December is one of the most popular and festive months to visit Costa Rica. It marks the start of the dry season, bringing sunny days, vibrant landscapes, holiday celebrations, and ideal conditions for beaches, wildlife, and adventure.
This guide explains where to go in Costa Rica in December, including the best places to visit, what to eat, what to pack, the right shoes to bring, and essential travel tips — fully optimized for SEO, high-intent searches, and featured snippets.
Why Visit Costa Rica in December?
December is perfect for travelers looking for sunshine, culture, and unforgettable holiday experiences.
Top reasons to visit in December:
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Start of the dry season
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Warm, sunny weather across most regions
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Festive atmosphere and local celebrations
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Excellent beach and wildlife conditions
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Ideal for Christmas and New Year travel
Average temperatures range between 75°F–88°F (24°C–31°C) depending on region and elevation.
Best Places to Visit in Costa Rica in December
1. Guanacaste Province (Best Beaches in December)
Guanacaste is one of the best places to visit in Costa Rica in December, especially for beach lovers.
Top beaches:
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Playa Conchal
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Playa Flamingo
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Tamarindo
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Papagayo Peninsula
Why Guanacaste in December: Dry weather, calm seas, and golden sunsets make it ideal for a holiday escape.
2. Manuel Antonio National Park
Manuel Antonio offers a perfect mix of rainforest, wildlife, and beaches in December.
Highlights:
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Sloths, monkeys, and tropical birds
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Well-maintained trails
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White-sand beaches surrounded by jungle
December’s dry trails make wildlife spotting easier.
3. La Fortuna & Arenal Volcano
December is an excellent time to visit Arenal Volcano, especially toward the second half of the month.
Best experiences:
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Hot springs
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Volcano hikes
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Waterfalls and rainforest trails
Cooler evenings and clearer skies enhance the experience.
4. Santa Teresa & the Nicoya Peninsula
Santa Teresa is one of the top surf and lifestyle destinations in Costa Rica in December.
Why visit:
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World-class surf conditions
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Yoga and wellness retreats
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Relaxed yet vibrant beach atmosphere
December delivers sunshine and consistent waves.
What to Eat in Costa Rica in December
December brings festive flavors and traditional dishes.
Must-try foods:
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Tamales (traditional Christmas dish)
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Casado
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Fresh seafood
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Tropical fruits like pineapple and papaya
Don’t miss local bakeries and holiday treats during this season.
What to Pack for Costa Rica in December
Packing for December is straightforward thanks to dry weather.
Clothing essentials:
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Lightweight, breathable clothing
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Swimsuits
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Light jacket for cooler evenings
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Hat and sunglasses
Best Shoes for Costa Rica in December
Comfort and versatility are key.
Recommended footwear:
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Comfortable walking sneakers
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Light hiking or trail shoes
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Sandals or flip-flops for beaches
Heavy waterproof boots are usually unnecessary.
Travel Tips for Costa Rica in December
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December is high season — book early
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Prices increase around Christmas and New Year
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Reserve national park tickets in advance
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Start activities early to avoid crowds
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Ideal month for families and holiday travelers
Is December a Good Time to Visit Costa Rica?
Yes — December is one of the best months to visit Costa Rica for sunshine, beaches, wildlife, and festive energy. It’s perfect for travelers seeking a warm and memorable end-of-year escape.
Plan Your Costa Rica Trip for December
At Know CR, we specialize in custom Costa Rica journeys, designed around the best destinations and seasons.
Whether you’re planning a holiday vacation, family trip, or luxury getaway, we create experiences tailored exactly to your travel goals.
