Costa Rica Weather & Climate Guide 2025
Plan your trip with detailed weather information and seasonal tips for Costa Rica.
Costa Rica is a Central American paradise known for its incredible biodiversity, pristine beaches, lush rainforests, and active volcanoes. This eco-tourism destination offers world-class wildlife viewing, adventure activities, and a laid-back 'pura vida' lifestyle that welcomes travelers from around the globe.
Best Time to Visit
Best Months
December to April (dry season)
Months to Avoid
May to June, September to November (green season)
Climate Overview
Costa Rica has two main seasons: the dry season (verano, December-April) and the rainy season (invierno, May-November). The country's varied topography creates microclimates ranging from hot, dry Guanacaste to cool, misty Monteverde cloud forests. The Caribbean coast follows a different pattern, receiving rainfall year-round with drier periods in March and September-October. Average temperatures in the Central Valley range from 17-27°C, while coastal areas reach 28-35°C.
Month-by-Month Guide
What to expect each month of the year.
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Seasonal Planning Guide
Complete weather data, packing lists by season, and event calendars.
Seasonal Breakdown
Detailed information for each season.
🌸 Spring
Mar-May
March is peak dry season transitioning to first rains in April-May. Shoulder season crowds, slightly lower prices. Wildflowers emerge and vegetation turns lush green as rains begin in May.
☀️ Summer
Jun-Aug
Rainy season in full swing on Pacific coast but a brief 'little summer' (veranillo) in July-August in Guanacaste. Lush, green landscapes, waterfalls at full flow, active wildlife. Fewer tourists and lower prices.
🍂 Fall
Sep-Nov
September-October is the wettest period on the Pacific coast. Caribbean coast becomes drier and can be excellent. November signals beginning of dry season return. Many waterfalls and rivers at spectacular levels.
❄️ Winter
Dec-Feb
Peak tourist season December-April. Clear skies, dry trails, and best beach conditions. Christmas and New Year bring Costa Rican holidaymakers alongside international tourists. January-February are the driest months.
What to Pack
Seasonal packing recommendations.
Year-Round Essentials
- Modest clothing (cover shoulders and knees)
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses)
- Light scarf or shawl (for religious sites)
- Reusable water bottle
- Power adapter
- Basic first aid kit
Hot Weather Additions
- Lightweight, breathable fabrics
- Extra sun protection
- Cooling towel
- Light colors to reflect heat
- Sandals with back straps
Cool Weather Additions
- Warm layers (fleece, sweater)
- Light jacket or coat
- Rain gear (umbrella, waterproof jacket)
- Closed-toe shoes
- Warm accessories (if winter)
Events & Crowd Levels
Plan around busy periods and special events.
🔴 High Season
December-April (dry season), especially Christmas-New Year and Semana Santa
Higher prices, advance booking essential, crowded attractions.
🟡 Shoulder Season
May, July-August (veranillo in Guanacaste), November
Good balance of weather and crowds. Reasonable prices.
🟢 Low Season
June, September-October (wettest Pacific months)
Best deals, fewer tourists. Some services may be limited.
Major Events & Holidays
Costa Rica's largest festival featuring concerts, carnival rides, bullfighting (Costa Rican style - no killing), and topes (horse parades). Massive celebration with international music acts.
Transformational music and arts festival in Uvita combining electronic music, yoga, workshops, and sustainability. Beach setting attracts international crowd.
Major religious celebrations and beach exodus. Many businesses close Thursday-Sunday. Beaches packed with Ticos on vacation. Book accommodation months ahead.
National holiday celebrating Costa Rican hero. Parades and celebrations in Alajuela. Commemorates 1856 Battle of Rivas against William Walker.
Guanacaste province celebrates annexation from Nicaragua. Traditional music, food, rodeos, and folkloric dancing throughout the province.
National celebration with lantern parades (Desfile de Faroles) night before, school parades, and festivities. Patriotic displays across the country.
Day of the Dead celebrations less elaborate than Mexico but families visit cemeteries to honor deceased with flowers and prayers.
San José's spectacular Christmas parade with elaborate floats, lights, marching bands, and fireworks. Signals start of holiday season.
Week-long festival in San José suburb featuring carnival rides, rodeos, concerts, food stalls, and celebrations. Traditional year-end party.
Green sea turtles nest at Tortuguero. Leatherback turtles October-March at various beaches. Night tours to witness nesting available.
Humpback whales from both hemispheres visit Costa Rica waters. Uvita and Marino Ballena National Park prime viewing locations.
Electronic music festival rotating locations between beach venues. Brings international DJs and local talent to Costa Rica's coast.
Plan Your Perfect Costa Rica Trip
Get our complete seasonal guide with detailed packing lists, event calendars, and month-by-month planning tips.
Download Weather Guide