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Weather in Uvita, Costa Rica by Month: What to Expect
Are you wondering what kind of weather you can expect in Uvita, Costa Rica?
Uvita is located on the Southern Pacific coast of the country. It is a serene beach town known for its iconic whale tail-shaped sandbar, pristine beaches, and the Marino Ballena National Park. The area enjoys a tropical climate, with a dry season running from December to April and a rainy season from May to November.
As a couple who lives in Costa Rica and frequently visits Uvita, we know a lot about the weather patterns. We created this guide to give you a detailed month-by-month breakdown, tips on what to pack, the best activities for each season, and more.
Uvita Weather at a Glance
- Dry season: Late December to April
- Rainy season: May to November
- Heaviest rainfall: September and October, with October typically being the wettest month, averaging 38.3 inches (973 mm) of rain
- Hottest months: March and April, with average highs around 85°F (29°C)
- Coolest months: October and November, with average highs around 77°F (25°C)
- Average daytime highs: Range from 77°F to 85°F (25°C to 29°C) year-round
- Average nighttime lows: Typically between 67°F to 74°F (19°C to 23°C)
- Sunrise and sunset: The sun typically rises around 5:30 AM and sets around 5:30 PM throughout the year
- Humpback whale season runs from December until mid-March and then again from late July – October. The best time of year is typically mid-September.
The Forecast for the Next 7 Day Is….
Uvita, Costa Rica WEATHERUvita’s Dry Season (December to April)
The dry season in Uvita is characterized by warm, sunny days and minimal rainfall. It is also the most popular time for tourists.
This season is ideal for exploring the beaches, national parks, and enjoying outdoor activities such as snorkeling, and hiking.
If you visit during the dry season we suggest booking your trip as far in advance as possible.
- 10% Discount on your rental car with our favorite local company, Adobe
- Book your hotel with Booking.com for great cancellation
- Book your activities on Viator for secure payment and great cancellation policies
Humpback whale migration can be seen during this time of year during a whale-watching tour off the coast. These whales travel from California down to the warm waters of Costa Rica to breed.
December
December marks the beginning of the dry season in Uvita, with clear skies and a festive atmosphere as the holiday season approaches.
The number of visitors begins to rise, with hotels and restaurants starting to fill up. Expect higher prices and larger crowds, especially around Christmas and New Year.
Traffic increases, particularly along the coastal roads as both locals and tourists travel for the holidays. If you are traveling from San Jose to Uvita it is best not to drive from the city on a Friday afternoon or Saturday morning (this is when most locals will also be heading to the beach towns).
We like this time of year because the landscape is still lush and green from the rainy season.
- Weather: Average daytime temperatures reach 86°F (30°C), with evening temperatures around 72°F (22°C).
- Rainfall: Around 4.2 inches (10.7 cm), usually in brief showers.
- Humidity: Moderate, around 75%.
- Ocean Conditions: The ocean is generally calm, with good visibility for snorkeling and diving. Sea temperatures are warm, around 82°F (28°C).
January
January is one of the driest and most popular months in Uvita, with consistent sunshine and little to no rain. It’s perfect for beach activities and exploring the natural beauty of the region.
Expect crowds and high prices at this time of year. It is a good idea to book your hotels, rental cars, and activities as early as possible.
For example, if you plan to visit Manuel Antonio National Park just north of Uvita you should book your tickets ASAP.
- Weather: Average daytime highs are around 87°F (31°C), with nighttime lows around 71°F (22°C).
- Rainfall: Less than 2 inches (5 cm).
- Humidity: Low, around 70%.
- Ocean Conditions: The ocean remains calm, making it an excellent time for water sports like kayaking and paddleboarding.
February
February continues with dry, sunny weather, slightly warmer temperatures, and ideal conditions for outdoor activities.
- Weather: Daytime temperatures can reach up to 88°F (31°C), with evenings dropping to around 72°F (22°C).
- Rainfall: Minimal, around 1.5 inches (3.8 cm).
- Humidity: Low, around 68%.
- Tourism: High, with plenty of visitors enjoying the weather.
March
March is one of the hottest months in Uvita, with temperatures frequently reaching the high 80s°F. Despite the heat, the clear skies and warm weather make it a popular time for beachgoers.
Travel Tip: The town of Dominical (just north of Uvita) hosts the Envision Festival in March. In 2025 this festival is from March 3rd – March 10th. This festival has a free-spirited, open-minded vibe to it. There are musical performances, workshops, yoga classes etc. Because this is a popular festival there is often an overflow with people staying in Uvita as well. It is best to book as early as possible and expect that the area will have a different feel to it than normal during this week.
This is still peak tourism season, so book early.
Keep in mind that by March the climate tens to dry out a lot and isn’t as lush. However, Uvita backs up to a mountainous jungle area. It tends to still stay decently green.
