<p>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 <a href="https://www.vacationscostarica.com/family/">family vacation</a>. But at the same time, you see the words "rainy season" and balk a bit at Costa Rica. That's honestly not necessary!</p><p>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.</p><figure class="table"><table style="border-color:hsl(0, 0%, 0%);border-style:solid;"><tbody><tr><td style="border:1px solid hsl(0, 0%, 0%);padding:5px;">Season</td><td style="border:1px solid hsl(0, 0%, 0%);padding:5px;">Rainy</td></tr><tr><td style="border:1px solid hsl(0, 0%, 0%);padding:5px;">Avg. Temperature (F)</td><td style="border:1px solid hsl(0, 0%, 0%);padding:5px;">75</td></tr><tr><td style="border:1px solid hsl(0, 0%, 0%);padding:5px;">Sky Coverage</td><td style="border:1px solid hsl(0, 0%, 0%);padding:5px;">Cloudy</td></tr><tr><td style="border:1px solid hsl(0, 0%, 0%);padding:5px;">Probability of Precipitation</td><td style="border:1px solid hsl(0, 0%, 0%);padding:5px;">Medium to high</td></tr><tr><td style="border:1px solid hsl(0, 0%, 0%);padding:5px;">Daylight Hours</td><td style="border:1px solid hsl(0, 0%, 0%);padding:5px;">Avg. 12 hrs, 40 min</td></tr><tr><td style="border:1px solid hsl(0, 0%, 0%);padding:5px;">Sunrise and Sunset</td><td style="border:1px solid hsl(0, 0%, 0%);padding:5px;">5:15 AM - 6:05 PM</td></tr><tr><td style="border:1px solid hsl(0, 0%, 0%);padding:5px;">Tourist Crowds</td><td style="border:1px solid hsl(0, 0%, 0%);padding:5px;">Low</td></tr></tbody></table></figure><h2><strong>Make the Most of Your Trip: August Weather in Costa Rica</strong></h2><p>&nbsp;</p><p><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/vacationscostarica-com/image/upload/v1698958136/papagayo_couple_walking_at_the_beach_resized_cfdb08648f.jpg" alt="Couple walking hand in hand on a sunny beach, flanked by rainforest" srcset="https://res.cloudinary.com/vacationscostarica-com/image/upload/v1698958136/thumbnail_papagayo_couple_walking_at_the_beach_resized_cfdb08648f.jpg 245w,https://res.cloudinary.com/vacationscostarica-com/image/upload/v1698958136/small_papagayo_couple_walking_at_the_beach_resized_cfdb08648f.jpg 500w,https://res.cloudinary.com/vacationscostarica-com/image/upload/v1698958136/medium_papagayo_couple_walking_at_the_beach_resized_cfdb08648f.jpg 750w,https://res.cloudinary.com/vacationscostarica-com/image/upload/v1698958136/large_papagayo_couple_walking_at_the_beach_resized_cfdb08648f.jpg 1000w," sizes="100vw"></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>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 <strong>a break in the rainfall</strong> in July, particularly in the Central Valley and Guanacaste, known locally as <i>veranillo</i> or "little summer." Sometimes, in the earlier part of the month, the residue of <i>veranillo</i> spills over into August, creating favorable weather. If you're fortunate, you might not even need an umbrella when visiting <a href="https://www.vacationscostarica.com/guanacaste/">Guanacaste</a> in early August! On the <a href="https://www.vacationscostarica.com/caribbean-coast/">Caribbean side</a>, August marks a shift towards the sunny weather typical of September, making it a favored destination at this time.</p><p>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.</p><p>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.</p><h2><strong>Is August a Good Time to Visit Costa Rica? Pros and Cons of Visiting</strong></h2><p>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 “<i>veranillo</i>”, 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:</p><h3><strong>Pros of Visiting Costa Rica in August:</strong></h3><ul><li><strong>Lower prices</strong>. August is part of Costa Rica's rainy season, which means prices for accommodations, flights, and tours are generally lower than during the peak season. This can be a great time to visit if you're on a budget. That said, it's not the cheapest month, as plenty of travelers still visit because of the summer holidays in North America.</li><li><strong>Fewer crowds.</strong> This season is also less crowded than the peak season at the end and beginning of the year, so you'll have more space to enjoy the beaches, rainforests, and other attractions.