Costa Rica Weather in February

What's the weahter like in Costa Rica in February? During this month, Costa Rica reveals its true charm, offering a symphony of delightful weather patterns that promise unforgettable experiences. From sunny beaches and lush rainforests to misty mountains and rejuvenating hot springs, this is the month when Costa Rica truly shines as a celestial destination for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike.

What is the weather like in Costa Rica in February?
Is February a good time to visit Costa Rica?
Average rainfall in Costa Rica in February?
Festivals and events in Costa Rica in February

What is the weather like in Costa Rica in February?

February weather in Costa Rica is generally similar to January, with warm and humid conditions prevailing throughout the country. The dry season continues in most parts of the country, although some areas may experience occasional rain showers.

Falling during the dry season (December to April), the coastal areas such as Guanacaste have temperatures that range from 80°F (27°C) during the day to 70°F (21°C) at night. Travellers should also expect low humidity and a refreshing breeze.

In San Jose and other central regions, temperatures can range from 70°F (21°C) during the day to 60°F (15°C) at night. Overall, though, February is the best time to visit Costa Rica for those who enjoy the warm and tropical weather.

Rough Guides tip: a trip to Costa Rica is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Do you want to get the best out of your trip? Connect with our local experts.

Sun rising over the Playa Blanca beach in Peninsula Papagayo in Guanacaste, Costa Rica © Shutterstock

Is February a good time to visit Costa Rica?

February is considered one of the best months to visit Costa Rica as it offers great weather conditions for enjoying outdoor activities such as surfing, windsurfing, kitesurfing, and turtle watching

Surfing is one of Costa Rica’s biggest draws and is very good on both coasts. The best year-round beaches are at Puerto Viejo de Talamanca and Punta Uva, further down the coast and the season runs roughly between October and late February. There are also numerous camps and schools where you can learn to surf in Tamarindo, Santa Teresa/Mal País, and Jacó.

Costa Rica is small enough that if things are quiet on one coast, it’s fairly easy to pack up your kit and hit the other (buses will take your board for a small additional fee while shuttle buses charge a bit more).

Thanks to its unusually consistent conditions, Laguna de Arenal is the best place in Costa Rica for windsurfing and kitesurfing – the strong winds that buffet the surface of the lake from December to April normally average around a force 6–7, drawing experienced riders from around the world. The wind peaks between mid-December and February, so aim for the late-season months if you’re looking to learn.

Five species of marine turtle visit Costa Rica’s shores: greens, hawksbills, leatherbacks and olive ridleys, and the strange blunt-nosed loggerhead. The loggerhead seems not to nest in Costa Rica, but can sometimes be seen in Caribbean coastal waters.

Turtle nesting takes place mostly at night when hundreds of turtles come ashore at a certain time of year. The turtles tend to visit the same beach each time and lay hundreds of thousands of eggs.

The best time to visit Costa Rica for turtle spotting varies, depending on the species. Loggerhead turtles come ashore at Parque Nacionale Marino Las Baulas on the western Nicoya Peninsula from October to February.

Average rainfall in Costa Rica in February?

In February, the amount of rainfall can vary depending on the region and altitude. In coastal areas such as Guanacaste, February typically experiences very little rainfall, with an average of less than 25 mm (1 inch) throughout the month. In San Jose and other central regions, February can experience slightly more rainfall, with an average of around 50-75 mm (2-3 inches) spread out over the month.

Costa Rica Tulemar beach © Shutterstock

Festivals and events in Costa Rica in February

There are several festivals and events that take place in Costa Rica during the month of February. Here are some of them:

Fiesta de los Diablitos: An indigenous celebration reenacting the battle between Boruca Indians and Spanish troops that takes place in Rey Curre. Participants wear hand-carved masks and traditional costumes.
Nicoya Rodeo and Fiesta Patronal: Taking place in early February, this is considered one of the best rodeos in Guanacaste, it features tope, toro a la Tica (bloodless bullfights), street fairs, food stalls, fireworks, and music.
Carnival and Festival del Mar: This week-long celebration in Puntarenas features fiestas, dancing, parades and live music.