Costa Rica Weather in March

March is right in the middle of Costa Rica’s dry season, which means you're likely to get sunny skies and warm days almost anywhere you go. That said weather does vary depending on the region. Here's our guide to the weather in Costa Rica in March.

Costa Rica in March at a glance

• Temperatures range from 75-95°F (24-35°C) depending on where you are, with perfect beach weather throughout the country.
• March is a great time to visit, as it’s right in the middle of the dry season, so you can expect plenty of sunny, clear days.
• Expect more crowds and higher costs, especially around Spring Break. It’s a good idea to book things in advance.
• Many national parks are at their best for wildlife viewing during this time

What is the weather like in Costa Rica in March?

In March, Costa Rica’s weather is pretty ideal. It’s right in the middle of the dry season, so you can expect lots of sunshine and clear skies across most of the country. On the Pacific coast, it’s mostly dry with very little rain, so it’s a great time for outdoor activities. The Caribbean side might get a few afternoon showers, but they’re usually short and refreshing.

Since it’s high season, the weather is great for pretty much any activity you have in mind—whether it’s rafting, hiking, or just hanging out at the beach. Rainfall is pretty light, too—most areas get less than an inch (25mm) for the whole month, which is a huge difference compared to the wet season.

Average daily temperatures in March

Temperatures in Costa Rica vary a bit depending on where you are, but overall, you can expect warm to hot weather. Daytime highs are generally between 80-95°F (27-35°C), with cooler nights around 65-75°F (18-24°C).

Sea temperatures are also pretty comfortable, around 82-84°F (28-29°C), making it perfect for swimming or any water activities you have planned. And since it’s the dry season, you’ll get long days with the sun coming up around 5:30 am and setting after 6:00 pm. For more tips, see our guide to how to plan a trip to Costa Rica.

Central Valley & San José

The Central Valley, where you’ll find the capital city of San José, has some of the nicest weather in March. At about 3,000-4,000 feet above sea level, temperatures are mild, with daytime highs in the 80-85°F (27-29°C) range and cool evenings around 65°F (18°C). This is a good time to visit the region’s coffee plantations, which are lush and green from the rainy season but now easily accessible under clear skies.

Guanacaste & Northern Pacific

Guanacaste and the Northern Pacific regions are the hottest parts of the country in March. Temperatures can hit around 95°F (35°C), and the dry landscape takes on a golden hue. If you’re planning on beach days, this area is great, especially around Tamarindo, Nosara, and the Papagayo Peninsula, which are all known for surfing and great beach conditions. The heat peaks in the afternoon, so it’s a good idea to plan outdoor activities for early morning or later in the day when it’s a bit cooler.

Manuel Antonio & Central Pacific

The Central Pacific coast, including Manuel Antonio National Park, is a nice middle ground in March. Temperatures range from 85-90°F (29-32°C) during the day, and while it’s a little more humid than Guanacaste, the rainfall is still minimal. The rainforests are lush and green (see our favorite Costa Rica rainforest tour). This area is great in February if you’re planning on taking a trip with wildlife watching with some beach time, as animals tend to gather around water sources during this dry period.
 

Is March a good time to visit Costa Rica?

March is definitely a great time to visit Costa Rica, especially if you’re hoping for sunny days and warm temperatures. It’s right in the middle of the dry season (December to April), so you can count on reliable sunshine for everything from beach days to wildlife watching and adventure activities. With the wet season still a few months away, you won’t need to worry about the afternoon downpours that are common during the green season.  

Those hoping to catch a glimpse of Costa Rican wildlife will find March a great time to visit too. With fewer water sources around, animals tend to gather around those that remain, so it’s quite a bit easier to spot them.

What about the crowds & cost?

March is peak high season in Costa Rica, so definitely expect to deal with bigger crowds and higher prices, especially around spring break.  Tamarindo, Jacó, and Manuel Antonio can get crowded, and it’s wise to make restaurant reservations ahead of time. Accommodations book up fast, with many properties requiring a minimum stay and charging more than during the green season. National parks may also have visitor caps in place, so showing up early is important if you want to get in.

Since it’s high season, expect to pay more for just about everything—hotels, rental cars, and activities. Rental cars can get especially pricey.
If you’re after similar weather with fewer tourists, late November or early December is a good time to visit. The dry season is just starting, and the vacation rush hasn’t picked up yet. Late April and early May also offer great conditions but with fewer crowds, as the dry season is winding down.   See more in our guide to the best time to visit Costa Rica. 
 

Where to go in Costa Rica in March

Hot and dry, especially along the Pacific. You’ll find great conditions for outdoor adventures—plus fewer crowds than in January.

Monteverde Cloud Forest

Monteverde still gets some early morning fog in March, but most days it clears up pretty quickly. That means you’ll actually be able to see the views from the hanging bridges, and ziplining feels less like flying blind. It’s also a solid month for spotting wildlife. Quetzals are around and sometimes easier to spot during mating season, and the howler monkeys make themselves known. The temperatures here stay cooler than down at the beach, so it’s a nice change of pace if you’ve been in the heat for a while. See more about Costa Rica wildlife. 

Corcovado National Park

If you’re heading to Corcovado, March is one of the more straightforward times to go. The trails are drier, which makes it easier to get deeper into the park. A lot of animals gather around water sources now, so you’ve got a better chance of seeing wildlife without having to work too hard for it. Scarlet macaws are active, and you might see a tapir near a stream. There’s usually a lot of fruit in the trees, which draws out the monkeys too. If you’re camping, this is a good time—clear nights, less rain, and easier logistics overall.

