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More than ever, choosing the ideal time to travel to Costa Rica in 2025 demands taking into account logistical considerations, including new immigration laws, post-pandemic adaptations, and modifications to international airport operations in addition to the favorable weather. The variability makes it possible to tailor your trip to your interests year-round, whether that’s spotting wildlife in dense rainforest, relaxing on a quiet beach, or hiking in the jungle.  In short, no matter when you choose, knowing what to expect and planning in advance is crucial to making the most of your experience.

When Is the Best Time to Visit Costa Rica?

The best time to visit Costa Rica depends greatly on your personal interests and preferences. If you dream of warm sunny days on white sandy beaches, tanning in the tropical sun, and enjoying thrilling water activities such as surfing, scuba diving, or sport fishing, the dry season, which runs from December to April, is the perfect choice.

During these months, the weather is predominantly dry and sunny, especially in the Pacific coastal regions, such as Guanacaste, where popular tourist destinations like Tamarindo and Playa Flamingo are located. Also perfect for a beach vacation are Santa Teresa, on the Nicoya Peninsula, and Manuel Antonio, on the Central Pacific coast, where you can explore the Manuel Antonio National Park and observe its abundant wildlife.

However, the rainy season, which lasts from May to July, is the best option if you love the outdoors and are driven to explore the rainforest, discover the amazing wildlife, and take in the beauty of the rivers and waterfalls at their peak. Rain is more frequent during this time, but the landscape is richer and colorful. The sound of birds and monkeys fills rainforests, waterfalls, and rivers fill with water, all of which create a beautiful natural scene.

It is important to keep in mind that Costa Rica has a great diversity of microclimates, so climatic conditions can vary significantly from one region to another. For example, while on the Pacific slope the dry season and the green season predominate, on the Caribbean slope rainfall is more frequent throughout the year, although there are also periods of lower rainfall. Therefore, it is advisable to research the specific climate of the region you plan to visit before booking your trip.

Two Seasons: Perfect for Beach Lovers and Sun Seekers

To make the most of your trip to Costa Rica and avoid setbacks, consider planning your visit for late November and May. During these transitional months between the dry and rainy seasons, you’ll avoid the high season crowds and torrential rains, enjoying pleasant weather with warm temperatures and less rain. In addition, you’ll find lower rates on accommodations and attractions, and you’ll have more options available to you without having to book as far in advance. Tourist sites will be less crowded, allowing you to enjoy a quieter, more personal experience.

Entry Requirements for Tourists in 2025

If you have any delays with flights, permits, or other processes, traveling during these months will give you a window of time to reschedule your trip without sacrificing your Costa Rica experience. Last-minute changes are easier to handle when there are fewer tourists and more availability.

Costa Rica is a country with great biodiversity and a wide variety of activities to enjoy throughout the year. While these transitional months offer significant advantages, each season has its own charm. Do your research and choose the season that best suits your interests and preferences. Be sure to pack appropriately for the weather and activities you plan to do, don’t forget your sunscreen, insect repellent, with comfortable clothing to explore Costa Rica’s natural wonders!

Global travel delays, staff shortages at some international airports, and ongoing post-pandemic adjustments in many countries’ entry procedures, traveling in this window offers greater flexibility. April and May are also part of Costa Rica’s shoulder season, which means fewer tourists, more accommodation availability, and lower prices, all while still enjoying excellent weather, especially in coastal areas before the heavier rains begin.

Making the Most of Your Beach Experience

For those who yearn to immerse themselves in the essence of Costa Rican beach life, an ideal itinerary should not only include time to relax in the radiant sun and swim in the warm, crystal clear waters, but also to surf the perfect waves that caress the coastline, explore the vibrant marine life by snorkeling the nearby reefs, and venture on revitalizing hikes along coastal trails.

Renting a vacation accommodation is, without a doubt, the best option if you are looking for comfort, privacy, and an authentic experience. It gives you total freedom: your own schedule, equipped kitchen to save on meals or enjoy local ingredients, ample spaces ideal for working, resting, or sharing in a group, and the possibility of living like a local, not a tourist. Many properties in Costa Rica are designed to blend in with their surroundings, offering spectacular views, private gardens, swimming pools, and direct access to the beach or jungle, all without sacrificing comfort. It’s more immersive, flexible, and often more cost-effective than a traditional hotel.

