Costa Rica Weather in July

July is actually a great time to visit Costa Rica, especially if you’re planning on seeing lush scenery and spotting wildlife. It’s the middle of the green season, so you’ll definitely get some rain—but it’s not constant. Here's our guide to the weather in Costa Rica in July.

Costa Rica in July at a glance

• Average temperatures range from 75-87°F (24-31°C) along the coast and 60-75°F (16-24°C) in the Central Valley and highlands.
• July falls in the "green season," with sunny mornings and afternoon showers
• Expect moderate crowds and fewer tourists compared to peak season 
• It’s also a great time for wildlife viewing, especially sea turtle nesting on the Caribbean coast.
   

What is the weather like in Costa Rica in July?

The weather in Costa Rica during July is a bit of a mix, with sunny mornings and tropical showers in the afternoon. This time of year is part of the "green season," so you can expect a good amount of rain, especially in the afternoon (typically between 2-5 PM). But the rain tends to be short, and it’s easy to plan around it if you’re planning on outdoor activities.

Since it’s the green season, the landscapes are lush and vibrant. You’ll see plenty of greenery, with rainfall averaging around 8-12 inches (200-300mm) depending on where you are. The Pacific coast gets more rain than the Caribbean side. In general, July is a decent time to visit Costa Rica. This month is known for lush landscapes, fewer crowds, and lower prices. 

Average daily temperatures in July

The temperatures in Costa Rica during July are warm but comfortable. You can expect daytime highs around the mid-70s to mid-80s°F (24-30°C), with cooler nights in the 60s°F (17-18°C), especially in the higher areas. The Pacific Ocean stays around 82-84°F (28-29°C), which is nice for swimming or other water activities. This time of year you can also expect about 12 hours of daylight; the sun rises around 5:20 AM and sets around 6:00 PM. For more tips, see our guide to how to plan a trip to Costa Rica.

Guanacaste (Pacific Northwest)

Guanacaste is the driest region in Costa Rica, so its rainy season is a bit milder than in other parts of the country. In July, daytime temperatures are usually between 85-90°F (29-32°C), with evenings around 75°F (24°C). Afternoon showers do happen, but they’re usually brief and not as intense as in other regions. The area also gets a bit of a break in rainfall mid-month, which locals call "veranillo" (little summer). The beaches, like Tamarindo and Playa Conchal, are still great to visit, and the rain makes the tropical forests look especially lush.

Central Valley

The Central Valley, which includes San José, enjoys more mild temperatures due to its elevation. During July, daytime highs are typically 75-80°F (24-27°C), with cooler nights around 62-65°F (17-18°C). You can expect consistent rain in the afternoon, usually lasting an hour or two. This helps keep the region’s coffee plantations looking lush and vibrant. The cooler temperatures here (about 3,000-5,000 feet above sea level) make it a comfortable place to explore cultural sites or visit nearby volcanoes like Poás and Irazú. Just bring some rain gear if you’re heading out in the afternoon.

Caribbean Coast

The Caribbean coast of Costa Rica has its own weather patterns, and July is actually one of its drier months. Temperatures during the day range from 80-86°F (27-30°C), with warm evenings around 75°F (24°C). Quick rain showers may happen, but you’ll also get plenty of sunshine. This makes it a great time to plan beach activities, especially in Puerto Viejo and Cahuita, where the calm seas are ideal for swimming and snorkeling. Plus, it's turtle nesting season at Tortuguero National Park, so you can witness green sea turtles coming ashore to lay their eggs.
 

Is July a good time to visit Costa Rica?

July can be a great time to visit Costa Rica. The weather is part of the country's green season, with sunny mornings and refreshing afternoon showers that bring the landscape to life. These predictable patterns mean you can easily plan your outdoor activities for the mornings and early afternoons, and then enjoy more relaxed, indoor activities when the rain rolls in.

The country’s landscapes are at their lushest in July, with waterfalls flowing, rivers running strong, and the forests showing off a wide range of greens. If you're planning on exploring to see Costa Rican wildlife, July is also a good month. The rain brings out frogs, and the forests are alive with activity. Plus, it’s peak nesting season for sea turtles, so you might get to see them coming ashore.

What about the crowd & cost?

July is a sweet spot for a mix of good weather and better value. Since it’s part of the green season, there are fewer tourists than during the dry season, which means you’ll have more availability at popular hotels, fewer crowds at attractions, and a generally more relaxed vibe around the country.

In terms of cost, you'll find many accommodations offering discounts. Tour operators often have special deals, and if you're looking to stay longer, you might have more room to negotiate rates. Even high-end places, which typically keep their prices steady year-round, may offer perks like room upgrades during this time.
For those looking for the driest conditions, February and March are the best months, but keep in mind that they come with higher prices and more tourists. See more in our guide to the best time to visit Costa Rica. 
 

Where to go in Costa Rica in July

The weather in Costa Rica in July makes for a nice time to visit, with green scenery, fewer crowds, and a better chance of sunshine than in surrounding months.

Puerto Viejo / Cahuita

If you're hoping for dry weather, the Caribbean coast is your best bet in July. Puerto Viejo and Cahuita tend to be sunnier while the rest of the country gets more rain. These towns have a relaxed feel, with Afro-Caribbean culture shaping the food, music, and pace of life. It’s a good time for snorkeling in Cahuita National Park, since the sea is usually calmer. You’re also in sea turtle nesting season, which is worth checking out if you’re nearby. 

