Winter usually conjures up images of crisp, cold air and holiday cheer. While you may find some holiday cheer, winter in Costa Rica is not the usual months, nor the typical chilly weather. Costa Rica has two seasons, a rainy and a dry season. The rainy season is from April/May to October/November and the dry season is from November/December to April/May. Don’t let the names of the seasons fool you, the average temperatures year round in Costa Rica linger between 70F/21.1C to 80F/26.6C, truly creating that Endless Summer feeling, meaning there is no true winter in Costa Rica.
With temperatures resting in the tropical range year round, especially with the dry season beginning in November and December, this means the winter months in Costa Rica are considered peak season for locals. As winter in Costa Rica is a peak time, expect resorts to be booked as well as bars and restaurants to be filled with people and extended hours. The more the merrier, as this also means livelier parties and more opportunities to meet locals during the winter months in Costa Rica.
Hotels in Costa Rica in Winter
As winter in Costa Rica means peak season and a popular time for family and friends to visit, it is recommended that accommodation be booked by September at the latest. This will ensure that you are able to stay in your top choice for accommodation during the winter months in Costa Rica. If you are booking late, have no fear, you can usually find a charming beach bungalow ready to be rented in the winter months of Costa Rica.
What to do in Costa Rica in Winter
Thankfully, summer never ends, even in the winter months of Costa Rica. You are still able to enjoy the long stretches of white sandy beaches, catch the perfect wave, hike through the dense tropical forests, swim under an enchanted waterfall, and sample the best Costa Rican cuisine in the winter. Everything will be open and operating, from restaurants to tours! Winter in Costa Rica, ends up being the ultimate summer!
Best Time to Visit Costa Rica: Jan • Feb • Mar • Apr • May • Jun • Jul • Aug • Sep • Oct • Nov • Dec