour
• The Original Canopy Tour Monteverde, Zipline

Other Helpful Links

• Cheap flights
• Savings on accommodation from hostels to luxury hotels
• Affordable car rental options
• Affordable sightseeing tours and day trips
• Travel Adapter – All in one so you don’t have to carry a bunch around
• Wise Card : hold up to 40+ currencies at once to spend in in over 150 countries
• Don’t be silly and forget  Travel Insurance ! Get hurt and you’ll regret it…

This post contains some affiliate links for your convenience. Click here to read my full disclosure policy. You can also read our content/editorial policy here .

Month-by-Month Guide to Costa Rica

Costa Rica can be fickle with its weather. I mean, it is a tropical destination, so what do you expect? But don’t worry, there’s a perfect month for everyone to visit depending on what they want to do and see.

Here’s a Costa Rica weather-by-month guide for you.

January is one of the most popular times to visit Costa Rica, right in the middle of the dry season. The weather is warm and sunny, perfect for heading to the coast or exploring the rainforest.

But there is a catch—with good weather comes insane crowds and even more insane prices. The high season is hitting its peak, so expect to pay top dollar for accommodation and activities. If you don’t mind the crowds and can handle the higher prices, then January is a great time to go. Just make sure to book everything in advance!

If you want to experience some cowboy culture , you gotta check out the annual Fiestas de Palmares in January. It’s a week-long festival filled with rodeos, music, food, and lots of partying. It will show you a completely different side to Costa Rica.

For birders, February is an excellent time to visit Costa Rica for spotting wildlife. The famous quetzals are seen in the cloud forests, and it’s also the peak breeding season for many other species. Dry season is pretty much in full effect so you’ll be able to explore all the beautiful national parks without worrying about rain.

If you’re not into birding, don’t worry, there are plenty of things to do in February. The weather is still great, and the crowds have thinned out a bit, and so have the prices. (But don’t expect any crazy deals; you’ll still be paying typical tourist prices.) You can also catch some surf competitions on the Pacific coast during this time.

March + April

March and April are peak travel seasons in Costa Rica due to spring break and Easter Week, attracting crowds to the beaches and festivals. March is known for the Envision Festival , offering electronic music, yoga, and sustainability activities, while April brings holiday vibes with locals visiting the coast.

As an almost 36-year-old, I think this is the worst time to visit Costa Rica. But for those of you who are looking for late-night parties and all-day festivals, March and April are the best time of year to visit Costa Rica!

And I can’t mention April without mentioning the heat. It is seriously hot and humid. You can check out my guide on what to pack for Costa Rica, but needless to say, bring your sunscreen and stay hydrated!

While the beaches might be packed to the brim, March and April are actually the ideal time to dive into the heart of Costa Rica’s lush rainforests. It’s still dry season so you’ll have a better chance of seeing exotic animals like toucans, monkeys, and hopefully a sloth or two.

May ( my favorite time to visit )

The rainy season begins in May, but tbh, it’s probably my favorite time to visit . With fewer crowds and lower prices, it’s ideal for budget travelers and will give you a more authentic Costa Rican experience.

Places like Arenal and Monteverde are still easily accessible, and while you may experience some afternoon showers, it usually doesn’t affect your plans too much.

It’s also the best time to visit Costa Rica for wildlife. On the Caribbean, you have the start of turtle nesting season, and on the Pacific coast, May is the start of whale watching season. So, regardless of which coast you decide to visit, you’ll get to see some wildlife!

June + July + August

Officially reaching the off-season, or what is also called the “green season ” in Costa Rica, June through August are the rainiest months. But that doesn’t mean you should rule out all travel to Costa Rica during this time!

Sure, it might rain more frequently but the waves on the coast are much better for surfing and the rainforests are out of this world beautiful with lush greenery. You’ll also find WAY less tourists, meaning you’ll have cheaper accommodation options making the summer months a great time to visit for budget travelers.

September + October

Here is where it’s super important to know what you want to see and do in Costa Rica. If you want to hike in the cloud forest, explore national parks, or go surfing on the Pacific, then September and October are probably not the best time of year to go to Costa Rica.

