Costa Rica’s Green Season

One of our favorite things about Costa Rica is the green season. Yes, you read that right. We love it when it rains. The temps are more moderate, the crowds are thinned out and the surf is incredible. 

Here are five reasons why you should book your surf trip during the green season. 

Amazing weather. We alluded to it in the intro, but Costa Rica really does have stellar weather all year round. Costa Rica’s rainy season—also known as the “green season” due to the lush landscape during this time of year—runs from May until the end of November. While precipitation may be slightly up (the “dry season” still sees rain, just a bit less), temperatures are more moderate (read: less sweltering and more comfortable) than in the summer months, which begin in December.

Better waves. During the green season, the Pacific coast of Costa Rica generally experiences increased swells and bigger, faster waves. On the Caribbean side of the country, surfers can find the best waves starting in November and lasting all the way through May. Jacó, School of The World’s home, is near several beaches that experience consistent breaks year-round. 

Fewer crowds. The dry season—also known as summer—starts in December and marks the beginning of the high season. Travelers who head to Costa Rica during the off season have the benefit of off-season prices and fewer tourist crowds. Many students say that it allowed them a more authentic experience because they were able to connect with the locals. 

Cultural calendar. Take in some of the local culture by planning your trip to Costa Rica to coincide with some of the country’s seasonal festivals. All Souls Day (Dia de los Muertos) is celebrated countrywide on November 2nd. Visitors who stick around for the beginning of the summer season in December shouldn’t miss El Tope and Carnival (December 26th and 27th) in San Jose when the streets are flooded with horses and their riders, carnival floats, marching bands and street dancers. The last week of December is the Festejos Populares in San Jose, when bullfights and carnival rides set up at the fairgrounds in Zapote.

Fresh produce. As we said, Costa Rica is experiencing its green season right now, which means there are tons of delicious fruits available. Some of the exotic delights available now include mangosteen, starfruit, cacao, rambutan, mabola and jocote. Jacó has a weekly farmers market (called ferias) where you can purchase seasonal fruits for prices below what you’d see in grocery stores.

Want to learn more about Surf School in Costa Rica? Check out the 5 Things You’ll Learn at Surf Camp in Costa Rica.