Sun, surf, or rainforest – there's no wrong time to visit Costa Rica.
Month by month guide of where to go and when
Costa Rica’s varied climate and vibrant ecosystems mean there’s always something worth travelling for, whether you’re chasing dry-season sun or craving rainforest adventure. Understanding the seasonal differences across the country can help you plan the trip that’s right for you.
Dry Season (December to April) This is Costa Rica’s most popular time to visit, with clear skies, warm days, and barely any rain, ideal for beach breaks, wildlife spotting, and active adventures.
Pacific Coast: This is prime time for surfing, snorkelling, or simply unwinding on the beach. Guanacaste & the Nicoya Peninsula is particularly appealing now, with its golden sands and reliably dry weather. Look out for the Envision Festival in Uvita (Feb–Mar), a colourful blend of music, wellness, and sustainability.
Central Valley: San José and the surrounding highlands are comfortably mild. It’s a good time to explore coffee farms, museums, and volcanoes. January brings the Fiestas de Palmares, a major cultural event packed with music, food, and traditional (non-lethal) bullfighting.
Green Season (May to November) Rainfall picks up during these months, especially in the afternoons, but this is when Costa Rica’s landscapes are at their most lush. It’s also a quieter, more affordable time to travel.
Caribbean Coast: Expect more consistent rainfall, with temperatures from 24–30°C. This is turtle nesting season in Tortuguero, and October’s Limón Carnival offers a lively celebration of Afro-Caribbean culture.
Northern Plains & Arenal: Rain brings the rainforest to life, making it an excellent time for birding, zip-lining, and soaking in volcanic hot springs. Temperatures hover around 24–29°C, with the Arenal Volcano often shrouded in mist for an atmospheric feel.
Central & South Pacific: Short, sharp showers don’t dampen the appeal of this region. With temperatures from 27–32°C, you’ll still enjoy beach time and wildlife-rich hikes, particularly in Manuel Antonio National Park, Golfito Dulce & the Osa Peninsula.
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January
January in Costa Rica falls during the dry season. It's an ideal time to visit regions like Guanacaste and the Nicoya Peninsula, known for their beautiful beaches. Places like Tamarindo and Playa Flamingo offer warm waters for swimming, surfing, and snorkelling. For adventure seekers, Arenal Volcano and La Fortuna are popular destinations, offering opportunities for hiking, zip-lining, and exploring hot springs. Manuel Antonio National Park is another fantastic location to visit in January, where you can enjoy both stunning beaches and diverse wildlife, including monkeys, sloths, and tropical birds.
February
February continues to be part of the dry season in most parts of Costa Rica. Still a great time to go to Manuel Antonio National Park as it offers fantastic opportunities for beach relaxation, hiking, and wildlife spotting. Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve is another must-visit destination in February, offering extraordinary birdwatching experiences and breathtaking hikes through misty cloud forests. Tortuguero National Park, located on the Caribbean coast, is a great location for wildlife encounters.
March
The dry season continues in March, providing sunny and dry weather, perfect for outdoor exploration. Visit Guanacaste & the Nicoya Peninsula, including popular destinations like Nosara and Santa Teresa, which offer idyllic beaches, ideal for sunbathing and water activities like swimming and surfing. March is an excellent time to visit Montezuma, known for its bohemian atmosphere, stunning waterfalls, and vibrant arts scene.
April
April marks the transition from the dry season to the beginning of the rainy season in Costa Rica. In the Central Valley, including the capital city San Jose and the neighbouring city of Heredia, you can explore cultural attractions, museums, and local markets to get a taste of Costa Rican city life. The Osa Peninsula is a great destination for nature lovers, with its rich biodiversity in Corcovado National Park and Golfo Dulce, offering opportunities to spot monkeys, sloths, jaguars, pumas, and various bird species.
May
May is the start of the rainy season in Costa Rica, although the weather may be wetter, this month brings its own allure and opportunities. Tortuguero National Park on the Caribbean coast is a must-visit, with the lush rainforest foilage. Sarapiqui, located in the north-eastern part of the country, offers rainforest activities such as guided hikes, river rafting, and visits to chocolate plantations.
June
The rainy season continues in June, with more rainfall and high humidity levels. Arenal Volcano and La Fortuna, known for their stunning landscapes and adventure opportunities, are ideal destinations during June. Explore the rainforest trails, soak in volcanic hot springs, and embark on thrilling activities like zip-lining and canyoning. Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve is perfect for birdwatching enthusiasts, offering the chance to spot rare and colourful avian species.
July
July falls within the rainy season in Costa Rica, with continued rainfall and high humidity. Manuel Antonio National Park remains a popular choice, offering a combination of pristine beaches, lush rainforest, and abundant wildlife. Puerto Viejo de Talamanca, with its Caribbean vibe, offers a laid-back atmosphere, surfing opportunities, and chances to explore the nearby wildlife-rich Gandoca-Manzanillo National Wildlife Refuge. It's also start of the turtle nesting season in Tortuguero National Park.
August
August remains within the rainy season in Costa Rica, with high rainfall and humidity. The Osa Peninsula, home to Corcovado National Park, is a wildlife enthusiast's paradise, offering the opportunity to spot endangered species like jaguars, tapirs, and scarlet macaws. Turrialba and Pacuare are an excellent choice for adventurous travellers, known for white-water rafting opportunities, volcano hikes, and beautiful landscapes. Manuel Antonio National Park continues to be a favourite, with its picturesque beaches and diverse wildlife.
September
September falls within the rainy season in Costa Rica. It's essential to be prepared for heavy rainfall and potential storms during this month and some lodges close at this time of year. La Selva Biological Station, located in the Sarapiqui region, offers the opportunity to explore the rainforest, engage in birdwatching, and learn about ongoing research projects. San Gerardo de Dota, nestled in the Talamanca Mountains, is a prime destination for birdwatching, particularly the elusive and vibrant Resplendent Quetzal.
October
October is also part of the rainy season in Costa Rica, with heavy rainfall and occasional thunderstorms. While the weather may be wet, there are still fantastic experiences to be had. The Central Valley, including San Jose and Heredia, offers cultural experiences, historical landmarks, and excellent museums that provide insight into Costa Rican heritage. It's also a good time to visit the Caribbean Coast, where rainfall tends to be lower.
November
November marks the transition from the rainy season to the beginning of the dry season in Costa Rica. The weather becomes more predictable, with decreasing rainfall and more sunshine. The northern Pacific Coast, including popular beach destinations like Playa Flamingo and Nosara offer beautiful beaches, perfect for sunbathing and engaging in water activities like swimming and surfing. Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve is a prime destination in November, offering exceptional birdwatching opportunities and breath-taking hikes through misty cloud forests.
December
December marks the official beginning of the dry season in Costa Rica, with very occasional rainfall. The weather is generally pleasant and offers ideal conditions for outdoor activities. This is a fantastic to visit Costa Rica, and in particualar before the busy festive season. Tortuguero National Park is known for its wildlife and boat tours, where you can spot monkeys, toucans, and various bird species.
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