These months are known for heavy downpours and flooding, and a lot of the smaller roads aren’t drivable. But September and October are the perfect shoulder season for the Caribbean side, where you’ll find sunny weather and beautiful beaches. (It is the end of hurricane season, so make sure to check the weather forecasts before you go.)

November + December

November is still considered “rainy season” but you’ll notice significantly less rain and more sunshine. December marks the start of high season in Costa Rica as snowbirds leave their winter wonderlands to head to the tropics of Costa Rica (I don’t blame them).

But unlike the coming months of January-March, you can still snag some deals on accommodations and activities, making November + December a good time to visit if you’re on a budget but don’t want to miss out on the high season vibe.

As much as I want to give you a definite answer about when is the best time to visit Costa Rica, I just can’t. It truly does all depend on what you want to see and do.

If you want the best weather in the country, then December-April is your time to shine. But if you’re looking for more budget-friendly options and don’t mind a bit of rain, May-November will have some amazing deals and loads of wildlife for you to enjoy.

Costa Rica really does cater to all different travelers, and has a season and month that has just about anything you could want out of your Costa Rica vacation. So plan your trip, pack your rain jacket or your surfboard, and head to this beautiful country whenever it suits you best!

• Things to do in Costa Rica
• 1 Week in Costa Rica
• A list of the Best Beaches in Costa Rica

Best Day Trips from Costa Rica

• 12 of the  best Costa Rica Volcano Tours

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Sam, a seasoned traveler across four continents and 49 countries, is a leading authority in travel planning. Her website, Travelling King, offers tailored itineraries and expert guides for seamless trips. Sam's expertise in luxury travel, fast travel, and destination guides keeps her at the forefront of the travel community.

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8 of the best places to visit in Costa Rica

Mar 3, 2024 • 7 min read

Costa Rica has many beautiful places to visit. Here are the best © MB Photography / Getty Images

Costa Rica is home to everything from steamy rainforests and misty cloud forests, to still-smoking volcanoes and sublime beaches strung along Pacific and Caribbean coastlines.

The country’s motto is pura vida – or pure life – and a quarter of its landmass is protected by national parks and reserves , offering a wealth of wildlife watching among untamed nature.

And there’s enough adrenaline-fuelled action to satisfy the most demanding thrill-seeker, from white water rafting to zip lining and serious surf breaks. Below, we look at the places you won’t want to miss.

1. La Fortuna

Best place for outdoor adventures  

Volcán Arenal’s picture-perfect cone looms over the town of La Fortuna . Up until 2010, it thrilled visitors with plumes of smoke and lava pyrotechnics, but today climbing to the summit is illegal.

You can still get up close to its lava-covered lower slopes by taking the Las Coladas trail, one of several unforgettable hikes around Volcán Arenal National Park, about 7km (10.5 miles) west of La Fortuna.

Hike down to La Fortuna’s impressive waterfall , which plunges out of thick vegetation into an emerald-green pool, or get muddy on a spelunking tour through the limestone labyrinth of the Venado Caves . 

Near Volcán Arenal National Park, around 7km (10.5 miles) west of La Fortuna, there’s horseback riding, mountain biking, rappelling and ziplining on offer too, along with kayaking and windsurfing on Lake Arenal. The region’s natural hot springs make the perfect place to ease weary muscles.

2. Osa Peninsula  

Best place for getting off-the-beaten path

The wild and remote Osa Peninsula is all rainforests, rivers and mangroves, ringed by pristine beaches. 

Wake to a chorus of chirrups, whoops, caws and the sonorous roar of howler monkeys. Watch spider monkeys put on an impressive display of treetop gymnastics while scarlet macaws squawk and preen.

It’s just a typical morning in the Parque Nacional Corcovado , one of the most biodiverse places on the planet.

The gin-clear waters of Bahía Drake are home to humpback whales and dolphins, and it’s the jumping-off point for diving and snorkeling tours to the marine playground of Isla del Caño.

Planning tip: The whale season generally runs between the months of December and April and July and October.

