December is a magical time to visit Costa Rica, marking the start of the dry season with ideal weather, festive holiday celebrations, and endless opportunities to explore the country’s lush landscapes. Early in the month, you can enjoy lower prices and fewer crowds as the rainy season winds down. However, by Christmas and New Year’s, Costa Rica transforms into a bustling destination, with hotels fully booked and popular attractions like trails, zip lines, and rivers buzzing with activity. If you’re planning a trip during the second half of December, it’s essential to book accommodations and activities by late October to avoid last-minute stress, as this period is not ideal for spontaneous travel. In this guide, we’ll dive into everything you need to know, including weather patterns, top activities, festivals, and travel tips.
Why visit Costa Rica in December?
The perfect weather
December transitions from the rainy green season to the dry high season. Early December still sees occasional showers, particularly in the Caribbean and central highlands, but by mid-month, most regions enjoy sunny skies and warm temperatures.
Pacific Coast: Dry, sunny, and perfect for beach vacations.
Caribbean Coast: Slightly wetter but still warm, with fewer crowds.
Central Valley & Highlands: Cool mornings and evenings, with mild daytime temperatures.
Writer's Tip: Late December is ideal if you're chasing guaranteed dry weather, though it’s also the busiest time of the month and, therefore, the moment when prices start to rise.
Festive holiday atmosphere
Costa Rica in December comes alive with the holiday spirit. The country’s deeply rooted Catholic traditions are evident in the colorful decorations, family gatherings, and lively festivals. Expect plenty of celebrations if you're visiting during Christmas and New Year.
Festival of Lights (Festival de la Luz): Held in San José, this annual parade features illuminated floats, live music, and fireworks, making it a must-see event.
Christmas Traditions: Costa Ricans celebrate with tamales, family feasts, and midnight mass.
New Year's Eve: Beach towns like Tamarindo, Jacó, and Manuel Antonio are hotspots for countdown parties and fireworks.
Best activities and experiences in December
Relax on Costa Rica’s beautiful beaches.
We can't say it enough: if you come to Costa Rica, you can enjoy the beautiful beaches no matter the month. But with the Pacific coast in full dry-season mode, December is perfect for beach hopping. Here are the top beaches to visit:
Tamarindo: A vibrant beach town ideal for surfing and nightlife.
Manuel Antonio: We recommend Playa Espadilla, famous for its pristine beaches and nearby Manuel Antonio National Park.
Santa Teresa: A paradise for surfers and yoga enthusiasts.
Writer's Tips: Head to Nosara or Playa Samara on the Nicoya Peninsula for quieter beaches.
Explore Costa Rica’s National Parks
December’s favorable weather makes it an excellent time to visit Costa Rica’s national parks, which are a must-see if you travel to Costa Rica. You can't leave the country without seeing at least one national park.
Manuel Antonio National Park: Spot sloths, monkeys, and tropical birds while hiking scenic trails.
Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve: Experience the mystical beauty of the cloud forest with canopy tours and suspension bridges.
Arenal Volcano National Park: Hike volcanic trails, soak in Hot Springs and admire the iconic and impressive Arenal Volcano.
Writer's Tips:
Arrive early to national parks to avoid the midday crowds, especially during the holiday season.
Check our blog articles "Best National Parks in Costa Rica: Top Parks You Can't-Miss" and "The Best Hot Springs La Fortuna: A Good Way to Rejuvenate" for more information.
Wildlife Spotting
Costa Rica is THE country of wildlife. And you will be amazed by the beauty and diversity of Costa Rica no matter which month you choose to visit. Costa Rica’s biodiversity shines year-round, but December offers unique opportunities for wildlife enthusiasts.
Whale Watching: North Atlantic and California Humpback whales can be spotted along the Pacific coast from December to March. August and September are the best months to see humpback whales in Costa Rica, particularly in the North and South Pacific. The best destinations to spot whales in Costa Rica are Drake Bay, Marino Ballena National Park, Golfito and Puerto Jimenez (Golfo Dulce Bay). You can also see humpback whales in Manuel Antonio, the Gulf of Nicoya and Golfo Dolce.
Turtle Nesting: Visit Tortuguero or Ostional beaches to witness sea turtles nesting and hatching.
Birdwatching: December is great for spotting colorful toucans, resplendent quetzals, and migratory birds.
Writer's tip: Check our blog article "Exploring Ostional Wildlife Refuge: a guide to Costa Rica’s turtle haven" for more information.
Adventure Activities
Costa Rica’s dry weather in December is perfect for adrenaline-pumping adventures. And there's no shortage of tours in Costa Rica!
Whitewater Rafting: The Pacuare River is a world-class destination for rafting enthusiasts.
Ziplining: Glide through treetops in Monteverde or Arenal for unparalleled rainforest canopy views.
Surfing: Tamarindo and Dominical offer excellent waves for surfers of all skill levels.
