The Ultimate Guide to Costa Rica in May: Weather, Animals, and Activities

May marks the beginning of Costa Rica’s rainy season, which lasts from May to November. Although the amount of rain can vary depending on the region you visit, you should be prepared for occasional showers and thunderstorms. However, the wet season can also be a beautiful time to explore the lush rainforests and vibrant green landscapes. The rain can create a refreshing and rejuvenating atmosphere, and when the sun does appear, it illuminates the landscape with a radiant glow, highlighting the beauty of Costa Rica’s natural wonders.

If you’re planning a trip to Costa Rica in May, it’s best to pack rain gear and plan for flexible travel arrangements in case of inclement weather. But don’t let the possibility of rain dampen your plans. Embrace the beauty of Costa Rica’s rainy season, and you’ll surely have an unforgettable experience.

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 May

If you’re planning to visit the Atlantic Humid Tropical Region in May, expect to encounter frequent showers and thunderstorms throughout the day. Despite the rain, the region can be a beautiful place to visit during this time, with lush green landscapes and vibrant rainforests bursting with life.

• Average temperatures: between 75°F (24°C) and 85°F (29°C)
• Average rainfall: around 10 inches (250mm)
• Average humidity: around 85%
• The average number of days with rain: around 20

Central Mountainous Region in May

Despite the possibility of rain and cooler temperatures, a visit to the Central Mountainous Region in May can offer a refreshing and rejuvenating escape from the heat and humidity of other regions, with the opportunity to experience some of Costa Rica’s most stunning natural wonders.

• Average temperatures: between 60°F (16°C) and 75°F (24°C)
• Average rainfall: around 10 inches (250mm)
• Average humidity: around 70%
• The average number of days with rain: around 15

South Pacific Region in May

Despite the possibility of rain, the South Pacific Region can be a beautiful and vibrant place to visit in May, with lush green landscapes and pristine beaches. The region is known for its stunning national parks, including Corcovado National Park and Manuel Antonio National Park, where you can explore the rainforest, spot wildlife, and relax on beautiful beaches.

• Average temperatures: between 70°F (21°C) and 90°F (32°C)
• Average rainfall: around 8 inches (200mm)
• Average humidity: around 80%
• The average number of days with rain: around 15

Monteverde in May

Despite the possibility of rain and cooler temperatures, a visit to Monteverde in May can offer a unique and unforgettable experience, with the opportunity to explore some of Costa Rica’s most stunning natural wonders in a tranquil and less crowded setting.

• Average temperatures: between 55°F (13°C) and 75°F (24°C)
• Average rainfall: around 10 inches (250mm)
• Average humidity: around 80%
• The average number of days with rain: around 20

Guanacaste in May

If you’re planning a visit to Guanacaste in May, be sure to pack light and comfortable clothing for the warm temperatures and plenty of sunscreen and hats to protect yourself from the sun. It’s also important to stay hydrated, as the hot and dry weather can be challenging for some travelers.

• Average temperatures: between 75°F (24°C) and 95°F (35°C)
• Average rainfall: around 2 inches (50mm)
• Average humidity: around 70%
• The average number of days with rain: around 3

What to Wear in Costa Rica in May

When packing for a trip to Costa Rica in May, it’s essential to pack light and comfortable clothing that can handle both hot and rainy weather. T-shirts, tank tops, shorts, and lightweight pants or skirts made of breathable fabrics like cotton or linen are perfect for warm temperatures.

In addition to comfortable clothing, it’s crucial to bring appropriate rain gear, including a waterproof jacket, poncho, or umbrella, as May is part of the rainy season. Quick-drying sandals or water shoes are also helpful, as you may encounter muddy trails or streams. Mosquito repellent and sun protection are also must-haves for any Costa Rican adventure.

Costa Rica Surfing in May

May is a great time for surfing in Costa Rica, especially on the Pacific coast. While it’s the beginning of the rainy season, the waves are consistent and often ideal for both beginners and experienced surfers. The South Pacific Region, Nicoya Peninsula, and Guanacaste are among the best spots to catch some waves in May. Be sure to pack appropriate surf gear, including a rash guard, board shorts, and surfboard or rent one on-site. While the weather can be unpredictable, with occasional afternoon showers, the conditions are generally excellent for surfing, and the beaches are less crowded than in the peak tourist season.

