Published 22nd Mar. 2023
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Let’s be honest, a trip to Costa Rica will be epic at any time of the year, but spring is particularly good for discovering this Central American slice of paradise. March enjoys some of the country’s driest and warmest weather, April is still temperate, and May falls during Costa Rica’s shoulder season, which is another great time to visit. If you’re planning a trip to Costa Rica in spring (and we really think you should), read on for some of our favourite experiences…
If it’s glorious nature you’re after on your trip to Costa Rica in spring, head to the Caribbean Coast. During our springtime, the stunning Tortuguero National Park, on Costa Rica’s Caribbean side, enjoys temperatures around 32°C. Although visitors may not see the park’s famous turtles, this is a good time to spot a range of wildlife from sleepy sloths and beautiful butterflies to spoonbills, iguanas and poison dart frogs. If you fancy getting in on the action too, Costa Rica's Caribbean coast is renowned for its world-class waves. Have a go at beginners classes or watch the pros tackle Salsa Brava, considered to be the biggest break in all of Costa Rica.
Manuel Antonio, on the Central Pacific Coast, is the perfect place to discover at the end of the dry season. In March, the average rainfall here is about 55mm (so quite low) and the average temperature is a toasty 34°C. Make the most of the pleasant temperatures by embarking on a thrilling jungle tour to meet the diverse cast of wildlife species including colourful toucans and acrobatic monkeys. You may also want to explore the coral reefs, and in April the turtles start to nest on the beaches along the Pacific Coast, a fantastic sight.
Temperatures in the Central Valley are very pleasant in spring (averaging 26°C in March). San Jose, Costa Rica’s capital, has world-class museums, parks, theatres and historic buildings which are well worth exploring on a guided tour with an expert local guide. And there are volcanoes, green hills and coffee plantations on the city’s doorstep too. The rainfall increases from an average of 52mm in April, to 240mm in May, but it isn’t constant, and the heaviest downpours can often be avoided.
Guanacaste and the Nicoya Peninsula are also good in March, April and May, with sunshine penetrating through intermittent rain. This region of the North Pacific Coast boasts volcanoes, forests, wild rivers and more. National Parks include Santa Rosa – one of the largest protected areas in Costa Rica – and Palo Verde, which is a dream for nature lovers, with mangroves, savannah and wetlands which are home to crocodiles, snakes and sharks.
On the Caribbean Coast, a visit to the laid-back village of Cahuita is an invitation to experience Costa Rica’s vibrant Creole culture. This is a great place to stop if you just want to relax on a slice of stunning coastline, or to discover somewhere more off the beaten track.
Costa Rica in spring is all about local and national festivals and you’re likely to run into at least one during your visit. Here are some of the highlights:
Whether you want to hit the hotspots or venture off the beaten track, our consultants will create a bespoke Costa Rica trip for you. Having scoured the country for the best properties, we offer everything from rustic lodges to luxurious hideaways. We can take you away from the crowds using our knowledge of hidden beauty spots; so instead of queuing for a waterfall in Arenal, you can enjoy a river all to yourself in Bijagua. With something for both families and couples, Costa Rica is best discovered on a self-drive trip – don't worry, you can leave the route planning to us.
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