December is one of the best times to visit Costa Rica. The rainy season is ending, the landscapes are still lush and green, and the country begins to enjoy long sunny days that are perfect for beaches, volcanoes, wildlife watching, and outdoor adventures.
If you are planning a holiday getaway, this guide covers the top destinations in Costa Rica for December, what weather to expect, and how to build an unforgettable itinerary.
Why Visit Costa Rica in December?
December marks the beginning of the dry season on the Pacific Coast, making it an excellent month for first-time visitors.
Benefits of visiting in December
- Sunny weather on most Pacific beaches
- Green landscapes after the rainy season
- Excellent wildlife viewing opportunities
- Great conditions for hiking and adventure tours
- Festive holiday atmosphere throughout the country
December Weather in Costa Rica
| Region | Weather |
| Pacific Coast | Mostly sunny |
| Central Valley | Mild and pleasant |
| Arenal / La Fortuna | Warm with occasional showers |
| Monteverde | Cooler and misty |
| Caribbean Coast | Variable, with some rain possible |
Average temperatures range from 70°F to 90°F (21°C to 32°C) depending on elevation.
1. La Fortuna – Best for Volcanoes and Hot Springs
La Fortuna is often considered the best overall destination in Costa Rica.
Why visit in December?
- Clearer views of Arenal Volcano
- Comfortable hiking weather
- Beautiful waterfalls with strong water flow
- Perfect conditions for hot springs
Top things to do
- Arenal Volcano National Park
- La Fortuna Waterfall
- Mistico Hanging Bridges
- Tabacón or other hot spring resorts
- White-water rafting on the Balsa River
December offers a great balance between sunshine and lush rainforest scenery.
2. Manuel Antonio – Best for Beaches and Wildlife
Manuel Antonio combines tropical beaches, rainforest, and abundant wildlife, making it ideal for couples, families, and nature lovers.
Highlights
- White-sand beaches
- Sloths, monkeys, and toucans
- Easy hiking trails
- Sunset catamaran tours
Because December is drier, wildlife is often easier to spot along the park’s trails.
Best for: Wildlife photography and relaxing beach vacations.
3. Tamarindo – Best for Sun and Surfing
If your goal is sunshine, surfing, and vibrant nightlife, Tamarindo is one of the top choices in December.
What makes Tamarindo special?
- Consistently sunny weather
- Beginner-friendly surf beaches
- Restaurants, bars, and beach clubs
- Easy access from Liberia International Airport (LIR)
Best activities
- Surf lessons
- Sunset sailing tours
- Snorkeling and scuba diving
- ATV and horseback riding tours
December is considered the start of the peak beach season, so booking accommodations early is highly recommended.
4. Monteverde – Best for Cloud Forest Adventures
Monteverde offers a completely different side of Costa Rica.
Why visit in December?
- Cooler temperatures
- Fewer heavy rains than earlier months
- Excellent conditions for ziplining and hiking
- Incredible birdwatching opportunities
Must-see attractions
- Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve
- Selvatura Hanging Bridges
- Zipline canopy tours
- Hummingbird Garden
Temperatures are usually 60°F–75°F (16°C–24°C), making it a refreshing escape from the coastal heat.
5. Puerto Viejo – Best Caribbean Alternative
While most travelers focus on the Pacific Coast in December, Puerto Viejo de Talamanca offers a unique Caribbean experience.
Why consider Puerto Viejo?
- Afro-Caribbean culture
- Beautiful beaches such as Playa Cocles and Punta Uva
- Excellent snorkeling and diving opportunities
- Relaxed, laid-back atmosphere
Weather on the Caribbean side can be less predictable, but sunny days are still common in December.
6. Uvita – Best for Nature and Whale Watching
Uvita is one of Costa Rica’s emerging eco-tourism destinations.
Top attractions
- Marino Ballena National Park
- Whale Tail sandbar
- Waterfalls and jungle tours
- Kayaking and snorkeling
December brings improving weather conditions and fewer crowds than the busiest Pacific beach towns.
Best Places to Visit in Costa Rica in December by Travel Style
For First-Time Visitors
- La Fortuna
- Manuel Antonio
- Tamarindo
For Adventure Travelers
- La Fortuna
- Monteverde
- Uvita
For Couples
- Manuel Antonio
- Uvita
- Puerto Viejo
For Families
- La Fortuna
- Manuel Antonio
- Tamarindo
Suggested 7-Day Costa Rica December Itinerary
Days 1–3: La Fortuna
- Arenal Volcano
- Hot springs
- Waterfall tour
Days 4–5: Monteverde
- Cloud forest hike
- Zipline adventure
- Night wildlife tour
Days 6–7: Manuel Antonio
- National park visit
- Beach relaxation
- Sunset catamaran cruise
This route minimizes travel time while offering volcanoes, cloud forest, wildlife, and beaches in a single trip.
Travel Tips for Costa Rica in December
Book Early
December is one of the busiest travel months, especially from December 20 onward.
Reserve in advance
- Hotels
- Rental cars
- Popular tours
- Domestic flights
Pack for Different Climates
Bring:
- Lightweight clothing for beaches
- A light rain jacket
- Hiking shoes
- Swimsuit
- Sunscreen and insect repellent
- A light sweater for Monteverde evenings
Plan Around Holiday Crowds
The week between Christmas and New Year’s is extremely popular with both international visitors and Costa Rican families. Traveling in early December (December 1–15) often provides better prices and fewer crowds.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is December a good time to visit Costa Rica?
Yes. December is one of the best months to visit Costa Rica, especially the Pacific Coast, thanks to sunny weather and excellent conditions for outdoor activities.
Which coast is better in December?
The Pacific Coast is generally better for reliable sunshine, beach vacations, and easier travel conditions during December.
Is Costa Rica crowded in December?
Early December is moderately busy, while late December becomes peak tourist season. Booking accommodations several months in advance is recommended.
What is the warmest place in Costa Rica in December?
Beach destinations such as Tamarindo, Flamingo, and Manuel Antonio are among the warmest places to visit during December.