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!SeasonTransitionalAvg. Temperature (F)76Sky CoverageCloudyProbability of PrecipitationHighDaylight HoursAvg. 12 hrs, 40 minSunrise and Sunset5:15 AM - 6:05 PMTourist CrowdsMediumWhat Is the Weather Like in Costa Rica in May? Anticipate the RainsMay 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.Is May a Good Time to Visit Costa Rica? Pros and Cons of VisitingFor 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.Pros of Visiting Costa Rica in May:Lower Prices. Accommodations, tours, activities, and even flights are often less expensive in May, especially compared to the previous months of the year. Hotels often offer fantastic deals in May to set themselves up for the coming low season.Fewer Tourists. Spring break is over and the summer holidays are a ways off in the distance. Springtime weather in North America also lessens the urge for many to travel. All this means fewer tourists and smaller crowds in the month of May.The Weather. After four months without rain, its return is joyful. The country springs to life as browns become bright, fresh greens!All Activities Are Available. It's too early in the rainy season for anything to be closed. Whatever you want to do in Costa Rica is open and available in May.Cons of Visiting Costa Rica in May:The Weather. May marks the onset of the rainy season. Although the showers are typically brief and occur in the afternoon, if you're dreaming of uninterrupted sunshine, you might want to reconsider your travel dates.Mosquitoes. With the rains come the mosquitoes. The rainy season sees a surge in these pesky insects compared to the dry season. So, if you're like me—a mosquito magnet—be prepared with repellents and protective clothing.Unpredictable Rain Patterns. While the rains are generally confined to the afternoons, there's always the chance of an unexpected downpour. This could potentially disrupt outdoor plans or activities.Caribbean Coast Weather. If the Caribbean coast is on your itinerary, be cautious. May isn't the most favorable time for this region due to heavier rains, especially during the nights.Whether or not May is a good time to visit Costa Rica depends on your personal preferences. If you're adaptable and can embrace the occasional unpredictability of the weather, May could be a delightful time for your Costa Rican adventure. The country rejuvenates with the rain, offering you a fresh, less crowded, and more affordable experience. With the right preparations and mindset, you can have a fantastic time. After all, a little rain never hurt anyone, right?Average Cost of LodgingBudget ($)$200 - $290Moderate ($$)$300 - $440Luxury ($$$)$450 - $800Nature's Flourish: Costa Rica's Wildlife 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.Outdoor Exploration: Activities Best Suited for May in Costa RicaMay 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.Seaside Pleasures: Costa Rica Surfing, Beaches, and Ocean Activities  I often get asked about the surf conditions in Costa Rica during May. Believe it or not, the rainy season is, in fact, excellent for surfers of all skill levels—from May until October, the Pacific coast offers the best surfing conditions in Costa Rica, as we start seeing bigger waves from the southwest swells from the South Pacific. Hotspots like Tamarindo and Santa Teresa on the northern coast cater to both advanced surfers and novices. However, if you’re looking to surf the Caribbean waves, you might want to hold off; May’s not your month.For those of us who love the beach, but aren’t quite so adventurous as to surf, there's no shortage of stunning beaches to explore, including Playa Conchal, Playa Flamingo, Playa Tamarindo, and Playa Espadilla. Warm sunny mornings, occasionally followed by afternoon showers, make for perfect beach days. And speaking of those showers, once the season brings a little bit of rain and clouds over the horizon, we start seeing breathtaking sunsets, painting the sky with vibrant hues and playful cloud patterns.Finally, while no specific region stands out for fishing in May, both the Pacific and Caribbean coasts offer decent catches. On the west coast, May serves as a transitional period between the peak fishing times of the Central/Southern Pacific and Guanacaste. Both areas are decent for fishing, but neither is at its peak this month.Dressing Right: Packing and Outfit Tips for May in Costa RicaPacking 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.Holidays, Festivals, and Events in Costa Rica in MayCosta 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.Traveling Wisely: Safety and Navigational Tips for Visiting Costa Rica in MayMay 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.  Costa Rica in May Is a Dance of Sunshine and ShowersVisiting 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!About the AuthorAbby ChristTravel Consultant at Costa Rican VacationsTraveling from a young age, Abby Christ is an enthusiast of the arts and the great outdoors. Now that Costa Rica is her home, she's happy to share all her secrets for a perfect stay.