Live the Experience: Stay at the Bali Tree House

If you are looking for an exclusive and authentic experience on the Pacific coast of Costa Rica, the Bali Tree House in Manuel Antonio is an excellent choice. This 3-bedroom luxury villa, inspired by a Balinese tree house, combines unique architecture with total comfort and a direct connection to nature. Not only is it just a few minutes’ walk from the beach, so you don’t need a car, but it offers you a completely private environment, surrounded by jungle, with curious monkeys visiting the surroundings.

It features a contemporary kitchen, high ceilings made of carved wood, air conditioning, high-speed wifi, a sophisticated pool and jacuzzi, and large terraces for lounging outside. It is ideal for families and groups of friends seeking solitude, design, and a genuine immersion in tropical paradise, and it can accommodate up to seven people.

An onsite concierge is also included to arrange for everything, including private chefs, tours, and transportation. You can’t afford to miss the Bali Tree House in Manuel Antonio if you’re searching for a unique and authentic vacation experience on Costa Rica’s Pacific coast. Inspired by a Balinese tree house, this opulent three-bedroom villa blends distinctive architecture, optimal comfort, and a close relationship with the natural world.

Luxury and Adventure

Imagine arriving in Manuel Antonio and stepping into your luxurious rental—a private sanctuary that offers not only exquisite comfort but also an unparalleled gateway to the best experiences this Costa Rican paradise has to offer. Tailored for discerning travelers, your stay combines refined elegance with access to adventure, relaxation, and authentic local culture.

Manuel Antonio: The Most Sought-After Destination

Manuel Antonio is a bustling Costa Rican destination that provides an alluring combination of amazing scenery, a wealth of wildlife, and exhilarating experiences. You’re in for a treat if you’re considering a trip here.

Your Curated Luxury  Manuel Antonio’s Itinerary

Morning: Awakening in Luxury

Wake up in a villa that has been elegantly designed and offers sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean or lush greenery. As the warm morning light warms you up for a day of exploring, savor your morning meal on your own patio. With your luxury rental as your starting point, you’re in a great position to enjoy unique exclusive one in lifetime experiences.

Mornings: Exclusive Tours of Manuel Antonio National Park

Manuel Antonio National Park

Take a private tour of Manuel Antonio National Park to begin your journey. Even while the park’s well-known white sand beaches, including Espadilla Sur, draw large numbers of tourists, Manuel Antonio offers a variety of beaches in which exclusivity stands.

Discovering Abundant Wildlife

A professional guide in your own vehicle will show you the park’s many flora and fauna, from leisurely sloths and playful monkeys to a spectrum of tropical birds, along the secret trails, remote bays, and exclusive viewpoints.

With 200 bird species and 108 mammal species, this tropical jungle offers tourists the opportunity to see monkeys, toucans, sloths, and other unusual animals in their native environment at every turn. Nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike will find endless excitement as they explore the park’s multiple ecosystems, which include mangrove swamps and coastal rainforests.

Late Morning to Early Afternoon: Adrenaline Meets Leisure

Upscale Dining

Given that Manuel Antonio is one of Costa Rica’s most popular tourist destinations, lunchtime offers different upscale food options. Eat at one of the classy scrumptious restaurants in the area, where gastronomical quality blends with regional delicacies. Enjoy ingredients that are sourced locally, produced by hand cuisine, fresh seafood, and tropical fruits while enjoying the stunning coastal views. In restaurants like Butcher Block at the world-renowned Marina Pez Vela, woodfire-dining at El Lagarto, and romantic El Arbol Restaurant at Makanda Hotel, each setting is just as elegant as the food, making it the ideal addition to your luxurious retreat.

Afternoon:

Evening: Relaxation and Luxury

Villa Relaxation Time: Go back to your villa to unwind as the afternoon starts to unwind and the amazing sunset hides. Take advantage of your luxury rental’s amenities, like a relaxing dip in your private pool, a massage at home, or just relaxing on your terrace with a cool drink and your favorite book.

