Costa Rica weather by month : when is the best time to visit ?

Understanding Costa Rica weather by month is one of the most important steps when planning your trip. While Costa Rica is a year-round destination, the experience can vary greatly depending on rainfall, temperatures, wildlife activity, and crowds.

At Pura Vida Traveling, we help travelers plan their trips with practical, up-to-date information about transportation, tours, accommodations, and the best times to visit each region. In this guide, we break down Costa Rica weather by month, with quick insights and links to our detailed monthly travel guides so you can choose the perfect time to visit.

Understanding Costa Rica’s Seasons

Before diving into Costa Rica weather by month, it’s important to understand the country’s two main seasons:

• Dry Season (December to April) – Also called verano, this period brings sunny days and minimal rain, especially on the Pacific coast.

• Green Season (May to November) – Lush landscapes, fewer crowds, and lower prices, with afternoon rain showers.

The Caribbean coast follows a different weather pattern and can be drier when the Pacific is rainy.

Costa Rica Weather by Month : Month-by-Month Guide

Below is a complete overview of Costa Rica weather by month, including what to expect and who each month is best for.

Costa Rica in January

January marks the peak of the dry season and is one of the most popular months to visit Costa Rica.

Weather

• Sunny, dry days across most of the country

• Warm temperatures

• Minimal rain on the Pacific coast

Why Visit in January

• Excellent beach weather

• Great for road trips and outdoor adventures

• Ideal for families traveling during school holidays

Read our full guide: Costa Rica in January

Costa Rica in February

February is considered one of the best months to visit Costa Rica thanks to stable weather and clear skies.

Weather

• Dry, sunny days

• Low humidity

• Perfect conditions for beaches and hiking

Why Visit in February

• Prime wildlife viewing

• Excellent surf and snorkeling conditions

• One of the best months for first-time visitors

Read our full guide: Costa Rica in February

Costa Rica in March

March is one of the driest and hottest months of the year.

Weather

• Very dry on the Pacific coast

• Hot temperatures, especially in Guanacaste

• Clear skies and little rainfall

Why Visit in March

• Amazing beach weather

• Clear volcano views

• Excellent for adventure activities

Read our full guide: Costa Rica in March

Costa Rica in April

April is a transitional month, marking the end of the dry season.

Weather

• Hot and mostly dry early in the month

• Occasional rain showers later in April

• Lush landscapes starting to return

Why Visit in April

• Fewer crowds toward the end of the month

• Good balance of weather and prices

• Still excellent beach conditions

Read our full guide: Costa Rica in April

Costa Rica in May

May signals the beginning of the green season.

Weather

• Warm mornings

• Afternoon rain showers

• Landscapes become greener

Why Visit in May

• Lower prices and fewer tourists

• Great time for waterfalls and rainforests

• Still plenty of sunshine in the mornings

Read our full guide: Costa Rica in May

Costa Rica in June

June is a great shoulder-season month.

Weather

• Morning sunshine

• Short afternoon rains

• Caribbean coast often stays dry

Why Visit in June

• Good deals on accommodations

• Excellent wildlife activity

• Less crowded beaches and parks

Read our full guide: Costa Rica in June

Costa Rica in July

July brings a unique weather phenomenon called veranillo (mini summer).

Weather

• Reduced rainfall

• Warm temperatures

• Mixed conditions depending on region

Why Visit in July

• Great for family travel

• Good balance between green season beauty and dry weather

• Active wildlife and lush scenery

Read our full guide: Costa Rica in July

Costa Rica in August

August is deep in the green season but still a popular travel month.

Weather

• Warm and humid

• Afternoon rains

• Lush rainforests and rivers

Why Visit in August

• Great surfing conditions

• Excellent whale watching begins

• Fewer crowds than dry season

Read our full guide: Costa Rica in August

Costa Rica in September

September is one of the rainiest months on the Pacific coast but a hidden gem on the Caribbean side.

Weather

• Heavy rain on the Pacific

• Best weather on the Caribbean coast

• Warm ocean temperatures

Why Visit in September

• Best time for Caribbean beaches

• Low prices and fewer tourists

• Excellent sea turtle nesting season

Read our full guide: Costa Rica in September

Costa Rica in October

October is the rainiest month in most of the country.

Weather

• Frequent rainfall on the Pacific

• Still relatively dry on the Caribbean coast

Why Visit in October

• Ideal for Caribbean destinations

• Very low crowds

• Great travel deals

Read our full guide: Costa Rica in October

Costa Rica in November

November marks the transition back to the dry season.

Weather

• Rain decreases as the month progresses

• Green landscapes remain

• More sunshine later in the month

Why Visit in November

• Shoulder season pricing

• Fewer crowds

• Beautiful scenery

Read our full guide: Costa Rica in November

Costa Rica in December

December kicks off the dry season and holiday travel.

Weather

• Dry, sunny days

• Cooler evenings

• Minimal rain by mid-month

Why Visit in December

• Festive atmosphere

• Great weather for beaches and tours

• Perfect for end-of-year vacations

Read our full guide: Costa Rica in December

Best Time to Visit Costa Rica Based on Your Travel Style

• Best Weather: January to April

• Best for Budget Travelers: May, June, September, October

• Best for Wildlife: August to October

• Best for Families: February, March, July

• Best for Fewer Crowds: May, September, October

Final Thoughts : Costa Rica Weather by Month

Understanding Costa Rica weather by month helps you plan the perfect trip based on your travel style, budget, and expectations. Whether you want dry-season sunshine or lush green landscapes, there’s a perfect month for everyone.

At Pura Vida Traveling, we make trip planning easy with detailed guides, transportation services, and curated tours across Costa Rica. No matter when you visit, we’re here to help you experience the best of the country.

Pura Vida & happy travels !