3. Monteverde

Best place for birds, butterflies and cloud forest canopy tours

Away from Costa Rica’s sun-soaked beaches and steamy rainforests, Monteverde’s mist-wreathed cloud forest reserves sit high on the country’s mountainous spine. It’s one of the world’s biodiversity hot spots, with a staggering array of flora and fauna. 

At Curi-Cancha – a cattle ranch turned private reserve – trails wind through primary, secondary and open forests buzzing with jewel-colored hummingbirds and rowdy toucans. 

Look out for the aptly named resplendent quetzal with its brilliant green and crimson plumage and sweeping tail feathers – they’re easier to spot during the mating season from March to June. 

For a bird’s eye view of the forest, take an adrenaline-fueled ride on a zipline, skimming the canopy at high speed – Sky Trek Monteverde has an automatic braking system, useful for kids and anxious adults.

Planning tip: Take a guided night walk to discover a different side to the forest, when nocturnal critters such as sloths, snakes and kinkajous get active to a soundtrack of the frog chorus.

4. The Nicoya Peninsula  

Best place for sand and surf

Famed for its postcard-perfect beaches and sweet Pacific swells, Nicoya has something for wave riders of all levels.

There’s wildlife too: just north of the party town of Tamarindo , Grande Beach – part of Las Baulas National Marine Park – is a nesting site for leatherback turtles from October to March.

Among the peninsula’s finest strips of sand are the blissfully secluded Playa Barrigona and Sámara , popular with both Ticos and visitors thanks to its calm, safe waters that are ideal for novice surfers. 

Further south, the remote, jungle-backed town of Santa Teresa – long a haunt of surfers-in-the-know – is now a hip hangout with cool cafes, sushi restaurants and designer boutiques.

Like an advert for living the pura vida , Nicoya has been named one of the world’s five Blue Zones , where residents have longer-than-average lifespans thanks to their healthy habits.

Planning tip: Nicoya’s surf season runs from December to April; most surf schools are closed during the rainy season, from August to November.

5. The Caribbean Coast

Best place for turtle spotting

On Costa Rica’s Caribbean Coast , the flooded forest of Parque Nacional Tortuguero has been dubbed a mini Amazon.

It’s home to 400 bird species and from July to October, it's a sanctuary for nesting green sea turtles. Look out for manatees, caiman and crocodiles as you tour its skinny waterways by boat or kayak.

To the south is the diminutive Parque Nacional Cahuita and its namesake village, which protects coastal rainforest, coral reefs and pristine beaches.

Further south, the laid-back Puerto Viejo de Talamanca is the Caribbean Coast’s most developed beach town, with an Afro-Caribbean vibe and lively nightlife.

The village of Manzanillo is quieter, set in the Gandoca-Manzanillo National Wildlife Refuge , where you can snorkel the reefs, kayak through mangroves and hike along rainforest trails. Cycle 4km (2.5 miles) to chill on the idyllic palm-fringed beach at Punta Uva – set your alarm to catch a spectacular sunrise.

6. Manuel Antonio National Park

Best place for getting up close to wildlife

Fronted by spectacular volcanic-sand beaches and backed by lush rainforest,  Parque Nacional Manuel Antonio is Costa Rica’s smallest national park and one of its most popular.

Hiking along its well-marked trails is one of the easiest ways to spot wildlife – but don’t expect to have it to yourself.

You may spot a black spiny-tailed iguana perched above the entrance gate, boisterous squirrel monkeys scampering from tree to tree or marauding racoons searching for a snack.

And with the help of a guide, you might catch a glimpse of a flamboyant poison dart frog no bigger than a thumbnail or a shadow that turns into a snoozing three-toed sloth.

Planning tip: Get to the park before 10am to avoid tour groups and peak heat – it opens at 7am and is closed on Tuesdays.   

7. The Central Valley

Best place for volcanoes, coffee and rafting

At the heart of the country, the  Central Valley encompasses the cities of San José, Heredia, Cartago and Alajuela, and three active volcanoes. Irazú is the country’s highest – on a clear day, you can see both the Pacific and Caribbean coasts from the summit. 

Turrialba is its most active, and at  Poás you can peer into its enormous craters, one belching sulfurous mud, another filled with a shimmering lagoon.

