Costa Rica Weather in May

People ask me all the time if May is a good time to come to Costa Rica or not. "I've heard it's the rainy season!" they’ll say. Well, let me set the record straight: if you ask me, May is one of the best times to experience Costa Rica. A common misconception is that the "rainy season" implies non-stop rain, dampening the entire vacation. In reality, Costa Rica has just two seasons: rainy and dry. During the dry season, some areas might not see a drop of rain for months, experiencing the year's hottest temperatures. On the other hand, the rainy season simply indicates the possibility of occasional, much-needed showers.

May, marking the end of the tropical dry summer, welcomes these refreshing rains after a four-month hiatus. The beauty of May? It's the best of both worlds—not as wet as later months like October and November, which often have more persistent rains and cloud cover, and not as scorching and parched as the peak dry months, offering a harmonious blend of sun and gentle rain. As such, it’s perfect for exploring the diverse landscapes and vibrant ecosystems of Costa Rica!

So now that we've set the record straight, let's explore what Costa Rica has in store for you during this captivating month!

May in Costa Rica is a transitional month, bridging the gap between the dry and rainy seasons. Sure, the weather can be a little unpredictable, but many days still see the warmth of summer—with an occasional light shower. The beauty of May? It doesn't rain every day. So, you get to relish the sunny days while also enjoying the refreshing touch of rain. And when it does rain, it's usually just a brief morning or afternoon shower. As a cherry on top, temperatures slightly dip, averaging between 75-80°F, ensuring a comfortable tropical ambiance. Early May is still fairly dry, and as the month progresses, the onset of the rainy season starts becoming evident. But don't expect constant downpours. Instead, you're looking at a blend of sun, clouds, and sporadic light rain.

Well, except for the Caribbean. If you're venturing to the Caribbean side of Costa Rica, be prepared for more consistent rain in May. Afternoon and overnight showers are the norm here, making it a tad wetter than the rest of the country.

For me, May is one of my favorite months. When the rain starts falling after four dry months, Costa Rica comes to life. Things feel refreshed. Wildlife becomes more active, rivers and waterfalls begin flowing instead of trickling, and the countryside turns from brown to green. There are fewer tourists, which means more space. It's also less expensive. Here are the main pros and cons of visiting Costa Rica in May.

May is an ideal month for wildlife enthusiasts! With fewer tourists, national parks are less crowded, making wildlife viewing in Costa Rica in May a prime time to spot some of your favorite species!

In May, several turtle species nest along Costa Rica's shores. Turtle nesting is especially prominent in the northern regions like Tortuguero and the Nicoya Peninsula. Bird lovers are in for a treat, too—with over 900 bird species recorded in the country, birding is exceptional in May. Monteverde National Park is a must-visit, boasting over 400 species alone, and you might get a chance to see resplendent quetzals before their breeding season ends in June. Hot tip: having a guide with you greatly increases your chances of spotting these beautiful birds!

For a diverse wildlife experience, consider visiting Carara National Park and Manuel Antonio National Park in the central Pacific region. And if you like to go off the beaten path, make your way south to the Osa Peninsula, home to Corcovado National Park. Recognized by National Geographic as one of the most biodiverse places on Earth, this is where pumas, monkeys, tapirs, and many other tropical animals hide in a serene forest setting.

May is one of those sweet spot months in Costa Rica, where nothing is off-limits. You want to hike, explore, zip line, or raft? May is perfect for everything! What to see and do in Costa Rica in May depends more on your own interests.

In addition to the wildlife hotspots mentioned above, the Arenal Volcano, located in the La Fortuna region, is a must-visit. This iconic volcano offers breathtaking views, has naturally heated mineral hot springs, and is surrounded by lush rainforests.

The Arenal area is also a hub for river and waterfall excursions. With the onset of the rains, these water-based activities become even more exhilarating. For thrill-seekers, consider waterfall rappelling and white water rafting in the La Fortuna region. Additionally, the Pacuare and Savegre Rivers are known for their superb rafting conditions during this period. Embark on these tours for an adrenaline-charged experience amidst nature.

And if waterfalls captivate you, venture about an hour into the mountains from Manuel Antonio to witness some truly mesmerizing cascades. If you're asking for a personal recommendation, tours to EcoChontales and Nauyaca Waterfalls are at the top of my list.

Packing for May in Costa Rica is not much different from other months—Costa Rica is all about light, summer clothes, and beachwear. Opt for quick-drying attire and prepare for random showers by bringing a lightweight rain jacket or poncho. For footwear, consider close-toed walking shoes, flip-flops and/or sandals, and perhaps a pair of sneakers that can handle a splash. These should cover you for a range of activities and moseying around town.

One tip I always recommend is to invest in a dry bag, available on sites like Amazon, to protect essentials like your phone, camera, towel, sunscreen, and bug spray during your excursions. This way you can ensure your belongings stay dry! And don't forget the sunscreen! It's expensive in Costa Rica and you'll definitely need it.

Costa Rica is somewhat quiet In May, festivities-wise. Labor Day, at the beginning of the month, stands out as the most significant holiday. During this time, most public institutions close, and some cities host parades and fireworks. It's a day where both locals and visitors can relax and celebrate, often resulting in lively parties with your friendly locals, Ticos. Additionally, the long weekend sees an influx of people flocking to the beaches, so traffic might get a bit heavier than you’d expect.

May isn't a challenging month to travel around Costa Rica. No roads are closed due to the weather, and navigating is easy. That said, it's worth taking care when on the road during a rainstorm. Things can get slippery and those water-filled potholes can deceive. Take your time and be careful, or—to leave nothing to chance—leave the driving to the pros and schedule transfers to help you get around the country. The locals who operate the transfer companies are well-equipped to drive in all kinds of conditions and know the roads like the back of their hands.

For hikers, the nature trails in the national parks are open in May, but don’t stray from them. This is wise advice any time of the year, as getting lost is no joke. However, once the rains start, the paths can become slippery, muddy, and even more challenging to navigate. Additionally, rain can cause sudden flash floods or obscure trail markers, increasing the risk even for experienced hikers. Always prioritize safety and stick to the designated routes.

The start of the rains also means more mosquitoes. Mosquitoes aren't a huge problem in most parts of Costa Rica, but it's worth bringing a good repellent with you if you're traveling in May.

Visiting Costa Rica in May presents an abundance of unique experiences and advantages for travelers. From sunny days and occasional afternoon showers to lush landscapes, there's so much to enjoy. With fewer crowds and more competitive prices, it might just be the ideal month for your getaway. Don't let the sporadic rains deter you; simply pack a lightweight raincoat and prepare for an unforgettable journey!

If you're contemplating whether May is the right time for your Costa Rican adventure, reach out to our Travel Consultants. We’re pretty sure you’re going to love it, but let us help you determine if a May vacation is for you!