At a Glance
- Costa Rica enters its "green" season in June, seeing an increase in precipitation with brief bouts of rain (typically in the afternoons around 3 pm and evenings).
- June temperatures average between 63°F and 88°F (17°C and 31°C).
- Cheaper flights can be found, and beaches and national parks are less crowded.
- All activities are available, with wildlife spotting, surfing, and river rafting being particularly prime.
Weather
| Region | Average Temperature | Average Rainfall | What to Expect |
|
North Pacific (Tamarindo, Gulf of Papagayo, Nicoya Peninsula) |
73°F-88°F (23°C-31°C) |
11.3 inches (286 mm) over 22 days |
The hottest and driest region (now turning green with afternoon rains). Without the coastal breeze, it'll feel hotter and stickier inland |
|
South Pacific (Puerto Jiménez, Osa Peninsula, Corcovado National Park) |
72°F-84°F (22°C-29°C) | 9.6 inches (243 mm) over 29 days | Late afternoon and evening downpours with hot and humid, occasional sunny mornings |
| Monteverde Cloud Forest | 66°F -79°F (19°C-26°C) | 13.5 inches (342 mm) over 24 days | Most days see rainfall and clouds, with an average of 6 hours of sun. Fewer sunny days toward month's end |
|
North Caribbean (Tortuguero National Park) |
73°F-86°F(23°C-30°C) | 17 inches (431 mm) over 22 days | Bouts of afternoon downpours followed by sun. More humid and cloudier than the Pacific coast |
|
South Caribbean (Puerto Viejo de Talamanca) |
75°F-83°F (24°C-28°C) | 11 inches (276 mm) over 21 days | Warm, with wet afternoons. More rain toward the end of the month. More humid and cloudier than the Pacific coast |
|
Northern Zone (Arenal/La Fortuna) |
72°F-84°F (22°C-29°C) |
16 inches (406 mm) over 22 days |
One of the wettest months of the year. Cooler in higher elevations, with rainy bursts followed by sun |
|
Central Valley (San José) |
63°F-74°F (17°C-23°C) |
15 inches (378 mm) over 28.9 days |
Typically sunny mornings with afternoon showers. Some days have more rain and others no rain at all. Hot at night |
June begins Costa Rica's rainy or "green" season, which locals consider the country's winter. This month, precipitation increases to an average of 11 inches (279 mm) over about 24 days, taking place mostly in the afternoons and evenings. However, you can still expect plenty of sunshine before the downpours and up to 13 hours of daylight. The sun rises around 5:15 am and sets around 6 pm.
The tropical country's daytime temperatures range between 66°F and 90°F (19°C and 32°C), with evenings about 10-15 degrees Fahrenheit cooler, varying depending on elevation and where in Costa Rica you're visiting. For example, San José, in the Central Valley, sees daytime temperatures in the mid-70s, while the Pacific coast regions can reach into the high 80s. The Caribbean coast is the rainiest, while up in the highlands, temperatures are typically cooler by 20 degrees or more.
For more on Costa Rica's rainy season, see this article. Also, check out The Ultimate Costa Rica Packing List to know what to bring specifically for the green season (bug repellent!).
Crowds & Costs
A shoulder season month with few countrywide events, June sees fewer crowds, cheaper accommodation options and airfare, and increased room availability. Your local specialist can help you make the most of the lower rates and ample variety of available lodging and activity options.
Note that the start of the month is less busy than the end, as schools in the US and Canada begin to close for (their) summer.
Chat with a local specialist who can help organize your trip.
Where to Go & What to Do
Costa Rica can be divided into several regions, first by its two coasts, the Pacific (north, central, and south) and the Caribbean, and by its northern plains (Northern Zone), Monteverde Cloud Forest, and Central Valley. Though there's an uptick in rainfall, there isn't any one place or activity that's off-limits. That said, the following destinations are kimkim favorites for June.
Pacific Coast
A favorite among beachgoers, surfers, and yogis, the Pacific coast is known for its sunny beaches, surf, and wellness activities, whereas the northern section of the coast is the driest. Head to the Gulf of Papagayo to laze on the beach like laid-back Playa Hermosa and enjoy a sunset cruise or snorkeling adventure off the Catalina Islands. For something more active, take a surf lesson or ride horseback in Tamarindo or check out nearby natural wonders like Rincón de la Vieja National Park, where you can hike to waterfalls and soak in hot springs.
If you're looking to venture into Costa Rica's wilderness, the southern Pacific region offers the biologically diverse Corcovado National Park on the lesser-frequented Osa Peninsula. Use Drake Bay or Puerto Jiménez as a base to access the park and join a guide to encounter wildlife like sloths, reptiles, and giant anteaters, hike trails, refresh in waterfall pools, and tour mangroves by boat.
Central Valley
Costa Rica's capital, San José, resides in the Central Valley and is ideal for travelers interested in history, art, and culture, while the region itself is one of the country's coffee-producing areas. With rising water levels this month, grab a paddle and join a rafting excursion. The Río Pacuare, for example, is regarded as one of the best rafting rivers in the world, and you can enjoy its Class II/III and IV rapids on an organized outing. (Many rafting trips take place over multiple days and include an overnight stay in a jungle lodge plus nature treks.)
Elsewhere
No matter where you choose to go in the country this month, you'll have full access (without rubbing shoulders with as many other travelers). Manuel Antonio on the central Pacific coast is the most popular destination and an excellent place to spot animals, now that they're more active, from the beach or in the forests. Monteverde and the still-active Arenal volcano (often obscured by green-season clouds) offer adventure sports, wildlife, and activities synonymous with Costa Rica, like ever-popular ziplining.
Events in June
Fiesta San Pedro de Montes de Oca, Nationwide (June 13). Lasting around a week, this fiesta honors San Pedro Apostol, the patron saint of fishermen. Join in the revelry of music and dance performances, as well as rodeos and toro a la Tica (non-bloodshed bullfights).
Día de San Pedro y San Pablo, Nationwide (June 29). This holy day honoring the two saints is celebrated throughout the country. Expect street processions and religious ceremonies.
Travel Tips
- With the increase in humidity this month, mosquitos will also be present. Pack accordingly, and consider bringing eco-friendly bug repellent.
- Plan outdoor activities in the morning before the afternoon rains (typically starting around 3 pm).
- Pack earplugs if you're a light sleeper, downpours during the night can be loud.
- If renting a vehicle (it's always best to go with 4WD), be aware of road closures due to the June rains.
Traveling to Costa Rica in June? Check out these great itineraries
Wildlife Adventure on Costa Rica's Osa Peninsula - 5 Days. Discover the Osa Peninsula's abundant wildlife during June's shoulder season, when animals are more active and easier to spot. One of Earth's most biodiverse regions, you'll hike through the world-renowned Corcovado National Park, snorkel among colorful fish, and traverse a mangrove forest by boat—with over half of all animal species in the country calling the peninsula home, you're sure to see some spectacular flora and fauna on each outing.
Road Trip to Costa Rica's Pacific Coast - 14 Days. Pick up your 4WD rental in Liberia and explore the northern and central Pacific coast as well as San José and the Central Valley. You'll hike in Rincón de la Vieja, visit a chocolate farm and spot sloths in Arenal, and zipline in the cloud forests of Monteverde before snorkeling and observing sea turtles in Tamarindo and Sámara.
More Helpful Information
Costa Rica in May
Costa Rica in July
Best Time to Visit Costa Rica
How Many Days to Spend in Costa Rica