The dry season, roughly December to April, is the most popular time to visit Manuel Antonio: sunny days, calm seas and the busiest beaches. The green season, roughly May to November, brings afternoon rain, fewer people and the greenest forest, with September and October usually the wettest months. There is no bad time to come; it depends on whether you care more about sunshine or space.
The two seasons at a glance
| Dry season (about Dec to Apr) | Green season (about May to Nov) | |
|---|---|---|
| Weather | Sunny, hot, little rain | Sunny mornings, rain most afternoons |
| Crowds | Busiest, especially holidays | Quieter, except July holidays |
| Forest | Drier, some trees lose leaves | Lush and green |
| Ocean | Often calmer, clearer water | More swell, more runoff after rain |
| Good for | Beach days, boat trips, first surf lessons | Wildlife, photography, quieter park visits |
Weather in the tropics is never exact. Some Decembers are wet, and some Octobers have dry spells. Plan outdoor things for the morning and you will be fine in any month.
Dry season: December to April
This is high season. You get long sunny days, calm evenings and the best odds of clear water for snorkeling. The national park is at its busiest, so go when it opens.
Christmas, New Year and Easter week (Semana Santa) are the busiest times of all, with many Costa Rican families at the beach too. If you are coming then, book rooms and popular tours well ahead.
Green season: May to November
Mornings are often bright and clear. Clouds build after lunch, and a warm rain falls for an hour or a few. By evening it is often dry again. The forest turns deep green, rivers fill, and waterfalls are at their best.
- May to June: the rains start, usually gently. A good value time with fewer visitors.
- July to August: often a short drier spell mid-year. Local school holidays bring some family traffic in July.
- September to October: usually the wettest months. Some tours may be rescheduled after heavy rain. Quiet and very green.
- November: the rain begins to ease and the forest is still lush.
Best time for…
Wildlife
Any month. Monkeys, sloths and birds are here all year. The green season has more fruit and flowers and often very active animals in the mornings. The dry season has dry trails and easier walking. At ECOTICA, howler monkeys, sloths, toucans and scarlet macaws pass through the forest in every season, though they keep their own schedule. Read our wildlife guide for tips.
Beaches and snorkeling
Dry season, for calmer water and better visibility. In the green season, go to the beach in the morning. See our beach guide.
Surfing
Beginners often prefer the smaller days of the dry season. Experienced surfers like the more frequent swell of the green season. More in our surfing guide.
Whale watching
Humpback whales visit the Pacific coast in two periods each year, as groups from the northern and southern hemispheres migrate. Timing varies, so ask boat operators about recent sightings. Our ocean and boat tours page lists trips.
Rafting and waterfalls
The green season, when rivers run higher and waterfalls are full. Our adventure tours page has the options.
Quiet and value
May, June, September, October and November are the quietest months. You will share the park and beaches with fewer people.
Packing by season
- Always: light clothes, reef-safe sunscreen, a hat, insect repellent, sandals and closed shoes with grip.
- Dry season: extra sun protection and a refillable bottle. It is hot.
- Green season: a light rain jacket or umbrella, quick-dry clothes, a dry bag, and one more pair of shoes than you think you need.
Rainy afternoons at ECOTICA
A rainy afternoon in the rainforest is part of the experience. The sound on the leaves is something guests remember. Book a massage at the Jungle Spa, join yoga on the deck, or sit by the pool bar and watch the forest. Monkeys often move just before and after a shower.
A quick month guide
| Months | What to expect |
|---|---|
| December to January | Dry and sunny, holiday crowds around Christmas and New Year |
| February to March | Usually the driest and busiest weeks |
| April | Hot; Easter week is busy; the first showers may appear late in the month |
| May to June | Rains begin, often in the afternoon; quieter |
| July to August | Often a short drier spell; some local holiday traffic in July |
| September to October | Usually the wettest months and the quietest |
| November | Rains ease toward the end of the month |
FAQ
What is the best month to visit Manuel Antonio?
For sunshine, January to March are usually reliable. For fewer crowds with decent weather, late April, May and July are good choices. There is no bad month, only different trade-offs.
Does it rain all day in the green season?
Rarely. Mornings are usually dry and bright, and rain tends to come in the afternoon or evening. September and October are the wettest, with longer rains some days.
When is Manuel Antonio most crowded?
Christmas to New Year and Easter week are the busiest. Weekends in the dry season are also busy at the park and beaches, with local visitors joining travelers.
Is the national park open all year?
Yes, but it is closed on Tuesdays. Tickets are sold online in advance, and some trails can close after heavy rain. Check current hours before your visit.
Whenever you come, we will be happy to host you. Check availability and rates or send us your dates.
