Costa Rica in February: Weather, Travel Tips & Best Things to Do

Planning a trip to Costa Rica in February? You’re choosing one of the best months of the year to explore the country. February falls right in the heart of Costa Rica’s dry season, offering sunny days, warm temperatures, lush landscapes, and ideal conditions for beaches, wildlife watching, and adventure activities.

At Pura Vida Traveling, we help backpackers, families, and solo travelers plan unforgettable trips across Costa Rica. In this guide, you’ll find everything you need to know about Costa Rica in February, including weather by region, what to pack, where to go, crowds, prices, and why this month is such a popular time to visit.

Why Visit Costa Rica in February?

February is considered part of Costa Rica’s high season, and for good reason. The country enjoys some of the most reliable weather of the year, making it perfect for outdoor activities and travel across multiple regions.

Key Reasons February Is a Great Time to Visit

• Consistently dry and sunny weather

• Excellent conditions for beaches and national parks

• Peak season for wildlife viewing

• Ideal for road trips and domestic travel

• Great month for families, backpackers, and first-time visitors

While prices and crowds are higher than during the green season, the overall experience in Costa Rica in February is hard to beat.

Weather in Costa Rica in February

February falls during Costa Rica’s dry season (December to April), known locally as verano. Rainfall is minimal in most regions, and days are warm and sunny.

Average Temperatures

• Daytime: 27°C–34°C (80°F–93°F)

• Nighttime: 18°C–24°C (65°F–75°F)

Humidity is lower than in other months, especially on the Pacific coast, making February more comfortable for hiking and exploring.

Weather by Region in February

Pacific Coast (Guanacaste, Nicoya Peninsula, Central Pacific)

This is one of the best regions to visit in Costa Rica in February.

• Hot, dry, and sunny

• Almost no rain

• Ideal for beaches, surfing, snorkeling, and sunsets

Popular destinations like Tamarindo, Nosara, Santa Teresa, Manuel Antonio, and Uvita shine this time of year.

Central Valley (San José, Alajuela, Heredia)

• Warm days and cooler evenings

• Very little rain

• Perfect for sightseeing, coffee tours, and cultural activities

Caribbean Coast (Puerto Viejo, Tortuguero)

The Caribbean coast follows a different weather pattern.

• More humidity

• Occasional rain showers

• Still plenty of sunshine and warm temperatures

While February isn’t the driest month on the Caribbean side, it’s still very manageable for travel.

Northern Zones & Rainforest Areas (Arenal, Monteverde)

• Arenal: Mostly dry with warm days

• Monteverde: Cooler temperatures and occasional mist, even in February

Crowds & Prices in Costa Rica in February

February is firmly within high tourist season.

What to Expect

• Popular destinations are busy, especially beaches

• Tours and accommodations book up quickly

• Higher prices for hotels, rentals, and flights

Despite this, February offers excellent value in terms of experience and weather reliability. Booking transportation, tours, and accommodations in advance is highly recommended.

Best Places to Visit in Costa Rica in February

Guanacaste Province

Perfect weather, dry roads, and endless beaches make Guanacaste a top choice in February.

• Tamarindo

• Playa Flamingo

• Playa Conchal

• Nosara

• Playas del Coco

Great for families, beach lovers, and surfers.

Manuel Antonio & Central Pacific

• Excellent wildlife viewing

• Beautiful beaches

• Dry hiking trails

• Ideal for first-time visitors

Discover more about Manuel Antonio through our blog by clicking right here.

La Fortuna & Arenal Volcano

• Clear views of the volcano

• Great conditions for hot springs

• Hiking, waterfalls, and adventure tours

Discover more about La Fortuna through our blog by clicking right here.

Monteverde Cloud Forest

• Cooler climate

• Unique cloud forest ecosystem

• Ziplining, hanging bridges, and birdwatching

Discover more about Monteverde through our blog by clicking right here.

Puerto Viejo de Talamanca

• Caribbean culture and food

• Beautiful beaches

• Slower pace of travel

Discover more about Puerto Viejo through our blog by clicking right here.

Wildlife & Nature in Costa Rica in February

February is a fantastic month for wildlife encounters.

What You Can See

• Monkeys, sloths, and tropical birds year-round

• Migratory birds are still present

• Whales are not common this month, but dolphins are often spotted

• Sea turtles may still be nesting on the Caribbean coast early in the month

Dry conditions also make national parks more accessible, with well-maintained trails and clear viewpoints.

