Best Time to Visit Tamarindo

Updated January 2025 • Planning Guide for U.S. Travelers

Choosing the best time to visit Tamarindo, Costa Rica depends on what you value most: perfect weather, fewer crowds, or the best travel deals. This guide breaks down Tamarindo’s seasons month by month so you can plan your 2025 vacation with confidence — whether you’re booking spring break, a summer family trip, or a winter escape.

🌴 Understanding Tamarindo’s Seasons

Tamarindo is located on Costa Rica’s North Pacific coast, where the climate is defined by two main seasons:

• Dry Season (December–April): Sunny skies, low humidity, and warm ocean temperatures.
• Green Season (May–November): Lush landscapes, afternoon showers, and fewer tourists.

Unlike other regions of Costa Rica, Tamarindo experiences less rainfall overall, making it a year-round destination.

☀️ High Season: December to April (Best Weather)

This is the most popular time to visit Tamarindo — and for good reason. Expect blue skies, daily sunshine, and temperatures between 85–92°F (29–33°C).

• Ideal beach and surf conditions with offshore winds
• Peak travel for Christmas, New Year’s, and Spring Break
• Higher nightly rates and limited availability

Best for: First-time visitors, families, retirees, and travelers prioritizing perfect weather. Many people escape the polar vortexes coming through the United States and Canada

Planning tip: Book your Tamarindo vacation rental 6–9 months in advance for January through March travel. Popular properties will fill up quickly. Additionally, flight prices can increase closer to arrival.

🌊 Shoulder Season: May & November (Best Balance)

Shoulder months offer an excellent balance between weather and value. Mornings are sunny, with brief afternoon showers that cool things down.

• Fewer crowds and better availability
• Lower rental rates than high season
• Green landscapes and waterfalls at their best. Check out our tours and excursions for some popular day trips to local waterfalls or extend your trip to central Costa Rica and popular towns like Arenal.
  

Best for: Couples, remote workers, and flexible travelers looking for value without sacrificing comfort. Check out some of our houses with dedicated work spaces.

🌿 Green Season: June to October (Best Deals)

This is the best time to find travel deals in Tamarindo. While afternoons may bring rain, mornings are often clear, and the town remains lively.

• Lowest accommodation prices of the year
• Excellent surf, especially for experienced surfers. Winds will turn in the afternoon
• Fewer tourists and a relaxed pace

Best for: Budget-conscious travelers, surfers, and repeat visitors.

📅 Month-by-Month Snapshot

🎯 So, When Is the Best Time to Visit Tamarindo?

• Best overall weather: January–March
• Best value: May, September, October
• Best balance: April and November
• Best for families: March, April, July

No matter when you visit, Tamarindo offers warm water, friendly locals, and a vibrant beach-town atmosphere year-round.