There is no bad month to visit Costa Rica, but each period has its perks. The country has two main seasons: the dry season (roughly mid-December to April), sunny but pricey and busy, and the green season (May to November), with afternoon showers, fewer people and lower prices. On top of that come two whale seasons on the South Pacific, turtle nesting, and a Caribbean coast with its own calendar. Here is how to choose, month by month.
Wildlife you can see
Dry season vs green season: the big picture
The dry season (roughly mid-December to April) is the most popular: blue skies, easy roads, calmer seas on the Pacific. The flip side: higher prices, and lodging and tours to book early, especially over Christmas, New Year and Easter.
The green season (May to November) lives up to its name: nature is lush. Days often start sunny and rain falls mostly in the afternoon. There are fewer people, lower prices, and it is the season of southern whales and turtles. September and October are usually the wettest months on the Pacific side.
January, February, March: peak dry season
This is the safest bet for weather across most of the country. On the South Pacific it is also Northern Hemisphere whale season and the best snorkeling visibility at Caño Island. February and March are perfect to combine beaches, volcano and whales.
Good to know: it is high season, so book car, lodging and tours several weeks ahead. In Guanacaste, wind can blow hard in January–February.
April: end of dry season and Easter week
April is usually dry and very hot. Watch out for Easter week (Semana Santa): Costa Ricans flock to the beach, prices climb and everything fills up. The last northern whales leave early in the month. A great month for Monteverde, where the quetzal is often seen.
May and June: start of the green season
Rain returns, mostly in the afternoon. It is a quiet, budget-friendly period, ideal to avoid crowds. Few whales, but dolphins and turtles are around, and the forest turns green again. June can be wetter on the South Pacific; book tours early in the morning.
July and August: the “little summer” and southern whales
Many regions see a break in the rain in July (the “veranillo”). It is when Southern Hemisphere whales arrive in Uvita and Marino Ballena National Park, often with calves. On the Caribbean side it is green turtle nesting season in Tortuguero (roughly July to October). August is a great choice for families on summer vacation.
September and October: peak whales, heaviest rain
On the Pacific these are the rainiest months: some boat trips may be rescheduled, and part of Corcovado (Sirena station) closes in October. But it is also peak southern whale season, with the lowest prices and nearly empty boats. Uvita’s whale festival usually takes place in early September.
Pro tip: it is the best time for the Caribbean coast (Puerto Viejo, Cahuita), which is drier then. A September trip can combine South Pacific whales with Caribbean beaches.
November and December: the sun returns
November is a transition month: rain eases, nature is at its greenest and prices stay reasonable until mid-December. The last southern whales are still around early in the month. December brings back the dry season and northern whales; from December 20, it is the most expensive time of year.
Which month for what?
- Best weather: January to March.
- Whale watching: January–March or August–October (Uvita, Marino Ballena, Osa Peninsula).
- Caño Island snorkeling: December to April for the best visibility.
- Turtle nesting: July to October in Tortuguero.
- Budget and fewer crowds: May, June, September, November.
- Corcovado: dry season; avoid October (Sirena closed).
- Caribbean coast: September and October.
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Frequently asked questions
What is the best month to visit Costa Rica?
January to March for weather. August and September are a good compromise for whales, prices and crowds.
When is whale season in Costa Rica?
On the South Pacific, December to March (northern whales) and July to November (southern whales), peaking in January–February and September.
Is it worth visiting Costa Rica in rainy season?
Yes. Rain falls mostly in the afternoon, so do tours in the morning. Prices are lower and there are fewer people.
What is the rainiest month in Costa Rica?
On the Pacific side, usually September and October. The Caribbean coast is drier at that time.
When is Costa Rica most crowded?
Late December–early January and Easter week. Book everything several weeks ahead.
When can you see turtles nesting in Costa Rica?
July to October for green turtles in Tortuguero; other species nest on Pacific beaches depending on the location.
