Your Guide to the 15 Best Places to Visit in Costa Rica in December

December is one of the best months to explore Costa Rica, especially if you want to swap winter for sunny beaches, rainforest trails, and wildlife. The dry season starts on the Pacific side, making it an ideal time for outdoor adventures and coastal getaways. It’s also the holiday season here, so you’ll find local events, festive energy, and great beach weather all around.

In this guide, you’ll get a clear look at the best places to visit in Costa Rica in December, what the weather is like in each region, and tips to help you plan a smooth trip. You’ll also find ideas for travel routes and itineraries, so you can make the most of your time in Costa Rica.

North Pacific

The North Pacific is one of the driest and sunniest regions in Costa Rica during December. This area is ideal for travelers who want long days by the sea, surf-friendly waves, and plenty of room to explore by car or boat.

1. Tamarindo

December in Tamarindo gives you long, sunny days and warm ocean water that’s perfect for learning to surf or simply floating in the waves. The beaches here are wide and sandy, with plenty of space to walk, relax, or watch the sunset.

The town itself has a relaxed, friendly feel, but there’s always something going on: open-air restaurants, surf schools, catamaran tours, or beach bars with live music at night. It’s an easy place to settle into if you want beach time with a little bit of energy and lots of options for day trips along the coast.

2. Playa Conchal

Playa Conchal feels like a calm escape in December. The water is warm and unusually clear this month—great for snorkeling close to the shore, especially in the morning when the sea is at its calmest. The sand is made of tiny crushed shells, which gives the whole beach a bright, almost pearl-like color under the sun.

This beach is quieter than most beaches nearby, so you won’t find loud crowds or rows of shops. It’s perfect for travelers who want a relaxed day at the beach with a nice lunch nearby or shaded spots to sit and swim breaks in between.

3. Santa Teresa

Santa Teresa has a dreamy, surf-town feel in December. There are consistent waves this month; as such, it’s a favorite for surfers. You’ll also find yoga studios, boutique stays, and jungle-backed beaches.

The roads are unpaved, and the pace is slow, so it’s a great escape if you want nature, ocean, and laid-back days. Come here for a little disconnecting, whether you’re riding waves or reading in a hammock.

Central Pacific

The Central Pacific Coast is one of Costa Rica’s easiest regions to explore in December. It’s close to San José, has warm, sunny weather this time of year, and combines beaches, nature, and good tourist infrastructure.

4. Manuel Antonio

Manuel Antonio National Park is one of the best places to visit in December for wildlife spotting and a fantastic time on white sand beaches. You’ll see monkeys, sloths, and colorful birds along shaded trails, and the views from the lookout points are especially clear this month.

Outside the park, the town has calm swimming spots, ocean-view dining, and tours for kayaking, snorkeling, or dolphin watching.

5. Jaco

Jaco is warm, lively, and easy to reach from San José, so it’s a popular spot in December. Surf is reliable, the water stays warm, and the town always has something happening, like beachfront happy hours, beginner surf classes, sunset gatherings on the sand, and the list goes on.

If you’re traveling with a group or want a mix of ocean time and nightlife, Jaco is an excellent choice. It’s also a great base if you’re planning on exploring nearby waterfalls, ziplining, or even heading south to surf spots like Playa Hermosa.

6. Herradura / Los Sueños

Herradura offers calm bay waters and marina views, a real draw in December for sportfishing, sailing, or spending the day out on a boat. The famous Los Sueños Marina hosts charters that head into clear waters full of big seasonal catches.

If you’re looking for quieter ocean time with comfortable resort amenities and still want rainforest views, this spot is worth a look. Sunset dinners, calm beaches, and easy dock strolls are part of the appeal here.

North Region / Arenal

December is a great time to visit the Arenal and La Fortuna area. The rainy season begins to ease, the landscape stays lush and green, and the weather is perfect for hiking, wildlife tours, and soaking in hot springs.

7. La Fortuna

La Fortuna is one of the most exciting places to visit in December, thanks to its rainforest trails, active wildlife, and access to Arenal Volcano National Park. This is a great month to hike some of the park’s shorter trails, see lava rock fields, and enjoy early morning views of the volcano before clouds roll in.

