The Best Time To Visit Costa Rica

best time to visit costa rica

Welcome to your ultimate guide on finding the best time to visit Costa Rica! Whether you're dreaming of relaxing on pristine beaches, catching the perfect wave, or embarking on thrilling outdoor adventures, this tropical paradise has something for everyone. In this blog post, we'll dive into the different aspects to consider when planning your trip. 

In this article:

Arenal Volcano, Costa RicaPexels

Best Time to Visit Costa Rica for Fewer Crowds

May to June and September to October

If you prefer exploring attractions without massive crowds, consider traveling during the country's off-peak seasons. Generally, Costa Rica experiences two peak tourist seasons — one from December to April and another during July and August. To enjoy a quieter experience, aim to visit during the shoulder months like May, June, September, and October. During these months, you'll find fewer tourists, shorter lines, and more availability at popular spots. Plus, you might even stumble upon some local events or festivals unique to those months.

Best Time to Visit Costa Rica for Lower Prices

May to November

We all love saving some bucks during our travels, right? Consider visiting during the country's green season, which lasts from May to November (except for September and October, which are known for more rainfall). By traveling during this period, you can enjoy lower prices on accommodations, flights, and even activities. Take advantage of the shoulder season to snag some fantastic deals and stretch your budget further.

La Fortuna waterfall, Costa RicaUnsplash

Best Time to Visit Costa Rica for Good Weather

December to April

Let's talk about the weather, because no one wants their trip ruined by constant rain. The dry season in Costa Rica typically runs from December to April, offering sunny skies and warm temperatures across the country. However, these months are also the most crowded, and prices tend to be higher. If you want to avoid the crowds but still want optimal weather, consider visiting during the transitional or shoulder months of May, June, and November. You'll likely encounter a mix of sunny and rainy days, but those lush green landscapes make for beautiful photo opportunities!

Best Time to Visit Costa Rica for a Beach Vacation

December to April

Costa Rica is renowned for its stunning beaches and crystal-clear waters, making it a beach lover's paradise. For the perfect beach vacation, aim to visit during the dry season (December to April). During these months, you'll have the opportunity to soak up the sun, swim in warm waters, and indulge in various water activities. Keep in mind that popular beach spots like Tamarindo and Manuel Antonio National Park might get more crowded, so be sure to plan accordingly. 

Manuel Antonio, Costa RicaUnsplash

Best Time to Visit Costa Rica for Surfing

December to April

Costa Rica is a surfer's dream destination, offering a wide range of world-class surf breaks. For the best surfing conditions, plan your trip during the dry season (December to April). During these months, you'll find consistent swells and ideal wave heights for both beginners and advanced surfers. Places like Playa Hermosa and Santa Teresa are known for their exceptional surf spots. If you're new to surfing, there are plenty of surf schools and rentals available to help you catch your first wave!

Best Time to Visit Costa Rica for Outdoor Adventures

December to April

Calling all adventure enthusiasts! Costa Rica's diverse landscapes provide endless opportunities for thrilling outdoor experiences. To make the most of your adventures, plan your trip during the dry season from December to April. During this time, you can hike through rainforests, zip-line across canopies, and spot wildlife in the national parks with ease. If you don't mind a few showers, the transitional months of May, June, and November can still offer great outdoor experiences with fewer crowds.

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Stay Connected With an eSIM From Airalo

No matter when you travel, stay connected with an Airalo eSIM. Airalo gives you access to affordable eSIMs for 200+ countries and regions — including Costa Rica.

Why Airalo? Here are a few reasons to use an Airalo eSIM when you travel:

  • Connect to a mobile network within minutes of arrival.
  • Choose from flexible local, regional, and global data plans.
  • Eliminate the need to find a local SIM vendor.
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  • Store multiple eSIM data plans on your device.
  • Running out of data? Top up in the Airalo app.

Planning a trip to Costa Rica? Get a Costa Rica eSIM to stay connected during your trip.


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