Costa Rica in March: Weather, Crowds & What to Expect

Guanacaste & Northwest Pacific (Liberia, Tamarindo, Nosara)

March is often the hottest month of the year here, with temperatures regularly in the mid-30s°C (mid-90s°F) on the coast and very low humidity until late in the month. Surf at Playa Avellanas and Playa Grande is steady and sea temperatures are inviting; inland, wildlife becomes harder to spot as animals wait for water holes. Travel is straightforward but pack sunscreen, a hat, and light breathable clothing - evenings cool modestly but stay warm compared with the highlands.

Nicoya Peninsula & Northern Central Pacific (Santa Teresa, Montezuma, Nicoya)

March brings peak heat and low humidity before the rains, with inland patches around Nicoya town feeling particularly hot by mid-afternoon while shorelines remain breezy. Surf spots pick up consistent waves and sunsets are spectacular, drawing photographers and honeymooners. This is a good month for long beach days and late sunsets but stifling inland temperatures mean carry water and seek shade on midday drives.

Central Pacific (Manuel Antonio, Jaco, Puntarenas)

March heats up with bright, sun-drenched days and the warmest ocean temperatures of the year, making long beach days common at Playa Manuel Antonio and Playa Espadilla. Birdwatching is rewarding along cleared trails and sunset boat trips are frequent, but inland heat can be intense in mid-afternoon. Reserve park entries in advance - this is a busy month with high demand for guided tours and wildlife spotting trips.

Southern Pacific & Osa Peninsula (Uvita, Dominical, Corcovado)

March typically brings the warmest coastal days with strong sun and the sea calm for snorkeling and early-morning whale-watching; many eco-lodges schedule more guided treks as trails are more passable. Inland rivers and waterfalls may be lower but accessible, and turtle-watching on certain beach sectors can start to pick up in seasonally variable windows. Still, carry sun protection for midday heat and insect repellent for forested walks.

Central Valley & Highlands (San José, Alajuela, Cartago, Poás, Arenal, Monteverde)

March warms up noticeably with bright days and mild nights; coffee plantations around Grecia and Sarchí are active and easy to visit, and Poás crater visits are at their most reliable for clear vistas. This is a shoulder period before the rains make drives trickier, so it’s a convenient time to combine city and highland excursions. Bring a sun layer for afternoons and a light fleece for mountain microclimates.

Caribbean Coast (Puerto Viejo, Cahuita, Tortuguero)

March typically brings warm, muggy days and regular but often short-lived tropical showers, which leave the rainforest and coastal lagoons brilliantly green. Turtle nesting activity at Tortuguero can increase in this period depending on species, so check local conservation schedules if that’s a priority. Roads can be sticky and sometimes clogged with rainwater, so keep flexible plans and insect repellent at hand for dusk wildlife watching.