Costa Rica Weather in June

June falls in the middle of Costa Rica’s rainy season, which runs from May to November. That means you’ll get warm, humid days with regular afternoon downpours—especially if you're in the central or southern parts of the country. Here's our guide to the weather in Costa Rica in June.

Costa Rica in June at a glance

• June is warm and partly rainy, with average temperatures ranging from 75–87°F (24–31°C). 
• Coastal areas are generally warmer, while the mountains are cooler. 
• June marks the beginning of the green season, meaning fewer tourists compared to the December–April high season, so crowds are low
• Expect moderate rainfall throughout the month

What is the weather like in Costa Rica in June?

In June, Costa Rica moves into its green season, so you can expect a mix of sunny mornings and afternoon showers. This makes it a good time to plan outdoor activities since the mornings are usually clear and the rain tends to come later in the day. Temperatures tend to stay pretty comfortable across the country, but there are some differences depending on where you are in the country.

Rain is fairly common in June, with around 8-12 inches (200-300mm) of rain spread out in short bursts instead of all-day showers. The rain helps the landscape turn lush and green, and waterfalls at this time tend to be flowing nicely. Since it’s a shoulder season (right between the dry and green seasons), you’ll see fewer tourists but still plenty of green, which makes it a nice time to visit without the heavy rains of September or October.

Average daily temperatures in June

Temperatures across Costa Rica can vary a lot depending on the region, but in general, expect daytime highs between 75-85°F (24-29°C). At night, it cools off to around 65-75°F (18-24°C). The ocean temperature stays comfortable too, usually around 82-84°F (28-29°C), so swimming is still pretty comfortable. You’ll also get about 12.5 hours of daylight, so there’s plenty of time before the night begins. For more tips, see our guide to how to plan a trip to Costa Rica.

Pacific Coast

On the Pacific Coast, daytime temps usually sit around 85-87°F (29-31°C). In June, this area starts to get more rain, particularly in the southern regions like Manuel Antonio and the Osa Peninsula. Mornings remain clear, and it’s great time for the beach or surfing. The rain helps turn the dry tropical forests lush. If you want to avoid too much rain, the Guanacaste region in the north tends to stay drier than the areas south of it.

Caribbean Coast

The Caribbean Coast is a bit different. The rain here isn’t as heavy as on the Pacific side, and temperatures are usually around 84-86°F (29-30°C), with higher humidity. Puerto Viejo and Cahuita often have a mini dry season in June, so it can be a good time to visit. Rain tends to come in the mornings, leaving afternoons clear for beach time and wildlife spotting (see more about Costa Rica wildlife). The warm, calm ocean is perfect for snorkeling or diving, especially around the coral reefs.

Central Highlands

In the Central Highlands, places like San José, Monteverde, and Arenal are cooler, with temperatures ranging from 64-75°F (18-24°C), depending on where you are. If you’re in higher altitude areas like Monteverde’s cloud forest, you can expect cooler temperatures and more mist. June’s moisture makes the cloud forests even more atmospheric, with fog rolling through the mountains. It’s also when wildlife becomes more active as the green season kicks in. More on that in our guide to Costa Rica wildlife. 

Is June a good time to visit Costa Rica?

June is actually a solid time to visit Costa Rica, especially if you want to avoid the heavy crowds and still experience the country’s incredible biodiversity.  The weather in Costa Rica in June is a good combination of warm temperatures and refreshing rainfall.

Since it’s the first month of the green season, you’ll get sunny mornings perfect for outdoor activities, followed by afternoon showers that create dramatic skies and colorful sunsets. This makes it easy to plan activities, knowing you’ll get some rain but also plenty of sunshine.  This month can also be good for seniors; see our guide to Costa Rica senior tours.

What about the crowd & cost?

June marks the start of the green season, so you’ll notice a decrease in tourists compared to the dry season months of December through April. Fewer visitors means you can save on costs—hotel rates typically drop, and many tour operators offer green season discounts. Manuel Antonio and Tamarindo are much less crowded, so it’s easier to find good accommodations and book activities without having to plan months ahead.

If you prefer fully dry conditions and don’t mind paying more, February and March are your best bet—they come with the most reliable sunshine, but expect higher prices and bigger crowds. See more in our guide to the best time to visit Costa Rica. 

Where to go in Costa Rica in June

The weather in Costa Rica in June brings more consistent rainfall, mostly in the afternoons and evenings.

Gulf of Papagayo

Up on the northern Pacific coast, the Gulf of Papagayo is one of those spots that stays relatively dry even as the rest of the country starts to see more rain. Mornings are typically sunny and warm, which makes them ideal for beach time, boat trips, or exploring nearby coves. Showers tend to roll in later in the day and don't usually last long. Since it’s the off-season, resorts tend to be more relaxed, and the whole area feels less busy. 

Tamarindo

Tamarindo sees a similar pattern in June—dry mornings, a quick shower in the afternoon, and then it usually clears up again. You can still count on good surfing conditions, and the town doesn’t shut down just because it’s not peak season. In fact, with fewer tourists around, things feel a bit more local. Restaurants sometimes run seasonal specials, and it’s easier to find space on the beach or grab a seat at a bar. 