Close to Poás, the  La Paz Waterfall Gardens  offers a multitude of natural wonders and Costa Rica’s largest animal sanctuary, and the town of Turrialba is the launching pad for white water rafting on the scenic  Pacuare River , a waterway packed with adrenaline-inducing rapids.

And don’t miss a tour around an organic coffee finca, such as  Finca Rosa Blanca , to see how the beans are plucked, dried and roasted before a cupping session.

8. San José

Best place for museums and nightlife

Don't bypass the urban jungle:  San José , Costa Rica’s cosmopolitan capital, is worth a stopover.

There’s a dazzling collection of gold at the Museo de Oro Precolombino y Numismática , while the state-of-the-art Museo de Jade houses the world’s largest collection of pre-Columbian jade, or you can tour the architectural splendor of the Teatro Nacional .

The buzzy Mercado Central is perfect for souvenir shopping, and trendy Barrio Escalante is the city’s gastro hub, where you can feast on farm-to-table fare and sample local craft brews – there's organic coffee for the morning after.

Planning tip: If you want to go museum hopping, buying a three-museum pass covering the Museo de Oro Precolombino y Numismática, Museo de Jade and Museo Nacional will save you money.

This article was first published Mar 22, 2021 and updated Mar 3, 2024.

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10 of the best places to visit in Costa Rica

Stunning beaches, lush rainforests and incredible wildlife make this central american nation the perfect getaway for thrill-seekers and sun-seekers alike.

I ’ll never forget the first time I woke up in a Costa Rican cloud forest. Put it this way: I didn’t need an alarm clock — the sunrise symphony of hoots, whistles, barks, toots, trills, buzzes and howls did the job. It was like getting out of bed with a backing track provided by a David Attenborough documentary. I’ve been hooked on Costa Rica ever since.

Costa Rica is one of the most biodiverse places on the planet. The great pleasure of travelling here is the opportunity to encounter the menagerie of macaws, toucans, turtles, sloths, hummingbirds, tree frogs, resplendent quetzals and many other creatures that call this Central American country home. I’ve explored many of the country’s national parks over the past decade: from cruising past caimans and turtles in Tortuguero to watching whales on the Osa Peninsula. It’s made me realise that Costa Rica is truly one of the world’s great wildlife-watching destinations.

But while nature is the main draw, there’s more to explore in Costa Rica if you’re feeling adventurous. With two coastlines — one Caribbean, one Pacific — it’s a great destination for some beach time too. Surfing is hugely popular, and there are lots of laid-back beach towns where you can while away a few days — or weeks. The buzzy capital of San José is worth taking time to explore, as are the coffee plantations of the central valley, and the jungly, volcanic regions around Arenal and Poás. And if you can, make time for a homestay with a local family: it’s the best way to really understand what makes this nation tick. These are the best places to visit in Costa Rica.

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If you only have….

One week Begin in San José, with side trips to Parque Nacional Manuel Antonio, Monteverde Cloud Forest and Volcán Arenal, plus the central coffee area

Two weeks Head to the Caribbean Coast for some beach time, followed by jungle treks and river safaris in Parque Nacional Tortuguero

Three weeks Venture south to the Osa Peninsula to escape the crowds and experience Costa Rica’s most pristine ecosystems

A tight budget Costa Rica’s rattly old public buses travel everywhere and are very cheap — but do note that journey times are long and you’ll get to know your neighbours extremely well

1. Parque Nacional Manuel Antonio

At 680 hectares, this may be Costa Rica ’s most diminutive national park, but it’s worth recommending given its proximity to San José, making it handy for wildlife watchers with limited time. Encompassing a varied terrain of beaches, jungle and craggy coastline, it offers a good chance of seeing many of Costa Rica’s signature species — including toucans, sloths and capuchin monkeys. Arrive early to avoid the crowds, or buy your tickets the day before.

