Costa Rica in September: weather & tips, discover the best of the Green Season

Planning Costa Rica in September? You’ll enjoy lush landscapes, vibrant wildlife, and fewer tourists—especially if you know where to go. While much of the country experiences the rainy season (May–November), the Caribbean coast shines brightest during this time.

Weather in Costa Rica in September: What to Expect

The country’s two coasts define the weather in Costa Rica in September: the Pacific and the Caribbean. While the Pacific coast sees heavy rainfall, the Caribbean coast enjoys one of its driest months, making it the perfect destination this time of year.

Pacific Coast & Central Highlands

• Frequent Rainfall: Expect daily afternoon or evening showers, often intense but short-lived.

• Mornings are Clear: Early mornings are generally sunny—perfect for tours, hikes, and beach walks.

• Humidity: High humidity levels (up to 90%) make the heat feel stronger.

• Average temperatures:

  • Lowlands (Nicoya, Puntarenas): 26–30°C (79–86°F)

  • Highlands (Monteverde, San José): 18–24°C (64–75°F)

Caribbean Coast (Limón, Cahuita, Puerto Viejo)

• Driest Season: September is typically the Caribbean’s dry season, with clear skies and lower rainfall.

• Pleasant beach weather: Expect sunshine, calm seas, and average highs around 29–32°C (84–90°F).

• Low humidity compared to the Pacific side.

Should You Worry About Hurricanes?

Costa Rica lies outside the main hurricane belt, but indirect effects like heavy rainfall can occur from nearby storms. However, direct hurricane impacts are extremely rare.

Tip: Always check regional forecasts when planning your itinerary since the weather in Costa Rica in September varies significantly from coast to coast.

Why Visit Costa Rica in September?

• Serene Caribbean Coast: Regions like Tortuguero, Cahuita, and Puerto Viejo experience their driest month in September, with sunny skies and calm seas—making it ideal for beach lovers and snorkelers.

• Turtle Nesting Season: September falls within prime turtle nesting months on the Caribbean shores. Guided night walks in Tortuguero offer unforgettable sea turtle encounters.

• Peak Whale Watching: In Costa Ballena and the Osa Peninsula, southern humpback whales congregate offshore—making this one of the best times for whale watching.

• Off‑season Perks: On the Pacific side, hotels and car rentals are typically 20–40% cheaper, and national parks are far less crowded—creating an ideal opportunity for budget-conscious travelers.

Weather & Climate Tips by Region

Region	Weather in September	Avg Temps (°C)	Highlights
Caribbean Coast	Dry when Pacific rains hit	30–31 °C	Best beaches, snorkeling, turtle tours
North & Northwest Pacific (e.g., Guanacaste)	Afternoon showers, mostly sunny mornings	25–29 °C	Lush green pastures, turtles, bird migration
Central & South Pacific (Manuel Antonio, Jaco)	Heavy rainfall afternoons & nights	27–29 °C	Strong waterfalls, few crowds, cheaper rates
Osa Peninsula / Costa Ballena	Frequent rainfall, lush rainforest	28–31 °C	Whale sighting, world‑class surf, dense jungle
Monteverde / Cloud Forest	Cool, foggy, windy, with frequent rain	15–21 °C	Rainforest hikes, wildlife spotting (prepare for rain)

Events & Cultural Highlights

Costa Rican Independence Day (Día de la Independencia)

Costa Rica celebrates its Independence Day on September 15th, commemorating the country’s freedom from Spanish rule in 1821. It’s one of the most patriotic and lively days of the year, when schools, banks, offices, and most local businesses shut down so people can enjoy vibrant parades, traditional music, folkloric dances, and festive street gatherings.

Despite being a major national holiday, essential services and tourist-oriented places like grocery stores and popular attractions usually remain open, so if you're traveling during this time, your plans likely won’t be disrupted.

Tip: Don’t miss the chance to join the celebration — colorful parades, traditional costumes, and community festivities make this a truly memorable experience!

Desfile de Faroles (Parade of Lanterns)

On the evening of September 14th, the night before Independence Day, communities across Costa Rica come together for the Parade of Lanterns, or Desfile de Faroles. Children and families create and carry handmade lanterns — often inspired by symbols of Costa Rican culture — through town centers, symbolizing the historic moment when news of independence reached Central America.

This heartfelt tradition lights up the streets with creativity and pride, and is a cherished prelude to the main Independence Day events. The lantern parade is also celebrated in other Central American countries like Guatemala, Nicaragua, El Salvador, and Honduras, as they all share the same independence date.

It’s a beautiful, family-friendly evening full of light, history, and community spirit — perfect for visitors wanting to connect with local culture.

Top Activities for September in Costa Rica

• Explore Turtle Nesting at Tortuguero—book eco-guided night tours to witness green sea turtles laying eggs.

• Observe whales from Uvita, Dominical, or Marino Ballena National Park—spying pods of humpbacks is common during migration season.

• Surf the South Pacific—notoriously powerful swells at Dominical and Pavones attract experienced surfers seeking bigger waves.

• Hike rainforest trails—though muddy, national parks like Manuel Antonio and Arenal offer lush, post-rain beauty and thriving wildlife.

• Relax on quieter beaches—especially on the Caribbean side- and enjoy sunlit sandy shores with minimal crowds.

