Costa Rica in June [Complete Travel Guide 2024]

Costa Rica is an amazing country ! I spent a few weeks over there and I felt like I was in Switzerland sometimes . The country is pretty wealthy , it is expensive and well developed . I didn’t like the capital city ( San Jose ) that I found boring .

The rest is really awesome : national parks, cloud forests, tropical climate, beautiful beaches … They got it all.

June is in my opinion a great time of year to get there . This is not maybe the best weather for some , as you will have a good chance of heavy rains with the start of the rainy season. But once again, nothing is written . Depends if you are in the south pacific side or northern pacific coast, or Caribbean side , and depends which year too, the costa rica weather can be fluctuating . I was there the first two weeks of June and didn’t get any rain, or only little rainfall.

I really loved it, for me it is the best time of year : fewer visitors, fewer tourists … I love the high temperatures and the monsoon type of weather , with heavy showers, typical of the costa rica’s rainy season.

It is the perfect time if you want to avoid peak season and a great month to enjoy low season prices

Enjoy your Costa Rica vacation

Like they say over there : Pura Vida !

Are you longing for an opportunity to spend good time in bliss? Where can you find it? I will tell you where – in Costa Rica, in June!

Picture rich rainforests replete with creatures living there, while astounding volcanic peaks overshadow the sky, and calm azure waves paced along perfect beaches. The month of June might be your ideal escape, where you get to enjoy your time out with the sun and where there are (usually tolerable) rains.

Become adventurous and venture into the enchanting green jungles; find joy in world-class surfing, all laid back sunset on a hammock suburb of palm tree shade. May you embark on a journey that would make you feel Costa Rica paradisiacal “pura vida” spirit, the warmth of people, and the life of the culture of the land.

If you are an adventurer, you will find dazzling creations of nature here for you, and if you are a friendliness-seeking traveler, you can enrich your heart with the kind hearts of the people.

Another option ( it is what I did ) : you can do a Yoga or spiritual retreat over there , check my wellness retreats in Costa Rica 

Costa Rica’s June Weather: Sunshine with a Splash of Green

Costa Rica’’s spectacular scenery and abundant wildlife make it a popular destination throughout the year. While many argue that April rains are worse than June showers, the matter deserves more investigation. Here’s a quick breakdown to help you plan your perfect Costa Rican escape: Here’s a quick breakdown to help you plan your perfect Costa Rican escape:

Check my guide about areas and hotels here : Coolest places to stay in Costa Rica

✔️ Green Season Arrives: In June, the rainy season, alternatively called the ‘green season,’ officially commences. The misleading name is because it is not the whole while a certain amount of rainfall is spread over a week or so.

✔️ Sunny Mornings, Splashy Afternoons: Prepare yourself for gorgeous sunrises that will let you start your day by discovering the rainforests or the sun baking on your skin during a day at the beach. Showers in the afternoon are characteristically persistent storms on some days, so they hardly distort the entire day but simply intermittent water bursts.

✔️ Embrace the Lushness: The additional rainfall turns a green-tinted world reluctant to show its colors. Take in the sight of the rainforest overflowing with vivid green, waterfalls cornering in their puzzle, and rivers gushing with vitality.

✔️ Temperature Paradise: The early summer months in June can be pleasant, with daytime average temperatures generally between the mid-70s to mid-80s Fahrenheit (mid-20 Celsius to high 20 Celsius). The rain spatters and fall rains give off a cooling sensation that is especially needed in the sweltering afternoons after the hottest part of the day.

✔️ Regional Variations: Rainfall is distributed according to its location. The Provincial one is that the Caribbean side experiences more rain, whereas the Pacific side experiences a drier season and a longer rain-making process.

✔️Embrace Flexibility: Purchase an umbrella as well. Wearing light, quick-dry clothes is the right objective, which must be complemented with a rain jacket or a poncho for sudden afternoon showers.

✔️ Less Crowded: June, the period between the end of summer and the beginning of winter (peak tourist season usually falls from December to April), should be a slack period designated to handle other service-related projects. This all means that there will be fewer people gathered there, or prices will probably lower, and the atmosphere at crowded destinations will be a more laid-back one.

