Complete Guide to August in Costa Rica

If you’re looking for low-season discounts and relatively sunny weather outside of Costa Rica’s dry season, August is an excellent time for visiting Costa Rica. Keep reading to discover all the best things to do in August in Costa Rica, as well as the typical weather and events and festivals to expect during this month.

August Weather in Costa Rica

If you visit Costa Rica in August, you’ll be visiting during the rainy season.

Average temperatures range between 65°F and 83°F in Costa Rica in August. However, during July and the first few weeks of August, Costa Rica enjoys what is known as vernillo, or “little summer.” During this “mini” dry season, the Costa Rica weather experiences a small lapse in the consistent rainfall that is common during the green season, especially on the Northwest Pacific Coast and Caribbean Coast. The green season rains tend to pick up as the month progresses, and rainfall is consistent in September and October.

August is an excellent time for budget travelers to visit Costa Rica for deals on hotel rooms and international flights. Because it’s the rainy season, you’ll be able to experience low-season prices and fewer crowds while still enjoying the morning sunshine. Just pack a raincoat and prepare for the possibility of late afternoon showers starting in mid-August.

Events & Holidays in August in Costa Rica

#1

Virgen de Los Angeles

Virgen de Los Angeles is one of the biggest annual festivals in Costa Rica to celebrate the nation’s patron saint, the Virgin of Los Angeles. On August 2nd, thousands of pilgrims from across the country travel on foot to Cartago, just outside of San Jose in the Central Valley, to join the procession to the Basilica in Cartago.

#2

Fiesta Ciudad Colon & Fiesta Pattronale Aserri

Fiesta Ciudad Colon (San Carlos) takes place on August 10th, and Fiesta Pattronale Aserri takes place on August 19th. Both these festive events include music, dancing, food, and bullfighting.

#3

Mother’s Day

Unlike Mother’s Day in the United States, which takes place in May, Costa Ricans celebrate Dia de la Madre on August 15th. So, needless to say, August is a great time to visit Costa Rica with your mom!

#4

National Parks Day

Did you know that over 30% of Costa Rica’s land is protected in national parks? Costa Rica’s national parks system was created on August 24th, 1945, so each year, the country celebrates Día de Parques Nacionales de Costa Rica on August 24th.

Best Things to Do in Costa Rica in August

These are some of the best activities to enjoy in Costa Rica during the low season — specifically in August.

#1

Tortuguero National Park

Prime turtle nesting season in Tortuguero National Park lasts from July to October. August offers the highest nesting activity, so it’s a great month for turtle tours in the park. Plus, the coastal areas along the Caribbean side of Costa Rica experience less rainfall in August, so you’ll enjoy favorable temperatures while visiting this popular park.

#2

Caribbean Coast

Usually, the weather in Costa Rica is more favorable on the Pacific side, but in August, the tides begin to turn. Consider visiting popular beaches on the Caribbean Coast, including Playa Negra or Playa Cocles, to experience the world-class waves.

#3

Northern Pacific Coast

The Guanacaste Province is still pretty dry in August, although late afternoon rains become more common as the month progresses. Take advantage of the favorable temperatures and head to popular beaches, like Playa Hermosa or Playa Flamingo, or go scuba diving at the Bat Islands or the Catalina Islands to see manta rays, sea turtles, reef sharks, and more.

#4

Manuel Antonio National Park

While the Southern Pacific, like the Osa Peninsula, experiences considerable rain in August, the Central Pacific only experiences afternoon showers, especially earlier in the month. Consider visiting Manuel Antonio National Park to hike through the rainforest, go white-water rafting, or spot wildlife like birds and monkeys.

Stay with Special Places of Costa Rica in August for the Trip of a Lifetime

August is a great month to travel to Costa Rica for the last lapse of “little summer” before the heavy rains in September and October. And one of the best places to stay to soak up the sunshine is in the Guanacaste Province.

Special Places of Costa Rica offers vacation rentals, from quaint condos to luxury mansions, in Playa Flamingo, Playas del Coco, Playa Hermosa, and other beach towns along the Northern Pacific Coast. Explore our rentals to find the perfect place to stay during your vacation in August!