April is one of the smartest months to visit Costa Rica. You get the tail end of dry season weather with the first hints of green season energy — bigger swells starting to build, fewer tourists than the January–March peak, and a landscape that’s beginning its transformation from golden to green.
Weather
April is predominantly dry, though you may see the first afternoon clouds appear toward the end of the month. Daytime temperatures along the Pacific coast sit in the mid-80s°F (29–32°C). The Dominical area stays comfortable thanks to its mountain-shielded microclimate — no aggressive midday winds like you’d get in Guanacaste.
Water temperature: 78°F (25–26°C). Still no wetsuit season.
Surfing
April is transitional — and that’s what makes it interesting. The dry season’s clean, moderate swells are still present, but the southern hemisphere’s storm season begins sending energy toward Costa Rica’s Pacific coast. That means slightly bigger, more powerful waves start arriving, giving intermediate surfers more to work with while conditions remain manageable for beginners.
At Kalon Surf, our coaches adjust to these shifting conditions daily — selecting the right beach, tide window, and board for each guest’s level.
What to know
April sits between the high season rush and the quieter green season months. Crowds thin out noticeably after Easter/Semana Santa (Costa Rica’s Holy Week, which falls in late March or April). Post-Easter April weeks offer excellent conditions with more availability than January–March — a great window for guests who prefer a quieter atmosphere.
Semana Santa itself is a uniquely Costa Rican experience — the country essentially takes the week off. Beaches are busier with local families, but the festive atmosphere is part of the charm.
Beyond surfing
April’s dry weather and warming swells make it a great month for combining surf with adventure excursions — ATV tours, waterfall hikes, snorkeling at Caño Island, or tandem paragliding over Dominical. The jungle is starting to green up, which means the scenery is transitioning toward its most vibrant phase.
For the full month-by-month breakdown, see our complete seasonal guide to surfing in Costa Rica.