It’s also the perfect time to relax in natural hot springs since the cooler evenings make the warm water feel even better. Don’t miss the chance to pair a visit to the La Fortuna Waterfall with a relaxing soak at one of the area’s well-known thermal spots!

8. Mistico Park

Mistico Park is one of the best rainforest experiences in the Arenal area, especially in December when it’s easier to spot many bird species, monkeys, and sloths. The Hanging Bridges trail takes you across suspended walkways with views deep into the jungle canopy and Arenal Volcano in the distance. It’s perfect if you want a peaceful way to explore nature without a long hike.

For something even more immersive, you can book a twilight tour that lets you experience the rainforest at dusk.

9. Río Celeste

About an hour and a half north of La Fortuna, Río Celeste is located inside Tenorio Volcano National Park. The area is known for its bright blue river and waterfall surrounded by dense rainforest. December is a good month to visit because the trail stays cooler and the water color is usually at its brightest once the stronger rains are over.

It’s a great option if you enjoy hiking through quiet forest paths and want to see one of Costa Rica’s most unique natural sights.

South Pacific

The South Pacific stays warm and green in December, and it’s a great match if you’re drawn to quieter beaches, marine life, and a more off-the-beaten-path feel, all surrounded by rainforest and coastal views.

10. Uvita / Marino Ballena

Uvita is best known for its Whale Tail-shaped beach inside Marino Ballena National Park, and December is a great month for calm tides and clear snorkeling days. The area has a peaceful feel with wild beaches, marine tours, and rainforest-covered hills nearby.

Come here if you’re looking for quiet ocean time, easy access to nature, and the chance to take a boat tour to spot dolphins or late-season humpback whales.

11. Osa Peninsula / Corcovado

The Osa Peninsula is one of the most untouched and wildlife-rich areas in Costa Rica. One of the perks of visiting in December is the easier access to Corcovado National Park, where you can hike among tapirs, scarlet macaws, and even the occasional big cat.

It’s a great pick if you’re drawn to remote nature, quiet eco-lodges, and days that start and end surrounded by rainforest sounds instead of city noise.

12. Dominical

Dominical is a laid-back surf town with rainforest views and long, uncrowded beaches. December brings steady waves and a calmer ocean in the mornings, which makes it a good spot for both beginner and experienced surfers.

If you want slow beach days, great coffee shops, and easy trips to river pools and waterfalls, Dominical feels like a place you can settle into right away.

Caribbean Coast

The Caribbean side of Costa Rica has a more tropical feel in December since it can still get lighter and more scattered this time of year. That means lush rainforest, warm ocean water, and fewer crowds, all paired with rich Afro-Caribbean culture and food.

13. Puerto Viejo

Puerto Viejo is known for its reggae energy, golden beaches, and laid-back lifestyle. December is a great month to visit if you want warm days, active surf, and time to explore both the beach and jungle. The water stays warm, and when the surf isn’t up, it’s perfect for swimming and snorkeling near the reefs at Playa Chiquita or Punta Uva.

The town has a lively food scene, colorful shops, bike rentals, and a mix of nearby beaches to hop between.

14. Tortuguero

Tortuguero National Park feels like another world. December means the end of turtle nesting season, so there’s still a chance to spot late hatchlings along the beach. But the canals are the real draw this time of year; just imagine boat safaris take you past caimans, monkeys, tropical birds, and even the occasional manatee.

There’s no road access here, so you arrive by boat or small plane, which adds to the sense of adventure!

15. Cahuita

Cahuita is a small coastal town with a national park that’s perfect for snorkeling and easy wildlife spotting. The coral reef inside Cahuita National Park is one of the largest on the Caribbean coast, and in December, the ocean is often calm enough to see colorful fish and sea turtles without going far offshore.

The trails are flat and shaded, which makes them great for a slow morning walk full of monkeys, sloths, and crabs skittering along the sand.

What’s Special to Do in Costa Rica in December?

Costa Rica has amazing things to do all year long, but some experiences feel different in December. The weather, nature, and local holidays all line up in a way that gives you access to things you wouldn’t enjoy as much in other months.

