April is one of the best times to visit Costa Rica. The weather in Costa Rica in April is warm, sunny and mostly dry, perfect for beaches, hiking and wildlife tours.
The Pacific coast enjoys bright, clear days, while the Caribbean sees a mix of sun and occasional clouds. You’ll find calm waters, lush green landscapes and fewer crowds. With the right plans, you can make the most of every morning and afternoon. April gives you the best balance of dry season comfort and tropical adventure.
April Weather in Costa Rica at a Glance
- Average Temperature: Around 28–34°C (82–93°F)
- Rain: Mostly dry early in the month, with brief showers possible later
- Best For: Beaches, hiking, catamaran trips and wildlife spotting
- Crowds: Busy during Semana Santa, then taper off for a quieter experience
Costa Rica Weather in April for Travelers
April is one of the best months to go to Costa Rica. April is a great time to visit Costa Rica because the weather is warm, sunny and great for many things. But things can be different depending on where you are. Knowing these differences will help you plan the best trip.
Pacific Coast Weather
- Dry and sunny: Most of April stays bright and clear
- Daytime highs: 30–35°C (86–95°F)
- Evenings: Warm and comfortable
- Rain: Rare early in the month, brief showers possible late April
- Perfect for: Surfing, snorkeling, catamaran trips and relaxing on the beach
Popular spots like Tamarindo, Jaco, Manuel Antonio and Nosara enjoy ideal conditions for outdoor fun and water activities throughout the month.
If you are thinking about getting out on the water while the Pacific coast is calm and sunny, read the guide to plan your catamaran adventure in Costa Rica and see which tours fit your travel style best.
Caribbean Coast Weather
- Warm and humid: Typical of the region
- Temperatures: 27–31°C (81–88°F)
- Rain: Short, occasional showers, with plenty of sun
- Best for: Wildlife tours, kayaking and exploring national parks
Destinations like Puerto Viejo and Tortuguero stay enjoyable for outdoor activities even with brief rain, making April a great time to experience the Caribbean coast.
Inland and Highland Areas
- Milder temperatures: 20–28°C (68–82°F)
- Mornings: Cool and perfect for hiking and volcano visits
- Afternoons: Clouds may bring light showers, more likely late in the month
- Best for: Nature tours, birdwatching and adventure activities
Areas like Arenal, La Fortuna, Monteverde and the Central Valley offer comfortable conditions.They are exploring forests, volcanoes and wildlife throughout April.
April Temperature Trends in Costa Rica from 2020 to 2024
From 2020 to 2024, Costa Rica’s April weather remained warm and largely dry. Marking the final month of the dry season. Daytime highs typically ranged between 28°C and 34°C with most regions holding steady around 30°C to 32°C. Nighttime lows were mild, averaging 19°C to 24°C, creating comfortable evenings for both coastal and inland areas.
Across this five year span, no significant temperature shifts were recorded, showing consistent and predictable tropical conditions. These stable trends make April ideal for beach activities, outdoor adventures, hiking and wildlife tours. They offer travelers a reliable window of sunshine and pleasant weather throughout the country.
Discover the best time to visit Costa Rica and enjoy ideal weather, vibrant beaches and top outdoor adventures throughout the year.
Catamaran Tours in April
April is one of the best months for catamaran tours along Costa Rica’s Pacific coast. The weather in Costa Rica in April is warm and mostly sunny, making mornings perfect for smooth sailing. Catamarans are stable and spacious, keeping passengers comfortable even if a brief afternoon shower occurs.
Morning departures are ideal because the water is calm and visibility is excellent. Travelers may spot dolphins, sea turtles or playful whales. While enjoying snorkeling, photography or relaxing on deck.
With Boat Trips Club, you can choose private tours for a quiet experience or join a shared tour for a social adventure. Booking with experienced operators ensures a safe and memorable sailing experience in April.
Treat yourself to luxury on the water and book your private deluxe catamaran charter to enjoy a day of sun, snorkeling, open bar and personalized service just for you.
Outdoor and Beach Activities & Events in April
April is one of the best times for you to explore Costa Rica. The weather in Costa Rica in April is sunny, warm and mostly dry, perfect for hitting the beach or enjoying water activities. You can swim, surf or relax on Tamarindo, Playa Conchal, Playa Samara and Manuel Antonio or hop on a catamaran tour, go snorkeling, paddleboarding or take a sunset cruise.
If you like to do things that are exciting, you can hike up Arenal or Poas volcanoes, look for waterfalls or zip-line through the Monteverde Cloud Forest. You can hike, kayak and see animals in Manuel Antonio, Tortuguero and Santa Rosa. Palo Verde and Monteverde are great places to see birds and enjoy the beautiful views.
