In Costa Rica, you should wear lightweight, breathable fabrics, rainproof gear, and comfortable walking shoes throughout the year. The tropical climate of Costa Rica includes both a dry season and a rainy season, with warm to hot temperatures year-round. It’s essential to pack clothing that allows you to adapt to sudden rain showers and heat, especially when exploring its lush jungles, beaches, and cities.
What to Wear in Costa Rica from January to December?
Costa Rica’s tropical climate shifts between dry and rainy seasons. Whether you’re lounging on the beach, hiking through national parks, or exploring lively cities, wearing the right clothes will keep you comfortable during your trip.
What to Wear in January in Costa Rica?
January is part of the dry season in Costa Rica, offering warm, sunny weather with low humidity.
- Essential Clothing: Lightweight cotton shirts, shorts, sundresses, and breathable fabrics.
- Footwear: Comfortable sandals or walking shoes for exploring.
- Accessories: Sunglasses, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunscreen to protect against UV rays.
Tips for Staying Comfortable
Wear loose-fitting, breathable clothing to keep cool under the sun.
What to Wear in February in Costa Rica?
February continues with the dry season, bringing more sunshine and warm temperatures.
- Essential Clothing: Short-sleeve shirts, light dresses, and quick-dry clothing for outdoor activities.
- Footwear: Sandals or water shoes if visiting coastal areas.
- Accessories: A sunhat and lightweight scarf to shield from the sun.
Tips for Staying Comfortable
Dress in light layers to adapt to warm days and cooler evenings.
What to Wear in March in Costa Rica?
March is one of the warmest months in Costa Rica, with abundant sunshine and minimal rain.
- Essential Clothing: Tank tops, shorts, and airy skirts.
- Footwear: Open-toed sandals for beach days, sturdy shoes for hiking trails.
- Accessories: Sunglasses, a sunblock, and a reusable water bottle.
Tips for Staying Comfortable
Stay hydrated and wear sun-protective clothing to avoid overheating.
What to Wear in April in Costa Rica?
April remains hot, with temperatures peaking towards the end of the dry season.
- Essential Clothing: Light, breathable fabrics such as linen shirts and cotton pants.
- Footwear: Flip-flops for beach trips, sneakers for walking around.
- Accessories: A bandana or headband to absorb sweat during outdoor activities.
Tips for Staying Comfortable
Opt for moisture-wicking fabrics to stay dry in the heat.
What to Wear in May in Costa Rica?
May marks the start of the rainy season, so rainproof clothing becomes essential.
- Essential Clothing: Quick-dry t-shirts, rain jackets, and convertible pants.
- Footwear: Waterproof hiking boots or shoes for muddy trails.
- Accessories: A compact umbrella and a rain cover for backpacks.
Tips for Staying Comfortable
Prepare for afternoon showers by packing lightweight rain gear.
What to Wear in June in Costa Rica?
June brings heavier rains, especially in the afternoons, but mornings are still relatively dry.
- Essential Clothing: Waterproof outerwear, quick-dry shorts, and lightweight long-sleeve shirts.
- Footwear: Waterproof sandals or hiking shoes for navigating wet terrain.
- Accessories: A rain poncho and water-resistant bag for excursions.
Tips for Staying Comfortable
Dress in layers and always carry a rain jacket for sudden downpours.
What to Wear in July in Costa Rica?
July offers a short break in the rainy season, known as “Veranillo,” with a mix of sunshine and showers.
- Essential Clothing: T-shirts, hiking shorts, and rainproof jackets.
- Footwear: Sturdy shoes with a good grip for wet surfaces.
- Accessories: Sunglasses for sunny spells and a lightweight rain poncho.
Tips for Staying Comfortable
Prepare for fluctuating weather by dressing in layers and keeping rain gear handy.
What to Wear in August in Costa Rica?
August brings back consistent rain, especially in the afternoons and evenings.
- Essential Clothing: Moisture-wicking shirts, rain-resistant pants, and a waterproof jacket.
- Footwear: Waterproof boots or walking shoes for outdoor adventures.
- Accessories: A packable raincoat and a hat to shield from both sun and rain.
