Costa Rica Weather in December

December marks the beginning of the dry season in most parts of Costa Rica, which means you’ll usually get warm, sunny days—perfect for things like hiking, surfing, or spending time in the national parks. It’s a great time to be outside. Here's our guide to the weather in Costa Rica in December. 

Costa Rica in December at a glance

• December marks the start of the dry season, with plenty of sunshine and clear skies. Temperatures typically range from 70–85°F (21–29°C) on the coasts, while the mountain regions stay a bit cooler.
• It’s the beginning of the high season, with great conditions for outdoor activities and wildlife viewing.
• As the month goes on, more tourists start arriving, especially during the vacation period. As the month goes on, more tourists start arriving, especially during the vacation period.
   

What is the weather like in Costa Rica in December?

Costa Rica in December is a great choice. The dry season starts, which means more sun, less rain, and pleasant temperatures. It's a popular time to visit because the weather is more reliable and the landscape is still lush from the rainy season. 

On the Pacific coast, you can expect a lot of sunshine and much less rain, usually around 3-4 inches (75-100mm) for the month. This is a noticeable drop from the wet months before. The Caribbean coast tends to see a bit more rain. 

It’s also the beginning of the high tourist season, with visitor numbers picking up, especially around Christmas and New Year. This makes sense since the weather is great for everything from hiking to wildlife spotting to zipper-lining.

Average daily temperatures in December

In Costa Rica, December temperatures can vary quite a bit depending on where you are due to the country’s landscape. On average, daytime temperatures range from 80-90°F (27-32°C) in most regions, with cooler temperatures in the higher elevations. Nighttime temperatures usually fall between 55-60°F (13-16°C) in the mountains and around 70-75°F (21-24°C) in coastal areas. Costa Rica is pretty close to the equator, so you can plan on  getting about 11.5 hours of daylight. For more tips, see our guide to how to plan a trip to Costa Rica.

Guanacaste & Northern Pacific

The Northern Pacific region, including Tamarindo, Nosara, and the Papagayo Peninsula, is the driest and sunniest part of Costa Rica in December. Daytime temperatures here are around 85-90°F (29-32°C), and there’s almost no rain—usually less than 1 inch for the entire month. This makes it great for beach activities and surfing, with the waves being good for beginners and intermediate surfers. The wildlife is easier to spot around remaining water sources, and the sunsets over the Pacific are pretty incredible.

Central Pacific & Manuel Antonio

In the Central Pacific area, which includes Manuel Antonio National Park, Jacó, and Uvita, temperatures are warm, averaging 82-86°F (28-30°C). Rainfall drops compared to earlier months, with around 3-4 inches scattered over a few days. This region balances sunny days with lush landscapes, and it’s a great month for combining beach time with wildlife viewing. Manuel Antonio National Park is especially lively during this time. 

Central Valley & Mountains

The Central Valley and mountain regions, including San José, Monteverde, and Arenal, are a little cooler in December. Daytime highs are around 70-75°F (21-24°C), and nights can be quite chilly, dropping to 55-60°F (13-16°C). It’s a good idea to bring a light jacket for the evenings. Rain is pretty minimal, although places like Monteverde might still see some mist or light showers. The cool weather makes it a great time for hiking, canopy tours, and hot springs. Plus, the skies are clearer, which will give you better views of volcanoes and mountain landscapes.
 

Is December a good time to visit Costa Rica?

December is a great time to visit Costa Rica, especially if you're looking for dry, sunny weather for outdoor activities. The country transitions from the rainy season to the dry season, so you can expect fewer rainy days and more comfortable temperatures. Early December is really the best time—weather has settled, but the vacation crowds haven’t yet arrived. Whether you're on the coast or in the mountains, temperatures are pretty mild, which is great if you’re planning on getting outside and exploring.