✔️ Surfing Season Kicks Off: Starting in June, surfers on the west coast report swelling as their wetsuits are still dry. So, these swells are primarily first-timers and intermediates. Surfing Can Help Address the Physical and Emotional Struggles of Life. Plenty of surf shops and surf camps offer programs for those who want to ride their first wave. Check my full guide Best surfing beaches Costa Rica

✔️ Whale Watching: It is in June that humpback whales make their presence known on the Pacific coast after their migration season has begun. Inside there, you will be able to behold the magnificent beluga whales as they move jaw-droppingly across the vast ocean, with its potential for engendering even more awe towards the warmer seas where they go to breed during the seasonal changes.

Another good things to do in June is fishing ! You can go for half a day or full day : Fishing trip to Costa Rica

Holidays, Festivals and places to Visit in Costa Rica in June

June is costa rica’s low season

The cheerful, lively, nervous life in Costa Rica pulses daily, but a particular time is created in June. Here’s a breakdown of holidays, festivals, and must-visit places to make your June trip unforgettable: Here’s a breakdown of holidays, festivals, and must-visit places to make your June trip unforgettable:

✔️ Holidays :

Arbor Day (June 15th): Observe Costa Ricans caring about sustainability by planting trees for this natural event commemorating the country’s founder. A tree-planting event might also be part of your ceremony!

St. Peter and St. Paul Day (June 29th): The spring festivities begin with this religious holiday, which includes processions, sacerdotal rites, and local celebrations. Taste the festive mood and try outstanding deep-pitch food served in addition to the religious temples.

✔️Festivals:

Local Town Celebrations (Throughout June): Many of the communities feature saint festivals in their local calendar, which are primarily held in June. With the numerous celebrations happening these days, one notices engaging in the local flavor exemplified by their music, dance, food, and sometimes even traditional bullfighting (without bloodshed).

Ocaso Underground Music Festival (Varies): If you happen to be a music aficionado, do not forget to take note of the Ocaso Underground Music Festival. This particular event takes place underground, and it offers one chance to see the hot, electric music scene in Costa Rica.

✔️ Places to Visit:

Embrace the Green Season: June’s grass is always growing, and it is no wonder the day is beautifully green. Go for a walk in the glorious green canopy of the Costa Rican mist, whose enchanting trail will take you through this magic world of amazing plant and animal life.

Beat the Crowds at Manuel Antonio National Park: June is the best month for a smaller crowd. This shoulder season allows people to feel like they are on their own in this truly remarkable park. Walk rainforest trails, visit sandy beaches, and see a wide range of animals, from adorable, mischievous monkeys to beautiful butterfly wings admired at close range.

Volcanic Majesty: Arenal Volcano is a place to become one with untamed nature, and it is no wonder it is one of the most visited volcanoes in Costa Rica. Walk along scenic trails, take time to cool off in relaxing hot springs heated naturally by the volcano, or admire the stunning views from the active peak.

Another town is becoming famous : it is SAMARA . You should definitively give it a try : Things to do in Samara Costa Rica

✔️ Surfing Paradise:

Pacific Coast: In June, the Pacific Coast comes to life with the sound of the first swells. Tamarindo is a surferseling with a well-deserved reputation as the best beginner and intermediate surfer’s paradise, with great waves and surf schools. Check my full guide Best surfing beaches Costa Rica

✔️ Whale Watching Adventure:

Starting in June, the Pacific coast becomes the hottest spot and a point of attraction for whale fans. Catch a boat trip and be amazed by migrating whales of the Humpback Whale crew swimming, breaching, and fooling around on their way to warm water.

✔️ Cultural Gem:

San Jose: The capital of Costa Rica is characterized by a vibrant mixture of historical value, culture, and contemporary hustle. Discover leading museums, stroll in plentiful markets, and sample diverse area culture with traditional dishes. I spent a few days there and I didn’t really like it, but other fellow travelers that I met did really had a great time . So i will be back and try again next time !

Bonus Tip: During this shoulder season, the resorts and eco-lodges offer lower prices, allowing you to revel in the beautiful rainforest or relax at luxurious beach resorts for a smaller fee.

Those are the best activities to do in June . I understand that you might want more ideas of things to do : Actually most of the activities are doable all year long . The only issue in June would be ( possibly) the rain and the heat . check my full guide of the Best itinerary in Costa Rica

Packing Smart for Your June Costa Rican Adventure:

June in Costa Rica is a period of metamorphosis, with sun and either cleansing rain showers or showers of affection. Here’s a breakdown of what to pack for a comfortable and enjoyable trip: Here’s a breakdown of what to pack for a comfortable and enjoyable trip:

✔️ Clothing:

Light and Quick-Drying: Pick garments that breathe and dry quickly, e.g., t-shirts, shorts, and hiking pants. I always feel cotton is cozy, but the synthetic materials dry faster after rainy days with children running and jumping over me in the backyard.

