Last updated: August 21, 2025
December in San Jose, Costa Rica brings a delightful blend of warm temperatures and vibrant, rainy days. With maximum highs reaching 28°C (82°F) and a cozy average of 24°C (75°F), visitors can enjoy comfortable weather ideal for exploring the city’s rich culture. However, be prepared for the rain—with 212 mm (8.3 in) of precipitation spread across 27 days, the lush landscapes are at their most vibrant. Coupled with a humidity level of 70%, December offers an authentic tropical experience, making it a unique time to soak in the beauty of this Central American gem.
In December, San Jose, Costa Rica, greets visitors with pleasant temperatures that reflect the region's inviting climate. The month typically starts with a minimum of 20°C (68°F), providing a lovely foundation for the daytime warmth, while average daytime temperatures settle comfortably around 24°C (75°F). With a peak reaching up to 28°C (82°F), December's temperatures mirror those of the preceding months, maintaining the consistent warmth that characterizes the region. This delightful weather not only enhances the allure of outdoor activities but also marks a festive period as the dry season begins, making it an ideal time to explore the city's vibrant culture and stunning landscapes.
December in San Jose, Costa Rica marks a transitional period as the region begins to shift from the heavy rains of the wet season to a drier climate. With 212 mm (8.3 in) of precipitation, December experiences a notable drop compared to October’s peak of 387 mm (15.2 in) and November’s 306 mm (12.0 in). This month sees rainfall on 27 days, indicating that while the downpours may begin to wane, frequent showers still grace the city. As the year wraps up, December paves the way for January’s return to a drier narrative, showcasing a gradual yet promising decline in precipitation that many residents and visitors eagerly anticipate. Overall, the month encapsulates a blend of lingering wetness paired with the hopeful hints of the sun emerging more frequently.
In San Jose, Costa Rica, December marks a notable shift in humidity levels, with an average of 70%—a slight increase from the drier months earlier in the year. As the rainy season transitions into the festive spirit of December, you can observe a trend where humidity peaks dramatically during the mid-year months of July and August, reaching 85% and 82%, respectively. The overall pattern reveals that the months from June to September maintain higher humidity, while the dry season, spanning from January through May, showcases lower levels. This seasonal fluctuation highlights December as a month of moderate humidity, combining refreshing breezes with warm temperatures, making it an inviting time to experience the city’s lush landscape and vibrant culture.
In December, San Jose, Costa Rica experiences a significant shift in its UV Index, dipping to 10, categorized as very high, with a recommended burn time of 15 minutes. This marks a slight decrease from the extreme levels seen in the preceding months, which consistently hovered between 13 and 14. As the year comes to a close, it's a reminder that while December offers slightly reduced UV exposure, sun safety remains crucial. Whether you're exploring the vibrant city or lounging in the sun, you'll want to stay informed about the UV levels. For more details, check out the San Jose UV Index.
UV Risk Categories
In December, San Jose, Costa Rica basks in a delightful 318 hours of sunshine, continuing a trend of abundant sunlight that defines the region's climate. As the year draws to a close, December shines brightly, contributing to an overall increase in daylight that begins with January's 258 hours. February and March peak at 298 and an impressive 332 hours, showcasing the consistently sunny disposition of the region. Even as the rainy season stretches into late spring, the sunshine remains generous, maintaining over 290 hours for most of the year. This trend not only highlights San Jose's appeal for outdoor enthusiasts but also sets a vibrant backdrop for festive celebrations that illuminate the holiday spirit. Whether you're soaking in the sun at a local café or exploring the lush surroundings, December’s warm glow invites both locals and visitors to embrace the joy of the season.
In December, San Jose, Costa Rica experiences a 42% chance of sunny weather, providing a promising start to the dry season. This statistic marks a notable increase compared to the preceding months, particularly when compared to the damp months of June and July, which saw only 17% and 19% chances of sunshine, respectively. As the year draws to a close, December stands out with its moderate likelihood of clear skies, making it a delightful time for visitors seeking warmth and outdoor activities. This upward trend in sunny days, especially when juxtaposed against the significantly lower probabilities earlier in the year, reinforces December as an ideal choice for those looking to bask in some Costa Rican sunshine.
