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

Guanacaste & Northwest Pacific (Liberia, Tamarindo, Nosara)

May is the doorway to the wet season: afternoon thunderstorms start to appear more reliably, and rivers feeding inland ranches and waterfalls pick up noticeably. The region is greener and surfing can be excellent on beach breaks that pick up swell from the south; however, remote access roads may become rutted and some boat services are reduced. Expect fewer crowds, cheaper accommodation, and to schedule outdoor activities around the late-day storms.

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

May signals the start of the wet season with more reliable afternoon thunderstorms, green jungle growth and significantly fresher waterfalls inland - the peninsula feels revitalized after months of dust. Surf becomes less predictable but can reward experienced surfers; many lodges offer shoulder-season rates and quieter beaches for those avoiding crowds. Be ready for muddy access roads, fewer ferry crossings at odd hours, and sporadic power or water interruptions in remote settlements.

Central Pacific (Manuel Antonio, Jaco, Puntarenas)

May is the onset of the green season with daily afternoon storms that revive rivers and dramatically increase waterfall flow in the Manuel Antonio-Quepos area. Beaches remain accessible during morning windows, and surfing picks up with larger swell, though heavy showers and possible road washouts can interrupt long drives. Expect fewer tourists and lower prices, and pack quick-dry clothing and waterproof footwear for muddy trails.

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

May launches the more intense rains in the southern Pacific and Osa, with long wet spells and powerful afternoon thunderstorms that make river crossings and jungle trails challenging. This is prime green-season time for photographers and botanists as everything is at its most verdant, but some remote ecotourism operations scale back services. Bring a reliable rain jacket, waterproof bags for gear, and be prepared for ferry or boat delays.

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

May marks the start of the rainy season; expect reliable afternoon and evening downpours that refresh the highland landscapes and make waterfalls more dramatic around La Fortuna and Arenal. Mornings are often pleasantly usable for hikes and hot-spring visits, but trails can be slippery and crater rim viewpoints more frequently fogged-in. Bring waterproof hiking boots, a good rain jacket, and be aware that some scenic overlooks may have reduced visibility.

Caribbean Coast (Puerto Viejo, Cahuita, Tortuguero)

May often sees increased rainfall and more persistent cloud cover, especially toward the middle of the month, though the coast remains navigable for most boat tours and park visits on calm mornings. This is a great time for birdwatchers and botanists; the shoreline and rainforest are humming with activity. Bring good mosquito protection, waterproof daypacks, and be prepared for slower road links to inland lodges.