A safe investment to guarantee an exceptional holiday. By choosing a luxury rental, you will enjoy a complete retreat experience, full of elegance and comfort.

Sunset in Your Luxury Villa

Enjoy the sunset from the villa at one of the breathtaking Ocean Views in 2 Costa Rica Rentals villas, which overlooks Manuel Antonio’s breathtaking coastline. As you watch the sky explode with brilliant pink, orange, and gold hues, raise a glass of champagne to the day’s experiences.

Manuel Antonio Beach’s calm waves and private atmosphere make it the ideal location for romance or just to enjoy the moment in opulent seclusion. During their seasonal migrations, keep an eye out for humpback and pilot whales.

Sonidos del Agua is a luxurious property in Manuel Antonio that offers peace and quiet, breathtaking sunset ocean views, and architecture that mixes in perfectly with the surrounding landscape. This magnificent home is the ideal getaway for anyone looking for adventure and good times because it blends luxurious indoor and outdoor living with contemporary conveniences.

Sonidos del Agua is a tropical, artistic luxury rental in Manuel Antonio that offers unforgettable indoor-outdoor Costa Rican escapes, including living spaces, a three-sided, infinity-edge natural stone pool, intimate bedrooms, including twin ocean-view master suites and a lush jungle-view room, and breathtaking sunset ocean views. It also offers a unique blend of privacy, water, wind, and sunlight on the last locally owned farm.

Night Time

Nocturnal Rainforest Walk

A private nocturnal rainforest walk provides a close-up view of the hidden world that comes to life after dark for those who want to continue their trip into the night. In a setting created for safety and privacy, you will discover the jungle’s beautiful paths and come across nocturnal species under the guidance of an informed naturalist guide.

Journey of Luxury, Adventure, and Comfort

Every aspect of your stay in Manuel Antonio can be planned to balance luxurious comfort with the excitement of exploration. Your luxury rental is more than simply a place to stay; it’s the starting point for a program that includes unique tours, special experiences, and cultural interactions, all of which are intended to make your trip genuinely memorable.

The tourism institutions within the country look to expand and diversify their offerings for foreign visitors.

2024 was one of Costa Rica’s most prosperous calendar years when it comes to international visitation, breaking pre-Covid records and cementing itself as a top tropical destination worldwide. But for the local authorities and tourism sector, the goal is not to pad themselves on the back, but to build from these achievements and be poised to elevate its position as a leading global tourist destination this year, with strategic initiatives aimed at enhancing its tourism infrastructure and broadening its international appeal. The Costa Rican Tourism Board (ICT) has outlined two primary objectives for the year: improving the country’s tourism product and diversifying its global promotion efforts.

Key infrastructure projects are set to enhance visitor experiences in some of Costa Rica’s most treasured destinations. The inauguration of Tourist Police offices in Cahuita and Santa Teresa aims to bolster safety and ensure a pleasant environment for travelers. Another critical development is the new dock in Pococí, a facility that looks to streamline access to popular spots like Tortuguero and Parismina, solidifying these unsung gems as must-visit locations for eco-tourism enthusiasts.
Despite the tourist growth of the country, many believe it can offer way more than the highlights of Guanacaste’s Gold Coast and the Arenal Volcano. Key destinations including Tenorio Volcano National Park, the Guayabo National Monument, San Lucas Island, and the Puntarenas Pier will be featured and spotlighted by new local initiatives. These upgrades will enhance visitor amenities while preserving the natural and cultural heritage that Costa Rica is renowned for.

On the international front, the ICT is targeting new markets to sustain and grow its influx of travelers. Efforts are underway to attract tourists from Scandinavia, with plans to establish direct flights from Denmark. Similarly, Costa Rica seeks to consolidate connections with Italy and expand seasonal routes from the United States, Canada, and Latin America into year-round operations. The ICT is also working toward the realization of a direct flight to Argentina, further diversifying its reach.

Additional improvements include upgrades to Liberia Airport in Guanacaste, enabling more airlines to operate in the region. The planned opening of several new hotels in Guanacaste in 2025 will expand lodging options and attract travelers seeking all kinds of tropical experiences, in all ranges of accommodation.