In San Jose, Costa Rica, daylight duration experiences subtle yet noticeable shifts throughout the year. During the initial months of the year—January and February—the city enjoys approximately 11 hours of daylight. As spring approaches in March, the days begin to lengthen, reaching up to 12 hours and remaining consistent through the summer months. This prolonged daylight continues until October, when it gradually tapers back to 11 hours, echoing the patterns seen at the year's start. The twilight of November and December marks a return to shorter days, reinforcing the rhythm of nature’s cycle in this vibrant locale. Overall, the daylight trends highlight a delightful balance of consistent illumination that captures the essence of San Jose's tropical climate.
As December unfolds in San Jose, Costa Rica, the average wind speed picks up slightly to 5.3 m/s (12 mph), creating a refreshing backdrop to the festive season. This marks a noticeable increase from the calmer winds of October and August, which dip to 2.6 m/s (6 mph) and 3.0 m/s (7 mph), respectively. The breezy conditions in December not only mimic the lively atmosphere of the holidays but also reflect a trend where wind speeds tend to rise in the months leading up to the end of the year. November also shows a rebound with winds at 4.6 m/s (10 mph), setting the stage for a breezier December. This seasonal shift offers a perfect blend of warmth and wind, enhancing the charm of San Jose during this vibrant time.
Weather in San Jose varies notably across the year, with each month offering distinct climate conditions. This page compares December’s weather to other months in San Jose, focusing on differences in temperature, rainfall, humidity, and UV levels.
In comparing the weather of December and January, we see some notable differences. December experiences slightly warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 20°C (69°F) and a maximum of 28°C (82°F), while January has a similar minimum at 20°C (68°F) but a slightly cooler maximum of 27°C (82°F). Precipitation levels also differ, with December receiving more rainfall at 212 mm (8.3 in) over 27 days, compared to January's 148 mm (5.8 in) spread over 22 days. Additionally, January tends to be less humid, with humidity levels at 66% compared to December's 70%. For more detailed information about January's weather, you can visit San Jose weather in January.
December and February feature similar temperature ranges, with minimums around 20°C (68-20°F), averages at 24°C (75-76°F), and maximums peaking at 28°C (82-83°F). However, December is notably wetter, recording 212 mm (8.3 in) of precipitation over 27 days, compared to February's 96 mm (3.8 in) across 20 days. Additionally, humidity levels in December are higher at 70%, while February enjoys a slightly drier climate with 64% humidity. For a more detailed look at weather patterns, you can check out San Jose weather in February.
December and March exhibit relatively similar temperatures, with both months showing an average of 24°C (75°F). However, December tends to experience slightly lower minimum temperatures at 20°C (69°F) compared to March’s minimum of 21°C (69°F). While both months have high maximum temperatures around 28°C (82°F to 83°F), December is characterized by significantly higher rainfall, accumulating 212 mm (8.3 in) over 27 days, versus March's 102 mm (4.0 in) of precipitation across 23 days. Additionally, humidity levels are higher in December at 70%, whereas March sees a decrease to 63%. For more details on March weather, you can visit San Jose weather in March.
In December, temperatures range from a minimum of 20°C (69°F) to a maximum of 28°C (82°F), averaging around 24°C (75°F), accompanied by significant precipitation of 212 mm (8.3 in) spread over 27 days. This month also experiences higher humidity levels at 70%. In contrast, April sees slightly warmer temperatures with a minimum of 22°C (71°F), an average of 26°C (78°F), and a maximum of 30°C (87°F). Precipitation in April drops to 75 mm (2.9 in) over 19 days, and humidity decreases to 63%. For more specifics on April weather, you can check out San Jose weather in April.
In December, the weather features mild temperatures with a minimum of 20°C (69°F) and an average of 24°C (75°F), peaking at 28°C (82°F). However, this month also brings significant rainfall, with 212 mm (8.3 in) of precipitation spread over 27 days and humidity levels around 70%. In contrast, May experiences slightly warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 22°C (73°F), an average of 26°C (78°F), and a maximum of 30°C (85°F). The precipitation increases to 297 mm (11.7 in) over 28 days, but the humidity drops to 63%. For more detailed information, check out San Jose weather in May.