- Weather: Daytime temperatures average 89°F (32°C), with nighttime temperatures around 73°F (23°C).
- Rainfall: Around 2 inches (5 cm).
- Humidity: Low, around 67%.
April
April is the last month of the dry season, with temperatures peaking and the first hints of rain appearing late in the month.
There are a lot of international tourists over the week before and after Easter. Locals also often have the week before Easter off of work. Everyone flocks to the beaches and things get a bit crazy. Check out our guide to Easter in Costa Rica for all the details.
If you plan to visit this area over those two Easter weeks, book as early as possible.
- Weather: Average daytime highs reach 90°F (32°C), with nighttime lows around 73°F (23°C).
- Rainfall: Increases to about 4 inches (10 cm).
- Humidity: Starts to rise, averaging around 72%.
- Ocean Conditions: The ocean remains warm, but the surf can become more unpredictable as the season changes.
Uvita’s Rainy Season (May to November)
The rainy season in Uvita is characterized by frequent afternoon showers, lush green landscapes, and lower tourist numbers.
The mornings are typically sunny and clear, while the afternoons bring heavy rains, especially later in the season.
Later into the rainy season, there can be some very heavy rainfall. Most of the main roads in Uvita are paved, but there are also a lot of unpaved side roads leading up into the hills above town. It is a good idea to ask at your hotel about the road conditions before booking a rental car. In some areas, you may need a 4×4.
May
May marks the beginning of the rainy season in Uvita with increasing rainfall.
However, don’t let the term “rainy season” scare you. This is actually a great time to visit. Typically the rain will roll in around 2 PM and last for an hour or two. The rest of the day will be sunny and warm. It is very rare to have full washout days in May.
Everything becomes lush and green again and tourism decreases.
- Weather: Daytime temperatures average 86°F (30°C), with nighttime lows around 73°F (23°C).
- Rainfall: Increases significantly to around 10 inches (25.4 cm).
- Humidity: High, around 80%.
- Ocean Conditions: The ocean can become rougher, with larger waves ideal for experienced surfers. Visibility for snorkeling and diving may decrease.
June
June brings regular afternoon rains, which help keep the vegetation lush and the landscape vibrant. Mornings are often sunny and pleasant.
Tourism starts to taper off and prices go down.
I personally think this is a great time to visit if you don’t mind brief afternoon rain storms.
- Weather: Daytime highs are around 85°F (29°C), with evening temperatures cooling to 72°F (22°C).
- Rainfall: Around 12 inches (30.5 cm) of rain, mostly in the afternoons.
- Humidity: High, around 83%.
- Ocean Conditions: The waves are generally larger, providing great surfing conditions. Swimming can be challenging due to stronger currents.
July
July is known for the “veranillo” or “little summer.” This is a brief period during which the rains temporarily subside. This usually lasts for about two weeks.
However, it is impossible to predict exactly when this will happen or if it will actually happen at all.
Otherwise, you can expect mostly clear and sunny mornings with somewhat intense afternoon rain showers that last for a few hours.
July is somewhat busy for tourism because most Costa Rican schools are closed for a few weeks during this month. Also, schools in other parts of the world are typically closed, so more people are traveling.
- Weather: Average daytime temperatures are around 85°F (29°C), with nighttime lows near 72°F (22°C).
- Rainfall: Slightly lower at around 10 inches (25.4 cm).
- Humidity: High, around 82%.
- Ocean Conditions: The ocean can be calmer during the veranillo, with good conditions for water sports.
August
August sees the return of heavier rains, with frequent and intense afternoon showers.
The mornings typically remain warm and sunny, but you might experience a few complete washout days.
Tourism is low during this month and everything starts to get a lot cheaper.
Keep in mind that roads can be more challenging to navigate due to the increased rain, especially in rural areas.
- Weather: Daytime temperatures average 84°F (29°C), with nighttime lows around 71°F (22°C).
- Rainfall: Increases to around 12 inches (30.5 cm).
- Humidity: Very high, around 85%.
- Ocean Conditions: The ocean becomes rougher, with larger waves and stronger currents.
September
September is one of the wettest months in Uvita, characterized by frequent, heavy rains that can last well into the night.
Despite the rainfall, the mornings are often clear, providing a window of opportunity for outdoor activities.
This also happens to be the best time of year for whale watching. Humpback whales travel to the warm waters of Uvita from Antarctica to breed.
It is a great time of year to take a whale-watching boat tour, but just expect that you will likely get rained on. And, bring motion sickness pills because the waves can be a bit much.
Book your whale-watching tour in Uvita
Road conditions can be difficult due to the heavy rain. There is an increased chance of landslides and flooding in certain areas.
