Best Times to Visit Guanacaste: Weather and Seasons

Going to Guanacaste, situated in the northwestern part of Costa Rica, will surely bring you travel adventure. You can be sure of some really great times in this place, known for its beautiful beaches, adventure activities, and biodiversity.  

If you want to surf, explore wildlife, or just enjoy your time at the shore, knowing when to go to Guanacaste would make your visit a dream experience. The dry and green seasons play an essential role in the climate, dividing it clearly into these two categories. 

Overview of Guanacaste’s Climate 

This region of Costa Rica is the driest and hottest. Its climate has a tropical savannah flavor determined by wind currents, temperature, and low humidity. It has only two significant seasons: dry and rainy.  

During the dry season, which lasts from December to April, clear skies and almost no rain characterize the region. The landscape of the region is green and flourishing during the rainy season, from May to November. 

The region has some divisions into highlands and lowlands. Highlands are better, accompanied by mountains as well as by tropical forests, and these receive more rain so are suitable for coffee cultivation. Lowlands are cooler, less humid, always green, and average temperatures between 24°C and 34°C or 75°F to 93°F make it great for beach lovers and nature lovers. 

Dry Season – December to April 

Tourists prefer the dry period, especially during the hottest months of Guanacaste, when there are clear blue skies and low humidity. This period is ideal for those who desire guaranteed sunshine during the day and outdoor fun-filled activities and scheduled events. The temperatures are perfect for beach games and cultural events like town fairs.

Pros: Clear sky makes it best for every outdoor activity, with pleasing events happening around. 

Cons: Beaches would be crowded, accommodations would be more expensive, and landscapes would dry up considerably and turn brown towards the later part of the season. 

Green Season – May to November 

The Guanacaste rainy season, sometimes called the “green season,” starts in May. Regular rain begins to fall during May and June, peaking in September and October. In the meantime, mornings are usually sunny, and the scenery is green and lush, ideal for eco-tourism and nature pursuits, such as hiking and discovering hidden waterfalls, wetland bird-viewing regions, and other nature reserves. 

Pros: Great landscapes full of greenery, fewer crowds, and lesser expenses in terms of accommodations and tour costs.  

Cons: Heavy rains can cause washing away of outdoor activities, mainly in October. 

Best Time to Visit Guanacaste 

Every month in Guanacaste is unique and full of its own experience. Here’s how you might differentiate the best months to visit Guanacaste as far as weather, events, and activities are concerned: 

Guanacaste in January 

With only a few rainy days and friendly temperatures, January is a dry Guanacaste season ideal for beach visitors. It is a perfect time to have parties or attend ceremonies welcoming the New Year or, as anyone would wish to spend it, snorkeling or taking the first steps in surfing. Welcome the dry, warm days, which are considered the best time for scuba diving on the coast.  

Guanacaste in February 

February remains dry with minimal precipitation, which makes it ideal for outdoor excursions. Take a hike through the dry forest, zip-line, or visit Santa Rosa National Park to view the scenic and cozy scenery. Considering its warm weather, February is a very good month for sunbathing and snorkeling. 

Guanacaste in March  

March is the hottest month of the year in Guanacaste Province when temperatures reach their peak. There are also lively cultural events such as Semana Santa, or Holy Week, in Costa Rica. It is also a good time to take long strolls in the volcano trails of Rincon de la Vieja or to learn how to catch a few waves in Tamarindo because the waves are tranquil enough for even beginners. 

Guanacaste in April 

April will really mark the fading of the dry season, but it is still very warm with occasional showers. It’s last chance for dry season activity such as diving around Catalina Islands before the landscape transforms into lush greenery. The cultural festivals continue all through this month. 

Guanacaste in May  

May weather wakes up the Guanacaste rainy season with splashes of green. This is among the best months to participate in eco-tourism activities owing to thriving waterfalls and wildlife. Visit some of the national parks in Guanacaste, and you’ll have great chances for wildlife watching, especially after the first rains.   

Guanacaste in June 

June is a great month for whale watching near the Gulf of Papagayo. Riverboat tours and birdwatching are popular in Palo Verde National Park, where many species begin migrating. That also happens to be the month of fewer tourists, making this a quieter experience for nature lovers. 

