Climate & Weather in Costa Rica
Despite its small size, Costa Rica has remarkable climate diversity thanks to mountains, coasts, and the influence of two oceans. Your location choice significantly impacts your daily weather experience.
Two Seasons
Dry Season (Verano) - December to April:
- Little to no rain, especially on Pacific side
- Best time for beaches and outdoor activities
- Hottest temperatures
- Peak tourist season
- Prices higher, more crowds
Rainy/Green Season (Invierno) - May to November:
- Afternoon/evening rain typical
- Mornings usually clear
- Lush, green landscapes
- Lower prices, fewer tourists
- Some roads become challenging
- Caribbean coast has opposite pattern (drier Sept-Oct)
Regional Climate Differences
| Region | Temperature | Rainfall | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Central Valley (San José) | 60-80°F year-round | Moderate | "Eternal spring" |
| Pacific Coast (Guanacaste) | 80-95°F | Very dry (Dec-Apr) | Hottest region |
| Pacific South (Osa) | 75-90°F | Heavy rain (May-Nov) | Wettest region |
| Caribbean Coast | 75-90°F | Year-round rain | No true dry season |
| Cloud Forests (Monteverde) | 55-75°F | Misty, damp | Cool and wet |
| Mountain Regions | 50-70°F | Varies | Coolest temperatures |
Central Valley: "Best Climate"
The Central Valley around San José is famous for mild temperatures:
- Year-round 65-80°F (18-27°C)
- No A/C or heating needed for most
- Atenas claims "best climate in the world"
- Perfect for those who don't like heat
Pacific Coast
Guanacaste (Tamarindo, Liberia, Nosara):
- Hottest and driest region
- 85-95°F (30-35°C) common
- Near-desert conditions in dry season
- A/C essential for comfort
- Can be dusty December-April
Central/South Pacific (Manuel Antonio, Uvita):
- More tropical, greener
- Heavy rain May-November
- Still hot year-round
- More jungle-like
Caribbean Coast
Unique weather pattern:
- Rain year-round, no true dry season
- Driest: September-October, February-March
- Wet: November-January, June-August
- Humid with regular afternoon showers
What to Expect
Temperature:
- Sea level: Hot (80-95°F)
- 3,000-4,000 feet (Central Valley): Mild (65-80°F)
- Higher elevations: Cool (50-70°F)
- Temperature varies by altitude, not season
Humidity:
- High everywhere, especially coasts
- Lower in Guanacaste dry season
- Caribbean consistently humid
Preparing for the Climate
For Coastal Living:
- A/C is important for comfort
- Higher electricity bills
- Saltwater air corrodes electronics/cars
- Rainy season requires 4x4
For Central Valley:
- Light layers for cool mornings/evenings
- No heating/cooling costs typically
- Best balance for year-round comfort
Rainy Season Tips:
- Mornings are usually dry—schedule activities early
- Carry umbrella or rain jacket
- Some roads become impassable—check conditions
- Prices drop 20-40% at hotels and rentals
Pro Tips
- •Central Valley offers "eternal spring"—no A/C or heating needed
- •Pacific coast is hot year-round—A/C essential for comfort
- •Rainy season (May-Nov) has lower prices and still-enjoyable mornings
- •Caribbean coast has different patterns—driest in September-October
- •Temperature depends on altitude, not season—choose location accordingly
Have questions about climate & weather in Costa Rica?