Costa Rica
Best Time to Visit Occidental
Occidental, Costa Rica sits in the northwestern province of Guanacaste, a dry tropical zone with two clear seasons: dry (roughly December to April) and wet (May to November). The weather flips sharply, so timing depends on whether you prioritise sun-filled days or lower prices.
✦ Go in January or February for the best weather and manageable crowds, unless you'd rather save money and brave rain in May or November.
✅ Best months
January and February are ideal—sunny, low humidity, and crowds moderate outside Christmas. March also works well before Easter.
🔥 Peak season
December to March. Christmas, New Year and Easter weeks push hotel rates 30-50% above normal. Book six months ahead.
💷 Shoulder (best value)
May and November. Rainfall sporadic, not oppressive. Hotel discounts of 20-30%. Fewer tourists.
🌙 Quietest & cheapest
September and October. Heaviest rain (300mm+ monthly), many restaurants close. Cheap rates but poor beach conditions.
Occidental season by season
Spring (Mar–May)
Weather: 30-33°C, dry March, rain increasing through May
Crowds: high March–April, falling in May
Best for guaranteed sun before rains start
Summer (Jun–Aug)
Weather: 28-31°C, afternoon showers daily
Crowds: low except local holidays in July
Lush green, cheaper flights, but pack rain gear
Autumn (Sep–Nov)
Weather: 27-30°C, heavy rain, occasional storms
Crowds: very low
Cheapest rates, but limited activities
Winter (Dec–Feb)
Weather: 29-32°C, almost no rain
Crowds: high
Prime season—book early, pay premium
🎭 Events worth timing a trip around
Fiestas de Palmares (January): massive two-week festival with rodeos, concerts, and bull runs. Semana Santa (March/April): Easter week parades and processions, many locals travel to beaches.
🧳 What to pack
Bring a lightweight rain jacket for the afternoon showers typical November through May—they roll in fast and leave quickly.
Found your dates? Get your hotel briefing.
Room tips, the 14-day forecast for your exact stay, dining, transport and more — free for any Occidental hotel.
Researched & reviewed by the TripSage editorial team · Updated July 2026.