Costa Rica in August: Explore Top Attractions During Low Season
Although August is part of Costa Rica’s ‘little summer’, the fact is that it falls in the middle of the rainy season. Expect less precipitation in most regions compared to months before and after, but give the rain the gratitude it deserves. A trip to Costa Rica in August sees foliage in full bloom while rivers surge, creating the perfect setting for forest exploration and water sports. Steer clear of the rain by exploring Guanacaste or lazing on the beaches along the Pacific coast.
Costa Rica Weather in August
Costa Rica is rainier in August than in July. However, showers typically take place late in the afternoon. This encourages travelers to plan most of their adventures early in the morning. The Guanacaste Province receives the least rainfall during this month, creating the perfect setting to discover beach destinations like Tamarindo and Nosara.
While southern parts of the country along the Pacific bear the brunt of the rainy season, the Caribbean side becomes drier as the month progresses. Take this time to chase wildlife in Tortuguero National Park or go scuba diving in Punta Uva.
Temperatures can exceed 32°C in the lowlands and coastal areas of Costa Rica in August, dipping down to anywhere between 20 and 25°C at night. The central valley, on the other hand, experiences a cooler climate, with a maximum of 29°C.
Find out more about the best time to visit Costa Rica.
Weather in Costa Rica in August - Rainfall and Temperatures
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg Daily (°C) | 26 | 29 | 30 | 30 | 29 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 15 | 26 | 26 |
| Avg Nightly (°C) | 17 | 18 | 18 | 19 | 18 | 18 | 18 | 18 | 18 | 18 | 18 | 18 |
| Avg Daily (°F) | 78.8 | 84.2 | 86 | 86 | 84.2 | 82.4 | 82.4 | 82.4 | 82.4 | 59 | 78.8 | 78.8 |
| Avg Nightly (°F) | 62.6 | 64.4 | 64.4 | 66.2 | 64.4 | 64.4 | 64.4 | 64.4 | 64.4 | 64.4 | 64.4 | 64.4 |
| Avg Rainfall (mm) | 10 | 10 | 10 | 60 | 140 | 170 | 180 | 190 | 240 | 220 | 160 | 50 |
Why Visit Costa Rica in August
Most parts of Costa Rica witness sporadic rain showers in August. But this does not take away your joy of traveling to this beautiful country during this time of year. The weather is still pleasant in some regions and there are fewer crowds, providing you with the perfect opportunity to experience Costa Rica at your own pace. Here is why visiting Costa Rica in August is a great idea.
- Fewer crowds: August is the low season in Costa Rica in terms of travelers. This means popular tourist destinations like Tortuguero, Arenal, and Manuel Antonio National Park receive fewer visitors. You can take your own sweet time exploring these places during your trip to the country at this time of year. Hotel availability is also not a problem this month.
- Low-season discounts: For a trip that is light on your pocket, head for Costa Rica in August. Enjoy low-season discounts with up to 50 percent off on hotel rooms. International flights are also cheaper during this month.
- Pleasant weather in some parts: While sporadic rainfall is common in Costa Rica in August, destinations on its northern Pacific coast and the Caribbean are relatively dry. Take this time to explore the gems of these areas.
- Thriving wildlife: August is the turtle-nesting season in Costa Rica. Go to Tortuguero to see these timid reptiles lay their eggs. While you are there, you can also take a canoe tour or go on a night walk in search of wildlife.
- Festival fun: Experience Costa Rica’s culture with one of its biggest annual festivals, Virgen de Los Ángeles, which is held in Cartago on August 2. On this day, thousands of people make a pilgrimage to the city. The spectacle is nothing short of breathtaking.
Where to go and what to do
Some of the best places to visit in Costa Rica in August are the regions with minimal weather fluctuations. The Caribbean coast experiences less rainfall this month, so add Tortuguero National Park to your itinerary. Alternatively, you can experience world-class waves in Playa Negra and Playa Cocles.
Some of the best things to do in Costa Rica in August are in the Guanacaste Province. For world-class beaches, head to Tamarindo or Nosara, or explore the hot springs and hiking trails of Rincon de la Vieja National Park.
If you find yourself in the country during the first week of August, drop by Cartago to see the massive annual event where millions of pilgrims pay their respects to the Virgin of Los Angeles. If you are traveling to the country in August, find out how many days to spend in Costa Rica.
What to bring
If you are wondering what to wear in Costa Rica in August, pack versatile clothes. You are bound to encounter some rain in August no matter where you visit, but typically only in the late afternoon. So pack your clothes to suit the changing weather. Make sure that you carry a raincoat and quick-drying clothes for rain, light breathable outfits for daytime, and a warm fleece or a sweater for the night. If you are planning to spend time at beaches or in the woods, do not forget to carry a bottle of sunscreen and bug repellent.
While most parts of Costa Rica see rainfall in August, there are still plenty of places where the weather remains relatively drier. Guanacaste Province and the Caribbean coast are ideal places to visit during this month of the year. As part of the low season, August is a great time to visit Costa Rica for budget travelers. Hotel rooms come at cheaper rates and popular tourist destinations are less crowded. Reach out to our local travel experts for a customized Costa Rica itinerary.
Browse through our tours to Costa Rica in August for more ideas and insights.
Other articles:
Costa Rica in July
Costa Rica in September
