When to Go to Costa Rica: Best Time to Visit for Weather, Wildlife, and Adventure

Costa Rica is a paradise for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and those looking to relax on pristine beaches. Whether you want to experience its rich biodiversity, hike through rainforests, or surf on the Pacific coast, Costa Rica’s tropical climate offers opportunities year-round. Here’s a guide to help you decide when to visit Costa Rica based on weather, wildlife, and activities.

1. Dry Season (December to April): The Best Time for Outdoor Adventures

The dry season, from December to April, is the most popular time to visit Costa Rica, especially for outdoor activities and beach holidays. During this time, the Pacific coast, including destinations like Tamarindo, Manuel Antonio, and Santa Teresa, experiences sunny weather, perfect for swimming, surfing, and relaxing on the beach. Inland areas like Monteverde and Arenal Volcano offer excellent hiking conditions, with clear skies and less mud on the trails. The dry season is also ideal for exploring Costa Rica’s national parks, such as Corcovado and Tortuguero, where you can see wildlife like monkeys, sloths, and tropical birds.

However, because this is the peak travel season, expect more tourists and higher prices for accommodation and tours. If you’re planning to visit during this time, it’s a good idea to book your stay and activities well in advance. The dry season is particularly popular with travelers looking for a winter escape from colder climates, as Costa Rica’s warm weather provides a perfect tropical getaway.

2. Green Season (May to November): Lush Landscapes and Fewer Crowds

The rainy or “green” season runs from May to November, and while it brings daily rain showers, it’s still a great time to visit Costa Rica, especially for travelers who prefer fewer crowds and lush green landscapes. The rain typically falls in the afternoons, leaving the mornings clear for outdoor activities like hiking, wildlife tours, and surfing. This season is known for its vibrant greenery, as the rain nourishes the rainforests, making it a great time to explore Costa Rica’s incredible biodiversity.

The green season is also the best time for budget travelers, as accommodation and tour prices are generally lower. Wildlife lovers may enjoy visiting during this time, as certain animals are more active, and rivers and waterfalls are at their fullest. The Pacific coast, while rainy, still offers good surf, and the Caribbean coast experiences less rain during this season, making destinations like Puerto Viejo and Cahuita more attractive options.

3. Best Time for Wildlife Watching

Costa Rica is famous for its diverse wildlife, and the timing of your visit can influence what animals you’ll see. December to April is the dry season and the best time to spot animals like monkeys, sloths, and tropical birds in popular areas like Manuel Antonio National Park and the Osa Peninsula. The dry season is also ideal for whale watching, as humpback whales migrate along the Pacific coast from August to October and again from December to April.

If you’re interested in seeing sea turtles, the green season offers some of the best opportunities. On the Caribbean coast, Tortuguero National Park is a prime location for spotting green sea turtles nesting between July and October. On the Pacific coast, the Ostional Wildlife Refuge is famous for its arribadas, or mass turtle nesting events, which occur between August and November.

4. Best Time for Surfing

Costa Rica is one of the world’s top surfing destinations, with great conditions on both the Pacific and Caribbean coasts. The dry season, from December to April, is ideal for surfers on the Pacific coast, particularly in regions like Nicoya Peninsula, Jaco, and Dominical. The waves during this time are consistent and ideal for beginners and intermediate surfers.

For more experienced surfers, the green season, particularly from May to October, brings larger swells and more challenging waves. During this period, the southern Pacific coast, including Pavones and Matapalo, sees some of the biggest and most powerful waves. The Caribbean coast, including areas like Puerto Viejo, experiences its best surf season between November and March, when the swells from the Atlantic create ideal conditions for surfers.

5. Best Time for Festivals and Cultural Events

If you want to experience Costa Rica’s vibrant culture, plan your visit around one of the country’s many festivals. One of the biggest celebrations is Semana Santa (Holy Week), which takes place in April. This religious festival features parades, processions, and celebrations throughout the country, particularly in cities like San José and Cartago. The festival also marks the start of Costa Rica’s peak tourism season.

Another important event is the Fiestas de Palmares, held in January, which includes horse parades, concerts, bullfighting (non-lethal), and traditional dancing. If you visit in July, you can enjoy the Guanacaste Day celebrations, marking the annexation of the Guanacaste region with festivals, rodeos, and street fairs. Costa Rica’s independence is celebrated on September 15th with parades, music, and cultural events throughout the country.