In December, the weather features a warm range of temperatures, with a minimum of 20°C (69°F) and an average of 24°C (75°F), peaking at 28°C (82°F). However, it is also quite rainy, experiencing 212 mm (8.3 in) of precipitation over 27 days, accompanied by a humidity level of 70%. In contrast, June brings slightly higher temperatures, with a minimum of 23°C (73°F), an average of 25°C (78°F), and a maximum of 29°C (85°F). June also sees increased rainfall, with 337 mm (13.3 in) of precipitation spread over 30 days and a humidity level of 74%. For a more detailed look at the weather, you can check out San Jose weather in June.
When comparing the weather in December and July, notable differences emerge in both temperature and precipitation. December typically experiences slightly cooler temperatures, with an average of 24°C (75°F) and a minimum of 20°C (69°F), while July sees a marginally warmer average of 25°C (77°F) and a minimum of 22°C (73°F). However, July also brings increased precipitation, with an average of 270 mm (10.6 in) over 30 days, compared to December's 212 mm (8.3 in) spread over 27 days. Additionally, humidity levels are higher in July at 85%, compared to December's 70%. For more details on July weather, you can check out San Jose weather in July.
In December, the weather tends to be warm but slightly cooler than in August, with an average temperature hovering around 24°C (75°F). Rainfall is prevalent in both months, though December experiences a bit less precipitation at 212 mm (8.3 in) compared to 286 mm (11.2 in) in August. Additionally, December has a slightly lower humidity level at 70%, while August sees humidity rise to 82%. For a more detailed overview, you can check San Jose weather in August. Overall, both months are characterized by warm temperatures and frequent rain, but August tends to be warmer and wetter.
In December, the weather is generally milder than in September, with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of 20°C (69°F) to a maximum of 28°C (82°F). However, December sees quite a bit of rainfall, totaling 212 mm (8.3 in) over 27 days, contributing to a humidity level of around 70%. In contrast, September is slightly warmer, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 22°C (73°F) to a maximum of 29°C (84°F). This month also experiences heavier rainfall, with 272 mm (10.7 in) spread over 29 days and a higher humidity level at 80%. For more details, check out San Jose weather in September.
In comparing the weather of December and October, we observe notable differences in temperature and precipitation patterns. December experiences slightly lower temperatures, with averages ranging from a minimum of 20°C (69°F) to a maximum of 28°C (82°F), while October tends to be warmer, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 22°C (72°F) to a maximum of 28°C (83°F). However, October sees significantly higher rainfall, with total precipitation reaching 387 mm (15.2 in) across 28 days, compared to December's 212 mm (8.3 in) over 27 days. Additionally, October's humidity level is higher at 79%, compared to December's 70%. For more insights about San Jose's October weather, you can check this link: San Jose weather in October.
When comparing the weather in December to November, we see that December experiences slightly lower minimum temperatures, with a minimum of 20°C (69°F) compared to November's 22°C (72°F). Both months have similar average and maximum temperatures, remaining steady at around 24°C (75°F) and 28°C (82°F), respectively. However, December is characterized by significantly lower precipitation, with 212 mm (8.3 in) over 27 days, in contrast to November's 306 mm (12.0 in) over 28 days. Additionally, humidity levels in December are lower at 70%, compared to a more humid November at 79%. For a deeper understanding of the November climate, you can visit San Jose weather in November.
As December unfolds in San Jose, the weather brings a noticeable shift compared to earlier months. With average temperatures hovering around a comfortable 24°C (75°F) and a notable increase in humidity at 70%, residents and visitors alike will feel a distinct tropical ambiance. However, this month also marks the peak of the rainy season, with precipitation occurring on approximately 27 days, leading to a total of 212 mm (8.3 in) of rain, making it one of the wettest months of the year. This blend of warmth and rain creates a unique, lush environment, perfect for those looking to experience the vibrant beauty of Costa Rica. For a deeper dive into the climate patterns that shape this dynamic region, visit San Jose Climate.