</li><li><strong>Lush vegetation.</strong> By August, we've seen a few months of rainfall, which makes the vegetation lush and green. This is a great time to see waterfalls and go for hikes in the rainforest.</li><li><strong>Wildlife watching.</strong> August is one of the best months of the year for wildlife enthusiasts. It's peak turtle nesting time on both coasts, and the southern humpback whales start arriving to breed and feed on the southern Pacific side.</li></ul><h3><strong>Cons of Visiting Costa Rica in August:</strong></h3><ul><li><strong>Rain</strong>. Despite the talk of <i>veranillo</i>, August is still wet. You can expect to see showers most days, and the rain can be heavy at times. This can make it difficult to plan outdoor activities, and it can also make the roads muddy and slippery. You'll get hot and dry mornings, but if rain is a deal breaker, you might prefer other months to travel.</li><li><strong>Humidity</strong>. High humidity levels in August can make it feel uncomfortable for some people.</li><li><strong>Limited activities.</strong> Some activities, like whitewater rafting, may be limited due to high water levels. This is extremely rare, but not impossible.</li></ul><p>Deciding whether August is a suitable time to visit Costa Rica hinges on your personal preferences. If you're comfortable with some rain and have a preference for wildlife watching, then August could be a favorable choice. However, if you're seeking flawless weather and uninterrupted sunshine, you might want to explore other months instead.</p><figure class="table"><table style="border:1px solid hsl(0, 0%, 0%);"><tbody><tr><td style="border:1px solid hsl(0, 0%, 0%);padding:5px;" colspan="2"><strong>Average Cost of Lodging</strong></td></tr><tr><td style="border:1px solid hsl(0, 0%, 0%);padding:5px;">Budget ($)</td><td style="border:1px solid hsl(0, 0%, 0%);padding:5px;">$120 - $200</td></tr><tr><td style="border:1px solid hsl(0, 0%, 0%);padding:5px;">Moderate ($$)</td><td style="border:1px solid hsl(0, 0%, 0%);padding:5px;">$220 - $320</td></tr><tr><td style="border:1px solid hsl(0, 0%, 0%);padding:5px;">Luxury ($$$)</td><td style="border:1px solid hsl(0, 0%, 0%);padding:5px;">$380 - $500</td></tr></tbody></table></figure><h2><strong>Marine Wonders: Wildlife Encounters in Costa Rica in August</strong></h2><p>&nbsp;</p><p><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/vacationscostarica-com/image/upload/v1652495773/whale_watching_dolphins_jumping_close_up_costa_rica_4e1d35839b.jpg" alt="Traveler taking pictures of dolphin at sea" srcset="https://res.cloudinary.com/vacationscostarica-com/image/upload/v1652495773/thumbnail_whale_watching_dolphins_jumping_close_up_costa_rica_4e1d35839b.jpg 234w,https://res.cloudinary.com/vacationscostarica-com/image/upload/v1652495775/small_whale_watching_dolphins_jumping_close_up_costa_rica_4e1d35839b.jpg 500w,https://res.cloudinary.com/vacationscostarica-com/image/upload/v1652495774/medium_whale_watching_dolphins_jumping_close_up_costa_rica_4e1d35839b.jpg 750w,https://res.cloudinary.com/vacationscostarica-com/image/upload/v1652495774/large_whale_watching_dolphins_jumping_close_up_costa_rica_4e1d35839b.jpg 1000w," sizes="100vw"></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>If you’re looking for <a href="https://www.vacationscostarica.com/nature-wildlife/">wildlife</a> 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.</p><p><a href="https://www.vacationscostarica.com/things-to-do/whale-watching/">Humpback whales</a> 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 <a href="https://www.vacationscostarica.com/things-to-do/sea-turtle-nesting/">nesting turtles</a> 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.</p><h2><strong>Coastal Pursuits: Beaches and Surfing in August</strong></h2><p>Because you're coming to Costa Rica in August, that doesn't mean you can't <strong>enjoy the beach</strong>. Sure, it's a great time for nature, but <a href="https://www.vacationscostarica.com/beach/">beach lovers</a> 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.</p><p>For the <a href="https://www.vacationscostarica.com/surfing/">surf lovers</a> 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.