What is Costa Rica like in February?

Costa Rica Weather in February

Avg. temperature: 83°F / 28°CSun: 12 Hrs per day
Rain: 10 mm per monthAvg. humidity: 78%

Squarely in the middle of the dry season and quieter than the busy New Year holiday, Costa Rica in February just might be a clever traveller’s best kept secret. The hot and bright days continue into the month with fewer beachgoers and inland city dwellers to drive up noise and prices. 

The mountainous Central Valley around San Jose and Alajuela stays cooler than the coasts. Destinations with higher altitudes around the Cloud Forest stay even cooler with temperatures 6-10 degrees chillier than the surrounding regions.

If you’re looking to escape the dark, cold trenches of a snowy winter, even the lowest Costa Rica temperature in February will keep you warm. The temperature gauge rarely dips below 21°C even on the coldest nights in the highest altitudes.

What to do in Costa Rica in February

One of the best places to visit in Costa Rica in February is the Pacific Coast. Hoards of olive ridley sea turtles quietly nest along the shores while their eggs begin to hatch. February is one of the best months to see the baby sea turtles begin their journey from nest to sea. If you’re lucky, you’ll catch the tail end of leatherback nesting season as well. Humpback whales begin migrating around this time and can be seen breaching from shore. Inland around the Cloud Forest, colorful quetzals begin building nests in the trees to prepare a safe spot for their eggs come springtime.

There are so many things to do in Costa Rica in February. Walk amongst native plants and animals while the weather cooperates.  

Tackling Arenal Volcano is one of the best things to do in Costa Rica in February. This dormant volcano lets off some steam from time to time but don’t let that stop you from visiting Arenal National Park to get a closer look. The lava-filled giant is situated in the cool Alajuela Province near La Fortuna, making it the perfect place to wander in the sunshine while catching a cool breeze.

While visitors cannot technically ascend the volcano like in the past, there are incredible trails around the base that wind through the old lava fields. February is the perfect time to visit Arenal Volcano as many of the trails become too muddy and treacherous in the later rainy months of the year. There are multiple lookouts, trails, tours and more to explore. 

Hotels in Costa Rica in February

While February is not as busy as January, it is still peak season in Costa Rica and the country welcomes many tourists during this month. It is best to book accommodation 4-6 months in advance if you have your sights set on a specific spot. Since the 2017 hurricane season destroyed many popular Caribbean getaways on neighboring islands such as Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands, there has been a sharp uptake in visitors to Costa Rica’s shores with each passing February.

The Costa Rican school year starts in mid-February, so don’t be surprised if the beaches are full of families having a midday cookout. You can expect the beaches and streets to clear out near the end of the month as kids head trade the sea and hills for pens and pencils. 

Costa Rica Carnival  

Just when we thought we’d had enough partying, Carnival season starts in the middle of February. The main show and 7-day affair kicks off in Puntarenas Province with music, street fairs, food and all around merriment. The streets come alive once again with friendly locals basking in the perfect February weather and taking in the colorful sights. The last Saturday of Carnival is the grand finale of the celebrations – the dramatic parade makes its way through the center of Puntarenas with high energy the whole way. 

Fishing tournaments and other sporting events take place during this time as well. The competitive spirit adds to the buzzing celebratory vibe to make a lasting impression.

Best Time to Visit Costa Rica: JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec

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