May in Costa Rica: A Lush, Peaceful Paradise Awaits
If you're dreaming of a tropical escape that offers stunning landscapes, fewer crowds, and incredible value—May in Costa Rica is your perfect window of opportunity. As the first official month of the green season (also known as the rainy season), May offers a unique blend of sunshine, light rains, and vibrant nature in full bloom.
At ROAM, we love May for its serene beauty, dramatic sunsets, and quieter travel experience. Whether you're seeking adventure, romance, or relaxation, this month delivers an unforgettable slice of pura vida at a slower, more tranquil pace.
🌴 Why Travel to Costa Rica in May?
While many think the rainy season means constant downpours, May is still filled with sunny mornings, lush greenery, and refreshing afternoon showers that cool down the day. It's also a shoulder season, meaning:
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Fewer tourists and smaller crowds
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Lower prices on hotels, tours, and flights
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Beautiful landscapes bursting with green life
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Warm tropical weather ideal for both beach and jungle exploration
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Great wildlife viewing opportunities
🌎 What’s the Weather Like in May?
Pacific Coast (Guanacaste, Tamarindo, Manuel Antonio):
Expect plenty of sunshine in the mornings, with brief afternoon or evening showers. The dry northwest region (like Guanacaste) stays sunnier longer, while southern areas like Manuel Antonio begin to see more frequent rain. Daytime highs are around 85–90°F (29–32°C)—perfect for beach days, surfing, and national park visits.
Central Valley & San José:
The Central Valley, including San José, remains pleasant and mild, with temperatures between 65–80°F (18–27°C). May rains tend to arrive in the afternoon, giving you sunny mornings to explore markets, volcanoes, and coffee plantations.
Caribbean Coast (Puerto Viejo, Tortuguero):
The Caribbean side follows its own rhythm and tends to experience more stable weather year-round. In May, you’ll find warm temperatures (70–85°F / 21–29°C) and intermittent rain showers, with bursts of sunshine. It’s a great time to explore Tortuguero’s canals or relax in Puerto Viejo.
Highlands (Monteverde, Arenal):
The highlands start to feel cooler and more humid in May, but the beauty of the lush cloud forests and hot springs is unbeatable. Expect temperatures around 60–75°F (16–24°C) with a mix of mist, sunshine, and afternoon showers—perfect for adventurous hikes and wildlife spotting.
🎒 What to Pack for May in Costa Rica
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Light, breathable clothing for warm days
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Rain jacket or poncho for afternoon showers
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Waterproof shoes or sandals
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Quick-dry clothing for jungle and adventure tours
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Swimsuit for beach days and hot springs
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Bug spray and sunscreen
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A small umbrella or dry bag for rainy excursions
🐒 What to Do in May
May is a perfect time to enjoy Costa Rica’s natural beauty without the high-season crowds. Activities we recommend include:
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Surfing & beach hopping on the Pacific Coast
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Rainforest hikes and wildlife tours in Arenal or Osa Peninsula
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Birdwatching in Monteverde or Sarapiquí
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Relaxing in natural hot springs
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Visiting coffee farms and waterfalls in the Central Valley
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Exploring Tortuguero's canals by boat
With fewer tourists, guides often offer more personalized experiences, and you're more likely to have a trail or beach all to yourself.
🎉 Local Culture & Events
May kicks off the green season, but it’s also a month of peace and celebration. The pace of life slows slightly, giving you a more authentic cultural experience.
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Labor Day (Día del Trabajador) – May 1st: A national holiday marked by parades and local festivities.
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Fiestas and rodeos continue in small towns, giving you a taste of local life.
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Turtle nesting begins on the Caribbean coast—especially in Tortuguero and Gandoca-Manzanillo.
✅ Travel Tips
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Plan morning tours and activities, as rain is more common in the late afternoon.
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Embrace the green season—the rain brings out vibrant wildlife, dramatic skies, and fewer crowds.
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Take advantage of shoulder-season savings—luxury resorts and tours often offer discounts in May.
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Be flexible with outdoor plans and keep a backup indoor activity or spa day in mind just in case of rain.
🌟 Let Us Craft Your Perfect May Escape
Costa Rica in May is one of the country’s best-kept secrets. With lush landscapes, golden beaches, and fewer travelers, it's a magical time to experience the heart of the tropics—peaceful, wild, and beautiful.
At ROAM, we tailor your trip to your pace, style, and interests. Whether you want to soak in natural hot springs, go zip-lining through cloud forests, or enjoy a romantic beach retreat, we’ve got you covered.
