Climate and monthly weather forecast
Puntarenas, Costa Rica

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The climate of Puntarenas

Located along the Pacific coast of Costa Rica, Puntarenas experiences a tropical wet and dry climate, as determined by the Köppen climate classification, presenting unique weather patterns throughout the year. Throughout twelve months, this city exhibits an average high temperature ranging from 31.6°C (88.9°F) in October to 34.6°C (94.3°F) in April, and an average low temperature fluctuating from 21.7°C (71.1°F) in January to 24.1°C (75.4°F) in May. As a coastal city, Puntarenas enjoys significant sea influence, with average sea temperatures varying from 27.8°C (82°F) in November to 29.4°C (84.9°F) in March.

Observing rainfall patterns, Puntarenas undergoes a pronounced wet and dry season. The peak of the rainfall period occurs between August and October, with the most significant rainfall, 296mm (11.65"), recorded in September. Remarkably, the number of rainfall days also hits its peak, 24.5 days, in October. Contrastingly, the driest month is February with a measly 4mm (0.16") of rainfall over 1.9 days.

The quantity of sunshine witnessed throughout the year also varies, from a daily average of 5.2 hours in June to 9.1 hours in February and March. It is noteworthy that daylight hours remain relatively consistent all year, ranging from 11.5 hours in December to 12.7 hours in June.

The best time to visit Puntarenas

When considering optimal times to visit Puntarenas, both February and March stand out. Not only does the average high temperature remain pleasant within 34.4°C (93.9°F) and 34°C (93.2°F) respectively, but the rainfall drops to a minimal 4mm (0.16") and 5mm (0.2"), making these months the driest. Concurrently, these are the months when sunshine hours register 9.1 hours daily, presenting opportunities for uninterrupted outdoor activities. With the sea temperature also falling within the comfortable range of 28.7°C (83.7°F) to 29.4°C (84.9°F), beach and water activities become enticing.

The worst time to visit Puntarenas

The period from May to October can attest to being the least attractive for visiting Puntarenas. From May, the onset of the rainy season manifests with heavy rainfall and the number of rainy days elevating considerably. September witnesses the most rainfall with an average of 296mm (11.65") over 24.3 days. Despite average high temperatures hovering around 33.1°C (91.6°F) to 32.2°C (90°F), the persistent rain could interrupt outdoor activities, thus diminishing the charm of the visit.

Spring weather in Puntarenas

Spring in Puntarenas, typically from March to May, suggests a gradual increase in the average low temperature, rising from 22.9°C (73.2°F) to 24.1°C (75.4°F). While March still offers low rainfall(5mm (0.2")) and maximum sunshine hours(9.1 hours), these soon give way to increase rainfall, hitting 204mm (8.03") in May. As the spring progresses, so does rainfall and number of rain days. Despite the changing conditions, the sea temperature remains constant at a comfortable 29.3°C (84.7°F).

Summer weather in Puntarenas

Summer months in Puntarenas extend from June to August and tend to be the wettest. The temperatures exhibit a slight reduction with the average high temperatures cooling down to 32.2°C (90°F). Meanwhile, the average low temperature maintains around 23.2°C (73.8°F) in both July and August. Although June records 5.2 hours of sunshine daily, the lowest in a year, it starts increasing gradually from July. Meanwhile, the average sea temperatures float around 28.8 to 29°C (84.2°F).

Autumn weather in Puntarenas

Autumn in Puntarenas, stretching from September to November, presents a gradual fall in high temperatures from 31.9°C (89.4°F) in September to 31.8°C (89.2°F) in November. The average low temperature also witnesses a slight decrease from 23.1°C (73.6°F) to 22.8°C (73°F) within these months. In terms of rainfall, while the figure remains high at 296mm (11.65") in September, it begins a descent heading into November that records 132mm (5.2").

Winter weather in Puntarenas

As Puntarenas approaches the winter season from December to February, there is a drop in both rainfall figures and the frequency of rain days. The average high temperature during winter ranges from 33.5°C (92.3°F) in December to 32.2°C (90°F) in February, providing a warm winter experience. Correspondingly, the average low temperature reduces from 22.1°C (71.8°F) in December to a minimum yearly value of 21.7°C (71.1°F) in January. As winter progresses, sunshine hours increase from 7.5 hours in December to reach a peak of 9.1 hours in February.

Weather in January

Puntarenas, Costa Rica, dwells in the warm embrace of tropical climates, starting with January. Days are predominantly sunny, averaging 8.5 hours of sunshine, creating an inviting setting for outdoor activities. The city enjoys a pleasant combination of warmth and relatively low precipitation. Weather in January »

Weather in February

As February arrives, Puntarenas transitions subtly from January, maintaining its sun-kissed days and warmth. A slight increase in sea temperature invites beachgoers to savor the soothing waters. The month features marginally greater temperatures, with daytime temps peaking at an alluring 34.4°C (93.9°F). Weather in February »

Weather in March

March in Puntarenas delivers more sunny days and a marginal spike in rainfall, yet the weather remains largely dry. As spring unfolds, the city sees marginally longer daylight hours. The warmth persists, with the highest temperature recorded at 34°C (93.2°F). Weather in March »

Weather in April

In Puntarenas, April signals a transition toward more rainfall. Still, the climate retains its tropical warmth and abundant sunshine. Lengthier daylight hours allow for more exploration and activities. The month sees Puntarenas’ temperatures plateau at a high of 34.6°C (94.3°F). Weather in April »

