Dry season is when Costa Rica really shines; thankfully, this coincides neatly with the US school holidays! Starting in late November or early December, Costa Rica’s natural beauty is revealed when the rainy season subsides, providing endless sunny mornings for the winter holidays. Around this time, temperatures hover at a comfortable mid-70s to low 80s°F. This is considered a “shoulder season” in Costa Rica, where the rainy season is transitioning into dry season; you can expect showers on occasion, interspersed with warm, dry days.
Around mid-December, the rainy season has fully relinquished its hold, creating a perfect opportunity to Visit Costa Rica and luxuriate in its natural beauty.
Peak season begins in the week leading up to Christmas and New Year’s. This time tends to be incredibly popular in this dream destination, with hotel prices skyrocketing and beaches filled with happy revelers. The Pacific coast is very popular at this time of year, particularly in the Central Mountains near Vista Hermosa Estate.
The high season reaches its end around the US spring break in late April, after which is another “shoulder season” of rain storms and dry days before the rainy season fully takes hold.
When Should I Book Travel Arrangements for the Busy Season?
Earlier is always better when it comes to Costa Rica: even in low periods, competition for the best accommodations can be very fierce.
If you know you’re going to be joining us during the busiest months of the year, you need to start planning well ahead of time to ensure that you can get tickets and reservations at the most popular places.
Some people book up to 1 year out should they know they’re heading to this tropical paradise for a wedding or family reunion. When you join us at our private villa, you can look at rates and calendars of availability well ahead of time, and we also provide a free quote based on how many people will be joining you and the dates that you would like to visit.
You’ll get the best results if you book international airfare, such as from the United States, between six and seven months out.
By four months ahead, expect to have everything booked and begin working on your itinerary, with a plan to have everything prepared a month ahead of time. Two weeks ahead of your vacation, you should have all your activities, cars, and other needs planned for, such as dinner reservations and tickets for tours.
This seems quite early, but rest assured that the extra planning will be worth it when you get the best deals on airfare, accommodations, and tourist activities.
Which Side of Costa Rica is Better During Peak Season?
Dreaming of sun-soaked days on pristine beaches? Head to the Pacific coast of Costa Rica during its picture-perfect dry season, roughly from December to April. But, travel buddies, come mid-May to November, those dramatic Pacific sunsets might come with a sprinkle or two. Now, over on the Caribbean side, things get a tad more spontaneous. Rain can pop up any time of the year, but you’ll find its most consistently dry spells around September and October. The other months, especially November to January, can be a bit more on the wet side. So, always have that stylish rain poncho at the ready!
What Are the Different Areas of Costa Rica's Pacific Coast Like During High Season?
The northern Pacific coast is the driest area of Costa Rica, where you can appreciate beautiful tropical dry forests with huge populations of endemic bird species. While many of the plant species will be dormant during the peak season, you can watch some of Costa Rica’s most notable bird species frolicking in their natural habitat, including the turquoise-browed motmot and streak-backed oriole.
During the high season on the Central Pacific Coast, home to Manuel Antonio and Vista Hermosa Estate, you’ll encounter lush rainforests with a breathtaking array of animals, including hummingbirds, sloths, the green basilisk lizard, and the enigmatic toucan. About a 45-minute drive south of Manuel Antonio is home to a world-class surfing destination, Dominical.
The Central Valley, where the capital of San José is located, is ripe with culture, including the National Museum of Costa Rica and the Pre-Columbian Gold Museum. It’s definitely worth a visit during peak season before returning to your cozy private estate in the beautiful beach town of Manuel Antonio.
Down on the southern Pacific coast, you can experience Costa Rica’s most pristine wilderness, as this is one of the least-visited areas of the country. This area of southern Costa Rica is a perfect time to visit during the peak season. If you’re headed that way, visiting Corcovado National Park located on the Osa Peninsula is a must as it is considered one of the most biodiverse areas in the world.
What is Costa Rica Weather Like Month by Month?
Costa Rica’s seasons diverge from those in the United States. While what may be the colder, wetter months in the continental US mark Costa Rica’s dry season, known for its best weather. Understanding these seasonal nuances is key to planning your trip effectively. If you prefer fewer crowds and a more intimate experience, consider off-season travel. On the flip side, high season offers optimal weather conditions but attracts larger crowds. Discovering the best time to visit Costa Rica hinges on aligning your preferences with its unique seasonal rhythms.
Is January a Good Month to Visit Costa Rica?
January is a fantastic month to visit Costa Rica for many travelers. It falls within the peak of the dry season, offering ideal weather conditions for exploring this stunning country. Throughout most of Costa Rica, you can expect sunny days and warm temperatures.
