Costa Rica February Holidays

It was Christopher Columbus who coined the name ‘Rich Coast' as he surveyed Costa Rica’s Caribbean shores, and you’ll be inclined to agree after exploring the infinite beaches and pristine rainforests of this small Central American country. Running down the middle are mountains peppered with gently smoking volcanoes and magical cloud forests populated by an unreal profusion of birds, including the magnificent quetzal. Costa Rica February holidays are, quite literally, paradise for nature lovers. Along with the dense virgin rainforests, with their exceptional biodiversity, there are vast sandy beaches where turtles come to breed and clear waters teeming with colourful fish. Add hot springs, thrilling jungle zip wires and luxurious eco hotels, and ’Pura Vida’ (as the locals say). This uplifting slogan is much more than merely a ubiquitous greeting; it’s a way life for Ticos (Costa Rican natives) and embodies their laid-back, positive attitude. Allow this sunny disposition to rub off on you during Costa Rica February holidays, as you leave behind the less desirable winter weather of the UK. February sits slap-bang in the middle of the country’s dry season, with temperatures hovering in the mid-30s, blue skies and (hopefully) not a raincloud in sight – in our humble opinion, you can’t get much more pura vida than that.

Costa Rica february holiday ideas

A few suggestions to get the holiday planning process started

Our Costa Rica holiday collections

Discover different ways to explore Costa Rica

Costa Rica February Holidays Guide

Practical advice and inspiration to help you prepare for your holiday

What can you expect on Costa Rica February holidays that you won’t find anywhere else?

The country is your oyster when it comes to Costa Rica February holidays, as the favourable Central American summer weather allows you to venture pretty much wherever you please. Generally considered one of the best times to visit the pura vida nation, February sits comfortably within the country’s main dry season. This period is characterised by 30 degree temperatures, minimal rainfall and gorgeous blue skies.

As a result, road trips are particularly suited to this time of year, with the dry weather offering optimal driving conditions and allowing for far-reaching exploration. Situate yourself behind the wheel and drive from San José to Arenal, or veer off the well-trodden track on a journey through the Guanacaste Province, between Arenal and Culebra Bay. Stay in sumptuous eco lodges along the way, which champion Costa Rica’s commitment to sustainability and largely operate off renewable energy sources.


Who are Costa Rica February holidays best for?

Anyone looking to escape the gloomy weather of the UK will feel completely at home during Costa Rica February holidays and the winter sun can provide an ideal antidote to any lingering winter blues. Sun-seekers can soak up more than their recommended daily dose of vitamin D on the beaches of both the Pacific and Caribbean coasts, while water babies can plunge beneath the emerald-blue waves.

If you’re travelling with your brood in tow, squeeze some wildlife watching and adventure activities into an action-packed February half term holiday to Costa Rica. The pocket-rocket of a nation was seemingly tailor-made to keep little ones entertained during family holidays, with its colourful cast of creatures and critters. Head out on night walks through the rainforest in Sarapiqui, behind an experienced local guide, observe sloths lazing among the thick forest canopy and lounge in the hot springs around the base of Arenal Volcano.

Couples looking for a romantic escape can choose to travel outside of February half term holiday dates and take advantage of a more peaceful off-peak season. Designed for active duos who enjoy the great outdoors, we can organise volcano treks, national park tours and surfing lessons, as well as some more sentimental experiences, such as couples spa treatments and candle-lit dinners. You can even put your teamwork skills to the test with a cooking class a deux, during which you’ll learn how to make some classic Costa Rican dishes, such as gallo pinto.


Special things to do during February holidays in Costa Rica:

- Road trip across the country following a tailor-made itinerary crafted by one of our travel experts, featuring all of your preferred highlights.
- Soak in the steamy and healing waters of the Ecotermales hot springs, heated by Arenal Volcano. To add to this already relaxing experience, the pools are set within the tropical jungle that surrounds the volcano, so you’ll be accompanied by a backing track of forest sounds.
- Don your chef’s hat and learn the basics of traditional Costa Rican cooking. You’ll be taught how to make some hearty and filling dishes by a local chef on a farm and, of course, have the chance to sample them afterwards.
- If you’ve always been tempted by the laid-back surfer lifestyle, we can organise private surf lessons during your stay, so you can try your hand at mastering the waves.
- Snorkel or dive in the marine life-filled depths around Isla del Cano, off the Pacific coast.

Related Ideas



100% tailor-made holidays

Understanding Your Needs

Our team of destination experts will get to know you and your unique requirements for your holiday

Personalisation

We work with you to build an ultra-personalised holiday itinerary with your choice of accommodation, experiences and activities

Our Services

All of our holidays include little extras designed to make a big difference to your trip, from fast-tracking you through airport check-in and security to our network of local Concierges