Costa Rica Weather Guide
Everything you need to know about seasons, temperatures, and regional climates — so you can plan the perfect visit.
Costa Rica's tropical location near the equator blesses it with warm temperatures year-round, two distinct seasons, and a remarkable patchwork of microclimates. Whether you're planning a beach holiday, a rainforest trek, or making this country your home, understanding the climate is the first step to making the most of it.
Costa Rica's Two Seasons
Unlike four-season destinations, Costa Rica divides the year into two distinct periods shaped by rainfall — not temperature. Expect warm weather no matter when you arrive; what changes is how often it rains.
December – April
Little rain, lower humidity, and long sunny days make this the peak travel window. Ideal for beach holidays, national park visits, and hiking. Some inland areas may see occasional light showers, but clear skies dominate.
May – November
Tropical downpours transform the landscape into vivid greenery. Mornings are typically clear; rain arrives in the afternoons and evenings. Fewer tourists, lush scenery, and cascading waterfalls reward visitors who embrace it.
Costa Rica's tropical climate means warmth is a constant. Coastal areas typically see highs in the 80s–90s°F (27–34°C). Elevated inland areas and the Central Valley run a few degrees cooler — ideal if you prefer a milder climate. Even at the country's highest peaks, you'll rarely need more than a light jacket.
Monthly Averages at a Glance
Here's how conditions shift through the year across Costa Rica's central and coastal regions:
Costa Rica Climate Chart
The table below provides month-by-month averages for temperature, rainfall, and daylight — useful for trip planning or simply knowing what to expect day to day.
| Month | Avg. Temp (°C) | Avg. Temp (°F) | Rainfall (mm) | Rainfall (in) | Daylight Hrs |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 27°C | 81°F | 10 | 0.39" | 11 hrs |
| February | 28°C | 82°F | 5 | 0.20" | 11 hrs |
| March | 29°C | 84°F | 2 | 0.08" | 12 hrs |
| April | 30°C | 86°F | 1 | 0.04" | 12 hrs |
| May | 30°C | 86°F | 1 | 0.04" | 12 hrs |
| June | 29°C | 84°F | 7 | 0.28" | 12 hrs |
| July | 28°C | 82°F | 12 | 0.47" | 11 hrs |
| August | 28°C | 82°F | 12 | 0.47" | 11 hrs |
| September | 28°C | 82°F | 16 | 0.63" | 11 hrs |
| October | 28°C | 82°F | 17 | 0.67" | 11 hrs |
| November | 28°C | 82°F | 16 | 0.63" | 11 hrs |
| December | 27°C | 81°F | 14 | 0.55" | 11 hrs |
Regional Differences & Microclimates
One of Costa Rica's most fascinating characteristics is just how dramatically the weather can differ across short distances. The country's varied topography — volcanoes, mountains, coastal plains, and river valleys — creates a remarkable range of microclimates.
Pacific Coast
The Pacific side is where the dry-wet seasonal contrast is most pronounced. During the dry season (December–April), conditions are ideal — clear skies, low humidity, and calm seas. Towns like Tamarindo, Jacó, Quepos, and Dominical enjoy abundant sunshine and some of the country's best surfing and beach weather. The wet season here is intense but follows a predictable pattern of afternoon downpours followed by clear evenings.
Central Valley & San José
San José and the surrounding Central Valley sit at around 1,100 meters (3,600 feet) elevation, giving the capital a subtropical highland climate that feels noticeably cooler and more temperate than the coasts. Daytime highs hover in the low-to-mid 70s°F year-round, with cool nights dropping into the upper 50s°F. The rainy season brings afternoon showers, but mornings are reliably clear.
Caribbean Coast
The Caribbean side — including Limón and Puerto Viejo — plays by different rules. There is no true dry season here; rain falls throughout the year, though September and October are typically the wettest months. This lush, humid coastline has a distinct character from the Pacific, with warmer waters, thick rainforest, and a vibrant Afro-Caribbean culture.
Arenal & Northern Lowlands
The Arenal region is famously wet and misty, with the active Arenal Volcano frequently cloaked in clouds. Humidity is high year-round and rainfall is substantial. That said, early mornings and the drier months occasionally offer clear views of the volcano — reward enough for those who time their visit well.
Monteverde Cloud Forest
Monteverde's elevation keeps temperatures in the mild 60s–70s°F range year-round, with frequent mist and cloud cover that sustains one of the world's most biodiverse cloud forests. Pack a light rain jacket and layers no matter when you visit — the forest creates its own weather.
Dry season visitors should bring lightweight clothing, swimwear, and strong sun protection. For the rainy season, add a waterproof jacket, quick-dry fabrics, and sturdy footwear for muddy trails. If you plan to visit the Central Valley or cloud forests, pack a warm layer — you'll appreciate it in the evenings. A small daypack with a packable rain cover is always a smart addition.
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