Layering Options: Take a light jacket or long-sleeved shirt intended for the evenings during cold high seasons, which can become colder, particularly at high altitudes. A rain jacket or poncho is the order of the hour when the clouds already show signs of heavy rain.

Swimwear: In addition to forgetting swimwear, remember the bathing suit for the beach or staying in the hot springs.

Footwear: Buy high-quality waterproof hiking boots or trail shoes, as you will need them for wet conditions and mixing forest tracks. The best options are beach sandals, casual sandals, and water shoes.

✔️ Essentials:

Sun Protection: Be prepared for the harshest sun by wearing sunglasses, a hat, and reef-safe sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or less. The sun can be rigorous, and shielding your skin is an indisputable measure.

Insect Repellent: Mosquitoes and other bugs can be found mainly in the rainforests. How many times do we come across controversial topics that evoke strong emotional responses in the public? Whether it’s a heated political debate, a moral dilemma, or a significant health concern, these discussions often reveal the complexity and diversity of societal views. These controversies must be handled effectively to ensure that people trust various institutions, such as bringing with you a DEET-based insect repellent that has a good effect.

Quick-Dry Towel: The microfiber Towel is not only quickly drying but also best for beach use and wiping off after rain showers.

Want some professionals travelling advices ? : How to pack your backpack , Ultimate travel packing list , Luggage size 

Cons to Visiting Costa Rica in June

The pro is definitely fewer crowds !

✔️ Rainy Season: It’s almost expected to wash your hair on the rainy afternoons of June. However, this can prevent you from spending your day outdoors. I spent the whole month of May and almost all June and I had very little showers .

✔️ Humidity: Heavy rainfall makes the immediate environment humid, and some visitors might feel unhappy traveling in this weather.

✔️ Limited Sunshine: In contrast to the dry season, where sunshine is likely around, the likelihood of clouds covering the sun is higher in June.

✔️ Uneven Surfaces: Routes and paths might get muddy under the rain; pause and carefulness are needed when going around.

✔️ Potential for Floods: Heavy rain is less frequent but can result in flash floods, which may further disturb the planned travel arrangements.

Wrapping up

In the middle of the year, as you can tell, Costa Rica offers the best of both worlds: the all-pleasing and the matter of urgency. Even as the humid afternoon rain may start, it only gives more greenery and vitality to the glorious surroundings, providing a soothing feel of relaxation. Larger crowds might be less likely to occur, and the cost of the event may even decrease, which might make June a cheap option. Be it jungle experiences in the rainforest, surfing adventures along the Pacific coastline, or whale-watching trips, June is the rainy season, and Costa Rica even has something to offer in this period. Women going on a journey to Costa Rica should keep the “pura vida” philosophy firmly in mind and pack swimming suits and waterproof wear for a fantastic adventure.

Enjoy your trip … And PURA VIDA !

Check my articles about Costa Rica !  Best itinerary Costa Rica, Coolest places to stay in Costa Rica, Fishing trip to Costa Rica, Visiting Costa Rica in June ,Best surfing beaches Costa Rica, Things to do in Samara Costa Rica, wellness retreats Costa Rica 

WHO AM I ?

Hello !

I am Eric, a French Australian citizen based between Australia, Asia and Bali and I love to travel and experience the world. I generally like outdoor activities, wellness, great food and venues , party and real local adventures ! I am a Yoga practitioner and fitness lover

I created this blog because I love to travel and I want to share my experiences with others. I’ve been traveling since I was a child, and I’ve been to over 50 countries. I’ve seen some amazing things and met some amazing people, and I want to help others experience the same things.

I believe that travel is one of the best ways to learn about the world and about yourself. When you travel, you’re forced to step outside of your comfort zone and experience new things. You learn about different cultures, different religions, and different ways of life. You also learn about yourself, your strengths, and your weaknesses.

Travel can also be a great way to make new friends. When you’re traveling, you’re surrounded by people from all over the world, and you’re all in the same boat. You’re all there to explore and experience new things, and that can create a bond between people.

Let’s connect together !

I hope that my travel blog will inspire others to travel and to see the world. I also hope that it will help people to learn about different cultures and to become more open-minded.