With fewer tourists, prices for accommodations and tours are generally lower. You can often get good deals if you don’t mind the rain.
- Weather: Average daytime temperatures are around 83°F (28°C), with nighttime lows around 71°F (22°C).
- Rainfall: Peaks at around 15 inches (38 cm), making it one of the wettest months of the year.
- Humidity: Extremely high, around 85%.
- Tourism: This is the low season, with fewer tourists and a quieter atmosphere, ideal for those who prefer a more tranquil visit.
- Ocean Conditions: The ocean is rough, with strong currents and large waves, best suited for experienced surfers. Swimming can be challenging due to the conditions.
October
October is the peak of the rainy season in Uvita, with the heaviest and most consistent rainfall.
This month sees the most significant impact from the rains, with potential flooding and road closures in some areas.
The rainforest is in its most vibrant state, with rivers and waterfalls at their fullest. It’s an excellent time for seeing amphibians, birds, and other wildlife that thrive in the wet conditions.
Also, keep in mind that some restaurants and hotels close during this month because there are so few customers.
However, you can expect very low crowds and some of the best deals of the year on lodging and activities.
- Weather: Daytime temperatures are around 82°F (28°C), with nighttime lows around 70°F (21°C).
- Rainfall: The highest of the year, averaging 16 inches (40.6 cm).
- Humidity: Very high, around 88%.
- Ocean Conditions: The ocean remains rough, with large waves and strong currents.
November
November is a transitional time. The rainy season begins to taper off towards the end of the month and you can expect more sunny days.
Heavy rains are still somewhat common (especially at the beginning of the month) but, there is a noticeable shift as the dry season approaches.
Tourism starts to pick up slightly as the dry season nears, but it remains relatively quiet.
Everything is still lush and green and prices remain relatively low.
- Weather: Average daytime temperatures are around 84°F (29°C), with nighttime lows around 71°F (22°C).
- Rainfall: Decreases to around 9 inches (22.9 cm), though still substantial.
- Humidity: Remains high, around 85%.
- Ocean Conditions: The ocean conditions begin to improve as the month progresses, with waves becoming more manageable and safer for swimmers.
Packing for Uvita in Both Seasons
Year Round Essentials
- We suggest carrying your stuff in a large backpack instead of a suitcase if possible. The Osprey 55L is great if you are only bringing a carry-on (take the small bag part off for under your seat) and the Osprey 75L is our go-to for checking in a bag.
- Sun Bum Original SPF 50 Sunscreen: SPF 50 because the sun is powerful. We like Sun Bum because they are reef-safe.
- Teva Voya Flip Flops for men and for women: Waterproof and have a solid sole.
- Columbia Bora Bora Sun Hat: Slightly nerdy, but great for blocking the sun, folding up small in your luggage, and is made of breathable fabric.
- Sun Bum Cool Down Aloe Vera Lotion: Hopefully you don’t get sunburned, but if you do, this stuff is a lifesaver.
- Hero Microfiber Towel: Most hotels will have towels for showering, but not for the beach, Microfiber towels dry quickly and can easily fit in your luggage.
- LifeStraw Go Water Filter Bottle: You can drink the water here, but it is safer to buy bottled water. We like LifeStraw to filter out any extra bacteria or impurities.
- Insect Repellent: Once the sun goes down the mosquitos come out in full force. It is worse during the rainy season, but you might experience them in the dry season as well.
Rainy Season Essentials
- The Anker Powerbox: A reliable battery pack to charge electronics if power goes out.
- Large Zip Lock Bags: Nothing ever dries in the rainy season. Zip locks are great for separating damp clothing in your luggage.
- Rain Jacket: I love the North Face Antora for women and the same jacket for men. Lightweight, breathable, efficient.
- Waterproof Backpack: We use ours year round because it is also great for the beach and boat trips, but especially good in rainy season for potentially wet adventures.
- Motion Sickness Pills: You might want these year-round for navigating the crazy roads. However, they are especially helpful in the rainy season if you plan to do a boat trip when waves can be bigger.
- Headlamp: Again, useful all year round since the sun sets by 6PM. Also great to have if the power goes out.
Fun Things to Do in Uvita in Both Seasons
- Go Beach Hopping: Uvita is home to several beautiful, uncrowded beaches. From the scenic Playa Uvita to the more secluded Playa Ventanas with its iconic sea caves, you can explore different beaches, each offering a unique vibe.
