December rolls around, and suddenly Costa Rica feels like the place to be. I’ve watched this country come alive in a way that’s hard to put into words—there’s something about this month that just works here. Over 1.7 million international visitors make their way to Costa Rica each year, and December always draws a big crowd. Why? Well, the rainy season finally lets up, the dry season kicks off, and the scenery stays impossibly lush and green.
December is that rare moment when Costa Rica nails the weather, bursts with holiday celebrations, and offers up some of the best wildlife viewing and outdoor fun you’ll find all year. The Pacific coast basks in sunshine, perfect for lazy beach days or hiking through national parks. Early December? Fewer people and better prices. Later in the month, the country buzzes with festive energy—think fireworks, parades, and packed towns.
Spotting humpback whales, trekking through cloud forests, or soaking in natural hot springs—December basically hands you Costa Rica’s greatest hits on a silver platter. The weather’s just right for zip-lining, rafting, or simply chilling by the ocean. Whether you want Pacific beaches, volcanic adventures, or rainforest escapes, December really delivers.
Key Takeaways
- December starts the dry season—expect sunny days and great conditions for beaches, parks, and outdoor adventures.
- Early December means cheaper rates and fewer folks; late December is festive but you’ll need to book months in advance.
- Wildlife is everywhere: whales, nesting turtles, monkeys, and sloths all make appearances.
Why December Is the Ideal Time to Explore Costa Rica
December just feels like the sweet spot for Costa Rica. The weather turns, local traditions light up, and if you plan ahead, you can still snag some deals.
Start of the Dry Season
December signals the end of the rainy season and the start of those coveted sunny days. Early in the month, you might still get an afternoon shower, especially on the Caribbean side. But by mid-December, most of Costa Rica basks under clear skies.
The Pacific Coast dries out fast and turns into a beach lover’s paradise. Temperatures hover between 75-85°F—warm, but not unbearable.
Up in the Central Valley or highlands, mornings and evenings get a little chilly. I always pack a light jacket for those spots. By the third week, rain is pretty much a thing of the past.
This shift means I can finally plan hikes, surf sessions, and wildlife tours without worrying about getting drenched. Trails dry up, making parks way more inviting.
Holiday Vibes and Cultural Festivities
Costa Ricans go all out for the holidays. The Festival of Lights parade in San José brings floats, music, and fireworks—honestly, it’s hard not to get swept up in the excitement.
Families gather for homemade tamales and midnight mass on Christmas Eve. The “Pura Vida” spirit feels extra strong. Streets glow with decorations and everyone seems to be in a good mood.
After Christmas, San José hosts the Fiestas de Zapote carnival. Picture bullfighting (the Costa Rican kind, so the bulls chase people but aren’t hurt), rides, concerts, and food stalls. Beach towns ring in New Year’s with fireworks and parties.
These traditions add a layer of magic you just can’t experience at other times of year.
Balanced Crowds and Travel Costs
If you get here in early December, you’ll beat the rush. Places like Manuel Antonio or Monteverde feel way more relaxed, and hotels haven’t jacked up their prices yet.
Christmas through New Year’s? That’s when things get wild. Hotels fill up months ahead and prices skyrocket. Locals are on break, so even the hidden gems get crowded.
I try to book by late October if I’m aiming for the second half of December. For peace and quiet, the first two weeks are golden. The Osa Peninsula and Sarapiquí stay chill even when everywhere else is packed.
Having this flexibility lets you pick between festive chaos or a more laid-back vibe—totally depends on what you’re after.
Regional Weather and Climate Insights for December
Costa Rica’s regions each have their own December personality. The Pacific side dries out and soaks up the sun, the Caribbean still gets showers, and the highlands offer a cool escape from the heat.
Pacific Coast Dry Days
The Pacific Coast jumps into dry season in December. Guanacaste and the Nicoya Peninsula barely see a drop of rain, and daytime temps hit 85-90°F (29-32°C). Humidity drops, too.
Manuel Antonio and the Osa Peninsula also get in on the dry weather. I’ve noticed these spots usually get less than an inch of rain all month. Ocean temps hover around 80°F (27°C)—ideal for swimming or water sports.
