July in Manuel Antonio falls right on the rainy season, however, the month often experiences a brief drier period nicknamed the “little summer” in the first or second week of July. This lines up with Costa Rica’s school vacation, bringing families to enjoy activities in Manuel Antonio despite the chance of rain. So, let Epic Adventures tell you how is Manuel Antonio in July!
While tropical storms and lightning may occasionally cancel plans, the weather in July enables most adventures available during the dry season.
Early mornings typically start sunny before the clouds roll in by afternoon. Manuel Antonio’s climate means temperatures remain warm, avoiding a chill when showers pass through. With proper waterproof gear, visitors can comfortably explore beaches, trails, and wildlife sightings.
Compared to the dry plains of Guanacaste farther north, Manuel Antonio and the Southern Pacific region experience more rainfall in July.
Visitors planning activities should prepare for average temperatures between 72°F and 90°F with humidity reaching as high as 91% on rainier days. While afternoons have a greater chance of rain, mornings often stay dry for scheduling ocean and land excursions.
What to Wear and Bring in July
Packing for Manuel Antonio in July takes both sun and rain into consideration. Light jackets, windbreakers, and waterproof outer layers prepare for passing showers. However, bathing suits, sandals, and breathable clothing suit the warm temperatures and humidity.
Mornings lend themselves to beachwear before the clouds roll in, requiring an outfit change in the afternoon. Layers help adapt to the quickly changing weather.
Find more about this in our comprehensive packing list here.
Catching Waves and Wildlife
Being the heart of the green season, July attracts migrating humpback whales, dolphins, and other marine animals to Manuel Antonio’s warm coastal waters.
Early risers can spot dolphins or even whales during boat tours and morning beach walks. While turtle nesting peaks earlier in the year, several species still swim the Pacific waters year-round.
July also appeals to surfers with consistent swells and fewer crowds than the popular winter months. Beaches like Playa Hermosa and Esterillos offer beginner waves while more advanced surfers test breaks at Playa Espadilla. With whales breaching in the background, the surf and views create an iconic Manuel Antonio scene.
Birdwatching soars in July with a lot of food available in the biodiverse rainforests. Nature lovers may spot antbirds, trogons, or even the Resplendent Quetzal in the mountains near Manuel Antonio and Savegre. Of course, a variety of native sloths, monkeys, reptiles, and amphibians also inhabit the jungles and beaches.
Planning a July Vacation
Avoiding the crowds of winter and spring, July provides space to enjoy Manuel Antonio’s natural wonders. National Park passes rarely sell out except during the mid-month school break.
While cruise ships skip the month, hotels and tours operate year-round with exceptions for extreme weather. Domestic flights and shuttle services offer easy transportation across the popular coastline destinations.
Costa Ricans also celebrate an abundance of ripe passionfruit, papaya, and avocado thanks to the consistent rainfall.
Manuel Antonio’s local cuisine and markets overflow with these sweet and savory staples. The unofficial “little summer” offers the best of both worlds in terms of weather, prices, and produce.
With whale sightings, jungle treks, and beach days, July tempts with adventure minus the crowds. Proper preparation and timing around the rain leads to an affordable and memorable tropical getaway.
