
Find the best time to visit Costa Rica with our complete weather guide. Explore seasonal trends, rainfall charts, and real-time forecasts to plan your perfect trip. Stay informed about Costa Rica’s tropical climate, dry and rainy seasons, and regional variations.
When is the Best Time to Visit Costa Rica?
Costa Rica’s weather is a key factor in planning your trip, whether you’re looking for sunny beach days, lush green rainforests, or ideal conditions for adventure activities. The country enjoys a tropical climate year-round, with two distinct seasons:
- Dry Season (December – April): Warm temperatures, minimal rain, and perfect beach conditions.
- Rainy Season (May – November): Lush landscapes, fewer crowds, and great surf conditions despite afternoon rain showers.
Choosing the best time to visit Costa Rica depends on what you want to experience. Below, we break down Costa Rica’s weather month by month, highlight key travel seasons, and provide insights for different regions.
Costa Rica’s Two Seasons: Dry & Rainy
Dry Season (December – April)
- Best for: Beaches, outdoor adventures, wildlife spotting
- Expect sunny skies, low humidity, and warm temperatures
- Top destinations: Pacific Coast (Guanacaste, Manuel Antonio, Nicoya Peninsula), Arenal, Central Valley
Rainy Season (May – November)
- Best for: Lush scenery, fewer crowds, budget travel, surfing
- Expect afternoon rain showers, cooler evenings, and vibrant landscapes
- Top destinations: Caribbean Coast (Tortuguero, Puerto Viejo), Monteverde, Osa Peninsula
Costa Rica Weather by Month
A month-by-month breakdown of what to expect:
Month | Temperature (°F) | Rainfall (in) | Daylight (hrs) | Best For |
---|---|---|---|---|
January | 80-90°F | Low | 12 hrs | Dry, great beach weather |
February | 80-90°F | Low | 12 hrs | Perfect for wildlife & hiking |
March | 85-95°F | Low | 12 hrs | Hottest month, best for beaches |
April | 85-95°F | Low-Moderate | 12 hrs | Start of rainy season |
May | 80-90°F | Moderate | 12 hrs | Green landscapes, lower prices |
June | 80-90°F | High | 12 hrs | Rainy afternoons, great for surfers |
July | 80-90°F | Moderate | 12 hrs | “Mini Dry Season” in some areas |
August | 80-90°F | High | 12 hrs | Good for adventure travelers |
September | 75-85°F | Very High | 12 hrs | Green season, best for rainforests |
October | 75-85°F | Very High | 12 hrs | Wettest month, Caribbean drier |
November | 80-90°F | Moderate | 12 hrs | End of rainy season, budget travel |
December | 80-90°F | Low | 12 hrs | Dry season begins, peak travel |
(Data varies by region; use as a general guide.)
Costa Rica Rain Month by Month

Regional Weather Differences
While Costa Rica is a small country, weather varies significantly by region:
- Pacific Coast (Guanacaste, Nicoya, Manuel Antonio) – Hot and dry in the summer, occasional rain in the wet season.
- Caribbean Coast (Puerto Viejo, Tortuguero) – Wetter year-round, with September and October being drier months.
- Central Valley (San José, Arenal, Monteverde) – Moderate temperatures, cooler nights, higher chance of rain.
- Osa Peninsula & Southern Pacific – Some of the heaviest rainfall but also the most biodiverse landscapes.
👉 Planning tip: If you want to visit during the wet season, consider the Caribbean Coast, which stays drier in September & October!
Best Time to Visit Costa Rica for Activities
☀️ Best Time for Beaches & Sun
📅 December – April (Dry Season)
- Best on the Pacific Coast
- Sunny days, warm ocean temperatures
🌿 Best Time for Rainforests & Nature
📅 May – November (Rainy Season)
- Lush landscapes, waterfalls at their fullest
- Fewer tourists, lower prices
🦥 Best Time for Wildlife Watching
📅 December – April (Dry Season) – Monkeys, toucans, and sloths
📅 July – October – Turtle nesting (Tortuguero, Ostional)
📅 August – November – Whale watching (Osa Peninsula, Uvita)
🏄 Best Time for Surfing
📅 May – November (Rainy Season) – Best waves for experienced surfers
📅 December – April – Beginner-friendly conditions
Costa Rica Weekly Weather Forecast
We provide real-time weather updates for Costa Rica’s major cities, including:
✅ San José
✅ Liberia
✅ La Fortuna (Arenal)
✅ Tamarindo
✅ Manuel Antonio
✅ Puerto Viejo
Check our 7-day forecast to stay ahead of the weather before your trip!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: When is the cheapest time to visit Costa Rica?
A: The cheapest time to visit is during the rainy season (May – November) when hotels and tours offer discounts. September & October have the lowest prices.
Q: Is Costa Rica too rainy in the wet season?
A: While it does rain daily, showers are often brief and occur in the afternoon. Mornings are usually sunny, and the green landscapes are stunning.
Q: What should I pack for Costa Rica’s weather?
A: Lightweight clothes for the dry season, waterproof gear for the wet season, and layers if visiting higher elevations.
Q: Can I visit Costa Rica during hurricane season?
A: Yes! Costa Rica is outside the hurricane zone, so while the Caribbean may see storms, the Pacific side is rarely affected.
Plan Your Costa Rica Trip
Now that you know what to expect from Costa Rica’s weather, start planning your perfect trip. Whether you’re coming for sunny beaches, amazing rainforests, or adventure travel, Costa Rica has something for every traveler—no matter the season.