Make it happen

Just outside the park, Hotel Vela is a friendly, 21-room hotel with cheery murals of flamingos and waves and a pleasant, palm-shaded pool. Larger rooms have kitchenettes

Destination Services Costa Rica’s great-value eight-day tour follows a classic Costa Rican loop, visiting San José, Arenal, Monteverde and Manuel Antonio

2. Volcán Arenal

Dominated by the brooding cone of its eponymous volcano, this verdantly forested national park feels like a set from Jurassic Park. The volcano burst unexpectedly into explosive life in 1968, and carried on spewing out smoke, lava and ash until 2010, when it unexpectedly fell silent again — for now. With nine miles of signed paths winding amongst the old lava flows, it’s perfect for a hike: keep your eyes peeled for sloths, howler monkeys and white-faced capuchins as you trek the trails. It’s three hours northwest from San José.

Chic timber bungalows, geothermally heated hot tubs and majestic views of the Arenal volcano make Amor Arenal an indulgent spoil

Explore’s nine-day trip visits two volcanoes — Arenal and Poas — plus a visit to a local family and trekking in the Monteverde Cloud Forest

3. Parque Nacional Tortuguero

Cruising the waterways of this coastal park feels like a lost-world adventure. Tangled jungle cloaks the river banks right down to the water’s edge, and at dawn or dusk, guided boat safaris go in search of wildlife, from caimans to macaws and night herons. The most memorable experience here is the spectacle of sea turtles laying their eggs on Tortuguero’s inky-black beaches, and you can do your bit to counter egg-poachers by joining a torch-lit night patrol. Tortuguero is on the northeast coast, about 75 miles from San José.

Tortuga (Tortoise) Lodge is a hacienda-style hotel with views of the river from the balcony, and its own private nature reserve to explore

Indus Travel’s ten-day loop heads up to Tortuguero after a couple of days in San José, then circles back via volcanoes, cloud forest and tropical beaches

4. Osa Peninsula

Well off the beaten track, this southern peninsula is the place for a properly wild experience. Much of Osa remains pristine, from steamy jungle to the mountain peak of Cerro Chirripó, Costa Rica’s highest summit — a once-in-a-lifetime hike. It’s also adventure central: dive with sea turtles and manta rays in Reserva Biológica Isla del Caño, watch whales in Bahia Drake (Drake Bay) or head out on multi-day wildlife-watching expedition in Osa’s fabulous, wildlife-rich Parque Nacional Corcovado, one of the country’s last remaining lowland rainforests and a refuge for the critically endangered Baird’s tapir.

Costa Rica’s original eco-lodge, Lapa Ríos, sits on the tip of the Osa peninsula, with luxurious stilt bungalows rising out of primary rainforest

Exodus’ 15-day epic hits ventures to the edge of the Oia Peninsula for hiking in Piedras Blancas National Park and the Savegre Cloud Forest

5. Golfo Dulce

Snaking between the Osa Peninsula and the mainland, the remote Golfo Dulce gulf is one of Costa Rica’s premier locations for whale watching. Several types of cetaceans can often be spotted here, including bottlenose dolphins, spotted dolphins, orcas, false killer whales, and humpbacks. These creatures migrate here in the summer to calf, attracted by the warm waters and plentiful food supply. July to September is peak whale-watching time.

Cielo (Sky) Lodge lives up to its name. Its bungalows perch above the forest and are linked by rope bridges, offering fabulous views out to the coast

Adventure travel specialist Yellowwood Adventures has a ten-day trip with stops at Drake Bay and Marino Ballena National Park, plus side-trips to Corcovado and Cano Island

• Best hotels in Costa Rica • Best things to do in Central America

6. The Caribbean Coast

Balmy, laid-back and dotted with surf towns, Costa Rica’s Caribbean coast is the place to go to spend a few lazy days on the sand. There are scores of beaches to discover here — some busy and well-known, others secret and secluded — but all ideal for topping up your tan or catching a wave. The surf haven towns of Cahuita, Puerto Viejo de Talamanca and Manzanillo make fun bases.

Outside Puerto Viejo de Talamanca, Banana Azul offers cabins, villas and sumptuous suites (as well as a fab treetop hideaway) and a lovely tropical garden — and it’s steps from Playa Negra

Surf’s up: Bamba Travel’s 14-day tour includes stops on both the Caribbean and the Pacific Coast for surf lessons and beach yoga.