Pacific Coast: The Pacific coast, including popular destinations like Manuel Antonio, Guanacaste, and the Nicoya Peninsula, experiences dry and sunny weather during January. It’s an excellent time for beach vacations, water sports, and wildlife sightings.
Central Valley: The Central Valley, which includes San Jose, enjoys pleasant temperatures and relatively dry conditions. It’s an ideal time for cultural and city exploration.
Caribbean Coast: The Caribbean coast, including places like Puerto Viejo, may see some rain during January, but it’s not as pronounced as during the rainy season. The lush green landscapes are still beautiful, and it’s a great time to experience the unique Afro-Caribbean culture.
Overall, January is a good month to visit Costa Rica for those seeking the best weather and outdoor adventures. However, it’s also one of the busiest months for tourism, so be prepared for higher prices and more significant crowds.
Is February a Good Month to Visit Costa Rica?
February continues to be an excellent month to visit Costa Rica, especially if you’re chasing sunny weather and the best conditions for outdoor activities. Here’s what you can expect in February:
Pacific Coast: The Pacific coast remains a prime destination in February, with sunny weather continuing to grace popular spots like Tamarindo, Jacó, and Dominical. It’s the heart of the high season when Costa Rica’s national parks are at their best for hiking and wildlife viewing. However, be prepared for larger tourist crowds and higher prices during this peak tourist season.
Central Valley: The Central Valley, home to the capital city San Jose, enjoys pleasant temperatures and is a great place to explore Costa Rican culture and history. February falls within the high season, so you can expect more tourists and higher prices, but the weather is ideal.
Caribbean Coast: The Caribbean side experiences its drier period during February, making it a good choice for those seeking a quieter, off-season travel experience. While it’s not the peak tourist season, you can still enjoy sunny weather and the unique culture of the area.
February in Costa Rica is considered part of the high season, offering the best weather for enjoying national parks and outdoor adventures. However, if you prefer fewer crowds and lower prices, the shoulder season months of May and September could be more suitable for your travel plans.
Is March a Good Month to Visit Costa Rica?
March is one of the best months to visit Costa Rica, offering pleasant weather and a fantastic opportunity to experience the country’s natural beauty and wildlife. Here are some key facts and information for March:
Pacific Coast: The Pacific coast continues to enjoy pleasant weather in March, making it an ideal time to visit popular destinations like Playa Flamingo, Montezuma, and Puntarenas. It’s part of the high season, so expect more tourists, but it’s also when you can witness abundant wildlife in the national parks.
Central Valley: The Central Valley remains inviting in March, with comfortable temperatures for exploring Costa Rican culture and history. This is still considered part of the high season, so you’ll find more tourists and bustling activities.
Caribbean Coast: The Caribbean coast experiences less rainfall in March, making it a good alternative for travelers who prefer the off-season with fewer crowds. While it’s not the peak tourist season, you can still enjoy pleasant weather and the unique culture of the area.
March falls towards the end of the high season, providing the best weather for exploring Costa Rica’s national parks and enjoying outdoor adventures. Wildlife sightings are common during this time, and popular destinations are in full swing.
Is April a Good Month to Visit Costa Rica?
April is wonderful in Costa Rica, but be sure to pack a raincoat just in case! The dry season is transitioning to the green season, so there’s a greater chance of rain but continues to be a great month to visit Costa Rica, especially for those seeking the best weather and the chance to explore the country’s abundant natural beauty. Here’s what you can expect in April:
Pacific Coast: The Pacific coast enjoys warm and sunny weather in April, making it perfect for beach vacations and outdoor activities. It marks the end of the high season, so while it’s still bustling with tourists, you’ll begin to notice the transition to the start of the shoulder season. Popular destinations like Playa Herradura, Tamarindo, and Quepos are in their prime, offering excellent opportunities for wildlife sightings in the surrounding national parks.
Central Valley: The Central Valley experiences pleasant temperatures and is a fantastic place to immerse yourself in Costa Rican culture and history. April falls at the cusp of the high season and the start of the shoulder season, so you can expect a mix of tourists and a more relaxed atmosphere. It’s an excellent time to explore popular destinations like San Jose and Heredia.
Caribbean Coast: The Caribbean coast continues to enjoy pleasant weather in April, with reduced rainfall compared to the rainy season. While not the peak tourist season, it’s a good time to explore the unique culture of the area without the crowds. You might still catch some wildlife sightings in places like Tortuguero National Park.
April in Costa Rica offers some of the best weather for enjoying national parks and outdoor adventures in popular destinations. It’s a transition month from high season to shoulder season, providing a balanced mix of tourist activity and a more relaxed atmosphere. Wildlife enthusiasts will still have opportunities for thrilling sightings during this time.