Travel Tips for a Green Season Adventure

• Pack smart: Rain jacket or poncho, waterproof footwear, quick-dry layers, anti-humidity haircare, and UV-protective clothing.

• Rent an SUV or 4×4: Many rural roads become muddy or slippery—a rugged vehicle helps (especially on the Pacific side).

• Plan your days in the morning: Expect midday or afternoon showers—get outdoors early when the weather tends to be clearer.

• Anticipate closures: Some restaurants and lodges in the South Pacific may close for maintenance during the low season.

Pros & Cons of Visiting Costa Rica in September

Pros:

• Fewer tourists = more peaceful experiences and empty beaches

• Lower prices on hotels, rental cars, and tours (20–50% off high season rates)

• Lush landscapes thanks to the Green Season’s daily rains

• Turtle nesting on the Caribbean coast (especially Tortuguero)

• Excellent whale watching opportunities in Uvita and the South Pacific

• Best Caribbean beach weather of the year

Whale watching in Uvita

Cons

• Heavy rain in the Central and Pacific regions, especially after noon

• Muddy and slippery roads, especially in rural or mountainous areas

• Some businesses close for maintenance or travel during the slow season (particularly in Pacific beach towns)

• Limited sunshine in popular destinations like Monteverde, Arenal, or Manuel Antonio

• Increased bugs like mosquitoes due to wetter conditions

Verdict: If you’re flexible and okay with some rain, September offers unbeatable value and unique nature experiences—especially on the Caribbean coast.

Is Costa Rica in September Right for You?

If you're after vibrant Caribbean beaches, wildlife spectacles like turtles or whales, and lower prices, Costa Rica in September is a hidden gem. However, if you’re seeking reliable sunshine or want to explore regions like Monteverde or the deeper Pacific coast, pack an adaptable mindset—rainy mornings and wet trails may be part of the experience.

Final Thoughts

Costa Rica transforms into a vibrant, lush paradise in September. With the right itinerary—centering on the Caribbean coast and South Pacific highlights—you’ll discover fewer crowds, greener scenery, and thrilling wildlife opportunities at off-season rates.

Want a tailored itinerary or help booking eco-adventures for September? I’d be happy to help!

Frequently asked questions

Is September a good time to go to Costa Rica?

Yes — if you're looking for fewer crowds, lush green landscapes, and lower travel costs, September can be a great time to visit Costa Rica. While it is part of the rainy season (or "green season"), mornings are often clear, with rain typically falling in the afternoon or evening. It’s also the perfect month for visiting the Caribbean coast, where the weather is sunnier and drier compared to the Pacific side.

Is it hurricane season in Costa Rica in September?

Yes, September falls within the Atlantic hurricane season, but Costa Rica is rarely affected. Located just south of the typical hurricane belt, the country sees very few direct hits. However, the Pacific and Caribbean coasts can experience heavy rains and occasional storms during this month, especially in certain regions.

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

• Best months: December through April is the dry season — ideal for beach time, hiking, and wildlife watching.

• The best months for hidden gems are May, June, and July, which offer green landscapes and fewer tourists.

• Worst months (weather-wise): September and October are the rainiest on the Pacific coast, but great for the Caribbean side. If you're flexible and prefer fewer crowds, they're not a bad choice.

What is the best tropical place to visit in September?

The Caribbean side of Costa Rica is one of the best tropical destinations in September. Areas like Puerto Viejo, Cahuita, and Tortuguero enjoy drier, sunnier weather, while much of the Pacific coast is wet. You’ll also get to experience unique Caribbean culture, wildlife, and vibrant landscapes.

What is the rainiest month in Costa Rica?

October is typically the rainiest month, especially on the Pacific side of Costa Rica. However, if you're headed to the Caribbean coast, you might find it one of the sunniest times of the year there — Costa Rica's microclimates can vary dramatically.

What is the off-season for Costa Rica?

The off-season, also known as the green season, generally runs from May to November. During this time, travel is more affordable, landscapes are lush, and crowds are much smaller. September and October are considered the low points of tourist activity, especially on the Pacific side.

How is the weather in Costa Rica in August and September?

• August: Typically warm and rainy, especially in the afternoons. Still a popular travel month for families and surfers.

• September: Wetter and quieter, especially on the Pacific side, but it’s the best time to visit the Caribbean coast, with drier weather and vibrant festivals like Independence Day and the Limón Carniva

Is it worth visiting Costa Rica in September?

Absolutely — if you choose your region wisely. While much of the country sees heavy rain, the Caribbean side enjoys some of its best weather of the year. Plus, you’ll experience local culture, including Costa Rican Independence Day (Sept. 15) and fewer tourists, which makes for a more authentic and budget-friendly experience.

When was the last tsunami in Costa Rica?

Costa Rica is located in a seismically active region, but tsunamis are extremely rare. The last significant tsunami alert occurred in September 2012, after an offshore earthquake, but there was no major impact. The country has early warning systems and protocols in place for coastal safety.

Has a hurricane ever hit Costa Rica?

While Costa Rica is usually outside the main hurricane path, it has experienced rare impacts from nearby systems. The most notable was Hurricane Otto in November 2016, which made landfall in northern Costa Rica — the first recorded hurricane to hit the country directly. Events like this are extremely rare.