Weather in May

May brings substantial changes in Puntarenas' weather patterns, with a marked increase in rainfall and a subtle drop in temperature. The city's tropical climate becomes more pronounced, characterized by higher precipitation and mild temperatures. Weather in May »

Weather in June

June is characterized by a further intensification of the rainy season in Puntarenas. While the days maintain their warmth, evenings might warrant a light layer due to a slight decrease in minimum temperatures. Rainfall is at its peak in June, registering an average of 217mm (8.54"). Weather in June »

Weather in July

July's weather in Puntarenas mirrors that of June, with high rainfall and continued warmth. The temperature remains in comfortable ranges despite a slightly cooler ocean temperature. The value of rainfall drops to 176mm (6.93"), offering a mild reprieve from June's incessant showers. Weather in July »

Weather in August

Puntarenas in August continues to deliver consistent rainfall though it remains a pleasant tropical destination. The temperature holds steady while the length of daylight hours slides imperceptibly. August sees a slight uptick in rainfall, recording a high of 223mm (8.78"). Weather in August »

Weather in September

The weather in September still revolves around rainfall, as the wet season persists in Puntarenas. While there is a decrease in warmth, temperatures remain within comfy boundaries. Rainfall in September peaks at a notable 296mm (11.65"). Weather in September »

Weather in October

October in Puntarenas remains under the purview of the monsoon, with abundant rainfall, albeit less than September. Temperatures begin a slight, steady climb as the end of the rainy season nears. The average rainfall in October drops to 279mm (10.98"). Weather in October »

Weather in November

November in Puntarenas sees a considerable reduction in precipitation, signaling the close of the rainy season. Concurrently, temperatures and daylight hours remain fairly steady. The rainfall decreases substantially, falling to a much more manageable average of 132mm (5.2"). Weather in November »

Weather in December

In December, Puntarenas embraces drier weather, rounding off the year with warm days and comfortable nights. The rainy season officially concludes, bringing the city back to its characteristic low rainfall and longer sunny spells. Weather in December »
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Frequently asked questions

How much does it rain in Puntarenas?

In Puntarenas, Costa Rica, during the entire year, the rain falls for 163.5 days and collects up to 1600mm (62.99") of precipitation.

What is the driest month in Puntarenas?

February is the month with the least rainfall in Puntarenas, Costa Rica. Rain falls for 1.9 days and accumulates 4mm (0.16") of precipitation.

What is the month with the most sunshine in Puntarenas?

February and March, with an average of 9.1h of sunshine, are months with the most sunshine.

What is the month with the warmest sea water in Puntarenas?

March is the month with the warmest seawater, with an average sea temperature of 29.4°C (84.9°F).

What is the hottest time of year in Puntarenas?

April, recognised by an average high temperature of 34.6°C (94.3°F) and a low of 23.7°C (74.7°F), is Puntarenas's warmest month.

When are the longest days in Puntarenas?

June has the longest days of the year in Puntarenas, with an average of 12h and 42min of daylight.

What is the month with the least sunshine in Puntarenas?

The month with the least sunshine is June, with an average of 5.2h of sunshine.

What is the rainiest month in Puntarenas?

The month with the most rainfall is September, when the rain falls for 24.3 days and typically aggregates up to 296mm (11.65") of precipitation.

What time of the year is the coldest in Puntarenas?

In Puntarenas, October records the average lowest temperatures, peaking at 31.6°C (88.9°F) and reaching a low of 23.2°C (73.8°F).

When is the sea coldest in Puntarenas?

November is the month with the coldest seawater in Puntarenas, Costa Rica, with an average sea temperature of 27.8°C (82°F).

What is the month with the shortest days in Puntarenas?

December has the shortest days of the year, with an average of 11h and 36min of daylight.

Is there Daylight Saving Time (DST) in Puntarenas?

Puntarenas, Costa Rica, does not utilize Daylight Saving Time (DST). CST timezone is used throughout the entire year.

Average temperature
Puntarenas, Costa Rica

Average temperature - Puntarenas, Costa Rica

The warmest month (with the highest average high temperature) is April (34.6°C).
The month with the lowest average high temperature is October (31.6°C).

The month with the highest average low temperature is May (24.1°C).
The coldest month (with the lowest average low temperature) is January (21.7°C).

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Average rainfall
Puntarenas, Costa Rica

Average rainfall - Puntarenas, Costa Rica

The wettest month (with the highest rainfall) is September (296.1mm).
The driest month (with the least rainfall) is February (4.1mm).

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Average rainfall days
Puntarenas, Costa Rica

Average rainfall days - Puntarenas, Costa Rica

The month with the highest number of rainy days is October (24.5 days).
The month with the least rainy days is January (1.8 days).

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Average sea temperature
Puntarenas, Costa Rica

Average sea temperature - Puntarenas, Costa Rica

The best month for swimming (with the highest average sea temperature) is March (29.4°C).
The coldest month (with the lowest average sea temperature) is November (27.8°C).

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Average daylight / Average sunshine
Puntarenas, Costa Rica

Average daylight / Average sunshine - Puntarenas, Costa Rica

The month with the longest days is June (Average daylight: 12h and 42min).
The month with the shortest days is December (Average daylight: 11h and 36min).

The months with the most sunshine are February and March (Average sunshine: 9h and 6min).
The month with the least sunshine is June (Average sunshine: 5h and 12min).

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Puntarenas, Costa Rica

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