Is May a Good Month to Visit Costa Rica?
May is still nice, but the dry season is officially over, and it’s much rainier than in April. It marks the transition from the high season to the shoulder season. If you get an early start, you can be back inside for the afternoon thunderstorms, which usually start around 2 p.m. and last for two or three hours.
Pacific Coast: While the Pacific coast, including popular spots like Playa Conchal and Montezuma, is shifting into its shoulder season, May still offers warm weather and fewer crowds compared to the high season. It’s an excellent time for a tranquil beach getaway, as you can enjoy the sun without the bustling tourist crowds.
Central Valley: The Central Valley enjoys pleasant temperatures in May, making it a great time for cultural exploration in cities like San Jose and Heredia. As it transitions into the shoulder season, you’ll find fewer tourists and a relaxed atmosphere.
Caribbean Coast: The Caribbean coast experiences its drier period in May, and while it’s not the peak tourist season, it offers warm weather and a quieter ambiance. It’s an excellent opportunity to explore the unique culture and natural beauty of the area without the bustling crowds.
May in Costa Rica is part of the shoulder season, providing warm weather and a more relaxed atmosphere for travelers who prefer quieter experiences. It’s a great time to explore cultural attractions, enjoy the beaches, and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of this tropical paradise.
Is June a Good Month to Visit Costa Rica?
June is great in Costa Rica – as long as you don’t mind spending a few hours visiting museums or shops while it’s raining. The weather is nice and hot, but there are a few more storms: the country gets 11 inches of rain this month.
Is July a Good Month to Visit Costa Rica?
If you want to see the rain forests in their full glory, and you’re not afraid of some rain, July is a great opportunity to visit Costa Rica. It’s busier, but nowhere near as crowded as the dry season, so you should still be able to get good hotel rates. Hot sunny days are interspersed with regular afternoon rains, but it is much drier than in June or August.
Is August a Good Month to Visit Costa Rica?
For the Pacific region, August is a bit grey, as there are a lot of thunderstorms and the weather is a little unpredictable. You may have a nice cloudless day, or it may rain for the majority of the day; however, it’s a quiet time for tourism, so you’ll have many of the best attractions to yourself.
This is an excellent opportunity to head over to the Caribbean side, where Costa Rica’s famous sea turtles are nesting in Tortuguero National Park.
Is September a Good Month to Visit Costa Rica?
The month of September is a beautiful time to visit Costa Rica: the sea turtles are heading in, and you’re likely to see these wonderful animals scooting into the coast. The weather is still unpredictable as in August, so you should pack plenty of waterproof clothing along with your bathing suit. This is a good opportunity to kick back, relax, and embrace whatever happens during your stay.
Is October a Good Month to Visit Costa Rica?
It’s incredibly rainy and a little cooler in October, which is part of the reason that few tourists stop by. You can expect fewer visitors, lower prices, and lots of opportunities to chat with locals. The tropical dry forests are magnificent in full bloom at this time of year, so you should definitely head off up north from Manuel Antonio to explore.
This is a great time to see Costa Rica’s wildlife, as they are becoming more active. The green season is in full swing, and if you head off for wildlife watching in the morning, you can peek at the majestic sea turtles before heading inside for the afternoon rains.
Is November a Good Month to Visit Costa Rica?
November is the transition period into the dry season, so its weather moves from rainy and humid to drier toward the end of the month. It’s a great time to visit, especially at the beginning of November, as crowds haven’t yet arrived, and there is much less rain than in October.
Is December a Good Month to Visit Costa Rica?
December is amazing in Costa Rica! Hot weather is tempered by relaxing breezes near Manuel Antonio as the dry season kicks into high gear. While a bit wetter than January and February, you have far lower chances of rainstorms than in November, so you can be assured plenty of time outdoors.
Mid-December is incredibly busy, so you should expect to book your airfare and accommodations well in advance so you can get the best deals.
When Is the Best Time to Visit Costa Rica?
Any time is a great time to visit Costa Rica, but the absolute best time to visit really depends on exactly what you want to experience. While many prefer to visit around the peak travel season from mid-December to late April, every month in Costa Rica has its own unique charms.
What Month Has the Best Weather in Costa Rica?
Costa Rica’s weather varies between the Pacific and Caribbean sides; for example, Costa Rica’s dry season primarily refers to the Northern Pacific, Central Valley, and Southern Pacific. The Caribbean region has its own dry months, but its weather is generally rainier and more humid all year round, with less of a distinctive dry season.