With these solid foundations and targeted initiatives, the country is on track to reinforce its global standing as a premier travel destination, and keep on breaking records this 2025!

Continued growth and reinvestment mark a breakthrough moment for the country, now reaching global status.

Every year since the COVID-19 Pandemic has seen steady increases in Costa Rica’s tourism visitation numbers. The country’s international standing regarding stability, environmental consciousness, and wellness has been a match made in heaven for all the priorities of a post-pandemic world, where seizing the moment and embracing adventure have become more widespread propositions. 2024 in particular has seen Costa Rica reach new heights.

As the current year comes to an end, the tico tourism industry is on track to shatter a record when it comes to revenue and visitation. An estimated 2.6 million tourists will have experienced a glimpse of the pura vida ethos by the end of 2024, which represents a 10% increase from the previous record in pre-pandemic 2019.  According to data from the Costa Rican Tourism Institute, this growth is matched by foreign exchange income, which is projected to exceed $5 billion.

Between January and September alone, the Central Bank of Costa Rica reported $4.2 billion in revenue from tourism, a clear indication of the sector’s robust recovery and unparalleled regional growth. This fact has also been matched by tourism employment; the third quarter of 2024 saw 189,093 direct tourism jobs  recorded, according to the Continuous Employment Survey (ECE) by the National Institute of Statistics and Census (INEC). This is the highest number in the last three years, fueled by service activities such as lodging, food, transportation, car rentals, and recreational and cultural activities.

Currently, nearly 25% of Costa Rica’s economically active population is employed in tourism-related work when combining direct and indirect jobs. It has been a national strategy for the last couple decades, cementing the small Central American country as an active player when it comes to tropical destinations worldwide

Looking ahead, Costa Rica plans to enhance its tourism offerings through strategic investments and promotional campaigns. Key infrastructure projects include the construction of Tourist Police stations in Cahuita and Santa Teresa, set to open in April and June 2025, respectively. Additionally, ¢150 million will be allocated to upgrade iconic destinations such as Tenorio Volcano National Park, the Guayabo National Monument, San Lucas Island, and the Puntarenas Pier.

Costa Rica is also targeting emerging markets to attract new visitors. Promotional campaigns look to engage Scandinavian and Mediterranean countries, beyond the usual English speaking market of US, Canada and the UK, with efforts to establish direct flights from Denmark and Italy. These initiatives aim to diversify international visitor profiles and bolster the country’s reputation as a top global tourist destination.

With record-breaking revenue and visitation numbers, alongside strategic investments in infrastructure and marketing, Costa Rica’s tourism sector aims for even greater success in the coming years. 

Nature lovers can rejoice with wildlife sightings and many outdoors activities, even in non-coastal locations.

There’s plenty of reasons why Costa Rica’s high-season for tourism tends to start after mid November all the way to April and early May. Most tend to focus on the fact that those in the Northern hemisphere look to flock out of frigid temperatures into the warm and cozy vibes of tropical paradise, but there’s more to it than that physiological response. Costa Rica’s upcoming dry season also offers unparalleled natural phenomena within the country’s blessed ecosystem.

From the transition time of late November until the full-blown dry season and summer times of January, the lush, rain-drenched landscapes of the previous months transform into a sunlit paradise. While some might yearn for the vibrant verdant of rainy days, this season unveils very unique manifestations that attracts nature lovers, photographers, and birdwatchers from around the globe.

The shift in climate creates striking changes, especially on the Pacific coast, where rivers and streams diminish, leaving behind temporary ponds and mud puddles. These shrinking water sources become bustling hubs of activity, drawing an incredible variety of waterfowl. The phenomenon, often called the “puddle frenzy,” is a captivating display of nature’s resilience and adaptability. Flocks of wood storks are among the first to arrive and as water levels continue to drop, other species such as jabirus, white ibises, and herons of all kinds take over.

This natural spectacle is a feast for the eyes and lenses of wildlife enthusiasts. Photographers can capture remarkable interactions between species, from the graceful movements of egrets to the strategic maneuvers of night-herons as they take their nocturnal shifts.  Beyond birdwatching, the dry season is ideal for exploring Costa Rica’s diverse microclimates. The consistent sunny weather is perfect for hiking, visiting volcanic landscapes, or venturing into the coastal dry forests unique to the region. For those seeking adventure, activities like zip-lining, horseback riding, and waterfall rappelling thrive under clear skies.