Guanacaste in July 

July balances sunshine and rain as one of the best months for mix surfers. Experienced surfers can catch big waves, and nature lovers can participate in the turtle nesting tours at the Ostional Wildlife Refuge. The landscape during this time is lush and full of life, ideal for mid-year eco-tours.  

Guanacaste in August  

It is the peak time of surfing season when heavy swells hit the Pacific Coast in August. It is also Guanacaste’s peak season when huge sea turtles converge on the shores of Guanacaste to nest. Hike through hidden waterfalls or make it a photogenic capture amidst luscious landscapes. 

Guanacaste in September 

September is the wettest month of the year, with the highest rainfall. This is an excellent time to visit the region for a traveler who desires seclusion since beaches and forests are empty. This is also the best time for natural photography or watching wildlife.    

Guanacaste in October 

October is the wettest month to explore; however, it’s also good for budget travelers. If you do not mind the rain, you’ll be rewarded with fewer crowds and quieter beaches. Jungle trekking and remote parks are ideal for activities for someone seeking peace and lush landscapes. 

Guanacaste in November 

November marks the transition back to the dry season, offering a mix of sunny days and light rain. It’s a good time for nature walks and cultural tours with fewer crowds, as the landscape remains green from the rainy season. Birdwatching is still popular during this month.  

Guanacaste in December   

December is Guanacaste’s dry season, which brings cooler temperatures as well as holiday celebrations to the area. It is a wonderful time of year to visit because many celebrations happen around you, and there are plenty of chances for wildlife sightings in national parks within the region. It’s also a good time of year for inexperienced surfers who want consistent, soft waves. 

Monthly Overview of Guanacaste 

Month	Season	Avg. Days of Rainfall	Avg. Temperature (°F/°C)	Recommended Activities
January	Dry	2	89°F / 32°C	Beach lounging, New Year celebrations, perfect for beginner surfing and scuba diving in calm waters.
February	Dry	1	91°F / 33°C	Zip-lining through the dry forest, wildlife tours in Santa Rosa National Park, sunbathing and snorkeling.
March	Dry	1	93°F / 34°C	Great for cultural festivals, volcano hikes at Rincon de la Vieja, surfing lessons on calmer waves.
April	Dry	4	95°F / 35°C	Enjoy the end of dry season, festivals, and diving around the pristine Catalina Islands.
May	Rainy	18	89°F / 32°C	Beginning of green season, perfect for eco-tours, wildlife spotting, and exploring rainforest waterfalls.
June	Rainy	22	86°F / 30°C	Excellent for whale watching, birdwatching in Palo Verde National Park, and river boat tours.
July	Rainy	21	85°F / 29°C	Turtle nesting tours at Ostional Wildlife Refuge, mid-season surfing, great balance of rain and sunshine.
August	Rainy	23	86°F / 30°C	Surfing season at its peak, lush landscapes for photographers, waterfall hikes and turtle arribada events.
September	Rainy	25	84°F / 29°C	Peaceful retreats with fewer tourists, great for nature photography and exploring secluded beaches.
October	Rainy	27	82°F / 28°C	Rainiest month—ideal for budget travelers, jungle treks, and birdwatching in quiet national parks.
November	Transition	15	84°F / 29°C	Transition back to dry season, perfect for nature walks, cultural tours, and birdwatching.
December	Dry	6	86°F / 30°C	Holiday festivities, wildlife viewing, beginner surfing, and exploring national parks in dry conditions.

Pro Tips for Traveling to Guanacaste  

Decided when to visit Guanacaste? Well, a little preparation goes a long way in ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience. Here are some helpful travel tips for Guanacaste to keep in mind:  

Conclusion 

This Costa Rica province offers an array of experiences across Guanacaste travel seasons. The best time to visit Guanacaste depends on your preferences—whether you’re after sunny beach days or lush, green eco-adventures.  

From surfing in Tamarindo to exploring the region’s vibrant wildlife, there’s always something to enjoy.  

Whatever your travel style, Guanacaste’s weather and seasonal variety ensure that every trip is memorable. Start planning your visit today and discover the unique charm of Costa Rica’s Guanacaste region.