Check out the most recommended ones:

Go Wildlife Spotting in Clearer Forest Conditions

December is one of the best months for wildlife tours across Costa Rica. The forests are still lush from the rainy season, but the trails are easier to walk, and visibility improves as rainfall slows down. That means better chances of spotting monkeys, sloths, frogs, toucans, and even rare species in places like Monteverde, Manuel Antonio, the Osa Peninsula, and La Fortuna.

If you’re visiting the Arenal area, the hanging bridges tour at Mistico Park gives you a front-row view of the forest canopy, where most of the wildlife is active during this season.

Enjoy Beach Days on the Pacific Coast

In December, the Pacific coast offers warm ocean water, clear skies, and wide, gorgeous beaches that are perfect for swimming, surfing, kayaking, paddleboarding, snorkeling, or even scuba diving, thanks to better underwater visibility this time of year. Or just settle into the shade of a palm tree and enjoy a long, easy beach day!

Hike to Waterfalls in Cooler Mornings

Waterfall hikes feel especially good in December thanks to fresh morning air, stable trails, and steady water flow left over from the rainy season. Places like La Fortuna Waterfall, Río Celeste, and Nauyaca Falls are cooler and less crowded before midday, perfect for walking through the forest, swimming in natural pools, or just relaxing near the sound of rushing water.

Celebrate Christmas or New Year’s Like a Local

December is a festive month in Costa Rica. Families gather on Christmas Eve (Nochebuena) to eat homemade Costa Rican tamales, exchange gifts, and enjoy time together late into the night.

In San José, the Festival de la Luz lights up the streets with floats and fireworks earlier in the month, marking the start of the holiday season. And after Christmas, many people head to the beach for bonfires, outdoor concerts, and midnight fireworks to welcome the New Year.

Best Places by Travel Style

We know that every traveler who comes to Costa Rica is looking for something a little different, whether that is quiet beaches, big waterfalls, incredible wildlife, or adventure. That’s why, to help you plan, here’s a quick guide to the best places to visit in December based on the kind of trip you have in mind:

For Families

Traveling with kids or a mix of ages? La Fortuna is a top pick for the whole family for its mix of easy nature walks, hanging bridges, hot springs, and family-friendly hotels.

Tamarindo gives families a safe, walkable beach town with calm surf lessons and plenty of places to eat and explore on foot.

And Manuel Antonio combines both worlds: beach days and wildlife spotting, all within a compact area that’s easy to get around.

For Honeymooners & Couples

December is a wonderful time for couples to explore Costa Rica. La Fortuna offers hot springs, rainforest trails, and boutique lodges surrounded by nature.

Nosara is peaceful and wellness-focused, perfect for yoga, quiet beach walks, and long dinners by the ocean.

Uvita offers a slower pace with secluded beaches and the chance to spot whales offshore, while Santa Teresa combines surf, sunsets, and stylish beach stays.

For Wildlife Lovers

If spotting animals in their natural habitat is your priority, Corcovado is a must. It’s home to some of the most impressive biodiversity in the country, like tapirs, monkeys, macaws, and even big cats for the lucky few.

La Fortuna is perfect for rainforest hikes where you can see sloths, toucans, and colorful frogs up close. And in Tortuguero, boat tours through the canals let you watch monkeys and caimans moving quietly through the mangroves.

For Adventure Seekers

For an active trip, Arenal is your go-to choice. The area is full of outdoor activities like hanging bridges walks, ziplining, canyoning, rafting, and hiking.

Monteverde is perfect for cloud forest hikes and hanging bridges surrounded by mist and wildlife, while Dominical offers a mix of surf, waterfalls, and rugged trails that lead to some of the best coastal viewpoints in the region.

For Surfers 

If you want to spend entire days chasing waves, the Pacific side is an excellent choice. Tamarindo and Nosara are great for beginners, while Santa Teresa and Dominical attract more experienced surfers looking for consistent waves and long rides.

On the Caribbean coast, Puerto Viejo’s Salsa Brava deserves a spot on your bucket list—it can have powerful breaks for advanced surfers when conditions line up.