Costa Rica’s dry season offers a chance to witness the delicate balance of its ecosystems, a reminder of nature’s cyclical beauty. Whether you’re a bird enthusiast, a photographer, or simply a traveler seeking unique experiences, this season promises unforgettable encounters with the wild beyond the traditional beach destinations and summer parties.

Costa Rica’s tourism industry has become the core tenet of its economy for the last couple of decades, being the main engine that powers national development. Ever since its name came into the forefront and its paradisiacal sights were highlighted on the cover of international magazines, the small Central American nation has seen an important increase in visitation and infrastructure around it. However, unlike many booming destinations, Costa Rica has remained committed to a sustainable tourism model.

No matter the government at hand, the country has built a structure that at least promotes responsible travel practices that benefit both visitors and local communities. This approach has been at the heart of the country’s tourism strategy, ensuring that natural resources, local livelihoods, and environmental health are mostly prioritized by all sanctioned participants.  During the recent World Tourism Day celebrations, many countries took the opportunity to reflect on the impact of mass tourism and the growing need for sustainable alternatives. Costa Rica was a highlight due to its still-standing avoidance of mass, uncontrolled tourism.

The Tico tourist model implements tools over time to accommodate increased visitation,  but it’s still centered around sustainability on multiple fronts: environmental, economic, and social. Companies in the tourism sector are trained and certified to ensure that Costa Rica’s natural wonders are preserved, as they are well understood to be the reason most people come to this lush natural oasis. The National Tourism Plan is built on three key pillars: sustainability, innovation, and inclusion, with a strong focus on maintaining long-term environmental and social health.

Challenges will always emerge as nations readjust, be it in rising costs, pollution, or overcrowding. So far, Costa Rica’s policies have managed to at least safeguard the country’s tourist success, in its continued expectation of growing as a global destination, while also preserving its national ethos in the process. 

Costa Rica’s rich traditions and costumes can be experienced throughout the year in its myriad of different settings, from the vibrant Caribbean, going through the timeless mountain villages, all the way to the iconic and sprawling Guanacaste outback. In September, however, they all get the spotlight during the celebration of the national Independence Day.

Showcases of band ensembles, lantern parades, and folk dance and music all fill the cultural agenda of ticos during the month, bursting into the streets and public spaces with a palpable sense of national pride through the banners of red, white and blue.

A particularly cherished tradition during this time is the aforementioned desfile de faroles, where children and their families take to the streets with homemade lanterns, a symbolic tribute to a lantern-lit rally supporting independence in Guatemala during 1821. These colorful and school-crafted lanterns are accompanied by traditional music and the beating drums of school bands.The night of September 14 also marks the arrival of the torch of independence, a symbol of the journey the news of independence took across Central America. Passed in relay fashion by students, the torch travels from Guatemala to Costa Rica, concluding its journey in Cartago, the former capital, where it lights a cauldron to mark the end of the night’s festivities.

Beyond the celebrations specifically around Independence Day, this time of the year in Costa Rica marks a great example of the many layers that compose the country’s pura vida ethos. It’s not only about the scenic natural beauty and the laid back tropical vibe, but also the ways diverse cultural and popular expressions bring families and communities together through shared heritage. Be it as an expat looking to delve deeper into the local way of life, or a tico urbanite looking to revisit their immediate context, there’s no better time than this to do so.

Beyond its beautiful backdrop, Costa Rica’s coastline has established itself as a thriving hub for tourism and investment ever since the first adventurous backpackers reached the shores in the late 1970s. With different degrees of surfing and vacation amenities, eventually marinas became a strategic development. The marinas that stretch along the Pacific coast have become important pillars for each of this community’s economic and tourism sector, ranging from luxurious yacht docks to vibrant commercial areas, condominiums, and high-end residences. Costa Rica’s marinas are transforming the coastal landscape by welcoming the most demanding of anglers, and also creating hubs for local visitation. 

