July: Lush Greenery and a Chance of Sun Breaks

July continues the rainy season, but the country’s landscapes are incredibly lush and vibrant, offering a unique and beautiful wedding experience. There’s also the possibility of a “veranillo” (a brief dry spell), which can bring some welcome sunshine.

Weather Through My Lens

Photographer’s Tip: The diffused light is still excellent for portraits. If you’re lucky enough to have a “veranillo” during your wedding, take advantage of the sunshine for some stunning outdoor shots. The contrast between the lush greenery and the blue sky is breathtaking.

• Central Valley: Gardens and haciendas are at their most vibrant, offering beautiful backdrops.
• Highlands (Monteverde, San Gerardo de Dota): The misty landscapes are incredibly romantic and atmospheric.
• Pacific Coast (Especially Central and South): While rain is more frequent, the scenery is stunning, and you might catch some incredible rainbows.

• Vibrant greenery: The rainy season brings out Costa Rica’s most vibrant landscapes.
• Peaceful wedding atmosphere: Fewer tourists than peak season create a more intimate and serene experience.
• Availability of vendors and venues: Easier to secure venues, photographers, and other vendors at more affordable rates.

• Rain Showers: Afternoon rain showers are typical, so plan your wedding schedule accordingly. Having a backup indoor space is essential.
• Humidity: The humidity can be high in coastal areas, so consider lighter, breathable fabrics for your dress and suits.

• Guests can enjoy a more relaxed and less crowded atmosphere.
• The lush landscapes are perfect for nature walks and exploring.

Season Fruit:

• Day of the Virgin of the Sea (Día de la Virgen del Mar): Celebrated on July 16th in Puntarenas with a parade of decorated boats.
• Annexation of Nicoya: Celebrated on July 25th, especially in Guanacaste.

• Weather Concerns: Rainy season with afternoon showers and the possibility of a “veranillo.”
  

• Tourist Season and Crowds: Moderate tourist season.

• Local Events or Holidays: Fiestas de la Virgen del Carmen and local patron saint festivals.

• Venue Availability: Easier to find availability and potentially better prices.

• Travel Logistics: Flights and accommodations are generally more affordable than peak season.

• Unique Local Touches: Incorporate local traditions related to the festivals or use local flowers and fruits in your décor.

• Guest Comfort: Advise guests to pack light clothing, rain gear, insect repellent, and comfortable walking shoes.

Check out other months’ wedding guides:

June: Lush Landscapes and Intimate Celebrations

June brings the heart of the rainy season, with lush landscapes, cooler temperatures (especially in higher elevations), and a quieter atmosphere for weddings. While rain is expected, the beauty of the surroundings makes it a unique time for a celebration.

Weather Through My Lens

Photographer’s Tip: The diffused light from overcast skies is excellent for portrait photography, creating a soft and even glow. Embrace the lush greenery and consider using colorful umbrellas as props for unique and fun photos.

• Central Valley: Offers beautiful gardens and haciendas that are especially vibrant during the rainy season.
• Highlands (Monteverde, San Gerardo de Dota): Cooler temperatures and misty landscapes create a romantic and ethereal atmosphere.
• Pacific Coast (Especially Central and South): While rain is more frequent, the dramatic skies and lush vegetation offer stunning backdrops.

• Lush and vibrant landscapes, with rainforests and waterfalls at their most beautiful.
• Intimate weddings with fewer tourists, creating a more personal experience.
• Cooler temperatures in the highlands, offering a refreshing alternative to the coast.

• Rainy Afternoons: Be prepared for daily rainfall, especially in the afternoons. Plan an indoor ceremony or provide umbrellas for your guests.
• Outdoor Venues with Shelters: Choose a venue with sheltered outdoor spaces to ensure your ceremony is still magical, even if it rains.

• Guests can enjoy a more relaxed and less crowded experience.
• The cooler temperatures in the highlands are comfortable for outdoor activities.

Season Fruit:

• Día de San Pedro: Celebrated in rural areas, this holiday features parades and community events.

• Morning ceremonies are generally recommended to avoid the afternoon rain.
• Be flexible with your schedule and take advantage of breaks in the weather.
• Capture the vibrant colors of the flora and the dramatic skies.

• Weather Concerns: Rainy season with daily afternoon showers. Plan for rain.
  

• Tourist Season and Crowds: Low tourist season, offering a more intimate experience.

• Local Events or Holidays: Día de San Pedro and various local festivals.

• Venue Availability: Easier to find availability and potentially better prices.

• Travel Logistics: Flights and accommodations are generally more affordable.

• Unique Local Touches: Incorporate local traditions and cultural elements into your wedding.

• Guest Comfort: Advise guests to pack light clothing, rain gear, insect repellent, and comfortable walking shoes.

