FeatureEarly to Mid AprilMid to Late AprilSeasonDryTransitionalAvg. Temperature (F)75 - 8575 - 85Sky CoverageClearPartly cloudyProbability of PrecipitationLowMid to highDaylight HoursAvg. 12 hrs, 20 minSunrise and Sunset5:30 AM - 5:50 PMTourist CrowdsMidLowApril Showers and Sunshine: A Deep Dive into Costa Rica's Weather in AprilAlthough this tropical country’s temperatures remain between 75-85 degrees consistently year round, Costa Rica’s weather is defined by two distinct seasons: dry and rainy. The dry season typically runs between mid-December and mid-April, while the rainy season dominates the rest of the year, with October and November witnessing the heaviest rainfall. Given the country's diverse micro-climates, regardless of the season, you’ll always be able to find a spot with favorable weather. While the definition of "good weather" is subjective, many associate it with minimal rainfall. Personally, I have a soft spot for the rainy season: it brings back the rich, vibrant greens that epitomize the tropics. Imagine a lazy afternoon in a hammock, surrounded by lush foliage, with the gentle patter of rain around you. This transformation is particularly evident in dry forest regions like Guanacaste, a tourist hotspot with its extensive coastline. It's no wonder both tourists and locals flock here during this month.April is a transitional month. After months of little to no rainfall in many parts of the country, this is when the onset of the rainy season begins. This might manifest as an occasional afternoon shower, followed by no rain for a couple of days, then another light shower, and the pattern continues until the rain becomes more common than the days without any rain at all. The dry season sees the highest number of visitors to Costa Rica, predominantly North Americans, not only because of the pleasant weather but also because this period aligns with their typical vacation periods. For example, the last two weeks of December—the Christmas holidays—see a spike in visitors. Similarly, spring break lures families with school-going children.Because the weather is still excellent in April, it remains a great month for exploration across Costa Rica, though the Caribbean coast can be an exception due to its unpredictable climate. So, when clients ask about the prime time to visit, I often recommend the latter half of April. The reasons are clear: the climate closely resembles the dry season, but without the usual throngs of tourists. With school in session, there are fewer families and college spring-breakers around. Plus, many accommodations slash their rates after mid-April, offering significant savings.Is April a Good Month to Visit Costa Rica? Pros and Cons of VisitingIf you're considering an April vacation to Costa Rica, you'll want to consider several factors based on your personal preferences. Here are the main pros and cons when it comes to visiting Costa Rica this month.Pros of Visiting Costa Rica in April:End of the dry season. April is the tail end of the dry season, meaning you can still enjoy plenty of sunshine and warm weather, with average temperatures in the mid-80s Fahrenheit.All activities are available. And on the same note, it’s too early for anything to be closed. Whatever you want to do in Costa Rica is open and availableNature is in bloom. As the country transitions from the dry to the rainy season, the landscapes start to rejuvenate, offering vibrant and lush sceneries.Wildlife wonders. April is a good time to spot various wildlife, including humpback whales and nesting turtles. The national parks are also less crowded than peak dry season months, offering a more intimate experience with nature.Cultural celebrations. The month hosts various local festivals and events, such as Juan Santamaría Day, which celebrates a national hero with parades and festivities.Cons of Visiting Costa Rica in April:Beginning of rain. While it's the end of the dry season, April can see occasional showers, especially towards the end of the month.Prices not at their lowest. While April offers competitive rates, they aren't as low as what you might find during the absolute low season.Possibility of crowds. While not as packed as December or January, April still sees a fair number of tourists, especially during Easter or Spring Break.Unpredictable Caribbean coast weather. The Caribbean side of Costa Rica can be a bit unpredictable in terms of weather, with chances of more frequent rains.Whether or not April is a good time to visit Costa Rica depends on your personal preferences. If you enjoy warm weather with a mix of sun and occasional rain, and are keen on experiencing both nature and culture, then April is a fantastic option. If you are looking for guaranteed sunshine, you might want to consider another month, but April remains an excellent choice.Average Cost of LodgingBudget ($)$225 - $340Moderate ($$)$350 - $490Luxury ($$$)$500 - $1,200Exhilarating Experiences: What to Do in Costa Rica in April  April in Costa Rica is brimming with vibrant events and traditional celebrations. On the 11th of every year, the nation commemorates Juan Santamaría. This peasant hero is celebrated for his pivotal role in the Battle of Rivas in 1856, which ultimately prevented American William Walker's attempt to annex all of Central America for the Southern Confederacy. Alajuela, Juan Santamaría’s birthplace and Costa Rica's second-largest city, honors him with a spirited parade and visits to his monument in the city's central park. Across the country, you can expect to see fireworks lighting up the sky. While many businesses shut their doors for the day, most supermarkets, restaurants, and key tourist attractions remain open.The timing of your visit might also coincide with Holy Week, especially if Easter falls in April. Given Costa Rica's