</p><p>The <a href="https://www.vacationscostarica.com/fishing/">best fishing in Costa Rica</a> 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.</p><p>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.</p><h2><strong>August Festivities: Celebrating Costa Rican Culture and Traditions</strong></h2><p>If culture is your thing, then August is a great time to visit. This is the month of <i>La Virgen de Los Angeles</i>, Our Lady of Angels, which celebrates <i>La Negrita</i>, 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.</p><p>The <i>Fiesta Ciudad Colon</i> takes place on August 10th in San Carlos and the<i> Fiestas Patronales de Aserrí</i> on August 19th. These are big street parties/fairs with food, dancing, cultural events, and even bullfighting. Typical in Costa Rican fiestas is drinking <i>guaro</i> (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.</p><h2><strong>Outdoor Activities in Costa Rica in August</strong></h2><p>&nbsp;</p><p><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/vacationscostarica-com/image/upload/v1652125938/pacuare_whitewater_rafting_pure_adrenaline_923f4da828.jpg" alt="Group enjoying an exciting whitewater rafting trip" srcset="https://res.cloudinary.com/vacationscostarica-com/image/upload/v1652125939/thumbnail_pacuare_whitewater_rafting_pure_adrenaline_923f4da828.jpg 234w,https://res.cloudinary.com/vacationscostarica-com/image/upload/v1652125940/small_pacuare_whitewater_rafting_pure_adrenaline_923f4da828.jpg 500w,https://res.cloudinary.com/vacationscostarica-com/image/upload/v1652125939/medium_pacuare_whitewater_rafting_pure_adrenaline_923f4da828.jpg 750w,https://res.cloudinary.com/vacationscostarica-com/image/upload/v1652125939/large_pacuare_whitewater_rafting_pure_adrenaline_923f4da828.jpg 1000w," sizes="100vw"></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>What to see and do in Costa Rica in August? Well, the good news is, despite the rain, there’s <a href="https://www.vacationscostarica.com/things-to-do/">a lot to do</a>. 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 <a href="https://www.vacationscostarica.com/arenal-volcano/">Arenal</a>—Costa Rica's adventure capital—make sure you enjoy the hot springs. Rainy afternoons are the most perfect time to experience them!</p><h2><strong>Packing Guide for August: Prepping for Puddles and Pura Vida Vibes</strong></h2><p>Even though you'll see rain in most areas of Costa Rica, come prepared for a <strong>variety of weather conditions</strong>. 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!</p><p>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.</p><h2><strong>Traveling Safely: Navigating August's Rain and Routes</strong></h2><p>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.</p><p>When taking to the roads, keep in mind that the <strong>rain can cause landslides</strong> 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 <a href="https://www.vacationscostarica.com/travel/domestic-flights/">internal flights</a> in August (relevant throughout the rainy season) stick to morning schedules and never travel on the same day as your international flight.</p><h2><strong>Costa Rica in August: Showers and Sunshine</strong></h2><p>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 <strong>quieter month</strong> 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<strong> pristine condition</strong>. If you're considering an August vacation in Costa Rica, don't let concerns about the "rainy season" hold you back. <a href="https://www.vacationscostarica.com/contact-us/">Connect with our Travel Consultants</a> to discuss your plans and let us craft a delightful summer getaway for you!</p><h2><strong>About the Author</strong></h2><h3><a href="https://www.vacationscostarica.com/our-travel-agency/planners/johanne-bade/"><strong>Johanne Bade</strong></a></h3><p><strong>Travel Consultant at Costa Rican Vacations</strong></p><p><i>An avid scuba diver, &nbsp;Johanne has been traveling the world since she was born. After falling in love with Costa Rica, she's decided to help others discover the wonders of this beautiful country. &nbsp;</i></p>

Costa Rica Weather in August

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Costa Rica Weather in August

August in Costa Rica: When Greenery Reigns Supreme