Is Costa Rica A Good Place To Visit In The Fall?

From tropical beaches to breathtaking rainforests, Costa Rica is a country you need to see in your lifetime. So if it’s time you finally ticked this beautiful country off your bucket list, you might be wondering when to visit Costa Rica during the year.

While it’s a beautiful destination all year round, traveling in the fall months to Costa Rica can offer an unforgettable experience. Here’s why we think visiting Costa Rica in fall is one of the best times of year — from amazing activities to cheaper flights.

When to visit Costa Rica

For many travelers, the first step to any vacation is choosing when you want to go. If you’re about to start planning your Costa Rica trip, you’ll be happy to know that it’s a country full of adventure and unforgettable experiences no matter the time of the year — each season offering something different from the last.

To get the most out of your vacation to Costa Rica, we think the fall months — or as Costa Ricans call it, the “green season” — are one of the best times to visit.

Traveling in the fall months to Costa Rica

The country remains in its green season from May to November, with September and October in Costa Rica being its peak green season. The green season refers to the country’s winter and rainy period, transforming the country into a beautiful, lush green.

It might surprise you that Costa Rica has two seasons instead of four — summer and winter. And while it’s not uncommon to see tourists flock to Costa Rica during its dry season to take advantage of the warm weather, what they don’t know is that during the green season, the temperature regularly fluctuates. Plus, where we are around Dominical, it typically means blue skies during the day and potentially a refreshing rain shower just before nightfall. Most days during the green season can feel like summer!

Aside from fluctuating temperatures, the weather in October through to the weather in November promises some of the best sights around.

The benefits of the green season in Costa Rica

Costa Rica’s weather in September to November allows tourists to explore the country’s wildlife. During these months, green sea turtles start to nest on the Tortuguero shores, while humpback whales begin their migration in the Osa Peninsula and give birth to offspring — the perfect activity for families.

The green season in Costa Rica also presents a perfect opportunity for adrenaline seekers to try rafting or hitting the waves for a fantastic surf. This is because the SSW swells are at their most consistent during the fall, producing some of the best surf conditions of the year.

Temperatures during the green season also tend to be more bearable than those during the country’s dry season, as dry season temperatures can soar as high as 90°F. But with temperatures in the mid-80s during the green season, you can enjoy the beaches and rainforests without feeling like you’re going to overheat.

Speaking of scenery, Costa Rica’s green season is known for its vibrant green and lush vegetation across the Central Valley and Pacific Coast. The rainforest tends to be in full bloom around this time, promising sights you won’t see anywhere else.

Traveling to Costa Rica in the green season also means fewer crowds — and flights tend to be cheaper. Whether accommodations offer lower rates depends entirely on where you go. Some areas with lower occupancy or higher overhead may offer discounts, but many resorts along the Pacific coast — especially those that stay busy with return guests — maintain the same rates year-round. The green season experience around Dominical, for example, isn’t a budget alternative to high season — it’s a different (and many would argue better) version of Costa Rica.

Flight costs to Costa Rica in the fall

As travel traffic tends to be lower during the green season, flights to Costa Rica are often more affordable. The high travel season runs from November through March, making September and October the months with the lowest airfare.

According to Skyscanner, flight prices in September are 19% cheaper than the average yearly flight price. Flights during December, by contrast, run about 30% higher than average.

But the biggest reason to come in the fall isn’t the flight price — it’s what’s waiting when you land. The surf is at its most consistent, the jungle is at its most vibrant, the wildlife is at its most active, and the guest groups tend to be smaller and more connected.

Costa Rica is known for its unique weather, captivating landscapes, and once-in-a-lifetime experiences. So whether you’re looking to kickstart your surfing journey or unwind by the beach, Costa Rica is a top destination for all travelers — and there’s no better place to book your next adventure than Kalon Surf.

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