strong Roman Catholic roots, Holy Week—Semana Santa—is among one of the most important and celebrated holidays. The streets come alive with parades and festive celebrations. Many Ticos (as Costa Ricans call themselves) take this time to unwind, often heading to coastal areas like Guanacaste to bask in the sun and surf.Speaking of surf, Costa Rica is a renowned hotspot for both novice and seasoned surfers. As per Iguana Surf, a prominent tour company in Tamarindo and an affiliate of Costa Rican Vacations, the "winter" months in Costa Rica, which align with the rainy season, see an uptick in southwest swells from the South Pacific. So, for those new to surfing, April's milder waves offer an ideal setting to try it out and start learning!Natural Marvels: Wildlife Wonders in Costa Rica in AprilA significant perk of visiting Costa Rica in April, especially for nature enthusiasts, is the chance to spot Northern hemisphere California humpbacks in the Pacific and Atlantic humpbacks in the Caribbean. These majestic creatures are nearing the end of their journey to warmer waters for breeding and birthing. Witnessing these ocean giants up close is truly breathtaking, and numerous tour companies offer day trips to seek out these whales and other marine life.Turtles are another major attraction in Costa Rica, drawing visitors year-round. The peak nesting season for leatherback and hawksbill sea turtles spans from April to October on the Southern Caribbean coast. Further north, in places like Tortuguero, leatherbacks begin their nesting in March, soon followed by loggerheads and green sea turtles. These nesting sites are globally significant, especially for green sea turtles, which can lay an astonishing 700 eggs in a season! Imagine the awe of watching a massive 6-foot leatherback turtle meticulously choosing its nesting spot, enter a trance-like state, and clear the sand to lay its eggs. It's a moment of pure magic.For bird enthusiasts, Costa Rica is nothing short of paradise. The country boasts 8 endemic bird species, with over 600 species calling it home. The Resplendent Quetzal, a dazzling, jewel-toned bird, is both elusive and endangered. The best time to spot them aligns with their breeding season from February to July. Your best bet to catch a glimpse is in the high-altitude cloud forests of Monteverde and San Gerardo de Dota.  Prepping for the Tropics: What to Wear and Pack for Costa Rica in AprilWhen packing for Costa Rica, some essentials are timeless. Opt for attire fit for the warm tropics and given Costa Rica's relaxed vibe, leave behind those fancy shoes or heels. Practicality is key in tourist spots!Think about packing convertible pants that can easily switch between shorts and long pants. These are perfect for activities like whitewater rafting or waterfall rappelling. Pair them with quick-dry shirts and socks. And don't forget a poncho or a rain jacket to stay dry during those sudden rainforest showers. For footwear, waterproof hiking boots and multisport shoes are ideal. If you're heading to the beach or planning water activities, river/reef sandals will serve you well. And sunscreen and bug repellent are always must-haves.Travel Essentials: Tips and Tricks for Your April VisitIf you made it this far, I'm guessing you're seriously contemplating a trip to Costa Rica in April. Great choice! To ensure you're fully prepared for this incredible journey, here are some essential tips:Gear Up for the AdventureCosta Rica's breathtaking landscapes are worth capturing, so a camera is a must-have. For those unexpected moments in nature, consider a waterproof bag or dry sack to protect your belongings.Prioritize Safety and ComfortApril is the month when clouds start building up more and more over Costa Rica. However, even on overcast days, the tropical sun can be intense, so always have a high SPF sunscreen on hand. As for those pesky tropical insects, a good insect repellent is your best defense. For added security for your valuables, consider a money belt worn discreetly under your clothes. And if you're frequently on the move, TSA-approved luggage locks can offer that extra peace of mind.Maximize Your ExperienceApril signifies a shift in Costa Rica's climate, bridging the dry and rainy seasons. This unique blend means you'll enjoy both sun-filled days and occasional rain showers. Instead of seeing rain as a deterrent, embrace it! Opt for rain-friendly activities like visiting hot springs, exploring caves, or taking a chocolate tour. And don't worry, the rain typically doesn't linger all day, ensuring ample sunshine for your adventures. April in Costa Rica: Lower Crowds and Natural Beauty Coming to LifeApril marks Costa Rica's gradual shift into the rainy season, often presenting the best of both worlds. If the idea of dodging large crowds appeals to you—meaning more hotel availability, smaller excursion groups, and better rates—then planning a trip towards the month's end might just be brilliant. By this time, most students have returned to school, leading to fewer families on vacation. You can still expect fantastic weather and the chance to witness some of nature's most awe-inspiring wonders across the country. When pondering your next Costa Rican getaway, think of April as potentially the prime time to visit.The ideal moment to start planning is several months ahead to secure their top hotel choices and snag the best airfare deals. If you’re ready to experience Costa Rica in April, begin your journey today! Reach out and let's craft your unforgettable vacation together. Pura Vida!About the AuthorErica SpinaTravel Consultant at Costa Rican VacationsAn avid lover of both travel and sports, Erica has a keen interest in the great outdoors and other people, and now dedicates herself to planning memorable vacations others won't forget.