Whether you're dreaming of a private wildlife tour, a romantic honeymoon, or a family-friendly escape, choosing the right season can elevate your travel experience. 

☀️ Dry Season (Mid-December to April)

Best For: Beach vacations, family travel, honeymoons, volcano tours

Dry season—known locally as verano—is Costa Rica’s high season, with little rain, plenty of sunshine, and clear skies. It’s ideal if you:

• Want guaranteed good weather
  
  

• Plan to visit the Pacific Coast (Guanacaste, Nicoya, Manuel Antonio)
  
  

• Travel with children or older family members
  
  

• Prefer organized tours with minimal surprises
  
  

📌 Traveler Tips:

• Book early (especially December–January and Easter week).
  
  

• Wear sunscreen daily and pack light, breathable clothing.
  
  

• This is perfect for visiting Arenal Volcano, Monteverde, and Tamarindo.
  
  

🔍 Hidden Gem: Head to Rincón de la Vieja for fewer crowds and epic volcanic landscapes.

🌿 Green Season (May to mid-November)

Best For: Nature lovers, wellness seekers, budget travelers, photographers

Despite its name, the rainy season doesn’t mean non-stop storms. You’ll often get sunshine in the morning, with showers in the afternoon. The rain refreshes the landscape, making it vibrant and full of life.

✅ Why travel in green season?

• Lush forests, flowing waterfalls, and active wildlife
  
  

• Lower rates on accommodations and tours
  
  

• Fewer tourists = more intimate experiences
  
  

📌 Traveler Tips:

• Pack a light rain jacket and quick-dry shoes.
  
  

• Some remote areas may be less accessible—check road conditions.
  
  

• Great time for yoga retreats and eco-lodges.
  
  

🌧️ June–July often bring the "mini summer" (veranillo de San Juan)—a dry spell within the rainy season.

🌤️ Shoulder Season (May & November)

Best For: Flexible travelers, couples, solo adventurers

These months mark the transition between wet and dry seasons—offering the best of both worlds: lower prices, fewer crowds, and pleasant weather.

🧳 Ideal for:

• Romantic getaways without peak-season pricing
  
  

• Last-minute travelers who want spontaneous fun
  
  

• Nature photography and hiking
  
  

📌 Traveler Tips:

• November is perfect for wildlife spotting—turtles, whales, and migrating birds.
  
  

• May is great for Arenal and Osa Peninsula adventures.
  
  

📅 Month-by-Month Highlights

• January – March: Peak season. Dry, warm, ideal for families & snowbirds.
  
  

• April: Start of shoulder season. Great weather, slightly fewer crowds.
  
  

• May: Lush landscapes return. Good deals. Quiet beaches.
  
  

• June – August: Green season in full swing. Great for wildlife and surf.
  
  

• September – October: Rainiest, but Caribbean coast shines. Turtle nesting!
  
  

• November: Rain fades, landscapes are vibrant, and crowds haven’t arrived yet.
  
  

• December: Dry season begins. Christmas season is magical but busy.
  
  

🏝️ Coast-to-Coast Weather Differences

Costa Rica has microclimates, so don’t assume the whole country shares the same weather:

• Pacific Coast (Guanacaste, Nicoya, Puntarenas): More defined dry & wet seasons.
  
  

• Caribbean Coast (Puerto Viejo, Cahuita): Wetter year-round, but drier Sept–Oct.
  
  

• Central Valley (San José, Alajuela): Mild temperatures year-round.
  
  

📌 Tip: If one coast is rainy, the other might be sunny. Ask us before booking!

🎒 Packing Tips Based on Season

Dry Season:

• Sunglasses, sunscreen, swimwear, sandals
  
  

• Light layers for cooler volcano areas
  
  

Green Season:

• Waterproof shoes, rain jacket, small umbrella
  
  

• Quick-dry clothes, bug repellent
  
  

All Year:

• Refillable water bottle
  
  

• Camera or phone with waterproof case
  
  

• Casual clothing (Costa Rica is relaxed and low-key!)
  
  

Want help deciding when to visit and what to do?
We’re real locals who live here and travel year-round. Let us create the perfect seasonal itinerary for you.