How Rainy is Costa Rica in August?
In August, Costa Rica is already immersed in the rainy season. In some regions, it may rain less than in others, but in general, you have to be prepared for clear and hot mornings, rainy afternoons, and cool nights. Due to the characteristics of the climate, during this month, the country will be filled with life. The trees are full of leaves and green colors. Fauna is grateful to be able to find water and shelter easily. On the coasts, the temperature is pleasant, and the probability of rain is usually less. But life and nature will be everywhere.
The main time activities may be canceled is if a tropical storm sweeps in with lightning, which can pose a risk to participants. As a tropical country, this is always a risk. However, most of the time, everyone gets to enjoy their activity just the same!
And, of course, if you are very rain-averse, look to regions like the Guanacaste coast, where it still rains, but much less than other regions.
Weather and Regions:
Because of its geographical characteristics and its position on the planet, Costa Rica has peculiarities in its territory that generate multiple microclimates throughout the country. This allows you to choose the best areas or regions to visit according to the environment you prefer and the experiences you want to live. The coastal areas are usually hot, and the highlands are ordinarily cooler. The Caribbean Coast and almost all Northern Areas are generally hot and humid. As you travel south on the Pacific coast, moisture levels rise. And when it rains, it pours.
The more humidity and rain there is in a region, the more active wildlife is and the greener the environment will be.
Atlantic Humid Tropical Region in August
During the rainy season, this area has an influx of tourism, mainly in the Tortuguero area where the turtles for this month come to nest, and by the end of the month, you can see the small turtles running to the sea.
- Average temperatures: between 72°F (22.4°C ) and 82°F (27.7°C)
- Average rainfall: 11.5 inches (296 mm)
- Average humidity: 88%
- The average number of days with rain: 21
Central Mountainous Region in August
The Central Valley at this time will be at its maximum green, the rains will be frequent in the afternoons, but the temperature will be cool. The nights are usually cool and with high humidity. San Jose, Cartago, and the capitals of Heredia and Alajuela in the center of the country are the most well-known parts of the central mountainous region of Costa Rica, Savegre Valley, Chirripo Mountain, and San Gerardo de Dota are located in the south. San Jose,.
- Average temperatures: between 67°F (19°C ) and 79°F (26°C)
- Average rainfall: 17 inches (428 mm)
- Average humidity: 81%
- Average number of days with rain: 17
South Pacific Region in August
While the Southern Pacific region of Costa Rica reaches along an extensive coast, Puntarenas, Manuel Antonio, Dominical, Uvita, and the Osa Peninsula are the most commonly visited areas.
- Average temperatures: between 70°F (21°C ) and 89°F (32°C)
- Average Rainfall: 19 inches (480 mm)
- Average humidity: 91%
- The average number of days with rain: 22
Monteverde in August
The chances of rain in Monteverde are very high, but being very honest, this is possible at any time of the year in this place so full of life.. Monteverde may be a small region of Costa Rica. Still, it has a unique enough microclimate to merit its own section here.
- Average temperatures: between 63°F (17°C ) and 79°F (26°C)
- Average Rainfall: 9.5 inches (245 mm)
- Average humidity: 87%
- The average number of days with rain: 18
Guanacaste in August
Guanacaste is the driest region in Costa Rica, which is why it would be normal to think it does not rain. However, there are usually quite a few rainy days starting at the end of June.
- Average temperatures: between 73°F (23°C) and 84°F (29°C)
- Average Rainfall: 10 inches (258 mm)
- Average humidity: 84%
- The average number of days with rain: 18
What to Wear in Costa Rica in August
The climate of Costa Rica in August is not very different from that of most of its rainy months. Traveling with a waterproof layer or a windbreaker in the afternoon is always the best. Wear comfortable clothes but always be prepared for sudden rain in the intermountain sectors. Umbrellas in the cities of the Central Valley and wherever you go, always use sunscreen
It’s worth noting that, as a tropical country, when it rains, it doesn’t get cold, at least not by US, Canadian, or European standards. If anything, here it gets muggy when it rains. Bring your rain jackets, but don’t worry about coats or other warm clothing.
Costa Rica Surfing in August
This time of year, surfers find the best waves in the southwest of Costa Rica, particularly Pavones and Matapalo. Jacó, Playa Hermosa, and Esterillos: are the main beaches and the most visited due to their proximity to the capital and typically have good waves this time of year. However, the Nicoya peninsula has beaches like Nosara, Santa Teresa, and Sámara that are very popular for practicing this sport.
Wildlife Sightings in August:
Starting in June, many marine animals migrate from the cold waters to breed their offspring and reproduce in warmer waters. Due to its position on the planet, Costa Rica welcomes humpback whales, dolphins, and other animals during this time. The month of August is characterized by the arrival of sea turtles to the beaches to nest. Especially in the area of Tortuguero and the Caribbean.
Dolphins
Best time to see them: Year-round. Several species such as bottlenose and spotted dolphins can be seen all year so you have a good chance to see them.
The Best places to go dolphin watching:
- Drake Bay
- Golfo Dulce
- Dominical (Parque Marino Ballena)
- Tambor
- Golfo de Nicoya
- Tamarindo and surroundings.
- Caribbean: Limon and South Caribbean
*Some lucky people have seen dolphins in the Tortuguero Canals
Turtles
You can see these turtles all year round: Olive Ridley, Hawksbill, Leatherback, and Pacific Green Sea Turtle. However, the rainy season is the best time to see the arrival of turtles on the country’s beaches. August is the perfect month to observe the arrival of the turtles to lay their eggs at the beginning of the month and to see the small turtles run until they safely reach the ocean or the sea.
Best places to see Sea Turtles:
- Parque Nacional Marino Las Baulas (Playa Grande (Close to Tamarindo)
- Santa Rosa National Park
- Ostional Wildlife Refuge (Arribadas)
- Parque Nacional Tortuguero
In Tortuguero, Parismina, and some areas in the South Caribbean, it is turtle time!
Yes! Green Sea Turtles arrive at this time of year in the region that gets its name from them: Tortuguero. So, if you are willing to see the huge green sea turtles coming to shore, crawling through the sand, digging a hole with their back paws, laying around 100 eggs, and covering it back before turning back to the ocean… This is the perfect opportunity to watch this magical natural wonder.
Birdwatching
August is great to see the resident and endemic species of Costa Rica. Keep an eye out for antbirds, trogons, and scissor-tailed kites, which migrate to Costa Rica from the winter in the south.
It is also a good time of year to see frugivores and insectivores.
Is Costa Rica Crowded in August?
There are no cruise dates in July.
In Manuel Antonio, you will probably have to make a line in the mornings to get into the National Park and in Tortuguero, there might be some waiting time on the boats before getting into the Tortuguero National Park canals.
However, it will definitely be less crowded than in the sunny season.
Costa Rican Agriculture in August.
August is the season for Limón Dulce, a characteristic fruit of Costa Ricans. In addition, the national avocado can be produced better during this month. Due to the increased amount of hydration plants receive, you begin to see fruits and orchards that you wouldn’t be able to during other months. If you’re looking for something unique, look for mild-flavored jocotes or the naranjilla, which makes for a yummy drink. Papaya, passion fruit, and avocado are at their highest productivity and demand in the rain season.
