When to Visit: February Weather in Costa Rica

Sun Blazes Bright, Adventures Take Flight
Picture this: You’re sipping a chilled coconut, toes in the sand, while toucans chatter overhead and the sun paints everything gold. That’s February weather in Costa Rica—a slice of paradise where winter woes vanish, and pura vida takes over. This short-but-sweet month delivers dry season magic, making it a prime time to explore. Ready to unpack the forecast and plan your getaway? Let’s roll!
Dry Season in Full Swing
February is peak dry season in Costa Rica, running from December to April. Think endless sunshine, warm breezes, and barely a cloud to crash the party. It’s the kind of weather that begs you to ditch the jacket and dive into adventure. But Costa Rica’s got a knack for microclimates, so the vibe shifts depending on where you wander.
Microclimates: February’s Weather Remix
- Pacific Coast (Guanacaste, Tamarindo, Santa Teresa, Nosara, Nicoya Peninsula): Scorching and sunny—85-90°F (29-32°C) days, 70-75°F (21-24°C) nights. Rain’s a no-show, just pure beach bliss.
- Central Pacific (Jaco, Manuel Antonio, Dominical, Uvita): Toasty 88°F (31°C) highs with a humidity hug. A quick sprinkle might flirt, but it’s over fast.
- Caribbean Coast (Puerto Viejo, Cahuita, Tortuguero): Warm 80-85°F (27-29°C) with a wetter edge—short rains keep the jungle juicy.
- Central Valley (San José, Cartago): Goldilocks weather—75-80°F (24-27°C) days, cool 60-65°F (15-18°C) nights, and dry as a bone.
- Highlands (Monteverde, Arenal): Breezy 70-75°F (21-24°C) with a misty highland twist—mostly dry, totally dreamy.
Pros & Cons of February Weather
Pros:
- February weather in Costa Rica is dry and dazzling—perfect for outdoor shenanigans.
- Wildlife pops out in droves, loving the clear conditions.
- Short month, big vibes—less time to plan, more time to play.
Cons:
- Peak season crowds swarm the hotspots.
- Prices climb—book early to save your colones.
- Caribbean’s occasional rain might nudge your plans.
What to Pack for February
- Light tees, shorts, and breezy dresses—keep it chill.
- Swimsuit and flip-flops—beaches are begging for you.
- Light rain jacket for Caribbean or highland surprises.
- Hiking shoes for crispy trails and volcano treks.
- Sunscreen (SPF 50), hat, shades—February sun’s a beast!
- Water bottle—stay hydrated in the heat.
- Bug spray—skeeters crash the party year-round.
Best Things to Do in February
- Surf the Swells: Pacific waves in Tamarindo shine under February weather in Costa Rica.
- Volcano Vibes: Arenal’s cone glows in dry-season clarity—hot springs, anyone?
- Zipline Thrills: Monteverde’s forests are prime for soaring.
- Beach Hopping: Playa Conchal’s turquoise sparkle calls your name.
- Waterfall Chasing: Dry trails lead to La Fortuna’s cascades.
Unique Wildlife Experiences in February
February’s dry spell herds animals to water sources—jackpot for spotting:
- Sloths: Napping in Manuel Antonio’s trees, oblivious to the sun.
- Scarlet Macaws: Flashing red wings over Corcovado.
- Capuchin Monkeys: Stealing the show (and snacks) in Guanacaste.
- Green Sea Turtles: Nesting stragglers on the Caribbean coast.
- Jaguars: Rare but prowling in Corcovado’s dry jungle.
Cultural Highlights in February
- Fiestas Cívicas de Puntarenas: Early February brings seafood feasts and parades by the sea.
- Valentine’s Day Local Style: Couples flood San José’s parks under perfect weather.
- Coffee Harvest Wrap-Up: Sip the last of the season’s freshest brews in Tarrazú.
Travel Tips for February
- Lock It In: February weather in Costa Rica packs hotels—book ahead!
- Morning Magic: Beat heat and crowds with sunrise starts.
- Hydration Station: Sun’s fierce—keep water flowing.
- Cash Stash: Rural joints love the green stuff.
- Flex Your Plans: Caribbean rain? Swap surf for a jungle hammock nap.
Why February Weather Rocks
February weather in Costa Rica is a tropical love letter—dry, warm, and bursting with life. Whether you’re shredding waves on the Pacific, hiking misty highlands, or chasing wildlife in the jungle, the climate’s got your back. Sure, it’s peak season, but that just means more amigos to share the pura vida. Toss your umbrella, pack your sunscreen, and let February’s sunshine lead the way.
Ready to chase the sun? Costa Rica’s February forecast is calling!