You get the beauty of the lush green landscapes left by the rainy season combined with more predictable sunny weather — all without the crowds or premium prices.
As November rolls around in Costa Rica, the country experiences a beautiful transition from the rainy season to the dry season. The landscape remains lush and green, but rain showers start to taper off, especially toward the month’s end, leaving clear skies and sunny afternoons that make for incredible adventures. For those looking to enjoy Costa Rica’s natural beauty and vibrant culture before the high season rush, late November is the ideal time to visit.
Weather in Late November: A Tropical Balance
November is often called the "shoulder season" in Costa Rica, with conditions that blend the best of the wet and dry seasons. Rain showers are still common in early November, especially in the evenings, but they become lighter and less frequent. Temperatures remain warm, with averages around 75°F (24°C) on the coast and slightly cooler in the mountains. By mid-to-late November, many regions start to dry out, creating ideal conditions for outdoor activities without the peak season’s crowds or prices.
Regional Weather Highlights
Pacific Coast (Guanacaste, Nicoya Peninsula): By November, this area sees decreasing rainfall, offering sunny mornings and brief afternoon showers, perfect for beach outings.
Northern Plains (Arenal): Cooler temperatures and clear skies make the Northern Plains a wonderful destination, especially for forest explorations and hot spring baths.
Caribbean Coast (Puerto Viejo, Tortuguero): The Caribbean side still experiences some rain but with sunny breaks, especially toward the month’s end. Wildlife is abundant and the rain forest is lush and vibrant.
Activities to Enjoy in November
The transition from the rainy to the dry season opens up a range of adventures across Costa Rica. Here are some of the best experiences to have in late November:
1. Explore Costa Rica’s National Parks
Manuel Antonio National Park: The park’s trails are in great condition by November, and you can enjoy some of the country’s most beautiful beaches without the high-season crowds.
Arenal Volcano National Park: November skies often clear around Arenal, providing spectacular views of the volcano. Plus, the nearby hot springs are an incredible way to unwind.
Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve: Cooler, clear days make November an ideal time to explore the cloud forest, where you can spot a variety of wildlife, including sloths, monkeys, and if you are lucky, the resplendent quetzal.
2. Beach Days and Surfing
Nicoya Peninsula and Guanacaste (Santa Teresa, Nosara, Tamarindo): The Pacific beaches are ready for both surfers and sun-seekers. Surfers will find excellent waves, and those who just want to relax will enjoy uncrowded beaches and tranquil, sunlit days.
Puerto Viejo on the Caribbean Coast: November is a great month for surfing and snorkeling in this vibrant town, where reggae rhythms and laid-back vibes make it a unique cultural destination.
3. Adventure Sports and Waterfalls
White-Water Rafting on the Pacuare River: The river is still robust from the rainy season, creating ideal conditions for white-water rafting in November. The Pacuare River, considered one of the world’s top rivers for rafting, offers breathtaking jungle views and thrilling rapids.
Waterfall Adventures in La Fortuna and Montezuma: With the rainy season recently ended, waterfalls throughout the country are still flowing at their fullest. The La Fortuna Waterfall and Montezuma Waterfalls are both beautiful spots to visit.
4. Birdwatching and Wildlife Tours
Osa Peninsula and Corcovado National Park: The Osa Peninsula is a biodiversity hotspot and a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts. In November, Corcovado’s rainforests are lush, with fantastic opportunities to spot everything from tapirs and scarlet macaws to humpback whales along the coast.
Tortuguero National Park: November is the tail end of turtle nesting season on the Caribbean coast. Catching a sea turtle nesting or seeing baby turtles hatch and make their way to the ocean is a truly memorable experience.
Where to Stay: November Accommodations
Costa Rica offers an impressive range of accommodations, and November’s shoulder-season rates make it a great time to enjoy premium stays at more affordable prices. For more information on where to stay, be sure to check our Hotel Directory.
Tips for Visiting Costa Rica in November
Pack for Versatile Weather: November’s weather can still be a mix of rain and sun, so bring a light rain jacket, breathable clothes, and waterproof footwear for hiking.
Book Tours in Advance: November is less crowded than the high season, but popular activities like white-water rafting, wildlife tours, and national park tours can fill up, so booking ahead is still recommended.
November offers the best of both worlds in Costa Rica. You get the beauty of the lush green landscapes left by the rainy season combined with more predictable sunny weather — all without the crowds or premium prices of high season. Pura Vida!
Original content by Costa Rica Luxury Travel Magazine.
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