Lori S. Says:
Are some areas better than others to live year-round in Costa Rica with regard to the best tropical beach weather?
IL Costa Rica Correspondent Bekah Bottone Says:
Hi Lori,
You’re speaking my language!
I’m a hot tropical beach girl and love this weather year-round. Yes, I know it can be muggy, and it feels like you can literally cut the air with a knife during the rainy season, yet the lush greenness is unsurpassed, so I can appreciate all that humidity.
You have many options for this weather in sunny Costa Rica, either on the Pacific Ocean coastline or the Caribbean Sea.
On the Caribbean side, Puerto Viejo is a well-known expat spot that’s relatively remote and secluded—its pristine beauty is unmatched. If you check out the area, you can do yoga with expat Mel Rhoden to learn more about the local vibe. You might know her from the Conference in San Jose; she spoke in June 2022 and will talk again this June.
It’s rainiest in Puerto Viejo from November to January and then from April to August. On the other hand, Guanacaste is rainiest in September and October, but the green season runs from May to November.
The province of Guanacaste has beautiful tropical weather, and it’s convenient to explore when you fly into the airport at Liberia. You can visit volcanoes, waterfalls, and jungles within a two-hour drive from the airport.
And when you head to the Coast, you get beaches galore. You may enjoy the subdued vibe of Playas del Coco or head south to busier beaches like Playa Conchal, Playa Grande, Playa Tamarindo, Playa Avellanas, or Playa Negra. You have so many options.
Oh, and I can’t mention the beach without talking about the waves. Surfing is the national pastime on many of these beaches.
I live right outside of the village of Tamarindo, just over two miles from the beach. And for me, this beach is an ideal place to raise my children. Not only are the sunsets breathtaking, but we often have good surfing conditions, and my kids can enjoy nature’s playground while playing in tide pools, exploring rocks and trees, and enjoying the wildlife in the estuary.
There are also tons of activities, restaurants, and schools in the area to choose from.
This article features a few other beaches in Costa Rica you can check out.
It seems time to pack your bags and head down here to determine which beach tops your favorite list.
Happy exploring! Perhaps I’ll see you on the beach someday…
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