Mornings start out crystal clear and the good weather usually sticks around all day. Sometimes clouds roll in by afternoon, but rain is rare. It’s a relief not to plan your whole day around sudden storms.
Caribbean Coast Weather Patterns
The Caribbean side does its own thing. December isn’t its dry season—that comes later, between March and September. Expect the occasional tropical shower.
Temps stay warm, usually 70-85°F (21-29°C). Rain falls in quick bursts, not all day. The result? Rainforests stay vibrant and wildlife thrives.
If you’re heading to the Caribbean, pack a rain jacket. The payoff is quieter beaches and plenty of dry spells for exploring.
Central Valley and Highlands Cooler Breezes
San José and the Central Valley feel like spring in December. Temperatures range from 60-75°F (16-24°C), which is a nice break from the coast. Mornings can be brisk, so a light sweater never hurts.
Monteverde Cloud Forest gets misty and cool, with temps between 55-70°F (13-21°C). Hiking feels easier in this weather, but I always bring layers just in case.
Arenal sits at a comfy elevation, with temperatures from 65-80°F (18-27°C). Occasional afternoon showers happen, but they’re usually quick. December’s clear skies mean you finally get those postcard views of the volcano.
Top Destinations to Visit in December
December flips the switch on Costa Rica’s best destinations. The Pacific coast turns sunny, rainforests stay green, and everything feels just a little more magical. Whether you want surf towns, cloud forests, or volcano adventures, you’ve got options.
Guanacaste’s Sun and Surf
Guanacaste and the Nicoya Peninsula barely see rain in December, so beaches are at their best. Temperatures float between 75°F and 90°F, with blue skies nearly every day.
Tamarindo is the go-to for surfing and nightlife. Waves work for all levels, and the town’s packed with places to eat and hang out after dark.
Looking for something quieter? Santa Teresa on the southern Nicoya Peninsula is a favorite. It draws experienced surfers and keeps a relaxed, barefoot vibe. The beaches stretch on forever, and crowds are rare.
Playa Conchal stands out with its shell-studded shore. The water’s calm—perfect for swimming or snorkeling. If you’re after luxury, nearby resorts have you covered.
Monteverde Cloud Forest Wonders
Monteverde Cloud Forest flips the script from the coast. It’s cooler, usually 60°F to 70°F, and mornings feel downright mystical with all the mist.
December is prime time for spotting the resplendent quetzal. These rare birds show up often, and the reserve’s trails give you plenty of chances to see them.
The hanging bridges here are a personal favorite. Walking through the treetops, you get a whole new view of the forest—plus, the greenery looks especially lush after the rains.
If you’re an adrenaline junkie, zip-lining in Monteverde is a must. Several companies run courses that crisscross the forest, giving you epic mountain and valley views.
Arenal Volcano and La Fortuna Adventures
Arenal is where volcanoes meet adventure. December’s weather opens up the hiking trails, and the hot springs are perfect for unwinding after a busy day.
Trails around Arenal Volcano range from mellow walks to tougher climbs. You’ll wander past old lava flows and through secondary forest, and if you’re lucky, spot monkeys or toucans.
La Fortuna Waterfall is a bit of a workout—about 500 steps down—but the 200-foot cascade and swimming hole at the bottom are worth it. The water’s always cool, which feels amazing after a hike.
La Fortuna town is the jumping-off point for white-water rafting, canopy tours, and soaking in natural hot springs. Geothermal pools dot the area, all heated by the volcano.
Exploring the Osa Peninsula
The Osa Peninsula is Costa Rica at its wildest. December brings drier weather, though you might still catch an afternoon shower. The rainforest stays green, but trails get easier to navigate.
Corcovado National Park is a biodiversity jackpot. You’ll need a guide to enter, but December is fantastic for spotting all four monkey species, scarlet macaws, tapirs, maybe even a jaguar. Multi-day trips let you really dig into the remote parts.