Cahuita

Cahuita is on the Caribbean coast, which runs on its own weather schedule. June usually brings a short dry spell locals call “veranillo” or “little summer.” That means plenty of sunny days and warm, calm water. The town is small and laid-back, with a different feel than the Pacific side—more reggae and coconut-heavy dishes, less development overall. Cahuita National Park is right next to town and easy to explore on foot. The trails run through coastal forest and open onto quiet beaches, and there’s often wildlife around. Snorkeling conditions are usually decent in June too, thanks to the clear water along the reef.
 

What to do in Costa Rica in June

June in Costa Rica is an interesting time to visit, especially if you’re planning on nature and outdoor activities. It’s the start of the green season, which means more rain, but also a lot of wildlife activity. The rivers fill up with rainwater, making it the perfect time for whitewater rafting, and the forests come alive with new growth and fruit, which attracts tons of birds and animals. 

Whale watching

In June, the humpback whale migration begins along Costa Rica’s Pacific coast. Southern humpbacks travel from Antarctica to Costa Rica’s warmer waters to breed and give birth. You can see them in Uvita and Drake Bay, where tours get you close to these huge whales. The green season means fewer boats, so you’ll likely have a quieter, more intimate experience. Plus, you might spot dolphins playing around with the whales, which makes for a really special moment.  This is a great thing to do in Costa Rica with kids.

Go whitewater rafting on the Pacuare River

The extra rain during June makes it an exciting time for whitewater rafting on the Pacuare River. With the rivers flowing at their peak, the rapids get even more intense, offering a rush as you cut through the jungle. Between the fast parts of the river, you’ll get a chance to enjoy the lush surroundings, with waterfalls flowing into the river and wildlife like toucans and sloths popping up along the way. If you want to make it a longer adventure, some rafting companies have overnight trips at eco-lodges on the river.

Bird watching in Carara National Park

Carara National Park is a great spot for birdwatching in June. It’s located at the meeting point of two ecosystems, so it’s a hot spot for bird species. The rain brings out a lot of breeding behaviors, which means the birds are more active and easier to spot. You’ll see plenty of colorful species like scarlet macaws, toucans, and motmots. Even though it’s the green season, the park is still easily accessible, and the trails are well-maintained. If you’re lucky, you might spot rare birds like the royal flycatcher or the orange-collared manakin during their elaborate courtship rituals. See our favorite Costa Rica rainforest tour.

Planning your trip to Costa Rica in June

Some Costa Rica travel tips to help you plan your trip:

What to pack

This is the time to pack backups. Your shoes might not dry overnight, so having a second pair really helps. Bring darker clothes—they won’t show mud as much—and extra socks, because wet ones pile up fast. A rain cover for your backpack is a must, and it’s worth lining your day bag with a dry fire or garbage bag just in case. A small microfiber towel comes in handy more often than you’d think—for wet seats, damp bags, or just drying off quick. If you’re hiking or exploring, keep electrolyte packets around—humidity can wear you down faster than you expect

Planning your itinerary

If you're heading to Costa Rica in June, starting with a solid itinerary can really make your trip planning easier. Here are a few examples to get you started:

• Costa Rica itinerary 5 days: Begin in San José for some cultural exploration, then head to La Fortuna for its famous rainforest trails and waterfalls. Don’t miss Arenal Volcano’s hiking paths and hot springs, and finish with a visit to Monteverde for its cloud forest and hanging bridges, along with a coffee farm tour back in San José.
• Costa Rica itinerary 7 days: Start your journey in San José, then spend a few days in Manuel Antonio’s beaches and rainforests. Next, explore Monteverde’s Cloud Forest with its hanging bridges and zipper-lining. Finish in La Fortuna, where you can check out Arenal Volcano’s trails, waterfalls, and hot springs.
• Costa Rica itinerary 10 days: Start in San José, then explore Tortuguero’s wildlife-filled canals. Continue your trip to La Fortuna’s rainforest and Arenal Volcano, then enjoy the beaches and wildlife of Manuel Antonio. End with a bit of surf and sunset time at Jaco Beach.
• Costa Rica itinerary 14 days: This comprehensive route starts in San José, then heads to Tortuguero’s canals, Puerto Viejo’s laid-back Caribbean vibe, and Cahuita’s coral reefs. From there, explore La Fortuna and Arenal Volcano, Monteverde’s cloud forests, and finish up at Manuel Antonio’s beaches and wildlife.

When to book

June is part of the rainy season, but you’ll still get plenty of clear mornings and good daylight hours. It’s a quieter time, and prices tend to be lower. You won’t need to book too far in advance—one or two months ahead is usually enough, especially for small lodges or cabins that have limited space. If you're interested in rafting, the rivers are usually running stronger this time of year, so reservation a week or two ahead is smart. Photo tours and guided wildlife trips can also be worth planning for in advance.

Emergency weather information

By June, the rainy season’s fully settled in, especially along the Pacific. Rivers swell, roads can flood, and beach areas can get hit with coastal flooding when heavy rain lines up with high tide.

If you’re near water—rivers especially—keep your distance. Crocodiles tend to get more active when water levels rise.
The Costa Rican Tourism Institute (ICT) has a hotline to help tourists during emergencies. It’s also smart to keep a written copy of your emergency contacts in your bag, not just saved on your phone.

 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.