Puerto Viejo weather is famously changeable — these are rough long-term averages, and conditions can shift several times in a single day. Treat them as a guide, not a guarantee.
| Temperature | 27°C / 21°C |
| Rain | ~350 mm — still wet, easing late month |
| Sea | Surf swells, ~28°C |
| Crowds | High over the holidays |
December is a lively, festive month. It is still one of the wetter parts of the year, but the rain often eases as the month goes on, and the town fills with holiday energy — music, visitors and a buzzing beach scene.
Northeast swells make December a favourite with surfers, and the famous Salsa Brava reef is at its best. Nights are the coolest of the year, which is a welcome change if you feel the humidity.
December averages around 350 mm, though it often trends drier toward the New Year. Expect a mix of showers and bright spells, and a sea that is more about surf than flat-water snorkelling this month.
Rain or shine, December keeps you busy:
The festive season is peak time. Expect the busiest crowds and the highest prices of the year, especially from Christmas to New Year — book your stay well in advance if you are coming for the holidays.
If you want atmosphere, surf and holiday energy, December is a great time — just book early and accept some rain. For calm, dry snorkelling weather, the veranillo months suit better.
December is festive, lively and surf-friendly, still wet but often easing late in the month, with the coolest nights and the biggest crowds. Book early, pack for showers, and come for the energy rather than flat-water beach days.
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