Planning a surf trip to Costa Rica? Don’t sleep on the green season. While many travelers default to the dry season (December–April), those in the know are starting to catch on: May through September offers some of the best surf, most vibrant nature, and most authentic travel experiences in Costa Rica.
Here’s why this lesser-known window might be your ticket to an unforgettable surf retreat—and why “rainy season” is seriously overdue for a rebrand.
What Is Costa Rica’s Green Season?
From May to September, Costa Rica enters what locals call the green season. Yes, it rains—but not how you might expect. Think sunny mornings, afternoon jungle showers, and dramatic golden hour skies. It’s nature at full volume: everything is greener, quieter, and more alive.
In surf towns like Santa Teresa, this is when the rhythm slows down just enough to feel like you’re part of the landscape—not just passing through it.
1. The Surf Is Consistent, Clean & Uncrowded
This is the sweet spot for surfers, especially if you’re beyond the total beginner stage or looking to level up your skills.
- Consistent south swells hit the Pacific coast during this season, creating dreamy waves up and down beaches like Playa Hermosa and Playa Carmen.
- Smaller crowds in the water mean more time on waves and personalized attention from instructors.
- Warm water, glassy conditions, and less wind in the mornings = ideal for surf lessons or solo sessions.
“The waves during green season were better than any surf trip I’ve taken before. Plus, there were days I felt like I had the beach to myself.” – Chris, former guest
2. The Jungle Comes Alive
This is why they call it the green season. Costa Rica’s forests, wildlife, and coastline come to life in May–September:
- Expect lush greenery, waterfalls in full flow, and vibrant wildlife sightings
- Turtle nesting season peaks during the green months
- Sunsets after tropical showers are next-level — fiery, dramatic, unforgettable
-It’s a photographer’s dream and a nature lover’s playground.
3. A Slower, More Connected Vibe
Green season draws a different kind of traveler: adventurous, curious, community-minded. It’s less about the scene and more about the connection—to nature, to others, and to yourself.
At Shaka, this means:
- Smaller groups and more space to breathe
- Longer conversations around the dinner table
- More intention in how each day unfolds
“I came for the surf, but it was the people, the pace, and the peaceful energy that made me want to stay longer.” – Marissa, solo traveler
4. It Doesn't Rain All Day (We Promise)
Let’s clear this up: it doesn’t rain nonstop.
Typical green season days look like this:
- Sunny mornings (perfect for surfing and exploring)
- Cloud build-up and brief showers in the afternoon
- Clearing skies and magical evenings
-You’ll get plenty of beach time—just bring a light rain jacket and a flexible spirit.
5. It’s the Perfect Time for Digital Detox & Deep Reset
There’s something about being tucked into the jungle, with waves crashing nearby and monkeys in the trees, that resets your whole nervous system.
Whether you’re:
- Burned out from city life
- Working remote and need a change of scenery
- Traveling solo and ready for new energy
Green season offers the kind of soul-deep calm you didn’t know you needed.
6. Support Local, Travel Consciously
Traveling during green season supports the local economy in a more balanced way. You’re showing up during a time when small businesses, guides, and local farms rely more heavily on sustainable, year-round travelers—not just the high-season crowds.
And with fewer people around, your impact is gentler on the environment, too.
Real Guest Reviews from Green Season
“I came in July not knowing what to expect. It turned out to be one of the most peaceful and transformative weeks of my life.” — Amanda, New York
“I was a little nervous about the weather, but it honestly made the trip more beautiful. The jungle felt alive, the surf was amazing, and the people made it unforgettable.” — Luis, California
“Green season in Costa Rica felt like a secret I was lucky enough to stumble on. I’ll be back next year.” — Sophie, UK
Check out more on our TripAdvisor page → Click Here
Who Green Season Travel is Perfect For
- Adventurous travelers who don’t mind a little rain for a lot of beauty
- Surfers looking for consistent waves and uncrowded breaks
- Digital nomads seeking a scenic, slower-paced escape
- Solo travelers and couples wanting meaningful connection and community
- Nature lovers and photographers chasing epic light and wildlife
Final Thoughts: This Is the Hidden Season You’ll Want to Return To
Green season in Costa Rica isn’t just “okay if that’s when you can go.”
It might actually be the best time to visit—if you’re looking for something real, raw, and ridiculously beautiful.
If you’re ready to surf, connect, and explore during the most underrated time of year, we’ve got your spot waiting.
Explore our surf retreats HERE and start planning your green season adventure.