Immerse Yourself in Local Culture
Don’t miss the chance to experience Costa Rica’s warm hospitality and rich culture.
Coffee Tours: Learn about Costa Rica’s world-renowned coffee production in Puerto Viejo de Talamanca with Caribeans. Take a hike through the cacao forest, see the cacao tree restoration project, learn about cacao and chocolate's history, and then the tasting. A treat!
Visit Local Markets: In most cities in Costa Rica, you can enjoy the farmer's market to buy handmade crafts and traditional foods, meet the locals, and especially consume local food. Take advantage of it to buy your travel souvenirs!
Fiestas de Zapote: If you’re in San José after Christmas, enjoy this carnival-like event featuring bullfighting, amusement rides, and live music.
Our tips for visiting Costa Rica in December
Book in advance
December competes with whichever month Easter falls as the most popular for Costa Rica travel. Especially during the Christmas and New Year holidays, it is one of the busiest months in Costa Rica. Accommodations, tours, and transportation tend to sell out quickly. It’s the heart of the high season for sun-seeking international travelers, and Tico schoolchildren are on holiday.
About 90% of hotels are booked by the end of September for the week before and after Christmas. Book at least 3-6 months in advance for popular destinations like Manuel Antonio and Tamarindo.
If you try traveling without reservations, consider that the inland and mountain destinations are not quite as popular as the city near the beaches so that you might have a bit more flexibility there.
Pack for varied weather.
While most regions are sunny in December, it’s wise to pack for all climates. It must be remembered that the climate is always unpredictable in Costa Rica. Bring essentials like lightweight clothing, sunscreen, and sandals for the beach; a light jacket is needed for cooler areas, such as Monteverde, La Fortuna, and other highland destinations, and a compact umbrella or rain jacket for the Caribbean coast.
Use the App Windy, which is perfect for getting a precise idea of the weather depending on the places you want to go. Never rely on the inaccurate weather on your phone.
Be prepared for holiday crowds.
The second half of December sees a surge in international and local tourists. Beaches, national parks, and popular attractions can be crowded. If you prefer fewer crowds, plan your trip for early December or explore off-the-beaten-path destinations like the Osa Peninsula or Sarapiquí.
Understand the costs
December is part of Costa Rica’s high season, meaning prices for accommodations and tours are higher than usual. Look for boutique hotels or eco-lodges run by locals for a more authentic (and often more affordable) experience.
Suggested itineraries for December in Costa Rica
Here are our 7-day itineraries for Costa Rica in December, tailored for the dry season and holiday crowds. Both options offer a mix of relaxation and adventure while avoiding overly crowded areas:
Itinerary 1: Classic Costa Rica highlights
Day 1: Arrival in San José. You arrive at Juan Santamaría Airport (SJO) airport; if you arrive late in the afternoon or at night, stay overnight in San Jose (we don't recommend driving at night) to leave early the next morning. If you arrive in the morning, go directly. We don't necessarily recommend spending time in San Jose; there isn't much to do, maybe except visit the National Theater.
Day 2-3: Go up to La Fortuna & Arenal Volcano. Visit Arenal Volcano, soak in hot springs, explore La Fortuna Waterfall, or zip-line through the rainforest. Check out our La Fortuna Travel Guide for useful information and the best hostels.
Day 4-5: Monteverde Cloud Forest. Walk the hanging bridges, explore the cloud forest, or go night hiking.
Day 6-7: Manuel Antonio National Park. Enjoy white-sand beaches, spot wildlife in the Manuel Antonio National Park, or take a sunset catamaran tour. Stay at Villas Jacquelina in Quepos for a hotel with excellent value for money.
Itinerary 2: Off-the-beaten-path adventure
Day 1: Arrival in Liberia. Same as for San Jose, if you arrive late in the afternoon or at night at Daniel Oduber Quirós Airport (LIR), stay overnight in Liberia to leave early the next morning. If you arrive in the morning, go directly.
Day 2-3: Rincon de la Vieja National Park. Hike to waterfalls, relax in natural hot springs, and enjoy horseback riding or canyoning.
Day 4-5: Nosara or Samara Beaches (Nicoya Peninsula). Relax on pristine beaches, surf, or take a yoga class. Check out our Nosara Travel Guide & Samara Travel Guide for useful information.
Day 6-7: Tenorio Volcano National Park. Hike to the stunning blue waters of Río Celeste, birdwatch, or explore nearby forests.
Conclusion
Visiting Costa Rica in December is an unforgettable experience. From idyllic weather to vibrant holiday celebrations, December offers something for every traveler. Whether lounging on sun-kissed beaches, exploring lush rainforests, or soaking up local culture, Costa Rica promises a magical adventure to close the year.
Plan early, embrace the festive atmosphere, and be ready to explore this diverse and enchanting country to make the most of your trip. Pura Vida!
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