Events & Festivals in February

While February doesn’t have as many major holidays as other months, there are still cultural and sporting events happening across the country.

• Local fiestas and rodeos in rural towns

• Surf competitions on the Pacific coast

• Sport fishing tournaments, especially in coastal regions

These events bring both locals and travelers together and add to the vibrant atmosphere of Costa Rica in February.

What to Pack for Costa Rica in February

Packing for February is straightforward thanks to the dry weather.

Essentials

• Lightweight, breathable clothing

• Swimwear

• Sunscreen (reef-safe)

• Sunglasses and a hat

• Comfortable walking or hiking shoes

• Flip-flops or sandals

Nice to Have

• Light jacket for cooler evenings (especially Monteverde)

• Small backpack for day trips

• Snorkeling gear (optional)

Rain gear is usually not necessary, except for the Caribbean or cloud forest regions.

Getting Around Costa Rica in February

February’s dry roads make transportation easier across the country.

Transportation Options

• Shared shuttles (popular and reliable)

• Private transportation for families or groups

• Rental cars, especially useful in beach areas

• Domestic flights for long distances

At Pura Vida Traveling, we help travelers book transportation and tours throughout Costa Rica, making it easy to move from one destination to another during busy months like February.

We can help you find your private or public transport right here.

Is February a Good Time for Backpackers, Families & Solo Travelers?

Backpackers

• Great weather for moving around

• Higher prices than low season

• Social atmosphere in hostels and beach towns

Families

• School vacation-friendly weather

• Safe, easy travel conditions

• Wide range of family-friendly tours and hotels

Solo Travelers

• Easy to meet other travelers

• Excellent infrastructure

• Ideal conditions for guided tours and activities

Is Costa Rica in February Worth It ?

Absolutely. Costa Rica in February offers some of the best weather, vibrant travel energy, and ideal conditions for exploring beaches, rainforests, and national parks. While it’s a busier and more expensive month, the payoff is sunshine, accessibility, and unforgettable experiences.

Whether you’re planning a backpacking adventure, a family vacation, or a solo escape, February is one of the safest and most enjoyable months to visit Costa Rica.

If you need help planning your trip, booking transportation, or finding the best tours, Pura Vida Traveling is here to help you make the most of your time in Costa Rica.

Pura Vida !

Frequently asked questions

Is February a good month to go to Costa Rica?

Yes—February is one of the best months to visit Costa Rica thanks to dry, sunny weather and warm temperatures (around 77–90°F / 25–32°C). It’s peak season, so expect higher prices and more crowds, especially at beaches and national parks.

What are the best and worst months to go to Costa Rica?

The best months are December to April, when the weather is driest and most reliable for travel. The least popular months are September and October, which are the rainiest—especially on the Pacific coast—though prices are lower and crowds are minimal.

What is the cheapest month to go to Costa Rica?

September and October are typically the cheapest months due to heavy rainfall and lower tourist demand. You’ll often find discounted hotels, tours, and flights, particularly in beach destinations.

What is the coldest month in Costa Rica?

January is generally the coldest month, especially in the Central Valley and highland areas, where nighttime temperatures can drop to around 60°F (15–16°C). Coastal regions remain warm year-round.

What is the #1 tourist attraction in Costa Rica?

Arenal Volcano National Park is often considered Costa Rica’s top attraction, known for its iconic volcano, hot springs, waterfalls, and wildlife. It’s a favorite for first-time visitors and adventure travelers alike.

Are mosquitoes bad in Costa Rica in February?

Mosquitoes are present but generally less of an issue in February because it’s part of the dry season. They’re more common in humid, low-lying areas, especially near rivers and rainforests.

How to dress for Costa Rica in February?

Pack light, breathable clothing, swimwear, sandals, and a hat for sunny days, plus comfortable walking shoes. A light jacket is useful for cooler evenings in higher elevations.

How to avoid dengue fever in Costa Rica?

Use insect repellent with DEET or picaridin, wear long sleeves and pants at dawn and dusk, and stay in accommodations with screens or air conditioning. Dengue risk is present year-round but lower during the dry season.

Is it warm enough to swim in Costa Rica in February?

Yes, ocean and water temperatures average 79–82°F (26–28°C), making it ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and surfing. February is especially popular for beach activities on both coasts.

What is the festival in Costa Rica in February?

One of the main events is the Fiestas de Palmares, a large cultural festival featuring concerts, parades, and traditional food, usually held in late January or early February. It’s one of the country’s biggest celebrations.