7. The Orosi Valley

Costa Rica’s rich soil and tropical climate are ideal for coffee growing. This central valley southeast of San José is home to some of Costa Rica’s top coffee plantations, including Finca Cristina, an all-organic farm that’s been in business since 1977. The farm produces around 15 tons of coffee every year: you can take a two-hour tour, learn about the cultivation and roasting process, and of course taste the goods. It makes a good day-trip from San José.

Rio Perlas is a hillside resort in the Orosi Valley near Cartago. It has a good choice of suites and cabins, and geothermally heated pools to relax in

Visit the Orosi Valley, Irazu volcano and San José City on Destiny Travel Costa Rica’s good-value five-day tour

8. Nicoya Peninsula

Four hours due west of San José, Nicoya is Costa Rica in a nutshell. There are beaches galore — from famous Playa Grande to little-known Playas San Miguel & Coyote. There are also boho surf towns like Montezuma, Santa Teresa and Nosara. And there’s adventure aplenty, whether it’s snorkelling with leatherback turtles in Parque Nacional Marino Las Baulas de Guanacaste, spelunking in the limestone caves of Parque Nacional Barra Honda or spotting monkeys amongst the mangroves of Refugio Nacional de Vida Silvestre Curú.

Casa Chameleon offers glamorous villas with private plunge pools overlooking Nicoya’s idyllic Guanacaste coast

Nicoya’s beaches, forests and coastline are the focus of G Adventures’ 11-day Epic Costa Rica tour, plus stops in La Fortuna and Monteverde en route

9. Rio Pacuare

Pick up a paddle and prepare for an adrenaline rush as rafting the Pacuare River is a heart-in-the-mouth, seat-of-the-pants experience. Ranked among the world’s great white-water destinations, the Pacuare plunges through narrow, jungle-cloaked canyons, offering terrifying swells and surges that will leave you soaked to the skin but smiling ear to ear. Expeditions head out from Turrialba to different sections of the river depending on the season. June to October is the best time of year, although the river is highest (and therefore at its wildest) from October to December.

Adrenaline ahoy: G Adventures’ 13-day trip takes in rafting on the Pacuare, trekking, biking, horseback riding, kayaking and zip-lining

The wildlife lodge of Rancho Naturalista is famous for birdwatching: you can watch hummingbirds buzzing past while you breakfast on the balcony

adventurehotelsofcostarica.com/hotel/rancho-naturalista

10. Cloud forests

Costa Rica’s “cloud forests” are unique, precious habitats. Mountainous and drenched in mist (hence the name and the greenness), they harbour an astonishing array of biodiversity, from towering ferns to colourful bromeliads, buzzing hummingbirds to noisy toucans. The most famous cloud forest reserve is Monteverde, where Quaker settlers arrived in the 1950s, and were enlightened enough to protect the area from exploitation. It now forms part of the Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Reserve. At an altitude of 1,500m (4921ft), it contains an amazing 50 per cent of Costa Rica’s total biodiversity — including 3,200 species of plant, 425 birds, 120 mammals and 101 reptiles. Guided walks explore the forest, with the highlight a creepy-crawly-filled night walk. Three hours west of San José, it makes a good combo with the Arenal volcano.

Intrepid Travel has a ten-day, family-orientated trip that features cooking lessons with a local farming family, guided wildlife walks in Monteverde, volcano hikes in Arenal and even more wildlife in Manuel Antonio

The reserve’s own La Casona Lodge is a simple, hostel-style affair, but you’re free to explore the forest, and proceeds support conservation work

cloudforestmonteverde.com/lodging

• Best Costa Rica tours for a spectacular getaway • Best hotels in Guatemala

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The 8 Best Beaches To Visit in Costa Rica

C osta Rica is a Central American country with stunning coastlines. Nearly a quarter of the land is protected jungle, so travelers commonly note that the natural beauty of the country is unmatched. The biodiversity of Costa Rica is a big appeal for tourism . The capital of Costa Rica is San Jose, which attracts plenty of travelers looking for a bustling city center. It is a quite welcoming country , so travelers flock to the area. But the destination is most known for its national parks and beaches. And there are plenty of beaches for tourists to choose from. Many travelers travel to the beaches of Costa Rica to elope or even to take a family trip. To simplify the planning process, we have assembled a list of the best beaches in Costa Rica. 

