Imagine, you’re stepping off the plane into warm tropical air. By the afternoon, a quick rain shower cools everything down and leaves the jungle shining. Welcome to Costa Rica’s green season, running from May through October. Locals love it, and once you see it for yourself, you probably will too.

In the green season, mornings are sunny, afternoons are misty, and nights are clear and cool. It is a perfect time to explore without the crowds or high-season prices. Whether you want to hike through wild forests, surf on quiet beaches, or spot sea turtles under the moonlight, summer here feels like the authentic Costa Rica.

 

A Typical Green Season Day

Costa Rica’s summer doesn’t mean endless rain. In fact, a typical summer day looks like this:

• Early Morning (5 to 7 AM): Clear skies and fresh coffee.
• Midday (8 AM to Noon): Ideal for hiking, zip-lining, and surfing.
• Afternoon (1 to 4 PM): A short rain shower freshens up the landscape.
• Evening (5 to 8 PM): Clear skies return just in time for sunset and a cool evening breeze.

This pattern repeats with a twist: in July and August, the legendary veranillo (“little summer”) brings stretches of blue skies so beautiful you might forget it’s the rainy season. And while one region is draped in mist, another might be basking in sunshine making it easy to chase perfect weather. Plus, rain typically means fewer tourists, quieter beaches, and photo-ready waterfalls everywhere you look.

 

Green Season Adventures You Will Love

Zip-Lining Through the Rainforest

The rainforest is especially vibrant during the green season, making zip-lining in Monteverde or Arenal feel like soaring through a living jungle. You’ll glide above treetops, pass waterfalls, and maybe catch a glimpse of monkeys or tropical birds. Light mist adds to the experience, creating a magical, movie-like setting. Most tours include quality gear, safety briefings, and fun guides who share cool facts about the forest. It is a must-do for adventure lovers.

White-Water Rafting on Roaring Rivers

When summer rains arrive, Costa Rica’s rivers come alive. The Pacuare and Sarapiquí turn into exciting white-water playgrounds. You can choose intense rapids or take a gentler ride if you are with kids. Many rafting tours include expert guides, all equipment, and fun extras like waterfall swim stops. Some even offer overnight trips with riverside camping. It is a great way to explore remote areas, see wildlife, and enjoy a mix of nature and adrenaline.

Wildlife Watching

Wildlife is everywhere in the green season. You might see:

• Sloths lounging in the trees
• Scarlet macaws flying overhead
• Sea turtles nesting on the beaches (July to September)
• Humpback whales breaching offshore (July to October)
• Frogs and other rainforest creatures coming out after rain

Surf Swells & Water Sports

The Pacific beaches come alive with bigger waves:

• Playa Samara and Jaco are great for beginners
• Pavones is perfect for seasoned surfers
• Stand-up paddleboarding, canyoning, snorkeling, and diving are all available too

After a day on the water, warm ocean breezes make beach bonfires and stargazing even better.

 

Family-Friendly Summer Fun

Costa Rica is basically a giant outdoor playground for kids. There’s adventure, wildlife, and hands-on fun around every corner. Here are a few favorite spots:

Manuel Antonio: Easy jungle trails lead to beautiful beaches where kids can swim safely and explore tide pools full of crabs, starfish, and tiny fish. The park is compact, making it great for shorter attention spans.

Tortuguero: Glide through jungle canals on guided boat tours and keep an eye out for monkeys, caimans, and colorful birds. At night, join a turtle nesting tour during the season and watch hatchlings make their way to the sea.

Wildlife Sanctuaries: Across Costa Rica, sanctuaries offer the chance to see sloths, toucans, butterflies, and rescued animals in a safe, engaging environment. Many include interactive exhibits and feeding sessions.

Arenal Adventures: Try zip-lining, walk across hanging bridges, ride horses near the volcano, or take a chocolate-making class where kids can grind cacao and sample their sweet creations.

Beach Fun: Playa Samara and Playa Conchal are ideal for kids, with gentle waves, shady spots, and local vendors selling snacks and ice cream right by the sand.

Farm Tours: Short, kid-friendly coffee and chocolate tours mix hands-on learning with delicious tastings and fresh juice straight from the source.

 

Local Summer Festivals & Celebrations

Even in the quieter season, Costa Rica is full of life. Some summer highlights include:

• Guanacaste Day (July 25): Colorful parades, music, and traditional food.
• Virgin of the Sea Festival (Mid-July): Boat parades along the coast with fireworks and local seafood.
• La Romería (August 2): Pilgrims walk to Cartago’s famous basilica in a beautiful show of faith.
• Independence Day (September 14 and 15): Lantern parades, fireworks, and live music fill the towns.

Keep an ear out for local fiestas patronales, smaller village parties packed with food, music, and dancing.

 

Summer in Playa Avellanas

Playa Avellanas is a quiet gem on Costa Rica’s Pacific coast, and summer is one of the best times to experience its laid-back charm. Mornings often start with sunny skies and warm ocean breezes, perfect for early beach walks, tide pool exploring, or grabbing a smoothie from a beachfront café. Surfers love Avellanas for its consistent waves, with breaks suited for all skill levels, and fewer crowds mean more space to ride and relax.

Afternoons might bring a short rain shower that cools everything down and leaves the landscape looking extra lush. It is a great time to relax in a hammock, visit nearby hot springs, or explore the mangroves by kayak. Evenings are calm and peaceful, with glowing sunsets and star-filled skies. Whether you are sipping a drink on your villa’s terrace or heading to Lola’s for dinner with your feet in the sand, Avellanas in summer feels like pure paradise.

 

Why Travel During the Green Season?

Traveling during the green season offers way more than just beauty, and comes with some great perks:

• Lower Prices: More affordable accommodation for your stay.
• Flight and Tour Deals: Cheaper airfare and more small-group discounts.
• Fewer Crowds: You might have a waterfall or beach almost to yourself.
• Car Rentals: Discounted rates and extras like free GPS or waived insurance.

It is everything you love about Costa Rica with a lot more breathing room and a lot less stress on your wallet.

 

Book Your Summer Retreat with Pazifico Villas

The Canopy Villa

Layout & Amenities

• 2 bedrooms (2 queens + 1 twin), 2 bathrooms, open-plan living/kitchen
• East & west balconies for sunrise coffee and sunset cocktails
• Salt-water infinity pool, fully equipped kitchen, free Wi-Fi, parking
• Daily housekeeping and optional private chef service

Vibe & Why Book

Modern and tucked into the jungle. Watch monkeys swing by in the morning and enjoy fresh seafood on the grill at night.

The Bungalow

Layout & Amenities

• 1 queen + 2 twins + sofa bed, 1 bathroom, vaulted teak ceilings
• Private terrace with BBQ/dining area, handcrafted décor, short walk to Playa Avellanas, free Wi-Fi, parking
• Complimentary surfboard rentals and beach towels

Vibe & Why Book

Laid-back beach living with a touch of boutique charm. Perfect for families and groups of friends who want to be close to the action but still relax in comfort.

 

Why Choose Pazifico Villas for Your Summer Costa Rica Getaway Vacation?

Costa Rica’s green season is about more than just the rain. It is about experiencing the country at its most alive. Waterfalls are bigger, forests are greener, wildlife is more active, and towns are full of local flavor.

It is the perfect time to dive into everything Costa Rica has to offer without the big crowds or big price tags. Grab your light layers, a good rain jacket, and your sense of adventure. Your unforgettable summer story starts now. Embrace the pura vida and discover everything Costa Rica has to offer with Pazifico Villas!