Seasonal terms can be confusing in tropical places like Costa Rica where
online resources and guide books may describe them in different ways. Some terms
refer to the weather itself, while others refer to tourism. There are really
only two seasons in Costa Rica, dry and rainy. It doesn't have seasons with snow
or drastic changes in temperature. The average temperature year round is between
71F and 81F degrees (21.7C-27C).
When it comes to temperatures, one thing to keep in mind is elevation. The
higher up you go, the cooler it gets. For instance Monteverde and Arenal Volcano
are at higher elevations therefore they'll be cooler than the beaches, which are
at sea level. If you're planning to stay at a luxury vacation rental home you'll
want to optimize your experience by knowing what clothes to pack and what to
expect weather-wise when you arrive. No worries. The seasons in Costa Rica are
about to become crystal clear.
- Dry/High/Summer Season: December 1-April 31
Dry and summer terms refer to less rainfall. The landscape is still green in
some areas but may turn brown in others. High refers to the amount of tourist
traffic. What this means to you is you'll want to book your vacation villa in
advance, you may want to call ahead for reservations at popular restaurants and
you'll want your concierge to book your tours and activities in advance to
secure your spot. Generally March through May are the hottest months of the year
with temperatures between 80F and 90F degrees (27C-32C)
- Rainy/Wet/Winter/Green/Low Season: May 1-November
31
Rainy, wet, winter and green season refer to the time of years when there's
more rainfall. During the rainy season everything is lush and green. Low season
refers to the amount of tourism because fewer tourists visit during the rainy
season.
The average yearly rainfall is 100 inches but can top 25 ft. in the
mountains. Higher and mountainous elevations are cooler and may require a
sweater or light jacket. September and October tend to be the rainiest months of
the year, yet, oddly enough these are the best months for viewing Arenal
Volcano, Costa Rica's impressive active volcano.
There are benefits to traveling during the rainy season especially if you'll
be spending time at the beach. It's warm year round on the coast with
temperatures around 75F-90F degrees (21C-32C). The weather cools down a few
degrees during the rainy season but it's still warm enough to walk around in
shorts and flip flops. A typical rainy season day would be a sunny morning and
early afternoon with rain in the late afternoon or evening. Luxury vacation
rental home rates are lower, there are no lines to get into restaurants and
you'll have your pick of all the tours and activities. Gotta love it!
- Peak Season: Easter/Christmas and New Years Weeks
Peak season refers to Easter, Christmas and New Years weeks when the demand
for luxury vacation rental homes is so high that the rates nearly double. Guests
often book 6-12 months in advance. But don't be discouraged just make your
reservation well ahead of your arrival.
- Mid Season June 1-August 31
There's one last season that may occasionally be referred to on some web
sites and that's Mid-season. This season has nothing to do with the weather in
Costa Rica but more to do with when students in the U.S.A. are on are summer
vacation and their families are likely to travel. Rates may or may not vary from
high and low season rates depending upon the homeowner and/or the rental
agent.
Now that you're clear on what the different seasonal terms mean and the
benefits of traveling during each one, you won't let the "rainy season" in Costa
Rica scare you off. Lower rates and temperatures and no lines may outweigh
cooling showers. If you love hot weather or visit during a harsh winter, the
heat of the dry season may be a welcome change. The wonderful thing about Costa
Rica is there's sunshine all year round. Keep in mind that some luxury vacation
homeowners may define their seasons with some minimal variations on the dates
above.
You're now better prepared to make your vacation plans. Paradise
Awaits!
Was this article helpful? Want to know about
blunders to avoid when renting a luxury vacation home? Get your Free Report,
"The 5 Biggest Mistakes Travelers Make when Planning a Luxury Vacation Rental"
at http://www.DiscoveryBeachouse.com
Evelyn Gallardo is a luxury vacation rental home
specialist who provides a serene and private nature reserve experience in Costa
Rica in a beachfront luxury villa setting where guests feel relaxed, relief from
their stress-filled lives and pampered with 6-Star Customized Service. See what
recent guests have to say in her guest newsletter at http://www.ParadiseAwaits.me
This article about Costa Rica vacation rentals was authored by Evelyn Gallardo and published by
http://www.Luxuryvillafinder.com 