On the Pacific side, January and February have some of the best weather: you can expect spotless blue skies, impeccable weather, and slightly lower travel prices.
Caribbean Costa Rica’s best time to visit is in September and October when the weather is warm and sunny.
What's the Best Time to Visit for Surfing?
Costa Rica has different seasons for surfing, as it does for other tourist activities, and it depends on your skill level. Beginners should consider visiting Costa Rica during the dry season when the waves are smaller, and it’s easier to get the hang of this delightful sport.
If you’re a more seasoned surfer, you might visit during the green season between May and November, when swells are larger, and you can catch some serious hang time. In the northwest Pacific area, you can get the most consistent waves between late May and August: June, July, and August are the most promising months to enjoy this rowdy sport.
When Should I Visit Costa Rica for Hot Sunny Days?
If a poolside vacation is your plan, consider visiting Costa Rica in February, which is the peak season for cloudless, perfect skies. The Pacific coast side of Costa Rica averages only two days of precipitation in February; you can expect more frequent afternoon showers on the Caribbean coast, but it’s still much drier than throughout the rest of the year.
The driest months for Caribbean Costa Rica are February, March, September, and October, where you can expect great weather on both sides of this tropical country.
When Is Prime Beach Weather in Costa Rica?
For the Pacific region, expect immaculate beach time in early December, when the dry season really starts to kick in. This is usually before the holiday rush, so you can expect to have much of the pristine coastline to yourself. Warm, tame water ensures you can get a great tan without fighting for towel space with other tourists.
The Caribbean region usually gets the nicest and driest weather around February and September, though it is still rainier and a little more tempestuous than the other side of the country.
When Is the Best Time to Visit Costa Rica for Wildlife Viewings?
Wildlife abounds all year round in Costa Rica, but the best time to visit for your jungle fix is in September and October, which is the peak of the green season for the Pacific side. During this time, you can expect to see humpback whales and green sea turtles, who are visiting their mating grounds in full force. Other animals, such as monkeys and sloths, are also quite active at this time of year, ensuring you can see some of the world’s most amazing creatures up close.
This is the rainiest time to visit Costa Rica, so be sure to bring sturdy shoes, waders, and a good raincoat to ensure that you stay warm and dry while out hunting those once-in-a-lifetime animal experiences.
When is Costa Rica the Least Crowded?
If you’d like empty beaches and short waits at tourist destinations, consider visiting Costa Rica from May to early November, when crowds thin and this tropical paradise’s natural beauty is all yours. At this time, the Caribbean coast is actually experiencing its dry season, while the Pacific coast tends to be rainy and blustery.
The low season is also the green season, when plants flourish, and animals abound. Be sure to pack a raincoat and some sturdy gear before you venture off into the wilderness, as you can expect frequent rain showers.
When Is the Cheapest Month to Visit Costa Rica?
October is the cheapest month to visit Costa Rica, as there are fewer tourists. Most kids are in school, and parents are saving up their vacation days for winter or summer vacation, so you’ll be guaranteed better rates on airfare and hotel rooms.
The Caribbean coast is generally considered a better bet for gorgeous weather in October, as this is during their drier months. Over on the Pacific coastline, you’ll be in for heavy rainstorms throughout the day, which can put a damper on outdoor activities. However, there’s still plenty to do even when the weather is poor: you might consider visiting some of the smaller cities to soak up the culture, or head over to the capital to peruse the many museums and cultural institutions.
Of course, Vista Hermosa Estate is pleasant all year round! You’ll have spacious rooms, a private chef, and excellent views of the coastline, as well as easy access to beautiful Manuel Antonio National Park should you choose to venture out into the storms.
Embrace Our Laid-Back Lifestyle
Costa Rica is the epitome of pura vida: pure life. We love to relax, eat good food, and enjoy the companionship of great friends. Be sure to schedule unstructured downtime where you can lounge about in your private villa and soak in the fantastic views!
Conclusion
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Join Us at Beautiful Vista Hermosa Estate: Where Adventure and Relaxation Meet
Step into the world of Vista Hermosa Estate, the epitome of luxury where adventure and relaxation unite. Set against the backdrop of spectacular ocean views of the Pacific, our estate boasts 5-star service that’s hard to match. Our full staff, including a gourmet chef, ensures a stay of unparalleled comfort and indulgence. Nature lovers, rejoice! Your mornings could be graced by daily visits from playful monkeys, the striking presence of toucans, or the laid-back charm of sloths. When it’s time to unwind, immerse yourself in our 3-sided infinity edge pool, letting the horizon take your breath away. And for those grand get-togethers or retreats, we can comfortably accommodate up to 24 guests, making it an idyllic haven for both intimate and larger gatherings.
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