When To Visit Costa Rica

The most ideal time to visit Costa Rica mainly has to do with the weather, crowds and travel costs. For the most ideal weather, travelers should consider a trip in between the months of December and April. This period of time is the most sunny and least rainy, which makes for a great beach experience. Temperatures generally range from 70 to 90 degrees during these months, so travelers are pretty much guaranteed  great sunbathing. 

Costa Rica is not a very expensive place to travel to, but some travelers may want to decrease their spendings as much as possible. The low season is the most ideal time to save on flights and accommodations. This season, where traveling in Costa Rica is most affordable, is between May and September. 

For the most serene experience, travelers should not visit Costa Rica during the dry season. This season is the most popular time to visit, between December and April. The rest of the year is the best time to plan a trip to Costa Rica. 

The Best Beaches in Costa Rica

Playa santa teresa .

This beach is located in the beach town of Santa Teresa, which is known for its laid back atmosphere. There are plenty of restaurants, accommodations and things to do in the area. The beach is popular with surfers, foodies and wellness enthusiasts. In fact, there are plenty of popular places to eat near the beach. Playa Santa Teresa is a great place for vacationers that are looking for a getaway with warm waters, colorful forest, soft sand and an array of beach activities. Some of the top things to do around the beach include surfing, yoga, deep sea fishing, day spas, shopping at local boutiques and eco tours. 

Playa Conchal

Playa Conchal is a great place to swim and is considered one of the finest beaches on the Pacific Northwest coast. Sunrise is priceless there, so many travelers take leisurely strolls on the beach. Conchal translates to shell so this beach is commonly called shell beach. The iconic white shells that are along the coastline can be seen all year long. Travelers visiting Playa Conchal enjoy swimming, sun tanning, fishing, tubing, zip lining, hiking, sunset cruises and horseback riding. The town Tamarindo is 10 miles away, so travelers have access to accommodations and other vacation amenities. 

Manzanillo 

Manzanillo is a village in Costa Rica that is very tranquil. It has a beautiful beach which goes by the same name. The Gandoca-Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge is nearby and it includes almost six miles of beach. The Manzanillo Beach has shiny pristine sand, turquoise waters and a deep history with fishing. Due to this, it is still to this day a great place for fly fishing. Travelers also enjoy scuba diving, snorkeling, swimming, hiking and biking at this beach. While it is most popular with locals, plenty of tourists visit to enjoy the coconut palms and sunshine. It is not very central so there are not a lot of accommodation options close to the beach, but the coastline is accessible. 

Manuel Antonio

The Playa Manuel Antonio is a short walk from the national park of the same name. This beach is a very popular tourist attraction since it has clear waters and nearby amenities. Although there are many beaches in the city of Manuel Antonio, Playa Manuel Antonio is the top option for travelers. There are multiple trails there where travelers can explore the natural environment. There are changing rooms and restrooms available leading up to the beach which make it easier for tourists to visit. While travelers are at Playa Manuel Antonio, they should take advantage of the snorkeling opportunities. If travelers want to visit the Manuel Antonio National Park they are welcome to take a tour. There is an entrance fee for the national park on top of the cost of a tour, so travelers should note that. 

Playa Montezuma 

The town of Montezuma is home to some nice beaches that will impress travelers. The main beach is Playa Montezuma, which is a nice central spot for tourists to stop at. The beach is small and is a bit rocky, so this location is not the best option for swimming travelers. To avoid taking a chance on the riptides many tourists book horseback riding tours. This excursion offers a leisurely exploration of the stunning beach. The majority of travelers enjoy simply sunbathing or going on beach strolls. Playas Las Manchas and Playa Grande are among the other popular options nearby. These beaches are rocky, picturesque and have an ambiance of seclusion. 

