Rainy Season in Costa Rica: 9+ Reasons to Visit Manuel Antonio Off-Season
Costa Rica’s rainy season, affectionately called the “green season,” stretches from May to mid-December, particularly on the Pacific coast. While some may shy away from the idea of rainfall during their vacation, visiting Costa Rica during this period offers a unique and rewarding experience—especially in the lush paradise of Manuel Antonio.
Today, we’re sharing exactly why this off-season gem should be on your travel radar.
Understanding the Rainy Season
The rainy season is often misunderstood. While it’s true that rain is more frequent during rainy season than during the dry season, it rarely rains all day. Most mornings are sunny and warm, followed by light afternoon showers or the occasional tropical downpour, typically lasting just a few relaxing minutes. These sunny mornings allow for enjoyable daytime activities and planning, even during the rainy season. These rains rejuvenate the landscape, feeding the tropical rainforest landscapes this destination is known for.
In Manuel Antonio, average daytime temperatures during the rainy season range from 75°-85° Fahrenheit, ensuring warm temperatures and beautiful weather even during significant rainfall. The result? A destination that feels alive, vibrant, and utterly captivating.
With this, we also have shoulder season. This is from May to mid-August, with far less rain but a similar pattern of drier in the morning with an occasional afternoon shower. Average rainfall varies but it’s really nothing to worry about! In fact, many of our repeat guests prefer to come in shoulder or green season for a relaxing rainforest experience.
The Caribbean Coast vs. Pacific Coast
It’s worth noting that Costa Rica’s weather patterns vary by region. While the Pacific coast’s rainy season peaks in September and October with a transitional month before and after, give or take, the Caribbean coast experiences more consistent rainfall throughout the year.
This makes the Southern Pacific slope, particularly Manuel Antonio, an ideal choice for those looking to enjoy the unique beauty of the green season with far less rain than other areas of the country.
Myth Busting on Manuel Antonio Rainy Season
One common misconception about the rainy season is that it’s a time of constant downpours.
In reality, this season brings balance to Manuel Antonio. A brief dry spell known as ‘little summer’ or ‘veranillo’ occurs in mid-July, breaking up the rainy season in the southern region and providing excellent weather conditions for outdoor activities like fishing and surfing.
Morning sunshine provides ample time for outdoor adventures, while afternoon rain offers the perfect excuse to relax, recharge, or indulge in luxury amenities like those at Villa Punto de Vista. It’s not like the Central Valley, where it can rain 24/7.
9 Reasons to Visit Manuel Antonio During the Rainy Season in Costa Rica
So, why visit Costa Rica during this time of year over dry season? Costa Rica weather is honestly great year round, especially where we are on the Northern Pacific coast. But these perks of green season make it even easier to enjoy Costa Rica.
Fewer Crowds
Traveling during early rainy season in the off-season means escaping the tourist rush of Costa Rica’s dry season. Popular attractions like the National Park and nearby beaches are far less crowded in Manuel Antonio. You’ll have more opportunities to enjoy intimate wildlife encounters and uninterrupted rainforest and ocean views that are sometimes more difficult to stumble across during dry season.
More Affordable Luxury
Off-season pricing is one of the green season’s best-kept secrets. With fewer travelers, accommodations and activities often come with significant discounts.
For example, our green season rates are approximately $100-250 less per night/ per room than high season rates, allowing you to experience five-star luxury at a fraction of peak-season costs.
Nature at Its Peak
Costa Rica’s green season rejuvenates the country’s already stunning landscapes, transforming them into an emerald-green paradise. Rainforests come alive with vibrant flora. Rivers and waterfalls flow with renewed vigor, making canyoning the best this time of year. You can’t repel down a dry waterfall! It’s a nature lover and adrenaline seeker’s dream season!
Unique Wildlife Experiences
Rain brings the rainforest to life. During the green season, you’ll spot more wildlife—from playful monkeys and slow-moving sloths to colorful toucans and tree frogs. The lush vegetation also makes wildlife easier to find as animals become more active in cooler, wetter weather.
A recent guest saw a sloth, monkeys, hawks, toucans, and whales, all within the first hour of arriving at the villa! A real-life animal kingdom that creates unforgettable memories for the little ones and everyone in the family.
Stunning Sunsets
Cloudy afternoons often give way to clear skies in the early evening, creating some of the most breathtaking sunsets you’ll ever see. The interplay of light and clouds produces vibrant colors over the Pacific Ocean, making Manuel Antonio’s coastline a true spectacle.
