Weather in Costa Rica 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 hiking, surfing, or exploring national parks. It’s one of the best months for outdoor adventures and a popular time for Costa Rica travel.

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.

What is the weather like in Costa Rica in December?

The weather in Costa Rica in December marks the start of the dry season, especially on the Pacific side. You’ll get more sun, less rain, and warm temperatures: ideal conditions for exploring beaches, national parks, and rainforests. The landscape is still green from recent rains, which makes early December especially beautiful.

If you’re planning a trip to Costa Rica, the Pacific coast is the best bet for clear skies and long sunny days. Rainfall drops to around 3-4 inches (75-100mm) for the month: a big change from the wetter months before. The Caribbean coast still sees some showers, but it's usually short and sporadic.

December also kicks off the high season, with more visitors arriving as the vacations approach. It’s a great time for hiking, wildlife watching, or zipper-lining through the canopy. For many travelers, December is one of the best times to visit Costa Rica, as the weather turns reliable and outdoor adventures open up.

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.

Guanacaste and Northern Pacific

The Northern Pacific, including Tamarindo, Nosara, and the Papagayo Peninsula, is one of the driest and sunniest regions in December. Daytime temperatures average 88-93°F (31-34°C), with little to no rain, typically under 1 inch (25mm) for the entire month.

Conditions are ideal for beach time, snorkeling, and beginner-friendly surfing. Wildlife tends to gather near water sources, and sunsets over the Pacific are especially dramatic this time of year.

Central Pacific and Manuel Antonio

In the Central Pacific, home to Manuel Antonio, Jacó, and Uvita, daytime temperatures range from 84-88°F (29-31°C). December brings a shift to the dry season, though the area still sees 3-4 inches (75-100mm) of rain, mostly in short bursts.

The mix of sun and moisture keeps the landscapes lush and green. Manuel Antonio National Park is active and vibrant in December, with monkeys, sloths, and tropical birds easy to spot along the trails.

Central Valley and Mountains

The Central Valley and mountainous regions, including San José, Monteverde, and Arenal, are cooler and crisper in December. Expect daytime highs of 70-77°F (21-25°C), with nights dropping to 55-60°F (13-16°C).

It’s a good time for hiking, canopy tours, and soaking in hot springs. Monteverde may still have light mist or showers, but skies are generally clearer, giving better views of volcanoes and cloud forests. Pack a jacket for early mornings and evenings.

Is December a good time to visit Costa Rica?

December is one of the best times for Costa Rica trips, especially if you're after sunshine, adventure, and active wildlife. The dry season begins on the Pacific side, bringing clear skies and warm temperatures: ideal for hiking, zipper-lining, surfing, or just relaxing on the beach. Early December is a sweet spot: the rain has mostly stopped, but the peak vacation crowds haven’t arrived yet.

With trails drying out and rivers still flowing from the rainy season, it’s also a great time for whitewater rafting and volcano hikes. Costa Rica's wildlife is especially easy to spot in December. The forests are still green from recent rains, and animals like monkeys, toucans, and sloths tend to be more active.

For a mix of rainforest, beaches, and biodiversity, Manuel Antonio is often considered the best park in Costa Rica, and in December, it’s full of life without being overwhelmingly busy.

Why December is a good time to visit:

• Dry season begins: Especially on the Pacific coast, rain tapers off and sunny days become the norm.
• Still lush: Early December offers the best of both worlds: green landscapes without daily downpours.
• Peak wildlife activity: Wildlife is easy to spot as animals stay active in the fresh, green environment.
• Perfect for adventure: Drier trails and warm temperatures make December ideal for hiking, zipper-lining, and volcano treks.
• Vacation energy: By mid-December, towns and cities light up with Christmas events, parades, and fireworks.

What about the crowd and cost?

December marks the shift from low to high season in Costa Rica, and you’ll notice the change in both crowd levels and prices. The first two weeks of the month are a sweet spot: fewer tourists, better availability, and more reasonable rates. But from mid-December onward, especially after the 20th, the vacation rush kicks in.

