Lying close to the equator, Costa Rica benefits from a warm year-round climate - particularly along the coasts where temperatures range between 21-32°C. Most of the Pacific coast and central plateau experience two stark seasons - rainy and dry. In contrast, the eastern coast, and southernmost Pacific coast, offer a more equatorial climate, with plenty of rain throughout the year.

Pacific coast

Dry season on the Pacific Coast runs from December through April, during which time the area experiences very little rain - perfect weather for lounging on the beach. But as this is peak tourist time, resorts are generally busier and prices tend to go up. The slightly cooler water temperatures of the dry season provide a good chance to spot oceanic mantas at sites along the coast, as well as whale sharks, and pilot whales. The long open-ocean crossings to Cocos Island also tend to be calmer and more enjoyable.

The Pacific coast’s rainy season runs from May through November, and is considered by many to be the main diving season, particularly for serious divers. During this time, the days often start out sunny, with a couple of hours of heavy rain expected in the afternoon. But, it’s the wet season’s nutrient-rich swells which attract some of Costa Rica’s most famous residents, including large numbers of hammerheads at Cocos and bull sharks at the Bat Islands.

Humpback whales migrate through these waters from January until March, and again between June and July, when they can be seen from the surface or heard underwater.

Caribbean coast

Costa Rica’s Caribbean coast is better suited to snorkeling, with warmer waters and plenty of protected bays. While the Caribbean coast doesn’t quite fit the same seasonal weather patterns as the western coast, many consider the months from August to December to be the best time to visit, as the winds are mild and the sea is at its calmest. That said, it really can be explored at any time of year.

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