Tortuguero National Park (Caribbean Side)

Tortuguero’s on the Caribbean side, so it rains pretty regularly year-round—but March tends to be one of the lighter months. It’s a good time for boat trips through the canals since the water’s calm and visibility is better. You’ll see a mix of birds—toucans, trogons, maybe even a great green macaw if you’re lucky. It’s not turtle season, but the beaches are still worth walking, and the inland trails are more accessible than usual. 

Things to do in Costa Rica in March

The dry season is in full swing, but the crowds haven’t hit yet, which means you can enjoy the outdoors without feeling packed in. It’s an ideal time for everything from hiking to surfing. 

Catch perfect waves in Tamarindo

Tamarindo is a solid spot for surfing in March. The conditions are ideal, with offshore winds that create smooth, glassy waves in the mornings. This makes it a good place for both beginners and more experienced surfers. The waves typically range from 3 to 6 feet, so if you're just starting out, you’ll have a chance to get comfortable, but if you're an advanced surfer, there’s still plenty of challenge. Surf schools take advantage of these conditions, so it's a great time to take a lesson.

Beyond the waves, Tamarindo’s laid-back beach vibe is perfect for winding down after a surf session.  This is a great thing to do in Costa Rica with kids.

Coffee harvest processing tours

March is when Costa Rica’s coffee harvest wraps up, making it a good time to visit the coffee estates in places like Tarrazú or Central Valley. You can watch the final steps of coffee production, from sorting and washing the beans to drying them out. It’s fascinating to see how the beans are processed with a combination of tradition and modern techniques. Many tours end with a cupping session where you get to taste the subtle flavors, like chocolate, citrus, and floral notes, that make Costa Rican coffee unique.

White-water raft along the Pacuare River

Rafting the Pacuare River in March is a fantastic experience. The water levels are just right, so you get to ride exciting Class III-IV rapids without the intensity that comes during the wetter months. The rafting trips take you through stunning rainforest gorges, with calm sections perfect for swimming in clear pools beneath waterfalls. If you're interested in an overnight rafting trip, you can stay at eco-lodges along the river, accessible only by boat. The clear skies and comfortable temperatures make it a peaceful spot for camping.
 

Planning your trip to Costa Rica in March

A few Costa Rica travel tips to keep in mind:

What to pack

March is hot, so pack light in every sense. Tank tops, breathable fabrics, and UV-protective swimwear if you’ll be spending long days in the sun. A cooling towel or bandana helps when things get sticky. For the beach, a fold-up umbrella or pop-up tent is great if you burn easily or just need a break from the sun. Wet wipes and hand sanitizer make a huge difference after dusty roads or sweaty hikes. You won’t need much for cooler weather, but if you’re headed into the highlands, one light layer is enough.

Planning your itinerary

If you’re heading to Costa Rica in March, starting with an itinerary can make the planning process smoother. Here are a few suggestions:

• Costa Rica itinerary 5 days: Start in San José for a couple days, then head to La Fortuna to explore the rainforest and waterfalls. Hike around Arenal Volcano, then finish up in Monteverde with its cloud forest and hanging bridges, before heading back to San José for a coffee farm tour.
• Costa Rica itinerary 7 days: Begin in San José, spend a few days in Manuel Antonio’s beaches and rainforests, then zipper-line and check out the hanging bridges in Monteverde. End your trip in La Fortuna with Arenal Volcano, trails, waterfalls, and hot springs.
• Costa Rica itinerary 10 days: Start off in San José, travel to Tortuguero’s wildlife-filled canals, then visit La Fortuna and Arenal Volcano. Spend time in Manuel Antonio National Park with its beaches and diverse wildlife, and finish your trip at Jaco Beach for some surf and sunset views.
• Costa Rica itinerary 14 days: Start your trip in San José, head to Tortuguero’s canals, Puerto Viejo’s Caribbean charm, and Cahuita’s coral reefs. Then explore La Fortuna and Arenal Volcano, Monteverde’s cloud forests, and wrap up in Manuel Antonio for its beaches and wildlife.

When to book

March is packed. You’ve got spring breakers, snowbirds, and sometimes Holy Week (Semana Santa) all landing around the same time. Pacific beach towns and big tourist spots can feel especially full. If you want to stay anywhere near the beach, it’s best to book your hotel four or five months ahead. Same goes for popular tours—whitewater rafting, night hikes to see turtles, cloud forest treks—they fill up fast. If you’re traveling during Holy Week, transportation can be limited and prices spike, so consider staying in one spot rather than moving around.

Emergency weather information

Heat stroke becomes a real concern, especially in the lowlands and along the coast. If someone’s confused, not sweating, or running a high temp, it’s time to act fast. Stay in the shade, hydrate constantly, and don’t push it mid-day.

Winds can still be strong, especially near the Nicoya Peninsula, and that makes both boating and swimming more dangerous. Always check wind conditions before heading out on the water. Wildfire risk is highest this month too, so avoid dry trails and report any smoke you see.

In remote areas, emergency services might take a while. Pack a small first aid kit and ask around—many communities use WhatsApp for local alerts, and those groups are often faster than official updates.

 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.