Costa Rica Weather in July

updated 23.08.2024

July is a great month to visit Costa Rica, especially for those seeking lush landscapes and vibrant wildlife. This is the middle of the green season, which means you can expect some rainfall, but also plenty of sunshine and warm temperatures. Are you planning a visit in July? Then read all about the Costa Rica weather in July.

Costa Rica weather in July

The weather in Costa Rica in July can vary depending on the region, but in general, you can expect temperatures to be warm and humid, with an average of around 80°F to 86°F (27°C to 30°C). The Pacific coast tends to be a bit drier, while the Caribbean coast may receive more rainfall.

Despite the rain, July is a great time to explore Costa Rica's many national parks and wildlife reserves. The lush greenery provides a beautiful backdrop for outdoor activities such as hiking, birdwatching, and wildlife spotting. In Tortuguero National Park, you might be lucky enough to see sea turtles nesting, while Corcovado National Park is home to jaguars, pumas, and a wide variety of bird species.

Is Costa Rica warm in July?

Yes, Costa Rica is warm in July, with average temperatures ranging from 80°F to 86°F (27°C to 30°C). The weather can be humid, especially in coastal areas, but the warm temperatures make it a great time for outdoor activities such as hiking, surfing, and wildlife spotting.

While there may be some rainfall during this time, the amount and frequency can vary depending on the region.

Looking for a short yet fulfilling vacation in Costa Rica? Explore our 5 day itinerary in Costa Rica.

The black sand beach of Bahia Drake at sunset © Shutterstock

The black sand beach of Bahia Drake at sunset © Shutterstock

Is July a good time to visit Costa Rica?

July can be a good time to visit Costa Rica. However, the best time to visit Costa Rica is between mid-December and April, but it all depends on what you want to get out of your trip. July falls within the country's green season, which means that there may be more rainfall compared to the dry season.

However, this also means that the landscapes are lush and green, and there are fewer crowds and lower prices compared to the peak tourist season (December to April).

July is also a great time to spot sea turtles nesting on the beaches of Tortuguero National Park, and it is a good time for birdwatching in the Central Valley and Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve. Additionally, this month is perfect for exploring the country's many beaches, as the warm temperatures and sunny skies make for ideal swimming and surfing conditions.

What better way to plan a trip than to rely on personalized experiences? Our content manager has traveled to Costa Rica and shares with you what to consider when planning your trip.

Average rainfall in Costa Rica in July

The amount of rainfall in Costa Rica during July can vary depending on the region, but on average, the total rainfall is around 6-8 inches (150-200mm). The Caribbean coast typically receives more rainfall than the Pacific coast during this time, but there can still be occasional rain showers in both regions.

It's worth noting that the start of the month falls within the Costa Rican school vacation period, so expect higher prices and more crowds during up to the 10-12 July, depending on when the vacation falls. However, there are still plenty of places to find solitude and tranquility, such as the Osa Peninsula or the Nicoya Peninsula.

Overall, if you don't mind a bit of rain and prefer to avoid the peak tourist season, then Costa Rica in July can be an excellent choice.

Just starting to plan your trip? Find out how many days are best to spend in Costa Rica depending on your goals.

Plan your trip with our Costa Rica itineraries

Our Costa Rica itineraries are crafted to help you experience the best of the country, stress-free. Think of them as a starting point — perfect for planning, but flexible enough to adjust to your own pace and interests. After all, travel is about freedom, but a little planning goes a long way.

  • Costa Rica itinerary 5 days: Get a taste of Costa Rica with a whirlwind visit to Arenal’s volcano and Monteverde’s cloud forests. Perfect if you’re short on time but craving adventure.
  • Costa Rica itinerary 7 days: Spend a week exploring Arenal, Monteverde, and the Pacific coast’s beaches. A balanced mix of lush landscapes, wildlife, and relaxation.
  • Costa Rica itinerary 10 days: Dive deeper with stops at Arenal, Monteverde, Tortuguero’s jungle canals, and Manuel Antonio’s beaches. Ideal for a blend of rainforest, wildlife, and coastal vibes.
  • Costa Rica itinerary 14 days: Two weeks to soak up Costa Rica’s best: Arenal, Monteverde, Tortuguero, and both coasts, including the wild Osa Peninsula. Perfect for serious nature lovers.

Still looking for options for your summer trip? Explore our list of the best vacation destinations in July.

Dre Roelandt

written by
Dre Roelandt

updated 23.08.2024

Dre Roelandt is originally from the United States but lives and works in Berlin, Germany. Dre is a freelance writer and artist with a passion for travelling. They are an in-house Senior Content Editor at Rough Guides.

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