Costa Rica’s rainy season, roughly May through November, has a reputation problem. It’s often called “low season” like that’s a downside, but for a lot of travelers it’s actually the better time to visit, especially if you know what to expect.
What “Rainy Season” Actually Means
Despite the name, most days in Guanacaste during the green season still start sunny. Rain typically arrives in the afternoon as a shorter, heavier shower rather than an all-day washout, then clears up again by evening. Mornings are usually your best window for beach time, tours, and transfers.
Why It’s Worth Considering
- Noticeably lower prices on hotels and tours compared to the December through April high season
- Smaller crowds at beaches, national parks, and popular waterfalls
- The countryside turns genuinely green, a dramatic contrast to the dry, dusty landscape of the dry months
- Waterfalls like Rio Celeste run fuller and more dramatic with the added rainfall
How to Plan Around the Rain
The simplest strategy is to front-load your day. Book tours, transfers, and outdoor activities for the morning whenever possible, and treat the afternoon rain as a built-in reason to relax at your hotel, grab a late lunch, or nap before dinner. September and October see the heaviest rainfall and are worth avoiding if you have flexibility, while May, June, and November tend to be a gentler introduction to the season.
Some unpaved roads to more remote beaches can get rough during the wettest months, so if your itinerary includes a harder-to-reach spot, a shuttle with a driver who knows current road conditions is worth more during rainy season than any other time of year.
Packing for the Season
Pack a light rain jacket, a dry bag for your phone and camera, and shoes that can handle getting wet and drying out quickly. Beyond that, dress exactly like you would for the dry season, since the mornings are just as warm and sunny.
