Where Sun Rules the Days
Picture this: golden beaches, steaming volcanoes, and toucans calling through misty jungles, all under a canopy of endless summer vibes. March in Costa Rica is a traveler’s sweet spot, delivering peak dry season magic just before the crowds thin out. Whether you’re a surfer, a wildlife junkie, or a culture seeker, this month serves up pura vida perfection. Ready to dive into the weather, wonders, and insider tips for March? Let’s roam wild.
March Weather in Costa Rica: The Lowdown
March is dry season royalty in Costa Rica, with sunshine-soaked days and balmy nights. Temperatures range from a toasty 85°F to 95°F along the coasts to a crisp 65°F to 75°F in the highlands. Rain is barely a whisper, especially on the Pacific side. It’s the tail end of high season, so the weather is reliable, the skies are clear, and adventure is ripe for the picking. Costa Rica’s microclimates mean every region still has its own flavor.
Pros & Cons of March Weather
Pros:
- Glorious sunshine dominates, perfect for beach days and volcano hikes.
- Wildlife is active and easy to spot with minimal rain.
- Festivals and clear nights make March a great month for evening outings.
Cons:
- It is peak season, so expect more travelers and higher prices.
- Coastal heat can be intense, making hydration essential.
- Booking early is important, especially for popular beach destinations.
Microclimates: Where Sunshine Meets Surprise
Costa Rica’s compact size hides a wide mix of microclimates. Here’s what March looks like across the country.
- Pacific Coast (Guanacaste, Santa Teresa, Nosara, Tamarindo, Nicoya Peninsula): Hot and dry, with temperatures between 85°F and 95°F. Surf breaks are consistent, and rain is rare.
- Central Pacific (Manuel Antonio, Uvita, Dominical, Jacó): Warm and sunny, with highs around 80°F to 90°F. National parks and beaches shine under clear skies.
- Caribbean Coast (Puerto Viejo, Tortuguero): Humid and green, with temperatures between 80°F and 85°F. March is drier than the peak rainy season and well suited for kayaking and wildlife viewing.
- Central Valley (San José, Alajuela): Mild and comfortable, with cool mornings and sunny afternoons that suit coffee tours and city exploration.
- Highlands (Monteverde, Arenal): Cooler temperatures and clearer skies make March ideal for birdwatching and forest hikes.
What to Pack for March in Costa Rica
March’s dry heat calls for a practical, lightweight packing list.
- Breathable clothing such as tees, shorts, and airy dresses.
- Swimsuits for frequent beach and waterfall stops.
- Sturdy hiking shoes for volcano trails and jungle paths.
- Sunscreen, a wide-brim hat, and sunglasses for strong UV exposure.
- A light jacket for cooler evenings in the highlands.
- Bug spray for forested areas and coastal evenings.
Best Things to Do in March
March offers ideal conditions for outdoor exploration across the country.
- Surf the Pacific Swells: Tamarindo and Santa Teresa deliver consistent waves.
- Hike Volcanoes: Arenal and Rincón de la Vieja offer clear trails and rewarding views.
- Beach Hop: From Manuel Antonio to Guanacaste’s quieter coves.
- Zip-Line Monteverde: Dry weather brings excellent visibility through the canopy.
- Kayak Tortuguero: Calm waterways and active wildlife define the experience.
Unique Wildlife Experiences in March
Dry season conditions concentrate wildlife near rivers and forest edges, improving sightings.
- Monkeys in Manuel Antonio: Capuchins and howlers remain highly active.
- Quetzals in Monteverde: Clear conditions increase chances of spotting this iconic bird.
- Whale Watching near Dominical: Humpbacks are occasionally seen offshore.
- Sloths in Cahuita: Often visible along coastal trails.
Cultural Highlights in March
- Fiestas Cívicas: Local celebrations in towns like Liberia showcase Costa Rican traditions.
- Coffee Harvest Wrap-Up: The final weeks of harvest bring fresh tastings in the Central Valley.
- Semana Santa Preparations: Late March brings cultural buildup toward Easter.
Travel Tips for March in Costa Rica
- Book Early: March remains a high-demand month.
- Stay Hydrated: Heat builds quickly along the coasts.
- Consider a 4x4: Remote regions benefit from higher clearance.
- Travel Midweek: Beaches are quieter outside weekends.
- Rest Midday: Early starts and sunset outings work best.
Final Thoughts: March in Costa Rica Awaits
March weather in Costa Rica delivers sun-filled days, excellent wildlife viewing, and consistent travel conditions across the country. It is one of the most reliable months for outdoor exploration, whether your focus is surf, rainforest, or culture. Plan ahead, pack light, and enjoy Costa Rica at its dry-season best.