A Warm Welcome to the Dry Season
Imagine swapping snowflakes for sunsets, mittens for mojitos, and icy sidewalks for sandy shores. That’s December weather in Costa Rica, a tropical holiday gift that keeps on giving. As the dry season begins, the country settles into warm days, cooler nights, and an easygoing pura vida rhythm. Ready to unpack the forecast and plan your December escape?
December Weather: Dry Season Begins
December marks the start of Costa Rica’s dry season, which runs through April. Rain tapers off, skies clear, and landscapes take on a golden glow. Conditions are ideal for outdoor travel, though microclimates still shape the experience across the country.
Microclimates: December Weather by Region
- Pacific Coast (Guanacaste, Nicoya Peninsula, Nosara, Tamarindo, Santa Teresa): Hot and sunny, with daytime temperatures around 85 to 90°F (29 to 32°C) and cooler evenings. Rain is rare.
- Central Pacific (Jaco, Manuel Antonio, Uvita, Dominical): Warm and humid, with highs near 88°F (31°C). Early December may see light showers that fade quickly.
- Caribbean Coast (Puerto Viejo, Tortuguero, Gandoca-Manzanillo): Warm and humid, with lingering rain early in the month that eases as December progresses.
- Central Valley (San José, Cartago): Mild and dry, with daytime temperatures between 75 and 80°F (24 to 27°C) and cooler nights.
- Highlands (Monteverde, Arenal): Cooler and breezy, with temperatures around 70 to 75°F (21 to 24°C). Mist remains, but rainfall drops significantly.
Pros and Cons of December Weather
Pros
- Dry season conditions bring reliable sunshine.
- December is ideal for holiday travel and outdoor activities.
- Wildlife sightings improve as water sources shrink.
Cons
- Early December can still see occasional rain.
- Holiday crowds increase toward the end of the month.
- Rates rise as peak season approaches.
What to Pack for December
- Light clothing for warm days.
- Swimsuit and sandals for beaches and pools.
- A light rain jacket for the Caribbean or early December.
- Hiking shoes for trails that are drying out.
- High SPF sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses.
- Reusable water bottle.
- Insect repellent for evenings.
Best Things to Do in December
- Beach time: Playa Flamingo and nearby coves shine this month.
- Visit Arenal: Clear skies highlight the volcano and hot springs.
- Surf Nosara: Consistent dry season waves arrive.
- Hike Rincon de la Vieja: Trails are accessible and scenic.
- Sunset sailing: Calm seas make catamaran trips popular.
Unique Wildlife Experiences in December
As landscapes dry out, wildlife activity becomes easier to spot.
- Sloths: Resting in sunlit branches in Manuel Antonio.
- Scarlet macaws: Flying over Carara National Park.
- Sea turtles: Leatherbacks nesting early in the month along the Caribbean coast.
- Monkeys: Active in Guanacaste’s dry forests.
- Quetzals: Occasionally spotted in the highlands.
Cultural Highlights in December
- Fiesta de la Luz: A major holiday parade in San José.
- Christmas tamales: A seasonal staple found across the country.
- Las Posadas: Community celebrations leading up to Christmas.
Travel Tips for December
- Book early: December fills quickly.
- Start mornings early: Cooler temperatures and fewer crowds.
- Hydrate often: Dry season heat can sneak up.
- Carry cash: Useful in rural areas.
- Stay flexible: Early month rain can still appear.
Why December Works
December in Costa Rica offers warm temperatures, clearer skies, and ideal conditions for travel. From beaches and rainforests to volcanoes and wildlife, the month sets the tone for dry season exploration and festive escapes.
Ready to trade frost for sunshine? Costa Rica’s December weather is waiting.