May to November

May - November The ‘green season’ or rainy season in Costa Rica officially begins in May. The mornings are filled with clear skies and sunshine and the afternoons bring thunderstorms to cool things off, it is still warm and the sun continues shining once the rain is done. The plant life in Costa Rica starts to bloom during this season, the country is blanketed in verdant foilage and the National Parks are alot quieter making it easier to spend time observing the wildlife. This is a spectacular time to get a clear view of the stunning Arenal volcano. May can be considered to be one of the best months to visit the country when it comes to the cost, crowds, and weather. The crowds die down after the holidays, the prices are more reasonable to travel, and despite some rain here and there, the days are filled with sunshine making it a perfect time to visit the beach. 

Throughout the summer months the rain increases as do the crowds with the summer holidays and families heading to Costa Rica for their beach vacations and other adventurous activities. Green turtles can be seen along the coastline of Tortuguero National Park, and the whale-watching season begins around Dominical. September and October are the height of the wet season in Costa Rica when prolonged heavy rains can be persistent and obstruct visibility for wildlife spotting. This is when visitors will see fewer crowds and more deals on accommodations and airfare to the country. Surfing is spectacular this time of year on Costa Rica’s Pacific coast, the months of August through November will see some of the largest waves thanks to storm surges brought by the rain. The rains slow down by mid-November, beaches are less crowded and the water is still nice and warm great for swimming and snorkeling.    

Events and Festivals

- Virgin of the Seas Fiesta - July 16th - Puntarenas

- Annexation of Guanacaste Day - July 25th - Guanacaste

- Independence Day - September 14th and 15th - Across the Country

- Maiz Fiesta - October - Santa Cruz

- Limon Carnival - October 12th - Limon