Check out other months’ wedding guides:

May: Embracing the Green Season’s Lush Beauty

In this Costa Rica wedding May, you will know how this month ushers in the green season, with lush landscapes, fewer tourists, and more affordable wedding options. While it marks the start of the rainy season, the mornings are often sunny, offering beautiful opportunities for your wedding.

Costa Rica wedding guide May

Weather Through My Lens

Photographer’s Tip: The diffused light on overcast days can be incredibly flattering for portraits. I often use natural light and reflectors to create soft, romantic images. Embrace the lush greenery for stunning backdrops.

• Pacific Coast (Especially Central and South): While rain is more likely, the landscapes are incredibly vibrant, and you might catch some stunning post-rain sunsets.
• Central Valley: Offers beautiful gardens and haciendas, but be prepared for afternoon showers.
• Caribbean Coast: While not traditionally having a strong dry season, May can still see some rain here.

• More intimate weddings with fewer tourists.
• Lush scenery, with vibrant forests, waterfalls, and tropical flowers.
• More affordable rates for venues, vendors, and accommodations.

• Afternoon Showers: Be prepared for potential rain. Consider morning ceremonies or indoor options as a backup plan.
• Rain-Ready Venues: Choose venues that offer both indoor and outdoor options, such as resorts with covered terraces or garden pavilions.

• Guests can enjoy a more relaxed and less crowded experience.
• The lush landscapes are perfect for nature lovers.

Season Fruit:

• Labor Day (May 1st): Costa Rica celebrates with local festivals, parades, and community events.

• Morning ceremonies are generally preferred to avoid afternoon showers.
• Be flexible with your schedule to take advantage of breaks in the rain.
• Capture the vibrant colors of the flora and the dramatic skies.

• Weather Concerns: Start of the rainy season, with sunny mornings and afternoon showers. Be prepared for rain.
  

• Tourist Season and Crowds: Low tourist season, offering a more intimate experience.

• Local Events or Holidays: Labor Day parade might add local flavor.

• Venue Availability: Easier to find availability and potentially better prices.

• Travel Logistics: Flights and accommodations are generally more affordable.

• Unique Local Touches: Incorporate local flowers and fruits that are in season during the green season.

• Guest Comfort: Advise guests to pack light clothing, rain gear, and insect repellent.

Check out other months’ wedding guides:

April: Transition and Contrasts

April in Costa Rica offers a mix of sunny mornings and occasional rain, creating a unique atmosphere for a wedding. The changing light in April offers interesting photographic opportunities.

Costa Rica wedding guide April

Weather Through My Lens

Photographer’s Tip: The mix of sun and clouds can create dramatic lighting. I recommend being flexible with your schedule to capture the best conditions. Having a backup plan for rain is essential.

• Guanacaste: Still a good choice for beach weddings with more reliable sunshine than other areas.
• Central Valley: Gardens and haciendas offer beautiful settings, but be prepared for potential rain.
• Highlands: Cooler temperatures and stunning views, but rain is more likely in the afternoons.

• Stunning sunsets, especially on the Pacific coast, after the afternoon showers clear.
• The transition into the green season brings lush landscapes and vibrant colors.
• Reduced crowds in some areas as the peak season winds down.

• Rainy Afternoons: While mornings are usually perfect, afternoon showers are common. Be prepared with a backup plan for outdoor events.
• Booking Early: Due to the tail end of the high season, securing venues, photographers, and accommodations in advance is still crucial.

• Guests can still enjoy outdoor activities in the mornings.
• The lush landscapes are beautiful for exploring.

Season Fruit:

• Semana Santa (Holy Week): A major celebration with religious processions and local events. This can add a unique cultural element to your wedding week, but it also means larger crowds and potentially higher prices in some areas.

• Morning ceremonies are ideal to avoid the afternoon rain.
• Keep an eye on the weather and be flexible with your schedule.
• Capture the vibrant colors of the blooming flowers and lush greenery.

• Weather Concerns: Sunny mornings with increasing chance of afternoon showers. Have a backup plan for outdoor events.
  

• Tourist Season and Crowds: High season is winding down, but some crowds remain, especially during Semana Santa.

• Local Events or Holidays: Semana Santa (Holy Week) is a major event with religious processions and festivities.

• Venue Availability: Booking in advance is still recommended, especially for popular venues.

• Travel Logistics: Flights and accommodations may be slightly less expensive than peak season but still book early.

• Unique Local Touches: Incorporate Easter themes or local traditions related to Semana Santa if your wedding coincides.

• Guest Comfort: Advise guests to pack light clothing, rain gear, and comfortable walking shoes.

Check out other months’ wedding guides: