Summer is a Great Season for a Costa Rica Vacation

If you pull up the weather forecast for Costa Rica from June – August, you’ll see rain clouds and thunderstorms for nearly every day. If you read about the best time to travel to central America, you’ll see that Late November – April is the best for dry, sunny weather. This is all true. So why am I saying you should travel to Costa Rica during the rainy summer months? (Cheerfully rebranded as the "Green Season" by the tourism board.)

1. It’s not that bad, really: Mornings and early afternoons are typically sunny or slightly overcast with balmy temps in the low 80’s, perfect weather for all manner of Costa Rican adventures.  Clouded skies can also keep the relative temperature lower, which is a welcome reprieve on any jungle trek, compared to the direct sun. Following lunch warm showers start to fall, presenting the the perfect opportunity for an afternoon nap or a trip to the spa. Also, Costa Rica has 12 climatic zones and nearly any time of year, some region of the country will be "in season." Though the summer months bring rain to the Pacific Side, the wildlife and culturally rich Caribbean Coast of the country receives peak sunshine from August - October.
   

   

   Costa Rica's Caribbean Coast enjoys stellar weather from August - October

   
   

2. Wildlife abounds during the rainy season: Sloths, monkeys and the plethora of bird life are still very much active and on display, and are often very active, gorging themselves on the fruiting trees and and plants that erupt with the rains. Plus, Humpback whales begin to migrate up the southern Pacific coast for calving season. They are most prevalent from mid-July until mid-October which adds "whale watching" into the mix of possible activities.

   
   

3. Crowds are Minimal: There are fewer foreign travelers packing the beaches, trails and rainforest resorts during the Green Season. Though you will find more local people enjoying the outdoors, a huge plus in our minds. Who wants to travel to another country just to be surrounded by other Americans?

   
   

4. An Exceptional Value: To push back against the rainy season drop in occupancy, hotels and lodges offer their best pricing during this time of year. Many places offer a lower nightly rate or extend Pay/Stay specials, allowing you to enjoy 4 nights for the price of 3.

   
   

Jeff's family enjoying the pool views from Arenas del Mar in Manual Antonio during their family trip in August 2024

These guidelines don't just apply to Costa Rica. Indeed, we encourage travelers - especially families - to look throughout Central America when they are considering their summer vacation plans. The shorter flight times, overall excellent value (especially in destinations like Nicaragua and Guatemala), the amazing and friendly local guides who we work with, and the wide variety of outdoor and cultural adventures that perfectly enchant young travelers make Central America our top recommendation for summer family travel. Jeff has traveled to nearly every country in the region numerous times. Get in touch with him at jeff@outlierjourneys.com to chat more.