February is widely considered one of the best months to visit Costa Rica. With dry weather, warm temperatures, and excellent conditions across beaches, rainforests, and volcano regions, February is ideal for travelers looking for adventure, nature, and relaxation.
This complete guide covers where to go in Costa Rica in February, including what to eat, what to pack, the best shoes to bring, and essential travel tips — all carefully structured for maximum SEO performance and featured snippet potential.
Why Visit Costa Rica in February?
February sits in the heart of Costa Rica’s dry season, making it perfect for outdoor activities and first-time visitors.
Key reasons to visit in February:
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Consistently sunny weather
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Minimal rainfall
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Excellent visibility for wildlife and landscapes
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Ideal conditions for hiking, beaches, and adventure tours
Average temperatures range from 75°F–88°F (24°C–31°C) depending on elevation.
Best Places to Visit in Costa Rica in February
1. La Fortuna & Arenal Volcano
La Fortuna is one of the top destinations in Costa Rica in February, thanks to clear skies and excellent hiking conditions.
Top experiences:
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Arenal Volcano hikes
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Natural hot springs
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La Fortuna Waterfall
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Zip-lining and white-water rafting
February offers some of the best volcano views of the year.
2. Monteverde Cloud Forest
February is one of the best months to visit Monteverde, with cooler temperatures and clear canopy views.
Why Monteverde in February:
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Hanging bridges with better visibility
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Birdwatching (including quetzals)
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Cooler climate than the coast
Perfect for nature lovers and photographers.
3. Manuel Antonio National Park
Manuel Antonio remains a top choice in February for travelers seeking wildlife and beach time combined.
What you’ll see:
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Sloths and monkeys
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Tropical beaches
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Rainforest trails with ocean views
Dry trails make February ideal for walking and wildlife spotting.
4. Guanacaste Beaches
Guanacaste is at its best in February, offering dry heat and calm ocean conditions.
Best beaches:
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Playa Flamingo
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Playa Conchal
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Tamarindo
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Papagayo Peninsula
Ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and sunset views.
What to Eat in Costa Rica in February
February is an excellent month for fresh, local flavors.
Must-try foods:
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Casado (rice, beans, plantains, salad, protein)
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Fresh seafood (snapper, mahi-mahi)
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Olla de carne (traditional beef stew)
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Tropical fruits like papaya and pineapple
Don’t miss Costa Rica’s world-famous coffee, especially in mountain regions.
What to Pack for Costa Rica in February
Pack for warm days and slightly cooler evenings.
Clothing essentials:
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Lightweight, breathable clothing
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Swimsuits
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Hat and sunglasses
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Light jacket for Monteverde or evenings
Best Shoes for Costa Rica in February
Comfort is key for exploring.
Recommended footwear:
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Comfortable walking shoes or sneakers
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Hiking or trail shoes
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Sandals or flip-flops for beaches
Avoid heavy waterproof boots — conditions are mostly dry.
Travel Tips for Costa Rica in February
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February is high season — book accommodations early
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Start outdoor activities early to avoid midday heat
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Bring reef-safe sunscreen
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Rent a 4×4 if visiting rural or beach destinations
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Respect wildlife and follow park guidelines
Is February a Good Time to Visit Costa Rica?
Absolutely. February offers ideal weather, diverse experiences, and vibrant travel energy. It’s one of the best months for combining beaches, volcanoes, wildlife, and culture in one trip.
Plan Your Costa Rica Trip for February
At Know CR, we design custom Costa Rica itineraries based on the best destinations, seasons, and travel styles.
Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, adventure trip, or family vacation, we tailor every detail to you.
