My wife and I are planning a vacation in early-to-mid-November. We’re very interested in visiting Costa Rica, but we’re concerned about rain. We had a bad experience previously getting ‘rained out’ during a visit in Dominican Republic. Does anyone have thoughts on rain in Costa Rica in November?
We’re open to alternative suggestions at this time — we’re looking for a destination that is fairly easy from Los Angeles — we’ve considered the Mayan Riviera (Tulum, Playa del Carmen), but I think that Costa Rica is a bit more exotic and has more to do. Open to suggestions on other destinations – we’re looking for tropical, exotic, equal parts eco-adventure and relaxation. Trip length will be 1-2 weeks. We were considering Vietnam, but we’re tentatively planning an Asian vacation next Summer so we think we’d prefer to go somewhere else this time around. Thanks!
November is the tail end of the rainy season (May-Nov) and there is traditionally "significant" rainfall throughout the country. The rainforest areas will receive lots of rain making some of the road access difficult. The pacific side – Tamarindo, Coco, Nosara, Malpais, and Jaco – all receive significant rainfall.
Here’s a good link with an interactive map and monthly rainfalls. http://costa-rica-guide.com/travel/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=498&Itemid=702
If you can wait until after Thanksgiving, you’re hitting their summer and it’ll be much drier. Kendall and I went last year over xmas and ny for two weeks on the pacific side and didn’t get rained on.
You may want to consider the carribean which is drier but you do run the risk of hurricane season also, albeit unlikely. Playa Del Carmen is amazing. Beaches and water are nicer IMO. You can day trip to Cancun, Tulum, and Cozumel. If you dive, Cozumel and the cenotes are a must, but their is no surf.
Have a good trip B!