Tips for Staying Comfortable
Stick to lightweight, quick-dry fabrics to avoid discomfort in the humidity.
What to Wear in September in Costa Rica?
September is one of the wettest months of the year, with heavy afternoon rains.
- Essential Clothing: Waterproof outerwear, lightweight shirts, and comfortable shorts.
- Footwear: Durable waterproof boots for hiking in wet conditions.
- Accessories: A rain poncho and waterproof backpack cover.
Tips for Staying Comfortable
Be prepared for rain by wearing quick-dry clothing and packing a rain jacket.
What to Wear in October in Costa Rica?
October remains rainy, especially along the Pacific coast, so waterproof gear is a must.
- Essential Clothing: Breathable base layers, a water-resistant jacket, and light hiking pants.
- Footwear: Waterproof hiking boots with strong grip.
- Accessories: A hat to protect from rain and sun.
Tips for Staying Comfortable
Prioritize waterproof gear to stay dry during your outdoor excursions.
What to Wear in November in Costa Rica?
November marks the end of the rainy season, with weather slowly becoming drier.
- Essential Clothing: Lightweight, breathable shirts, a rain jacket for occasional showers.
- Footwear: Comfortable sneakers or walking shoes.
- Accessories: A sunhat and sunscreen as the sun reappears more frequently.
Tips for Staying Comfortable
Pack layers to adjust to varying temperatures as the rainy season transitions to dry.
What to Wear in December in Costa Rica?
December is part of the dry season, with sunny skies and warm temperatures, especially around Christmas.
- Essential Clothing: T-shirts, shorts, sundresses, and a light jacket for cooler evenings.
- Footwear: Sandals for the beach, walking shoes for city exploration.
- Accessories: Sunglasses, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunscreen.
Tips for Staying Comfortable
Pack a light sweater or jacket for evenings, as temperatures can drop after sunset.
What to Wear in Costa Rica by Season?
In Costa Rica, you should wear lightweight, breathable fabrics during the dry season and waterproof, quick-drying clothing in the rainy season. The dry season, from December to April, is marked by warm, sunny days, while the rainy season, from May to November, brings afternoon showers and increased humidity. Dressing appropriately for these changing conditions is key to staying comfortable while exploring Costa Rica’s beaches, jungles, and cities.
Dressing for the Dry Season in Costa Rica (December to April)
The dry season in Costa Rica is warm and sunny, with little rain. Light, breathable fabrics and sun protection are key to staying comfortable.
- Essential Clothing: Cotton shirts, shorts, and lightweight dresses.
- Footwear: Comfortable sandals or sneakers.
- Accessories: Sunglasses, a sunhat, and sunscreen.
Features to Look For
Choose moisture-wicking fabrics and light-colored clothing to stay cool in the heat.
Dressing for the Rainy Season in Costa Rica (May to November)
The rainy season in Costa Rica can be wet and humid, with afternoon rain showers common.
- Essential Clothing: Quick-drying fabrics, rainproof jackets, and pants.
- Footwear: Waterproof boots or hiking shoes.
- Accessories: A rain poncho and a waterproof backpack.
Features to Look For
Waterproof materials are essential to staying dry in Costa Rica’s rainy season.
FAQs On What to Wear in Costa Rica
The best clothing to wear in Costa Rica includes lightweight, breathable fabrics like cotton or linen. Since the country has a tropical climate, wearing comfortable shorts, t-shirts, and moisture-wicking fabrics will keep you cool during the day.
Yes, especially if you’re visiting during the rainy season (May to November). A lightweight, waterproof jacket and quick-drying clothes are essential to stay dry while exploring rainforests or beaches.
It is recommended to bring durable, comfortable walking shoes for hiking or exploring nature trails, and flip-flops or sandals for beach days. Closed-toe shoes are ideal for protection against rough terrains.
While not mandatory, insect-repellent clothing or long-sleeved shirts and pants can be useful, especially when visiting rainforest areas where mosquitoes are common.
For outdoor activities like hiking, zip-lining, or visiting national parks, wear moisture-wicking activewear and supportive footwear. It’s also good to wear a hat and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun.