Exclusive Wildlife Events
The green season coincides with unique natural phenomena. From whale watching along the Pacific Coast (August to October) to turtle nesting on nearby beaches in December, you won’t get these experiences during the mini dry season or Costa Rica’s dry season.
Cooler Temperatures
Compared to the dry season, the rainy season’s slightly cooler temperatures make outdoor activities more comfortable. You’ll appreciate the refreshing weather during Costa Rica rainy season, whether hiking, ziplining, or lounging by the pool. Now, when we say cool, we’re not talking Northern USA cool – we’re still in Costa Rica! Think mid-70s, low-80s.
A More Authentic Experience
Costa Ricans, also known as Ticos, embrace a slower, more relaxed pace of life during the green season. When you visit Costa Rica during this time, it gives you a glimpse into the authentic Costa Rican lifestyle, free from the hustle and bustle of high-season tourism.
Activities with a Fresh Perspective
The rainy season transforms outdoor adventures into thrilling experiences. Rivers swell with flowing water, making white-water rafting more exciting than ever, while canyoning becomes unforgettable with vibrant, rushing waterfalls. ATV tours take on a muddy, adventurous edge, offering the chance to splash through trails and admire stunning waterfalls fed by fresh rain. Every activity gains a unique energy, showcasing nature at its most dynamic and beautiful.
Planning Your Trip to Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica, During the Rainy Season
Some of the questions that we get the most are:
What do we pack?
How should we plan the itinerary?
These tips will have you enjoying even the wettest months!
What to Pack
Packing smartly for the rainy season ensures a comfortable and enjoyable trip, whether you’re exploring or savoring the luxury of your private villa. Staying at the villa is like having your own boutique hotel, complete with attentive staff, plush amenities, and indulgent touches—like the double-edge heated infinity ocean pool with bartending service that’s perfect in any weather!
While the villa offers every comfort imaginable, here are a few essentials to consider packing for your outdoor adventures:
- Lightweight, quick-drying clothing: Opt for moisture-wicking fabrics like polyester or nylon. Pack T-shirts, tank tops, and shorts that can dry quickly after rain showers. Rash guards and UPF long-sleeve shirts, and lightweight pants are also useful for quick-dry layers.
- Waterproof jacket or poncho: Choose a breathable rain jacket with a hood to keep you dry during tropical downpours. Ponchos are a lightweight and convenient alternative, too.
- Sturdy shoes with good grip: Waterproof hiking boots or trail shoes are ideal for exploring rain-soaked trails. Previous guests have loved having their Chaco, Teva, or Keen’s water hiking sandals because they’re versatile, have traction, and dry quickly.
- Bug repellent: The rainy season can attract mosquitoes, especially in lush areas. We will always have bug spray available for guests. But, if you have a brand you really love, it doesn’t hurt to bring it with you!
- Dry bag: Protect your electronics, important documents, and other valuables from rain and humidity by storing them in a dry bag. This can also double for a bag to put wet clothes in after a day on the catamaran or canyoning.
- Portable umbrella: Compact umbrellas can be a handy backup for unexpected rain showers because they fit easily into whatever bag you have with you on a day excursion or quick dinner in town.
- Microfiber towel: These towels are lightweight, compact, and dry quickly, making them perfect for rainy-season adventures. You can always bring villa towels with you, but some guests prefer to have their own microfiber.
- Reusable water bottle: Stay hydrated with a durable, leak-proof water bottle. The villa is equipped with a UV-filtration system with multiple fill stations so you can sip on cold still or bubbly water all day long, and bring it with you for when you leave the villa.
- Sun protection: Even during the rainy season, UV rays can be strong. Pack sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, UV-protected shirts, and sunglasses. Again, we have sunscreen at the villa, but we know guests like specific brands.
- Daypack with a rain cover: A lightweight, waterproof daypack is essential for carrying your belongings during excursions.
Activities and Tours
Now, all the activities we offer at the villa are great for rainy season. But these next few shine on days with heavy rains! Our team can arrange these activities in advance or do their best on a dime when rain falls. The best time to visit Costa for these activities is during the rainy season, not the summer holidays, as it offers unique experiences and fewer crowds.
- In-villa massages: Whether on the rooftop at Villa Punto de Vista or the spa room at Villa La Isla, our spa providers are some of the best in Manuel Antonio! You can choose from aromatherapy or deep tissue massages and even add on a hydrotherapy facial and a gel mani-pedi. The ultimate indulgence is walking barefoot up the stairs to your treatment with no cares in the world.
