Things to Do in Costa Rica in July
July weather, activities, events & insider tips
July Weather in Costa Rica
Is July Right for You?
Advantages
- Green season pricing drops 30-40% compared to December-April, with hotels and rental cars significantly cheaper while quality remains identical. You're essentially getting high-season infrastructure at shoulder-season rates.
- The Pacific coast and Central Valley actually see less rain than you'd expect in July - typically quick afternoon showers rather than all-day downpours. Mornings are usually clear and perfect for activities, with rain arriving predictably around 2-4pm.
- Wildlife viewing peaks in July on both coasts. Sea turtles nest along the Caribbean and Pacific beaches, sloths are more active in the lush vegetation, and migratory birds start appearing. The rain brings everything to life without the December-April crowds scaring animals away.
- Fewer tourists means authentic experiences at popular spots like Manuel Antonio, Monteverde, and Arenal. You'll actually have trails to yourself, can book restaurants same-day, and locals have more time to interact rather than rushing through high-season crowds.
Considerations
- Caribbean side (Puerto Viejo, Tortuguero, Cahuita) gets genuinely wet in July with rain possible any time of day, not just afternoons. If Caribbean beaches are your priority, this isn't your month - the Pacific side is the better bet.
- Some unpaved roads to remote areas become challenging or impassable, particularly in the Osa Peninsula and northern zones. If your itinerary includes serious off-the-beaten-path destinations, you'll need 4WD and should build in flexibility for weather delays.
- Afternoon rain means you need to structure your days around weather patterns - early starts are essential, and you'll lose flexibility for spontaneous late-afternoon activities. That 4pm zip-lining tour you're eyeing? Probably getting rained out.
Best Activities in July
Cloud Forest Exploration in Monteverde
July is actually ideal for cloud forests because the mist and rain create the exact conditions these ecosystems need. The forests are at their most dramatic with fog rolling through the canopy, and you'll see more wildlife activity than in dry season. Mornings from 6am-11am offer the clearest conditions before afternoon clouds move in. The moisture brings out frogs, insects, and birds that you won't see in drier months. Temperature hovers around 18-22°C (64-72°F) at elevation, so it's refreshingly cool compared to the coast.
Arenal Hot Springs and Volcano Viewing
The rainy season actually enhances Arenal because clouds clear in early morning and late evening, creating dramatic volcano views with mist. Hot springs are more enjoyable in July's cooler evenings with temperatures around 22-24°C (72-75°F) rather than the intense dry-season heat. Rain keeps the surrounding rainforest trails lush and waterfalls flowing strong. You'll have better chances of seeing the volcano peak early morning (6-8am) or around sunset (5-6pm) when clouds briefly part.
Pacific Coast Surfing - Tamarindo, Nosara, Santa Teresa
July brings consistent swells to the Pacific coast with offshore winds in the morning creating clean conditions. Water temperature is a comfortable 27-28°C (81-82°F), and beaches are far less crowded than December-April. Rain typically holds off until mid-afternoon, giving you solid 6-8 hour morning windows. The combination of good waves, warm water, and empty lineups makes this one of the best value surf months. Beginners benefit from patient instructors who aren't rushing between high-season clients.
Manuel Antonio National Park Wildlife Watching
The park limits daily visitors to 600 people, and July sees roughly half the crowds of peak season, meaning better wildlife sightings and actual space on the beaches. Rain keeps animals active and easier to spot - sloths, monkeys, and toucans are all more visible in the lush wet-season vegetation. The park's microclimates mean you'll often have sun on the beaches even when it's drizzling in the forest trails. Morning entry between 7-9am gives you 4-5 hours before afternoon rain typically starts.
White Water Rafting on Pacuare or Sarapiqui Rivers
July rainfall pumps up river levels to Class III-IV rapids without reaching the dangerous high-water conditions of September-October. Water is warm at 24-26°C (75-79°F), and you'll raft through lush canyon scenery at its greenest. The Pacuare River in particular becomes spectacular with waterfalls cascading into the river. Rain during rafting doesn't matter since you're already soaking wet, and morning departures usually beat the afternoon showers anyway.
San Jose Cultural Exploration and Coffee Tours
When afternoon rain arrives, San Jose's museums, theaters, and covered markets become ideal destinations. July is coffee harvest off-season, which means plantation tours are less crowded and more educational - you'll see processing and roasting rather than just picking. The Central Valley around San Jose sits at 1,200 m (3,937 ft) elevation with temperatures around 20-24°C (68-75°F), offering comfortable escape from coastal heat and humidity. Rain typically arrives around 3-5pm, making morning and early afternoon perfect for outdoor coffee farm visits before retreating to city attractions.
July Events & Festivals
Fiesta de la Virgen del Mar in Puntarenas
This coastal celebration honors the patron saint of fishermen with a maritime procession where decorated boats parade through Puntarenas harbor. It's one of Costa Rica's most authentic local festivals with minimal tourist presence. You'll see traditional dancing, local food stalls serving fresh ceviche and arroz con mariscos, and genuine community celebration rather than performance for visitors. The festival reflects Costa Rica's Pacific coastal culture and fishing heritage.
Annexation of Guanacaste Day
July 25th celebrates when Guanacaste province chose to join Costa Rica rather than Nicaragua in 1824. The entire province, especially Liberia and beach towns, erupts in traditional celebrations with rodeos, folk dancing, marimba music, and massive quantities of traditional foods. This is your chance to see authentic Guanacasteco culture - think cowboy traditions, not beach tourism. Hotels book up in Guanacaste province, so plan accordingly if you want to experience this or avoid the area if you prefer quiet beaches.