Since the rain is dying down, you’ll have fewer weather disruptions for activities like zipper-lining, hiking, and rafting. Costa Rica wildlife watching is also good in December—animals are active and easy to spot against the lush green landscape that hasn’t yet dried out. 

What about the crowd & cost?

December is when Costa Rica switches from low to high season, so you’ll see a big difference in crowds and prices as the month goes on. The first couple of weeks are a good time to visit—things aren’t too crowded yet, and prices are still reasonable. But by mid-December, especially after the 20th, the vacation rush kicks in. Manuel Antonio, Tamarindo, and La Fortuna get busier, and accommodations tend to fill up fast. Some places might even require a minimum stay during the vacations. 

Prices go up as well. Lodging, tours, and rental cars will cost more than during the low season. If you prefer fewer tourists, consider traveling in late November or after the New Year in January. February and March also have great weather, but be prepared for bigger crowds. See more in our guide to the best time to visit Costa Rica. 
 

Where to go in Costa Rica in December

The weather in Costa Rica in December is warm and sunny, and the festive atmosphere ramps up with Christmas and New Year celebrations. It’s a great time to explore beaches, and rainforests (see our favorite Costa Rica rainforest tour).  Here’s our pick for places to go this month. 

Arenal Volcano

Around December, it’s more common to get clear views of Arenal’s peak, which is usually covered by clouds. The volcano sits in a rainforest area, and the whole region feels pretty wild even though it's set up well for travelers. You’ve got easy access to hot springs—naturally heated from below—and they’re a nice way to wind down after a hike or drive. The trails in the national park aren’t hard to manage and are a good way to get into the forest without needing a guide. You’ll probably run into howler monkeys, some bright birds, and possibly a coati or two.

Guanacaste Province

By December, Guanacaste is usually dry and sunny, especially along the coast. This part of the country has some of the more well-known beaches, like Tamarindo, Flamingo, and Conchal. If you’re looking to spend time by the water, it’s an easy area to base yourself. 

But it’s not just beach towns—there’s also a strong sabanero (cowboy) culture here, which you’ll notice more if you leave the main tourist areas. Santa Rosa National Park is worth checking out too. It’s one of the best places to see dry tropical forest, and in the right season, you might catch sea turtles nesting along the coast.

Carara National Park

Carara sits right between the dry northwest and the more humid south, so you get a mix of ecosystems in a relatively small area. December is a good time for birdwatching—migratory birds start showing up, and the scarlet macaws are active and often seen flying overhead. 

The trails are short and well laid out. One of them is fully accessible, which makes it a solid option if you’re traveling with someone who needs a smoother path. Just outside the park is the Tárcoles River, where you can do a boat tour and see some massive crocodiles without having to trek too far. 
 

What to do in Costa Rica in December

December is when things start to shift in Costa Rica. The rain tapers off, especially on the Pacific side, and that makes a big difference if you’re planning to be outdoors. Trails dry out, surf conditions get better, and wildlife is easier to spot without daily downpours. 

Festival de la Luz

If you’re in San José in mid-December, the Festival de la Luz is a big deal. It’s a nighttime parade with floats, marching bands, and dancers, all lit up and moving through the center of the city. People come early, bring snacks, and make a whole evening out of it. It’s loud, festive, and packed with locals—so if you’re in town, it’s worth checking out. You’ll see traditional Costa Rican elements alongside more modern performances. And since it’s held in the evening, it’s a nice break from the heat of the day.

Christmas 

Christmas in Costa Rica is more about community and tradition than decorations or shopping. Families make tamales together—wrapped in banana leaves and usually filled with seasoned pork or chicken. You’ll also see homemade nativity scenes in homes and public squares, called portales. In some places, people take part in posadas, which are neighborhood processions that reenact Mary and Joseph’s search for shelter. Christmas Eve is the main event, with midnight mass followed by a big meal. After Christmas, towns sometimes host topes—horse parades that feel more like community festivals, with music, food, and dancing in the streets. This is a great thing to do in Costa Rica with kids.