- Villa Vanilla Spice Tour: As long as there’s no thunder or lightning, this is a great option for a drizzly day. When you arrive on-site, you’ll get the world’s largest umbrella to mosey through the farm. The rain showers bring out the scents of some of the most lush crops making it a very fragrant walk. Then, spend time serenaded by the rain while you sit under cover tasting some of the fruits of the farm, like homemade ice cream and chocolate, which are made with vanilla and spices grown right on the property.
- Ultimate game day: Spend a laid-back afternoon in one of the many game rooms in the villa, equipped with billiards, foosball, an array of board games, and even old-school arcade games or video games. It’s the perfect setting for friendly competition, laughter, and quality time with loved ones, especially on a rainy day or a relaxed evening.
- Cooking class: Bring Costa Rican flavors to life with a private cooking class at the villa. A professional chef will guide you through the preparation of traditional dishes like gallo pinto, tamales, or ceviche. Not only will you enjoy a delicious meal, but you’ll also leave with recipes and techniques to recreate the experience at home.
- Canyoning: For thrill-seekers, canyoning is an unforgettable experience. Descend waterfalls, rappel down cliffs, and wade through jungle streams on an adventure that combines adrenaline with stunning rainforest views. Safety gear and professional guides ensure a thrilling yet secure day where you’d be getting wet in the cascading falls anyways! A little rain actually makes the waterfalls more fun.
- Whitewater rafting: Experience the thrill of whitewater rafting on Costa Rica’s world-class rivers, perfect for adventure seekers of all levels. The Savegre River, just a short drive from Manuel Antonio, offers an exhilarating mix of rapids and calm stretches, surrounded by lush rainforest and cascading waterfalls. For more intense rapids, the Pacuare River is a must, featuring Class III and IV rapids that wind through deep gorges and untouched wilderness. The cloud cover is actually a welcome reprieve from the sun on a rainy day, and guides are all trained to expect rain and navigate it safely.
- Rooftop yoga class: Begin your day with a rooftop yoga session, where panoramic rainforest and Pacific Ocean views inspire a sense of peace and grounding. Perfect for all levels, these classes are led by experienced instructors who guide you through poses that connect the mind, body, and the serene natural surroundings.
- Do a tea or cocktail hour: Gather your group for a tea party or a DIY cocktail-making session with fresh tropical ingredients and your expert concierge/bartender. The villa’s open spaces are perfect for sharing drinks, laughter, and stories.
- Learn about wine or coffee: We can organize a wine tasting featuring local and international selections or savor a Costa Rican coffee tasting to explore the country’s rich coffee heritage. We like to pair these with chocolates or small bites for an elevated experience.
- Go out to eat: Take a trip for lunch or dinner to one of our favorite restaurants in town! Transportation is at your fingertips at all times, so just let your concierge know you’d like to go and they can make a reservation and drive you over.
Which of these activities do you want on your itinerary most? These year-round favorites are even better during the wet season.
Or, simply relax and soak in the pink noise…
Rainy days at Villa Punto de Vista aren’t just an opportunity to slow down—they’re a chance to tap into nature’s innate ability to soothe the mind and body. The gentle sound of rainfall, often called pink noise, has been scientifically proven to have a calming effect. Its steady, rhythmic pattern helps mask harsher sounds and creates a natural lullaby that promotes relaxation and improves sleep quality.
The rain’s consistent cadence triggers a sense of safety and tranquility, reducing cortisol levels and easing stress. Coupled with the lush rainforest views and the villa’s luxurious comfort, listening to the rain becomes a sensory experience that rejuvenates the soul. Take a moment to curl up with a book, meditate, or simply sit back and let the soothing soundscape wash over you, creating a perfect escape from the world outside.
Embrace the Magic of the Green Season at Villa Punto de Vista Estate
Visiting Costa Rica during the rainy season offers an opportunity to see the country in a unique light. Manuel Antonio, with its rich biodiversity, stunning landscapes, and world-class accommodations like Villa Punto de Vista, is the perfect destination for an off-season escape.
Whether you’re chasing waterfalls, spotting exotic wildlife, or simply relaxing in luxury, the green season promises an adventure that’s every bit as magical as Costa Rica’s sunny high season. Ready to plan your journey? Let the rainy season show you a different side of paradise at the villa.