Getting to Osa takes a little extra effort—small planes from San José or boat transfers from coastal towns. But the payoff? A wilderness experience you won’t find anywhere else in Central America.
Unforgettable Activities and Natural Attractions
December is made for outdoor adventures in Costa Rica. Dry weather means water sports are a go, and the rainforests are still bursting with life thanks to the recent rains.
Beach Activities and Water Adventures
If you love the beach, head straight for the Pacific coast. December’s dry spell is perfect for sunbathing, swimming, or surfing. Manuel Antonio National Park blends gorgeous beaches with easy wildlife encounters, while Tamarindo, Nosara, and Santa Teresa offer waves for everyone.
Marino Ballena National Park near Uvita is a whale watcher’s dream. Humpback whales arrive in December to breed and give birth. I’ve had the best luck with early morning tours—dolphins and sea turtles often make guest appearances, too.
Snorkeling and diving get better in December. The water around the Nicoya Peninsula and Manuel Antonio clears up, showing off coral reefs, tropical fish, rays, and turtles. Ocean temps stay comfy at 78-82°F.
Canopy Tours and Rainforest Exploration
Monteverde’s canopy tours are legendary. The zip lines here include the longest in Latin America—over a mile! Hanging bridges let you slow down and really soak in the views from above.
La Fortuna is another hotspot for canopy tours. You can zip line over rainforest with Arenal Volcano as your backdrop, then cool off in the 200-foot La Fortuna Waterfall.
I always try to book these tours for early morning. The crowds haven’t arrived yet, and the wildlife is usually more active. Operators provide all the gear and guides, so you just have to show up ready for adventure.
Wildlife Watching and Birding Hotspots
December in Costa Rica? Wildlife is everywhere. I’ve spent hours wandering through Cahuita National Park on the Caribbean coast, where sea turtles nest and howler monkeys swing overhead.
Sloths seem to nap in every tree, and over 125 bird species dart through the canopy. Not bad for a morning walk.
Manuel Antonio National Park tops my list for easy wildlife spotting. The trails here twist through rainforest, beach, and mangroves.
If you’re lucky (and patient), you’ll catch glimpses of white-faced capuchin monkeys, three-toed sloths, and those flashy toucans that never sit still for photos.
Over on the Nicoya Peninsula, Playa Grande hosts guided night tours for endangered leatherback turtles from October to March.
Watching a 1,500-pound turtle haul itself up the sand? It’s unforgettable, even if you get sand in your shoes.
Essential Travel Tips and Packing Advice
Costa Rica in December means unpredictable weather and big crowds. Planning ahead saves a lot of headaches.
I’ve learned that knowing local customs and microclimates can turn a good trip into a truly memorable one. Trust me, you don’t want to get caught in a downpour without a rain jacket.
What to Bring for Regional Variations
Pacific Coast spots like Tamarindo heat up to 24°C to 32°C (75°F to 90°F). I always toss in quick-dry shorts, a couple of swimsuits, and a bottle of reef-safe SPF 50 sunscreen.
The Caribbean Coast stays a bit cooler, between 23°C and 30°C (73°F to 86°F), but you’ll see more rain. Pack for sudden showers.
San José and the Central Valley sit higher up, so evenings get chilly—think 18°C to 26°C (64°F to 79°F). I never forget a light jacket or long pants for those breezy nights.
Here’s what I never leave behind:
- Waterproof hiking shoes (Costa Rican mud is no joke)
- Strong bug spray with DEET
- Two or three swimsuits for rotating
- A light rain jacket
- Moisture-wicking clothes that dry overnight
- Dry bags for electronics and passports
Water shoes save your feet at waterfalls and rocky beaches. I also swear by a wide-brim hat and polarized sunglasses.
Booking and Navigating December Crowds
December is Costa Rica’s busiest season. I book my hotels at least two or three months in advance, especially in hotspots like Manuel Antonio and Monteverde.
Domestic flights fill up fast and have strict luggage limits. Don’t wait until the last minute.
Rental cars? They disappear quickly in December. I always reserve early and bring printed confirmation, just in case Wi-Fi drops out.