Playa Tortuguero 

Tortuguero is a remote destination with an abundance of wildlife and natural beauty. It is commonly referred to as the Amazon of Costa Rica, so travelers will have access to exciting rainforest experiences. The beach is quite photogenic since it has crisp white sands and lush greenery. It, as its name suggests, is among some of the top nesting sites for turtles. Some tourists come just to witness the sea turtles. There are even guided night tours that provide tourists with a (safely distanced) look into sea turtle nesting. The season for these immersive tours runs from July until around August. Alternatively, travelers that visit this beach can sit back and relax to enjoy the cooling crystalline waters. 

Playa Tamarindo 

Although Tamarindo is a relatively small beach town, it is a popular spot for both locals and tourists. It has lively nightlife and a good surfing scene, so travelers visiting its beach will have plenty to do. Tamarindo is also a prime location for aquatic activities in Costa Rica since it has warm waters as well as many activities to partake in. Among the most popular things to do are diving, sportfishing, horseback riding, surfing, hiking and sunbathing. This beach is a popular nesting site for Leatherback Turtles and travelers can even see Howler Monkeys swinging from tree to tree from the water. 

Playa San Juanillo 

The small coastal village of San Juanillo is not a huge tourism hub, but it is a nice place to stay. In this area travelers will be able to connect with the local culture and appreciate the rustic yet idyllic sights. This small beach in the Guanacaste area is a great place to visit if travelers prefer a little privacy. To get there travelers will have to venture off road, so it is safe to say that this beach will not commonly be super crowded. The seemingly untouched beauty of this Costa Rica beach provides a major appeal for visitors. The beach is revered for its stunning turquoise waters and pristine white sand. Due to its clear waters and thriving marine life, San Juanillo Beach is the perfect place for snorkeling. Other popular activities that travelers can enjoy at this beach are relaxing. Most visitors enjoy lounging on the beach in a hammock, reading in the serene environment, hiking up the beach rocks, having a picnic or simply swimming in the warm waters. 

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This Country Was Just Named the Most In-demand for a Luxury Vacation — and It's an Affordable Beach-lover's Paradise

Pura Vida Indeed.

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Who doesn't love living in the lap of luxury, even if it's just for vacation? Apparently, we all do because searches for "luxury travel" destinations are way up, and Renty , a luxury car rental company, knows exactly where the jet-set crowd needs to go next. 

In May, the company shared the results of its new study showcasing the most in-demand locations for a luxury vacation with Travel + Leisure via email. It came to its conclusion of which destinations rank at the top by using Google Keyword Planner to determine the average monthly search volume over the past 12 months for terms related to luxury locations, including "[destination] vacation," "[destination] travel," "[destination] itinerary," and "Visit [destination]." It then took the total number of average monthly searches for each term to determine the rankings. And after parsing through all that data, it named Costa Rica the most in demand. 

"Costa Rica ranks at the top, with an average monthly search volume of 34,248," the findings revealed. According to the data, the highest average search volume came from California, with 4,712.50 searches, followed by Florida at 2,984.17 and Texas at 2,660.83.  

However, Costa Rica's ranking is really no surprise to us. After all, T+L loves the Central American nation so much that we named it the 2024 Destination of the Year , thanks to its gorgeous beaches, lush rainforests, and a pura vida lifestyle that can't be matched anywhere else. 

Costa Rica was followed closely by Hawaii in second, with an average monthly search volume of 32,278, and was the most searched luxury vacation location in 20 states, with the highest number of searches coming from Washington. It was followed by Bali in third, with 27,331 average monthly searches in the U.S., with the most searches coming from Texas. 

"The top ranking highlights a variety of stunning vacation spots in all corners of the globe," Yevhen Parokhod, co-founder of Renty, said in a statement. However, it's clear that the U.S. dreams more about sunshine, beaches, and bubbling cities than white powdered slopes and other wintery experiences, given that many tropical destinations like Bali and Hawaii have made the ranking." 

These destinations were joined by the Maldives in fourth, followed by Thailand, New York City, Paris, Dubai, Los Angeles, and Fiji rounding out the top 10. But again, Costa Rica is still No. 1, and you should start plotting your next vacation to Costa Rica — luxury or otherwise — here . 

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