Snorkeling and diving in Drake Bay

Drake Bay is on the Osa Peninsula, and December is a good time to go if you’re into marine life. The water clears up, the sea gets calmer, and boat trips become more predictable. Most people head out to Caño Island for snorkeling or diving—it’s a protected area with coral reefs and a ton of sea life. You might see sea turtles, rays, reef sharks, and big schools of colorful fish. The boat ride usually cuts through mangrove estuaries, and sometimes you’ll spot dolphins or birds along the way. Once you’re back on land, the beaches are quiet, and the whole area still feels a bit untouched compared to other parts of the country.
 

Planning your trip to Costa Rica in December

A few Costa Rica travel tips you'll want to keep in mind:

What to pack

Things start to dry up this month, especially on the Pacific side, but you’ll still want to pack for rain. Keep a lightweight rain layer and shoes that can handle a bit of mud. Early in the month, rain is still possible—especially if you’re heading to the Caribbean side or higher altitudes.
Mornings and evenings can get windy and cool in the mountains, so add a light sweater or windbreaker to your pack. Convertible pants or layered outfits work well for bouncing between cool and warm areas throughout the day.

Planning your itinerary

If you're heading to Costa Rica in December, starting with an itinerary can make planning a lot easier. Check out these suggestions for your trip:

• Costa Rica itinerary 5 days: Start in San José to explore its cultural highlights, then head to La Fortuna for its rainforest trails and waterfalls. Visit Arenal Volcano and enjoy its hiking paths and hot springs, then finish your trip in Monteverde’s misty cloud forest and hanging bridges. Wrap it up with a coffee farm tour back in San José.
• Costa Rica itinerary 7 days: Begin in San José, then spend a few days in Manuel Antonio’s beaches and rainforests. After that, head to Monteverde’s Cloud Forest to check out the hanging bridges and zipper-lining. End your trip in La Fortuna with Arenal Volcano’s trails, waterfalls, and hot springs.
• Costa Rica itinerary 10 days: Start in San José, then head to Tortuguero’s wildlife-filled canals. Next, visit La Fortuna for rainforest hikes and Arenal Volcano. Spend time in Manuel Antonio National Park and finish your journey at Jaco Beach with surfing and sunset views.
• Costa Rica itinerary 14 days: This comprehensive route starts in San José, then heads to Tortuguero’s canals, Puerto Viejo’s Caribbean culture, and Cahuita’s coral reefs. Visit La Fortuna and Arenal Volcano, explore Monteverde’s cloud forests, and wrap up in Manuel Antonio with beaches and wildlife.

When to book

December kicks off high season. Early in the month, prices are still somewhat manageable and the weather is generally great. But by the time Christmas and New Year’s roll around, everything fills up—rates jump, and lots of hotels have minimum stay rules.

If you’re traveling during the vacations, it’s best to book accommodations six to eight months ahead, especially if you’re traveling with a group or want something specific. For the week before Christmas, a few months' notice is usually enough.

Tours and activities like sunset cruises, national park visits, or coffee tastings also need to be booked a few weeks in advance if you're going late in the month. If you're hoping to avoid crowds but still enjoy good weather, look at places like Samara or the Central Valley highlands.

Emergency weather information

December starts to shift toward drier weather.  The Pacific side starts drying out, but there’s still the chance of a “temporal,” which is a multi-day rainstorm that can catch people off guard. Keep your eye on the forecast just in case.

The Caribbean coast is still pretty wet, especially up north. Meanwhile, strong seasonal winds can make mountain driving tricky and might affect small planes, so if you’ve got a domestic flight, check the status before heading to the airport.

Beach conditions also change this time of year. Shifting currents mean new rip tides in spots that might not normally have them. 

For more travel inspiration, see our guide to creating your own Costa Rica itinerary, with tips from local travel experts, or find extra ideas in our Costa Rica travel guide and tailored Costa Rica trips.