If Manuel Antonio is on your route, explore top attractions in Manuel Antonio and make the most of your time there.
Top Events and Celebrations in April
- Throughout Early April – Semana Santa (Holy Week)
Costa Rica celebrates Holy Week with religious processions, traditional music and local festivals. Coastal towns and inland communities alike host cultural events, making it a unique time to experience local traditions.
- April 11 – Juan Santamaría Day
National holiday honoring Costa Rica’s national hero, Juan Santamaría. Expect parades, civic ceremonies and cultural performances in San José and other cities.
- Throughout April – Surfing and Watersports Competitions
Beaches such as Playa Hermosa, Jaco and Dominical host surfing contests and watersports events. Visitors can participate or watch competitions and activities like kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding and kiteboarding remain popular along the Pacific coast.
Looking for the best ways to enjoy Tamarindo? Read more to find top catamaran tours, beach adventures and activities that will make your trip unforgettable.
Upcoming Events in April 2026
- Envision Art & Music Festival
Dates: April 17–19, 2026
Location: Uvita, Southern Pacific Coast
Highlights: A vibrant festival combining live music, visual arts, workshops and eco-conscious activities, attracting families, solo travelers and adventure seekers alike.
- National Craft Fair, San Jose
Dates: April 24–26, 2026
Location: San Jose
Highlights: Showcasing Costa Rican artisans, handmade crafts, traditional foods and cultural performances. A great way to immerse in local culture while picking up unique souvenirs.
- International Surf Festival, Playa Jaco
Dates: April 10–12, 2026
Location: Playa Jaco
Highlights: Professional and amateur surfers compete in regional contests. Visitors can enjoy beachside activities, workshops and local entertainment.
- Rainforest Wellness Retreats
Dates: Various weekends in April 2026
Location: Osa Peninsula and Monteverde
Highlights: Yoga, meditation and eco-activities in serene rainforest settings. Perfect for travelers looking to combine relaxation with nature exploration.
Enjoy the ocean with friends or meet new people. Book your shared catamaran adventure in Costa Rica for a fun day of snorkeling and wildlife spotting.
Did You Know?
In April, Costa Rica saw a strong uptick in tourism; about 231,678 international visitors arrived by air, a 4.6% increase compared to the same month the year before.
Key Things Travelers Need to Know About April Weather
When you are planning a trip in April it is better to know what to expect to make the most of your time in Costa Rica. The weather here is generally warm, sunny and perfect for outdoor adventures.
Sun and Rain
- Most mornings are sunny and clear
- Brief showers can appear late in the month
- Rain rarely lasts all day, so outdoor plans are easy to keep
Crowds
- High during Holy Week (Semana Santa) at popular beaches and towns
- Tapers off after the holiday for a quieter, more relaxed experience
Temperatures
- Warm coastal days, often 30–35°C (86–95°F)
- Evenings stay comfortable for walks, dining or beach relaxation
April offers a perfect balance of sun, warmth and fewer crowds for making the most of your trip.
Curious to learn more? Explore 20 fascinating facts about Costa Rica and discover its incredible biodiversity, rich culture and unique history.
Final Thoughts
April is a great month to go to Costa Rica. The weather in Costa Rica in April is warm, sunny and mostly dry. It makes it great for beaches, national parks and other outdoor activities. You can easily visit volcanoes, waterfalls and cloud forests. You can also go on wildlife tours without worrying about the rain. Local festivals and cultural events also make your trip more special.
By planning activities around the weather, you can make the most of your trip to Costa Rica. From catamaran tours to surfing and rainforest hikes, April is ideal for both adventure and relaxation.
Experience Costa Rica from the sea this June with a catamaran tour. Relax under the sun, see dolphins and turtles and enjoy calm waters before the afternoon showers. Message us on WhatsApp to book your adventure today.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is April a good month to travel to Costa Rica?
Yes. April is warm, sunny and mostly dry. It is ideal for beaches, outdoor adventures and wildlife tours.
Where are the best beaches in April?
The Pacific coast is ideal, with Tamarindo, Jaco, Manuel Antonio and Nosara offering sunny mornings, calm waters and perfect conditions for swimming, surfing or catamaran trips.
Does it rain a lot in inland areas in April?
Not really. Arenal, Monteverde and the Central Valley stay mostly dry in the mornings, with only light afternoon showers. Perfect for hiking, volcano visits and wildlife tours.
Is Costa Rica expensive in April?
April is still part of the dry season, so prices can be higher than in the rainy season. Booking early can help secure better rates.