One of the standout examples is Marina Papagayo. This marina opened in 2009 and quickly became a cornerstone of the Peninsula Papagayo resort community. Its prime location in a naturally protected harbor at Bahia Culebra makes it an ideal spot for both luxury yachts and sport-fishing vessels. With its proximity to the Guanacaste International Airport, it offers unparalleled convenience for visitors, enhancing its appeal as a premier destination. The marina’s robust infrastructure, including 180 slips and plans for expansion, underscores its role as a key player in the region.

Moving down the coast, Marina Flamingo is another beacon of development, officially reopening in 2023 after years of dormancy. Originally the first marina in Costa Rica, its revival has breathed new life into the booming Flamingo area. The marina now features 90 slips, with plans for significant expansion, and offers a comprehensive range of amenities, including villas, restaurants, and even a medical clinic.

Los Sueños Resort and Marina in Herradura Bay stands out as one of the most lavish,  world-class destinations for anglers and tourists alike. Since its completion in 2003, Los Sueños has drawn visitors with its exceptional fishing opportunities, especially during the annual Los Sueños Signature Triple Crown tournament series. This marina has played a crucial role in solidifying Costa Rica’s reputation as a top sport-fishing destination, contributing to the local economy and offering a high standard of living for residents and visitors.

Marina Pez Vela, located in the charming seaside town of Quepos near Manuel Antonio National Park, is perhaps the premier destination of its kind.  With 195 slips, state-of-the-art facilities, and a unique cofferdam system to tame the Pacific’s swells, it stands as one of the top sport-fishing marinas in Central America. From the essential resources of polished fuel, in-slip pump-out services, to the charming amenities of a wide array of international restaurants, and retail options within its vibrant marina village, this has become a regional highlight. It’s also renowned for hosting prestigious fishing tournaments like the Offshore World Championship and Pelagic Rockstar, cementing its name as a dynamic center of tourism and communal activity.

In the southern part of the country, Marina Bahia Golfito offers a unique blend of natural beauty and strategic importance. Surrounded by lush rainforest and national parks, this marina provides a safe haven for vessels and serves as a gateway to Panama

Costa Rica’s marinas are more than just docking points for yachts, they are epicenters for tourism and community development, driving economic growth, attracting international visitors, and creating opportunities for sustainable development along the country’s stunning coastline. As these projects continue to evolve, they will undoubtedly play an even greater role in shaping the future of Costa Rica’s coastal regions.

Known worldwide as one of the best grains in the whole world, the Central American nation has once again received prestigious accolades.

The immersive forest landscapes of Santa Maria de Dota are a magical place where the aroma of freshly brewed coffee fills the air. Fully established as one of the coffee production hubs of the country, it’s no surprise one of its world-class offerings that recently won first place in the prestigious international Cup of Excellence Coffee 2024 contest. This year, Finca Santa Teresa and the Café Don Cayito grain have put Santa Maria de Dota on the global spotlight once again.

The recognition from the Cup of Excellence is another landmark moment for the small rural village, which is mainly known as a tranquil mountain setting, beyond the coffee production. The story of Café Don Cayito specifically began  in 1974 when 300 Arabica coffee plants were established in the La Granadilla farm. Today, their award-winning Geisha varieties are not only a treat for the taste buds but also a significant draw for tourists seeking unique coffee experiences.

On the other side of town, Finca Santa Teresa showcased innovation with its methods. With over 45 years in coffee cultivation, this farm has transformed an old dairy into a vibrant micro-mill that processes the entire harvest, and even hosts its own coffee shop in the Amarinta Cafeteria & Coffee Sho, where one can savor award-winning brews.

The achievements of these coffee producers not only reward decades of hard work but also underscore a renewed commitment to quality and sustainability amidst agricultural changes. Their success also reminds coffee enthusiasts of the Dota community’s storied tradition. 

These awards serve as testament to the exceptional quality of Santa Maria de Dota’s coffee, and will certainly draw a renewed interest in the country’s iconic and traditional produce, one of the freshest in the world due to its very favorable climate conditions and fertile volcanic soils. Experience for yourself the magic of a country with some of the best coffee in the world, and be part of a setting and culture that celebrates excellence in every cup.