Costa Rica Weather in May

May marks the start of the wet season in Costa Rica, which runs roughly from now through mid-November. That said, mornings are usually sunny and clear, with rain rolling in during the afternoon. Here's our guide to the weather in Costa Rica in May.

Costa Rica in May at a glance

• Average temperatures range from 75-88°F (24-31°C) in most areas, with cooler temps in the Central Valley.
• May marks the shift from the dry to the rainy season, known as the "green season." Expect a mix of sunny mornings and some afternoon showers, especially as the month goes on.
• With fewer tourists around, it’s a quieter time to visit.
   

What is the weather like in Costa Rica in May?

In May, Costa Rica starts to shift from the dry season to the green season. The weather is warm, and you'll notice more afternoon showers, especially toward the end of the month. Mornings are usually sunny, so it’s a great time for outdoor activities, while afternoons bring refreshing rain. This pattern lets you plan your day with some flexibility-—you can usually take advantage of the sun before the rain rolls in.

May falls in the shoulder season, right after the high tourist season ends. It’s a nice balance because you get the tail end of the dry season and the beginning of the green season. The country typically gets 8-12 inches (200-300mm) of rain, but it varies depending on where you are. The Caribbean side tends to be wetter, while northern Pacific areas, like Guanacaste, tend to stay drier for a bit longer. All in all, in May you’re likely get good weather, fewer crowds, and lower prices while seeing the landscape just starting to turn from brown to green.

Average daily temperatures in May

In May, temperatures are warm but still comfortable. Daytime highs generally range from 80-88°F (27-31°C), with cooler nights around 65-75°F (18-24°C). Compared to the dry season, May feels a little more comfortable, thanks to the rain that helps cool things down. During the day, it can feel humid, so it’s a great time for beach activities along both coasts. 

Ocean temperatures stay pleasant at around 82-84°F (28-29°C), so swimming and other water activities are still enjoyable, and you’ll get 12 hours of daylight before the sun sets. For more tips, see our guide to how to plan a trip to Costa Rica.

Central Valley (San José region)

The Central Valley, where San José is located, has a pretty comfortable climate in May. Temperatures usually hover around 70-75°F (21-24°C). Since the region sits at a higher elevation (about 3,800 feet), it feels cooler and more comfortable than the coastal areas. 
Mornings are typically clear, and it’s a great time of day to check out nearby volcanoes like Poás and Irazú. By mid-May, you’ll start to see more afternoon rain, but it usually doesn’t stick around too long. The cooler temperatures in the Central Valley make it a nice base for day trips, especially if you want a break from the coastal heat.

Pacific Coast (Manuel Antonio, Tamarindo)

Along the Pacific coast, you can expect temperatures between 80-88°F (27-31°C) during the day. The northern Pacific, like Guanacaste, stays drier for longer, while southern areas, like Manuel Antonio, will see more rain as the month goes on. Mornings typically start sunny, which makes it a good time for the beach, surfing, or checking out wildlife. The afternoon rain usually comes at a predictable time, so you can get your morning adventures in before the showers arrive. As the rains start, the dry landscapes become more and more lush.

Caribbean Coast (Puerto Viejo, Tortuguero)

The Caribbean coast of Costa Rica tends to have its own weather pattern, and May is often drier here than on the Pacific side. Temperatures are around 80-85°F (27-29°C) with high humidity. Locals call it "veranillo" or "little summer" when the weather is dry and sunny during parts of May. When the rain does come, it’s usually in short, heavy bursts rather than all-day showers. May also marks the start of turtle nesting season in Tortuguero, so if you’re there, you might get a chance to see green sea turtles coming ashore.

Is May a good time to visit Costa Rica?

May can be a great time to visit Costa Rica. It's a transitional month, moving from the dry season into the green season, meaning you'll get a bit of both. In the first half of the month, you can expect plenty of sunshine in the mornings, followed by some afternoon showers. These rain showers are usually short and refreshing, rather than long, all-day downpours. 

The Pacific beaches are still inviting, though you may notice the surf conditions start to shift a little with the changing winds. Costa Rica wildlife also picks up with the first rains, so if you're wanting to explore, you'll see more animals becoming active, like colorful frogs in the rainforest or quetzals nesting in the cloud forests. See more about Costa Rica wildlife. 

What about the crowd & cost?

If you’re looking to avoid the crowds and enjoy more affordable travel, May is a smart choice. Tourist traffic drops significantly compared to the peak months (December through April), so you’ll find beaches, national parks, and other attractions a lot less crowded. This gives you a chance to experience Costa Rica more authentically without dealing with the hustle and bustle of high season.

Airfares tend to be more affordable, and there’s no need to book accommodations months in advance, which is common during high season.  However, if you’re after drier conditions and don’t mind slightly higher prices and more visitors, April can also be a better time to visit.  See more in our guide to the best time to visit Costa Rica. 
 

Where to go in Costa Rica in May

The weather in Costa Rica in May means the landscapes turn lush, and travel tends to be more affordable.

Tabacón Hot Springs

If you're spending time near Arenal, Tabacón is a great spot to unwind. The hot springs here are naturally heated by the volcano and flow through a series of pools and small waterfalls surrounded by rainforest. In May, the jungle around you really starts to fill out again, and a light rain while you're soaking just adds to the whole experience. Water temperatures range from 77°F to 122°F (25°C to 50°C), so you can move between the cooler pools and the hotter ones, depending on what you need after a hike or long travel day.

Guanacaste (Northern Pacific)

Guanacaste tends to stay dry longer than other parts of the country, so you’ll still get plenty of sunny mornings even as the season starts to change. Beaches like Tamarindo and Playa Conchal are good this time of year if you want warm water and fewer people. The first rains bring a bit of green back into the landscape, which has been dry for months. Surfing, horseback riding, and hikes are all still easy to do, and with fewer crowds, things feel more laid back.

