What Are the Best Months to Visit Costa Rica?

If you’re planning a trip and wondering “What are the best months to visit Costa Rica?”, the short answer is: it depends—on where in the country you want to go, what you want to do, and how you feel about rain vs. crowds. That said, most travel experts point to December through April as the prime window for sunshine and drier weather on the Pacific side.

Below, I’ll walk you through:

• the dry season vs. the green (rainy) season
• shoulder months and best deals
• regional differences (Caribbean vs Pacific vs cloud forest)
• which months are best for wildlife, surfing, fewer crowds, etc.
• tips to choose your ideal travel window

Dry Season (December – April): Sunshine, High Season, and Peak Travel

Why this is the classic “best” time

• This is the driest period on the Pacific and Central region, meaning more sunny, stable weather for beaches, hiking, and exploring.
• It coincides with winter in the U.S. and Europe, so many travelers escape to Costa Rica for sunshine.
• Wildlife and nature shine: rivers are still flowing, landscapes are lush, and visibility is better.

Trade-offs: crowds & cost

• Because it’s so popular, hotels, flights, and tours can be expensive. Plan ahead, especially for December/January.
• Easter (Semana Santa) and holiday weeks see spikes in demand.
• Some regions, like the Caribbean side, may still see irregular showers even in dry season.

Best picks within dry season

• January & February: often cited as the very best months for consistent dry weather.
• March & April: similar benefits, though April is also a shoulder to the rainy season onset. But crowds may ease slightly.

Green Season / Rainy Season (May – November) & Shoulder Months

What to expect

• Rain typically arrives in May, often as afternoon or evening showers, though mornings may stay clear.
• June, July, and August are often considered “shoulder green season” — some rain but many good days.
• September and October are the rainiest months in much of the Pacific & Central regions.
• The Caribbean coast tends to have its own pattern—less dry/wet contrast compared to the Pacific.

Perks of traveling in green season

• Lower prices & fewer crowds — much easier to find deals and more breathing room at attractions.
• Lush landscapes — rain makes everything greener, waterfalls are strong, the jungle feels alive.
• Wildlife perks — turtle nesting (especially on Caribbean coasts), whale watching seasons, etc.

Best months within green season & shoulder windows

• May & November: often considered the “sweet spots” — you catch the tail ends of dry/green transitions, with fewer crowds but still decent weather.
• June to early August: good compromise; less intense rains, many sunny spells.
• Avoid late September and October in Pacific/Central, unless you are okay with frequent rain.

Regional Differences: Pacific, Caribbean, Highlands

Because Costa Rica has varied microclimates, the “best months” can vary depending on region:

• Pacific coast / Guanacaste / Nicoya: Dry season (Dec–Apr) is strong; green season has more contrast.
• Caribbean coast: Rain is more evenly distributed year-round. The rainiest months elsewhere might be milder there.
• Cloud forests and highlands (Monteverde, Arenal area): Cooler, more mist, possibility of rain any time; dry season helps with clearer trails and views.

Match Months to Travel Goals

Here’s a quick guide based on what you want to do:

Goal	Best months	Why
Beach & sun	Dec – Apr	Strongest dry weather along Pacific.
Lower cost / fewer crowds	May, June; November	Shoulder windows with better deals.
Wildlife / turtle watching / whales	July – October	Many species active during these months.
Photography & waterfalls	Green season (May–September)	Rivers at peak flow, lush scenery.
Surfing (advanced)	May – November	Larger swells in green season.
Climbing / hiking / volcanoes	Dec – Apr	More stable conditions, clearer visibility.

Tips for Choosing Your Ideal Month

• Be flexible by region: If rain is heavy in your target area, consider shifting months or planning accordingly.
• Book ahead in high season: December–February fill up fast.
• Plan around weather windows: In green season, aim for early-morning activities before afternoon showers.
• Watch for special events or festivals: Local fiestas, holidays, etc., can influence crowd levels and availability.
• Layer your itinerary: Combine a drier region with a rainforest day to balance weather risk.

The Best Months To Visit Costa Rica?

If I had to pick one phrase: December through April are broadly considered the best months to visit Costa Rica for sunshine, stable weather, and full access to outdoor adventures. That said, May and November are stellar alternatives if you want fewer crowds and better deals with tolerable rain. And for adventurers, the green season (especially June–August) has its own magic with lush forests, wildlife, and waterfall drama.

No matter when you go, Costa Rica has something amazing to offer. The key is matching your timing to your priorities.