Osa Peninsula / Corcovado

Even though July brings some rain to the Osa Peninsula, it’s still a great time for spotting wildlife. Mornings are typically clear, and the forest is full of movement—birds, monkeys, and sometimes even tapirs near the rivers (see more about Costa Rica wildlife). Corcovado is remote and rugged, so expect muddy trails and the occasional downpour, but that’s part of the experience here. It’s worth waking up early to catch the best conditions before the rain comes through in the afternoon.

San Gerardo de Rivas

This small mountain village sits near the base of Chirripó, Costa Rica’s highest peak. July tends to bring cooler temperatures and clearer mornings, which are great for hiking or just walking through the forested trails. The area is quiet, and the landscape is steep and green, with cloud forests and open views on clear days. It’s also strawberry season, and local farms are busy. After a hike, there are some natural hot springs nearby that are perfect for winding down.

What to do in Costa Rica in July

The landscape is lush, rivers are running strong, and things feel a bit quieter overall. With fewer tourists around, it’s easier to spot animals or just enjoy the trails without a crowd. If you’re comfortable planning your day around the weather, it can be a great time to go.

Night tours in Monteverde or Arenal

Night walks are one of the more memorable things to do this time of year. In places like Monteverde or the forest around Arenal, the rain seems to draw animals out. Frogs, insects, and nocturnal mammals like kinkajous are more active, and the forest sounds completely different after dark. A guide will help you spot what you might otherwise miss—things like bioluminescent fungi or a sloth tucked into a tree. See our favorite Costa Rica rainforest tour.

Visit butterfly yards and insect museums

If the weather turns and you need something indoors, butterfly yards and insect museums are an easy way to keep exploring without getting soaked. These places usually have a mix of enclosed areas and covered walkways, so it’s still possible to see butterflies up close or check out displays of beetles and stick insects. It’s also a good chance to learn more about how these smaller creatures fit into the ecosystem.  This is a great thing to do in Costa Rica with kids.

Hot springs around Arenal Volcano

After a day out in the rain or hiking through the forest, soaking in a hot spring feels like a good way to end things. Around Arenal, there are lots of options—some are more built-up with pools and walkways, and others are simpler and more tucked into the forest. The mix of warm water and cool air can be surprisingly calming, especially if it starts to drizzle while you’re in the water. 
 

Planning your trip to Costa Rica in July

Here are some Costa Rica travel tips to make your planning easier:

What to pack

You’ll want to pack for both sunshine and rain—July can swing in either direction. Lightweight, quick-dry clothing that can be layered is the most practical. A small microfiber towel is handy for drying off benches, wiping gear, or dealing with sudden downpours. Shoes with good grip are useful, especially on muddy trails or slick city streets. 

A compact, breathable rain jacket is easier to carry than an umbrella and more useful in humid conditions. For those interested in wildlife, this is a good time to bring binoculars or a camera with a zoom lens. On the Pacific coast, stronger ocean currents are common, so secure swimwear and a dry bag for valuables are smart additions.

Planning your itinerary

If you’re preparing for Costa Rica in July, checking out a few sample itineraries can be a great place to start. Here’s some inspiration:

• Costa Rica itinerary 5 days: Experience San José’s culture, then head to La Fortuna for its rainforest trails and waterfalls. Explore Arenal Volcano’s hiking paths, relax in hot springs, and finish in Monteverde with its cloud forest and hanging bridges, before returning to San José via a coffee farm tour.
• Costa Rica itinerary 7 days: Begin in San José, then spend time in Manuel Antonio’s beaches and rainforests. After that, zipper-line and walk through Monteverde’s cloud forest, then head to La Fortuna for Arenal Volcano’s trails, waterfalls, and hot springs.
• Costa Rica itinerary 10 days: Start in San José, then head to Tortuguero’s canals for wildlife watching. Make your way to La Fortuna and Arenal Volcano, and then spend time in Manuel Antonio with its beaches and wildlife. Finish your trip at Jaco Beach for some surfing and sunsets.
• Costa Rica itinerary 14 days: Begin in San José, then explore Tortuguero’s canals, Puerto Viejo’s Caribbean culture, and Cahuita’s coral reefs. Visit La Fortuna and Arenal Volcano, Monteverde’s cloud forests, and end your trip at Manuel Antonio’s beaches and wildlife.

When to book

If you’re heading to the beach, especially with kids, try to book your accommodations two to three months ahead. The Northern Pacific tends to stay drier, while the Osa Peninsula sees some rain but is still great for wildlife. National parks don’t get too crowded, but if you're thinking about doing things like dolphin tours in Drake Bay or visiting a coffee plantation, it’s worth reservation those a few weeks in advance. If you want fewer people and better value, the Central Pacific is worth a look.

Emergency weather information

Even during the veranillo (that little dry break in the rainy season), July can surprise you with sudden, intense storms. One minute it’s sunny, the next you’re in a downpour. San José and other cities can flood quickly—drains just can’t keep up. 

On the Caribbean coast, the waves can get rough—worth double-checking local surf conditions before swimming. And if you hear from the local emergency committees (Comités Locales de Emergencia), listen up and follow their advice right away. Power outages are common this time of year, so it’s smart to keep your phone charged and have a backup battery just in case.

 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.