Rincón de la Vieja National Park

This park covers a lot of ground—geothermal activity, waterfalls, different types of forest—and May is a good time to see it all come to life. The waterfalls start to flow more, but trails are still in decent shape. You’ll start to see more wildlife too—things like monkeys, toucans, and coatis—as the rain brings more activity back into the forest. The hot springs and bubbling mud pits are still accessible, and the contrast between the dry forest and cloud forest makes it feel like you’re stepping into different ecosystems throughout the day. May is early enough in the season that it’s still easy to get around and enjoy the park without the crowds or the mud that show up later.
 

What to do in Costa Rica in May

May in Costa Rica is a great time to visit. The temperatures are warm, but not overwhelming, and there’s a noticeable rise in humidity that makes the landscape feel alive and fresh. It’s ideal for outdoor activities since the rains haven’t fully kicked in yet, and the environment is lush but not too wet. 

Zipline through the cloud forests

If you’re planning to zipline, May’s a great time to do it. The cloud forests are looking their best thanks to the extra moisture. The mist adds that cool, mysterious feeling that makes these forests so unique, and the new vegetation brings more wildlife into view. Morning zipline tours are your best bet, as you’ll have clear skies before the afternoon showers set in. The temperatures are comfortable, so you won’t have to deal with the intense humidity that builds up later in the year.  This is a great thing to do in Costa Rica with kids.

Wellness retreats at Nosara & Santa Teresa

Nosara and Santa Teresa are well-known for wellness and yoga retreats, and May is a good time to visit. With the green season beginning, everything feels fresh, and the fewer tourists make it easier to unwind. The air is cleaner, and the lush surroundings are perfect for meditation and outdoor yoga sessions. You’ll have sunny mornings for beach activities, while the afternoon showers provide a perfect excuse to relax and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. Many wellness centers tweak their programs to take advantage of the natural changes that come with the season, so it’s a good time to experience that shift. 

Hike the Rio Celeste in Tenorio Volcano National Park

Rio Celeste is breathtaking year-round, but it’s especially stunning in May. The rains help boost the water flow, making the turquoise river even more vibrant. The “blue junction,” where two clear streams merge to create the river’s unique color, is a highlight. The surrounding rainforest is lush, and wildlife is easy to spot—look out for toucans, monkeys, and sloths. It’s best to hike in the morning to avoid rain and catch the ethereal mist rising from the blue waters.  See our favorite Costa Rica rainforest tour.
 

Planning your trip to Costa Rica in May

Here are a few Costa Rica travel tips for your next trip:

What to pack

The weather in Costa Rica in May means that you’ll want to think in layers. Pack two or three sets of quick-dry clothes—you’re going to rotate through them fast, and drying time stretches out. Go for a real rain jacket. Trust me, the thin kind won’t cut it now. Swap shorts for lightweight, water-resistant pants on hiking days—helps with bugs and mud. You’ll also want shoes or sandals that can handle puddles without staying soaked for days. If you wear glasses or carry a camera, anti-fog spray is a game-changer. Toss in a few zipper-top bags or stuff fires to keep the wet from taking over your whole bag. 

Planning your itinerary

If you’re heading to Costa Rica in May, starting with an itinerary can help give you a solid foundation for your trip. Here’s a few to consider:

• Costa Rica itinerary 5 days: Get started in San José, then head to La Fortuna for rainforest hikes and waterfalls. Hike Arenal Volcano’s trails, then finish your trip in Monteverde with its misty cloud forests and hanging bridges. Don’t forget to stop by a coffee farm tour back in San José.
• Costa Rica itinerary 7 days: Begin in San José, then head to Manuel Antonio’s beaches and rainforests for a few days. After that, explore Monteverde’s cloud forest with hanging bridges and zipper-lining, then end your trip in La Fortuna with Arenal Volcano and its hot springs.
• Costa Rica itinerary 10 days: Start in San José, then travel to Tortuguero’s wildlife-filled canals. After that, head to La Fortuna and Arenal Volcano before spending some time at Manuel Antonio. Wrap up your trip with surfing and sunsets at Jaco Beach.
• Costa Rica itinerary 14 days: Begin in San José, then explore Tortuguero’s canals, Puerto Viejo’s Caribbean charm, and Cahuita’s coral reefs. From there, visit La Fortuna and Arenal Volcano, Monteverde’s cloud forests, and finish your trip at Manuel Antonio’s beaches and wildlife.

When to book

May 1st is Labor Day in Costa Rica, so there’s a short bump in local travel. If you're here during that weekend, book a few weeks ahead just to be safe. Otherwise, most places have decent availability, and reservation a month or two out is usually fine. 

Guanacaste stays relatively dry, and the Southern Pacific is great for wildlife, though less visited. Most tours don’t require much advance planning this month, so it’s easier to be spontaneous. If you're aiming for morning activities—like hikes or wildlife watching—you’ll usually beat the rain.

Emergency weather information

By May, the rain picks up. Mountain areas like Monteverde and San Gerardo de Dota are beautiful—but landslides and slippery roads can cause serious delays or blockages. Before you hit any winding mountain route, check road conditions through CONAVI.

Flash floods can hit dry riverbeds fast. Even if a spot looks safe, avoid camping near any channels or streams. And if you're on the coast, keep an eye out for high surf alerts—they’re common this time of year.

Storms can knock out cell coverage, so talk with your travel buddies about backup meeting points. Most major tourist zones have emergency shelters—ask around if you’re not sure where they are.

 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.