Tips for Visiting Costa Rica in December

While December can be a beautiful time to visit Costa Rica, it also means higher prices, busier roads, and limited availability if you wait too long to book.

Here are a few simple tips to help you enjoy the warm weather and the busy travel weeks with ease:

• Book early: Flights, hotels, and tours tend to fill up quickly around Christmas and New Year’s, especially in beach towns and popular parks.
• Travel at the start of the month: Early December still has great weather, fewer crowds, and better prices before the holiday rush.
• Pack light but smart: Bring breathable clothes for the coast, a light jacket for cooler nights in the mountains, and quick-dry layers for rainforest walks.
• Plan flexible routes: Roads can get busy, so leave some buffer time or focus on one region instead of trying to see it all.
• Stay hydrated: The warm weather and sun can be stronger than expected, especially along the Pacific coast.
• Support local: Eat at small sodas (local restaurants), hire local guides, and visit community markets to connect more with the Costa Rican culture.

Suggested Itineraries for a December Trip

If you’re planning your Costa Rica itinerary for December, think about travel times, regional weather, and how each destination connects. This is one of the easiest months to move around the country—roads are dry, days are long, and every region offers something different.

These are few sample routes to help you picture what a week in Costa Rica could look like:

Pacific Adventure + Arenal Volcano

• Days 1-3: Start on the Pacific coast in Tamarindo or Nosara for beach time, surf lessons, and sunset dinners by the ocean.
• Days 4-6: Head inland to La Fortuna for ziplining, hiking, and relaxing in natural hot springs with volcano views.
• Days 7-8: Spend your last days exploring Mistico Park’s Hanging Bridges or the La Fortuna Waterfall before heading back toward San José.

Romantic Beach + Wellness Combo

• Days 1-3: Begin your trip in Santa Teresa or Nosara, where yoga studios, boutique hotels, and quiet beaches set an easy tone for your stay.
• Days 4-6: Continue to Uvita for calm ocean days, whale watching, and scenic walks in Marino Ballena National Park.
• Days 7-8: Finish in La Fortuna with a night at the hot springs and a view of Arenal Volcano before heading home.

Wildlife & Rainforest Discovery

• Days 1-2: Start in Tortuguero, exploring the canals by boat to see monkeys, caimans, and tropical birds.
• Days 3-5: Travel to La Fortuna for rainforest hikes, hanging bridges, and an evening in the hot springs.
• Days 6-8: End on the Osa Peninsula with a visit to Corcovado National Park, home to some of the most diverse wildlife in the country.

Explore Costa Rica in December with Mistico Park

December is one of the most exciting months to experience Costa Rica. The weather is warm, the landscapes are alive, and every region offers something a little different. Best of all, no matter your travel style, it’s the month that lets you see the best of the country in one trip.

If you plan to visit La Fortuna, don’t miss Mistico Park, one of the top outdoor experiences during the dry season. The park’s hanging bridges and rainforest trails give you a close look at wildlife like sloths, monkeys, and tropical birds, all surrounded by views of Arenal Volcano.

Contact Mistico Park today to plan your visit and discover the rainforest at its best this December.

FAQs

Is December rainy in Costa Rica?

No, December is not rainy in Costa Rica. It marks the start of the dry season across most of the country, especially on the Pacific coast. The Caribbean side can still see light showers, but overall, this month has plenty of sunshine.

Where is the best weather in Costa Rica in December?

The best weather in Costa Rica in December is along the Pacific coast. Areas like Guanacaste, Nicoya, and La Fortuna enjoy sunny days, low humidity, and great beach conditions, while the Caribbean remains a bit wetter and greener.

Is Costa Rica crowded in December?

Yes, Costa Rica is crowded in December. It’s part of the peak season, with many visitors coming for holidays and warm weather. If you plan to visit, book your hotels and tours early to secure good rates and availability.

What should I pack for Costa Rica in December?

You should pack light, comfortable clothes for warm days, sandals, swimwear, sunscreen, and a light jacket for cooler nights in the mountains.

What’s the best side to visit: Pacific or Caribbean?

The best side to visit in December is the Pacific coast of Costa Rica. It’s sunny, dry, and ideal for beach days and outdoor adventures.