Popular destinations like Manuel Antonio, Tamarindo, and La Fortuna fill up quickly. Hotels often raise their rates and may require minimum stays during the vacation period. Tours and rental cars also become more expensive and harder to book last minute.

If you’re looking to avoid crowds and save money, consider traveling in late November or waiting until early January, once the vacation surge passes. February and March also offer excellent weather, though they come with larger crowds and higher prices due to peak season demand.

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. Here’s the best places to visit in Costa Rica this month.

Arenal Volcano

December often brings clear views of Arenal’s peak, which is usually hidden by clouds. The area feels wild but is easy to explore, with well-marked trails and easy access to hot springs.

Some of the best hikes around Arenal Volcano are inside the national park: short, scenic routes that take you through forest and past old lava fields. You might spot howler monkeys, toucans, or coatis along the way. Afterward, a soak in the natural hot springs is a great way to unwind.

Guanacaste Province

By December, Guanacaste is typically dry and sunny, especially along the coast. It’s home to some of the best beaches in Costa Rica, including Tamarindo, Flamingo, and Playa Conchal, making it a great base if you're planning to spend time by the water.

Beyond the beach towns, the region has a strong sabanero (cowboy) culture, which you’ll notice more if you venture inland. Santa Rosa National Park is also worth a visit. It’s one of the best places to explore a dry tropical forest, and in the right season, you might even see sea turtles nesting along the shore.

Carara National Park

Carara sits between the dry northwest and the more humid south, offering a mix of ecosystems in a compact area. It’s a great spot for a Costa Rica rainforest tour, especially in December when migratory birds arrive and scarlet macaws are often seen flying overhead.

The trails are short and well-maintained, with one fully accessible route, ideal if you’re traveling with someone who needs a smoother path. Just outside the park, the Tárcoles River offers boat tours where you can spot massive crocodiles without much walking.

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 improve, and wildlife is easier to spot without daily downpours.

It’s also when many of the best things to do in Costa Rica, like hiking, zipper-lining, and visiting national parks, become more accessible and enjoyable.

Festival de la Luz

If you’re in San José in mid-December, the Festival de la Luz is one of the biggest things to do in San José during the vacation season. It’s a nighttime parade with illuminated floats, marching bands, and dancers winding through the city center. Locals arrive early with snacks, camp out along the sidewalks, and make an evening of it.

The event blends traditional Costa Rican culture with modern performances, creating a festive, high-energy atmosphere. Since it happens at night, it’s also a fun way to enjoy the city when it’s cooler and lit up for the vacations. If you’re using the capital as a base, this celebration pairs well with easy day trips from San José, giving you a taste of both city life and nearby nature or cultural spots.

Christmas in Costa Rica

Christmas in Costa Rica is all about family and tradition, which makes it a great time to experience Costa Rica with kids. Families make tamales together, set up handmade nativity scenes (portales), and join local posadas: neighborhood processions with music and candles.

Christmas Eve is the main event, with midnight mass and a big family meal. Afterward, many towns host topes, festive horse parades with music, food, and dancing in the streets.

Snorkeling and diving in Drake Bay

Located on the Osa Peninsula, Drake Bay is a great December spot for marine life. Clear, calm seas make boat trips to Caño Island ideal for snorkeling or diving; you might see turtles, rays, reef sharks, and schools of tropical fish.

The ride often passes through mangroves, with chances to spot dolphins or birds. Back on land, the beaches are quiet, and the area still feels wild and remote.

Planning your trip to Costa Rica in December

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

What to pack

The weather in Costa Rica in December starts to shift, especially on the Pacific side, where things begin to dry out. Still, it’s smart to pack a light rain jacket and shoes that can handle mud; early December can bring showers, particularly in the Caribbean or at higher elevations.

In the mountains, mornings and evenings can be cool and breezy, so bring a sweater or windbreaker. Layered clothing or convertible pants help adjust to changing temperatures throughout the day.

Planning your itinerary

If you're visiting in December, having a Costa Rica itinerary helps you make the most of the dry season. Here are a few trip ideas to get you started:

• 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 the 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.