Costa Rica Weather in August

August is deep into the rainy season in Costa Rica, causing many would-be travelers to ask themselves this question: is August a good time to visit Costa Rica? The short answer? Absolutely, as long as you know what to expect. There's never a bad time to visit Costa Rica, as long as you understand what's happening around you. As far as the rain goes, August isn't so bad. And besides, it's the rain that makes this country so green and lush in the first place. It's the rain that fills the rivers and waterfalls and brings out the wildlife.

We understand the dilemma here. August is a great month to travel—it's the summer holidays and you don't want to take the kids needlessly out of school for a family vacation. But at the same time, you see the words "rainy season" and balk a bit at Costa Rica. That's honestly not necessary!

Below, we’ll dive into what Costa Rica is like in August. We'll look at the weather, the wildlife, the beaches, activities, events, and some practical tips on what to bring. Everything to get you well informed on planning your August vacation to Costa Rica.

August generally offers more pleasant weather compared to some of the heavier rainy months. Although it's the middle of the rainy season, there's often a break in the rainfall in July, particularly in the Central Valley and Guanacaste, known locally as veranillo or "little summer." Sometimes, in the earlier part of the month, the residue of veranillo spills over into August, creating favorable weather. If you're fortunate, you might not even need an umbrella when visiting Guanacaste in early August! On the Caribbean side, August marks a shift towards the sunny weather typical of September, making it a favored destination at this time.

Most rainfall occurs in the afternoon or overnight. The August sun heats the land and sea, causing moisture to evaporate and form a warm, moist air layer that rises throughout the day. As the air ascends and cools, water condenses to create clouds. Later in the day, as temperatures drop, the air holds less water, leading to rainfall.

Daytime highs on the coasts and lowlands range from 84 to 90 °F (29-32 °C) and overnight averages of 69 to 77 °F (21-25 °C). In the Central Valley, average temperatures typically range from 75 to 85 °F (24-29 °C) during this time, with cooler nights. Take another 10 degrees or so off these temperatures for the mountains.

Coming to Costa Rica in August can be surprising. The summer holidays in North America means it might be busier than you expect, for a "rainy season" month. In this period, you may also experience the phenomenon of “veranillo”, or the little summer. This period of a few weeks usually falls in July or August, when the weather is dryer than you might expect. Below, we list the main pros and cons of traveling to Costa Rica in August:

If you’re looking for wildlife in Costa Rica, August is a fantastic time of year to come. You'll find all the usual land species around—monkeys, sloths, and so on—plus plenty of marine life. Humpback whales, dolphins, and Olive Ridley turtles are found on the Pacific coast, while the Caribbean side is the peak nesting time for green turtles.

Humpback whales travel up from Antarctica to breed off Costa Rica's Pacific coast at this time. August is probably the best whale-watching month of the year, especially if you're in the southern zone of the Pacific coast. Costa Rica is famous for nesting turtles and August could well be the best time of year to check them out. It's peak Olive Ridley nesting time on the Pacific coast, while travelers to Tortuguero on the Caribbean side will find green sea turtles to view.

Because you're coming to Costa Rica in August, that doesn't mean you can't enjoy the beach. Sure, it's a great time for nature, but beach lovers will still find plenty of time to relax poolside at the resort or enjoy sunset cocktails overlooking the ocean. When it rains, it's mostly for a short time in the afternoon, leaving all morning for swimming and sunbathing.

For the surf lovers out there, this time of year brings consistent SW swells on the Pacific side. The May-October rainy season, which coincides with winter in the southern hemisphere, means that surfing is optimal on the central and southern Pacific coasts. Winter storms form way out in the ocean and Costa Rica receives the residue in the shape of big waves. The central and southern Pacific coasts face southwest and so they receive the best of the best—perfect for serious surfers. The northern Pacific is a little more protected, meaning waves are still there, but better for the less experienced to enjoy or learn on. The Caribbean side is a lot more mellow in August, so think about the Pacific if you're a surfer.

The best fishing in Costa Rica in August is also on the Caribbean side, in Guanacaste. Anglers will find calmer seas and little winds, allowing for fantastic offshore opportunities. Sailfish, marlin, tuna, dorado, and more all all biting off the Guanacaste coast in August. The southern and central Pacific is also great fishing in August, but Guanacaste edges it slightly.

Whether you’re a lounge-by-the-beach sort of person or one who wants to get out on the water and go, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in August.

If culture is your thing, then August is a great time to visit. This is the month of La Virgen de Los Angeles, Our Lady of Angels, which celebrates La Negrita, Costa Rica's patron saint. This avatar of the Virgin Mary is celebrated on August 2nd, when the faithful make pilgrimages (often on foot) to the Basilica in Cartago City to pay homage and celebrate the occassion with a special mass. August 15th is also a busy event: Mother's Day. Mother’s Day in Costa Rica is another national holiday and an excuse to enjoy the beaches as well.

The Fiesta Ciudad Colon takes place on August 10th in San Carlos and the Fiestas Patronales de Aserrí on August 19th. These are big street parties/fairs with food, dancing, cultural events, and even bullfighting. Typical in Costa Rican fiestas is drinking guaro (Costa Rican hard liquor) and, unlike other bullfighting practices, people jumping into the ring to try to ride a bull or run away from it.

What to see and do in Costa Rica in August? Well, the good news is, despite the rain, there’s a lot to do. Even if it rains, most outdoor activities will still continue. The national parks are open and most hiking trails are open to enjoy and experience the rainforest. Zip lining, rafting, nature activities, and other adventures are all available in August. And if you're in Arenal—Costa Rica's adventure capital—make sure you enjoy the hot springs. Rainy afternoons are the most perfect time to experience them!

Even though you'll see rain in most areas of Costa Rica, come prepared for a variety of weather conditions. Short-sleeved shirts, dresses, and shorts are definitely a packing must for this trip. Think in general beach gear. You'll also see sunshine, so bring sunscreen—it's expensive in Costa Rica so bringing your own is advised. There are also mosquitos around in August (fewer in the higher altitude regions), so bring your repellant!

For the rain, all you'll need is a light jacket and shoes that you don't mind getting wet. Away from the beaches, bring a long-sleeved or light sweater for the cooler evenings.

Traveling in Costa Rica is, overall, safe! This being said, when visiting any new country as a tourist it’s good to remain aware of your surroundings and keep your valuables and documents secured.

When taking to the roads, keep in mind that the rain can cause landslides and rivers to flood. And with road issues, come delays. Many roads in rural areas of Costa Rica are single lanes and not optimally maintained, which can cause travel to take longer than expected. If you're taking internal flights in August (relevant throughout the rainy season) stick to morning schedules and never travel on the same day as your international flight.

August is an ideal time to explore Costa Rica. Despite the rain, there's still plenty of hot, sunny weather, and the landscape is lush and green. It's a quieter month for tourists, but not so quiet that things close down and feel dead. There's just the right level of activities happening to keep things interesting. Wildlife is readily observable, and the beaches are in pristine condition. If you're considering an August vacation in Costa Rica, don't let concerns about the "rainy season" hold you back. Connect with our Travel Consultants to discuss your plans and let us craft a delightful summer getaway for you!