- Visit Marino Ballena National Park: This is the main beach in Uvita. It is known for its whale tail-shaped sandbar, pristine beaches, calm waters, and large area of protected ocean. Find out more
- Visit Nauyaca Waterfalls: Just a short drive from Uvita, this is a majestic double-tiered waterfall where you can hike, swim, and take in the lush jungle surroundings. Find out more
- Take a Whale Watching Tour: Uvita is famous for its whale watching tours, particularly from July to October and December to March when humpback whales migrate through the region. Most of these tours also include snorkeling. Book your whale-watching tour here
Safety Concerns by Season
- The sun is very powerful here. You really need to take sun protection seriously because it is so easy to get burned. I suggest wearing long-sleeved swim shirts in the water, stay in the shade as much as possible, and wear SPF 50+.
- It is very easy to get dehydrated with the strong sun. Drink a lot of water and replenish your electrolytes when you can. Most stores sell Gatorade or Powerade, which I find really helps here.
- Because it is so hot you might find that you get worn out a lot quicker than you are used to on hikes and with other activities.
- During the rainy season, rip currents and big waves are more common. Be careful about where you are swimming and obey any posted signs.
- You typically do not need a 4×4 rental car here, but if you are visiting in the rainy season and opt to stay at a hotel on an unpaved road in the hills above Uvita, you may want one.
- Keep in mind that regulations might not be what you are used to. For example, you can often visit waterfalls that have no barriers. During the rainy season, the rocks can be very wet and slippery. Use caution. People have died in the past in Costa Rica from slipping off waterfalls.
- As I mentioned above, mosquitos are worse during the rainy season and Uvita is notorious for having a lot of mosquitos. The mosquitos in Costa Rica can carry all sorts of illnesses such as Dengue and Zika, so load up on that bug spray!
Our Opinion on Visiting Uvita
I think Uvita is great no matter what time of year you visit.
This town gets busy in the dry season, but it is not nearly as hectic as some other towns. So, I think it really isn’t too bad to visit during that time of year. You just need to keep in mind that the roads to Uvita might be busy and that if you plan to take day trips to places like Manuel Antonio National Park you will need to book early.
For me, the ideal time to visit is between May and July (but I know that doesn’t help all of your looking to escape the cold in the winter). I love that everything turns lush and green again. I also love that tourism goes down. Personally, I don’t mind the afternoon rain showers. It is a great excuse to take a nap or curl up with a book for a few hours.
The biggest negative in my opinion about the rainy season is the humidity. This area gets so humid and I hate that nothing ever dries. It is especially annoying if you are traveling with a limited supply of clothing and everything starts to get damp and smell. Yuck!
September is of course the best time for whale watching, but the bad weather can definitely get in the way of fully enjoying that.
Check out our Complete Guide to Uvita, Costa Rica for more info on the best hotels, restaurants, weather, etc.
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🚗 Should I rent a car in Costa Rica?
Having a rental car will give you the most flexibility when traveling in Costa Rica. This will also allow you to take fun day trips on your own.
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- You might also consider; shared shuttle services or private transfer services
🏄🏽 How can I book things to do?
We find that Viator tends to have the most comprehensive selection of activities with secure booking and good cancellation policies.
🍍 I’m overwhelmed with planning. Can you help?
Of course! I suggest joining our Facebook group for specific questions and head to our Start Here Page to get started planning.
✈️ What is the best way to book a flight?
Usually, we have the best luck finding great prices with Skyscanner. Check for flights to both San Jose Airport (SJO) and Liberia Airport (LIR).
🛏️ What is the best way to book my Costa Rica hotels?
We highly suggest Booking.com for hotel bookings and typically use VRBO for Costa Rica vacation rentals.
🗣️What is the main language in Costa Rica?
The main language in Costa Rica is Spanish. Most people working in tourism speak at least some English.
💰 What is the currency in Costa Rica?
The currency used in Costa Rica is the Costa Rican colón (CRC). However, the US dollar is widely accepted in most tourist areas
📞 What is the best way to stay connected?
An eSIM from Airalo is the easiest way to get 4G data while traveling in Costa Rica.
🌴 Is Costa Rica safe?
Generally, Costa Rica is considered safe for tourists. However, like any travel destination, it’s best to use caution and be aware of your surroundings.
🛂 Do you need a passport to go to Costa Rica?
Yes, Costa Rica is its own country. You will need a passport to visit.
Hi! We’re Thomas (the German) and Sarah (the US-er)
We met in Virginia, moved to Germany, and since 2016 we have lived in sunny Costa Rica.
It was a spontaneous decision to move here, but it was the best decision!
Now we spend our days roaming the country to bring you the very best in Costa Rica travel here on Costa Rica Vibes.
Sarah is the writer. Thomas is the one keeping it all together.
Want the whole crazy story?
Sarah McArthur
Sarah McArthur is the co-founder and main writer of Costa Rica Vibes.
She is originally from the United States but has lived in sunny San Jose, Costa Rica since 2016.
She has traveled all over the country and now considers herself a self-proclaimed Costa Rica travel expert.
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