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Costa Rica weather by month charts
Despite May being at the beginning of the rainy season in Costa Rica, showers are most common late in the day, giving visitors ample time to enjoy the great outdoors in the morning and usually well into the afternoon. Sunshine and refreshing sea breezes are in abundance at the shore. The Pacific Ocean is warm and perfect for scuba divers and surfers. From the waterfalls to the volcanic landscapes, the thick rain forest to the gently rolling hillsides, a multitude of adventurous things to do are always within grasp. Those looking for something extra special to see or do during a May visit have a nice selection of celebrations to join and sporting events to watch or participate in.
Although Costa Rica might be described as having its own weather, its 6 distinct climatic zones, from San Jose’s Central Valley to the North Pacific of Guanacaste, Puntarenas’ Central Pacific to the South Pacific, and the Caribbean to the Northern Zone, May is a month that’s a wet one. It’s in the rainy season, with Puntarenas averaging 7.8 inches of rainfall. The abundance of precipitation results in humidity readings in the 74-92% range. The average May temperature range on the central Pacific coast is 78ºF (low) to 89ºF (high). In San Jose and vicinity, May temperatures and moisture levels are lower, with average readings of 71ºF and 78% humidity. Wind speed does not deviate much and averages 6 mph. Sea surface temperature near Guanacaste and Puntarenas ranges between 82-85ºF.
Throughout the country on May 1, banks and businesses are closed on this national holiday that pays tribute to workers. In many big cities and small towns, members of trade unions march in parades and are cheered by bystanders who line the streets. One of the best known celebrations takes place in the city of Limon, on the Caribbean coast, where there are picnics, cricket matches and lots of marching and dancing in the street.

Image Source http://www.facebook.com/note.php?note_id=169628549760164
Also known as the Volcanic Tournament 2012, this annual competition among devotees of flying disks will be held in San Carlos, located in the Central Valley in Alajuela province. From May 3 - 7, 90 players from an assortment of countries will showcase their skills and compete for prizes and bragging rights. For both participants and spectators, it is sure to be an exciting experience.
Image source http://www.usaultimate.org/photos/2011-club-championships--day-1-round-2-highlights/
Across the country, the big and little towns with the name of San Isidro and parishes that have a church with that name celebrate this holy day in honor of the patron saint of agriculture. On May 15, local priests bless the animals, fields and crops, and the townspeople have street fairs and parades. There is lots of music and dance, with vendors offering a delicious choice of popular culinary specialties.

Image Source http://ticopedia.wikia.com/wiki/Iglesia_de_Coronado
It might not rain every day in May, but it’s good to be prepared. Pack a plastic raincoat or poncho and shoes that can withstand some puddles. At the Pacific shore, the heat is still on, and sunscreen and sunglasses should be part of the gear carried in a beach bag. Anyone who will be doing diving, rafting or just hanging out under a waterfall and wanting to take photos should have a waterproof camera. And if you expect to be in Costa Rica on its Labor Day, make sure you have what you’ll need - food, medicines, personal products, etc. - before that holiday since most businesses will be closed.
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When traveling to Costa Rica consider staying in a private vacation rental. They are usually much more spacious than a hotel room and a fraction of the cost. Costa Rica Vacation Rentals. |