Some businesses want proof of onward travel at the airport, so I keep my flight info handy.
Major attractions get packed between 10 AM and 2 PM. I beat the crowds by heading out early or waiting until late afternoon.
Cash is king in rural areas—many places don’t take cards, so I carry plenty of small bills.
Embracing Pura Vida and Local Culture
Pura vida isn’t just a saying—it’s a way of life here. I love how everything slows down, and honestly, it’s refreshing.
Saying “buenos días” or “buenas tardes” goes a long way. I usually tip 10% at restaurants, even if there’s a service charge.
Picking up a few Spanish phrases helps, though most folks in tourism speak some English.
December feels festive everywhere. Local parades and traditions pop up in every town, and I try to join in when I can.
Costa Ricans care deeply about the environment, so I carry a reusable water bottle and skip single-use plastics.
Small bills—1,000 and 5,000 colones—work best for markets and tipping. I get better exchange rates at San José banks than at the airport.
Frequently Asked Questions
Travelers ask a lot about Costa Rica in December, especially around the holidays. Here’s what I’ve learned from experience and a bit of trial and error.
Manuel Antonio National Park is a classic—beaches, wildlife, and plenty of sunshine. The trails make it easy to spot monkeys, sloths, and colorful birds.
Corcovado National Park over on the Osa Peninsula might be the wildest place I’ve ever explored. December’s dry weather opens up the trails for spotting tapirs, scarlet macaws, and four types of monkeys.
Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve offers cool, misty air and some of the best birdwatching around. If you’re lucky, you’ll spot a resplendent quetzal.
Arenal Volcano and La Fortuna are perfect for adventure. You can hike volcano trails, chase waterfalls, and soak in natural hot springs.
The Pacific Coast wins for sunshine in December. Guanacaste, the Nicoya Peninsula, and Manuel Antonio stay warm and mostly dry, with temperatures hovering between 75°F and 90°F.
The Central Valley, including San José, feels like spring—mild, with temps from 60°F to 75°F. It rains less here in December, so city exploring is pleasant.
The Caribbean Coast gets more rain, even in December. Puerto Viejo and Tortuguero see lighter showers than earlier in the year, and temperatures stay comfortable, usually between 70°F and 85°F.
I stick with lightweight, breathable clothes for daytime—shorts, t-shirts, and sundresses.
A light jacket or sweater keeps me warm at night in higher elevations like Monteverde or the Central Valley.
Don’t forget reef-safe sunscreen, bug spray, and comfy walking shoes. I always pack a rain jacket for the Caribbean Coast and a swimsuit for beaches and hot springs.
The Festival de la Luz lights up San José in mid-December. Expect parades, floats, marching bands, and fireworks.
Christmas celebrations kick off early and include posadas (religious processions) and special holiday treats like tamales and rompope.
New Year’s Eve brings fireworks and parties up and down the coast. Tamarindo throws huge beach parties, and San José hosts plenty of events too.
Book early—December fills up fast. Hotels, especially near Christmas and New Year’s, sell out months ahead.
The Papagayo Peninsula is great for luxury resorts with beachfront access and spas. Manuel Antonio has everything from boutique hotels to big resorts within walking distance of the park.
La Fortuna offers rooms with volcano views and easy access to hot springs. I always reserve my favorites a few months in advance to avoid missing out or paying extra at the last minute.
Honestly, December feels like a sweet spot for ocean lovers in Costa Rica. Both coasts bring that inviting warmth you crave when you’re itching for a swim.
On the Pacific side, I’ve found the water stays comfortable enough for hours of swimming, snorkeling, or just floating around. No shivering, no wetsuit—just that easy, tropical vibe.
The Caribbean Coast? It’s warm too, and sometimes even calmer. December often brings clear conditions, so if you’re into snorkeling or diving, you’ll catch some amazing views of coral reefs and all sorts of colorful marine life.
You can dive in, splash around, or paddle out without worrying about the chill. Pair those warm ocean temperatures with plenty of sunshine, and it’s honestly hard to imagine a better setup for beach days and water sports.
