Trade the Cold for Costa Rica’s Warmth and Beauty in March 2025

As winter drags on and frigid temperatures persist in the northern hemisphere, many people find themselves dreaming of sandy beaches, sunshine, and warm breezes. If you’re looking for the perfect destination to escape the cold, Costa Rica offers an ideal getaway. With average lows of around 75°F in March, this tropical paradise provides the perfect balance of warmth, adventure, and relaxation. Whether you’re a beach lover, nature enthusiast, or thrill-seeker, Costa Rica’s diverse landscapes and activities make it an unforgettable destination. For those seeking a stress-free retreat, all-inclusive Costa Rica resorts offer the perfect way to experience the country’s beauty while enjoying world-class amenities, dining, and excursions all in one place.

Why Visit Costa Rica in March?

March is one of the best times to visit Costa Rica. It falls within the country’s dry season, meaning you can expect plenty of sunshine, minimal rain, and perfect conditions for exploring both the coast and the interior. Unlike other tropical destinations that usually experience intense heat in dry seasons, Costa Rica’s climate remains comfortable, with warm days and pleasant evenings – the ultimate retreat for those escaping the cold.

While enjoying sunshine is reason enough to visit, springtime in Costa Rica offers so much more. From exciting outdoor adventures to cultural festivals, here’s why this time of year is truly special.

Perfect Time for Beach Getaways

Costa Rica is home to some of the most stunning beaches in the world. Whether you prefer the Pacific or Caribbean coast, you’ll find crystal-clear waters, golden sands, and lively coastal towns to explore.

Beaches

Tamarindo is a fantastic destination for those looking to enjoy surfing, lively beach bars, and breathtaking sunset catamaran cruises. For a mix of stunning beaches and incredible wildlife, Manuel Antonio offers the perfect blend of natural beauty and adventure, with its renowned national park teeming with diverse flora and fauna. Santa Teresa, a hidden gem on the Nicoya Peninsula, is known for its laid-back vibe, world-class surf breaks, and serene yoga retreats, making it a favorite among travelers seeking relaxation and outdoor adventure. On the Caribbean coast, Puerto Viejo stands out with its vibrant Afro-Caribbean culture, turquoise waters, and a unique blend of reggae-infused nightlife and tranquil beach escapes.

With little rainfall and warm water temperatures, March beach days are uninterrupted by bad weather, allowing you to enjoy sunbathing, water sports, and beachfront dining all day long.

Adventure Activities Are in Full Swing

For thrill-seekers, March is the perfect time to experience Costa Rica’s famous outdoor adventures. This time of year, trails are less muddy, visibility is better for water activities, and the rivers are still flowing for adrenaline-pumping experiences.

Adventure Activities

Zip-lining in Arenal or Monteverde provides an unforgettable experience as you soar above lush rainforests on some of the country’s most exciting courses. If you’re looking for an adrenaline rush on the water, whitewater rafting on the Pacuare River is at its best in March, with ideal water levels creating an exhilarating ride through breathtaking canyons and cascading waterfalls.

Surfing enthusiasts will find Nosara, Jacó, and Dominical to be prime spots this time of year, with consistent swells catering to both beginners and experienced surfers. For those who prefer exploring underwater, scuba diving and snorkeling in the Gulf of Papagayo offer crystal-clear waters and excellent visibility, making it easy to spot vibrant marine life, including colorful fish, sea turtles, and manta rays. Meanwhile, hikers will appreciate the cooler, drier conditions of Arenal Volcano National Park, where scenic trails lead to breathtaking viewpoints of the majestic volcano and surrounding landscapes.

Wildlife Watching

Costa Rica is one of the world’s most biodiverse countries, and March is an exceptional time for wildlife lovers. Many species are easier to spot due to the dry season, as animals gather around water sources and there’s less dense vegetation.

What You Might Encounter

In Manuel Antonio National Park, visitors can spot playful capuchin monkeys, howler monkeys, and the ever-charming sloths as they navigate the lush rainforest. Along the Pacific coast in Uvita, humpback whales migrate to Costa Rica’s warm waters, making March one of the best months for this unforgettable experience. Over on the Caribbean side, Tortuguero National Park provides a rare chance to witness leatherback sea turtles nesting along the beaches, a breathtaking natural spectacle.

Birdwatchers will find Monteverde Cloud Forest to be a dream destination, as this time of year offers excellent chances to see the stunning resplendent quetzal, one of the world’s most beautiful and rare birds. With clear skies and better visibility, now is the perfect time for nature photographers and wildlife enthusiasts to experience Costa Rica’s extraordinary biodiversity.

Festivals & Cultural Events

If you want to experience the country beyond its natural beauty, March is also a great time to immerse yourself in local culture, such as:

Envision Festival (Uvita) – A unique mix of music, yoga, sustainability, and community spirit, attracting travelers from all over the world.

Fiestas Civicas (Various towns) – A local tradition featuring bull riding (no harm to the animals), rodeos, parades, and dancing.

Semana Santa (Holy Week, Late March/Early April) – A religious and cultural event filled with processions, feasts, and family gatherings.

Attending one of these events offers a glimpse into Costa Rica’s lively spirit, traditions, and hospitality.

Enjoying a Stress-Free Trip

During peak travel season, it’s important to choose accommodations in advance. One of the best ways to enjoy your trip without stress is by staying at Costa Rica Villa resorts.

Book Now and Experience the Best of Costa Rica

Costa Rica is truly a dream destination. From its perfect weather to its thrilling adventures, stunning wildlife, and vibrant cultural events, this is the best time to visit for anyone looking to escape the cold, dark winters in northern climates.

Whether you prefer relaxing at your resort, hiking volcanoes, spotting sloths in the jungle, or surfing world-class waves, Costa Rica has something for every traveler.