Wildlife Sightings in May:

May is an excellent time to witness the abundant wildlife in Costa Rica. With the rainy season in full swing, the forests are lush and vibrant, and the rivers and waterfalls are flowing. In particular, the Central and South Pacific regions offer incredible opportunities to spot humpback whales as they migrate through the area. You can also witness the nesting of olive ridley turtles in Tortuguero National Park or explore the Corcovado National Park and witness jaguars, pumas, monkeys, and other exotic animals. The Arenal Volcano National Park is another must-visit destination to spot wildlife, including toucans, sloths, and howler monkeys. With a bit of patience and the help of an experienced guide, you’re sure to have some unforgettable wildlife sightings in Costa Rica in May.

Dolphins

Destinations that offer some of the best opportunities for dolphin watching in Costa Rica in May, with experienced guides and stunning natural surroundings that will make your dolphin-watching adventure unforgettable.

The Best places to go dolphin watching:

• Marino Ballena National Park
• Golfo Dulce
• Drake Bay
• Tamarindo
• Nicoya Peninsula

Turtles

May is a great time to see several species of turtles in Costa Rica. In particular, the beaches of Tortuguero National Park on the Caribbean coast host thousands of green turtles coming ashore to lay their eggs, while the Ostional Wildlife Refuge on the Nicoya Peninsula is known for the “arribadas” of olive ridley turtles. Leatherback turtles, the largest turtles in the world, also nest on several Pacific coast beaches, including Playa Grande, while hawksbill turtles can be seen nesting on the southern Pacific coast at Playa Ventanas. With a bit of luck and the help of an experienced guide, visitors can witness these amazing creatures laying their eggs and, in some cases, watch the baby turtles hatch and make their way to the sea.

Best places to see Sea Turtles:

• Tortuguero National Park
• Ostional Wildlife Refuge
• Santa Rosa National Park
• Playa Grande
• Playa Ventanas

Did you know that female sea turtles return to the same beach where they hatched to lay their eggs? This phenomenon is known as “natal homing,” and it’s especially impressive for sea turtles that migrate thousands of miles to return to the same beach to lay their eggs. In Costa Rica, the Ostional Wildlife Refuge is one of the few places in the world where visitors can witness the incredible “arribadas” of olive ridley turtles, where thousands of turtles come ashore to lay their eggs in synchronized fashion. This unique natural phenomenon is a must-see for any turtle lover visiting Costa Rica in May.

Birdwatching

With over 900 bird species recorded in the country, Costa Rica is a paradise for birdwatchers, and May is a great time to spot several species in their breeding plumage. The lush forests of the Central and South Pacific regions offer ideal conditions for birdwatching, with several national parks, including Carara National Park and Manuel Antonio National Park, providing excellent opportunities to spot toucans, macaws, and hummingbirds. 

The Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve is another must-visit destination for birdwatching enthusiasts, with over 400 bird species recorded in the area. With knowledgeable guides and stunning natural surroundings, birdwatching in Costa Rica in May is a unique and unforgettable experience..

 

Is Costa Rica Crowded in May?.

Costa Rica is generally less crowded in May compared to the peak tourist season, which falls between December and April. May marks the beginning of the rainy season, and while this may deter some travelers, it’s an excellent time to visit for those seeking a more authentic and tranquil experience.

However, it will definitely be less crowded than in the sunny season.

 

Costa Rican Agriculture in May

In May, coffee farmers begin to harvest their crops, with the season running through July. Banana and pineapple crops are also harvested year-round, with May being a busy month for these industries. The rainy season also provides ideal conditions for planting, and farmers can be seen preparing their fields for the upcoming growing season. Overall, May is an important month for Costa Rican agriculture, with farmers and workers hard at work to produce some of the country’s most important and iconic crops..