May Weather in La Fortuna, Costa Rica

Last updated: August 21, 2025

In May, La Fortuna, Costa Rica, offers a warm tropical climate, characterized by a maximum temperature reaching 34°C (93°F) and a comfortable average of 25°C (77°F). Visitors can expect the coolest nights with lows around 19°C (67°F), perfect for relaxing after daytime adventures. However, this month also marks a significant increase in rainfall, with a total precipitation of 308 mm (12.1 in), spread over approximately 25 wet days. Humidity hovers around 63%, enhancing the lush, vibrant atmosphere that makes La Fortuna a stunning destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

May Temperature in La Fortuna

In May, La Fortuna, Costa Rica experiences a delightful blend of warming temperatures and lush greenery as the region transitions into its rainy season. With minimums around 19°C (67°F), average highs reaching 34°C (93°F), and a steady average of 25°C (77°F), visitors can expect warm days that are perfect for exploring the vibrant rainforests and relaxing in the geothermal hot springs. This month marks a noticeable increase in humidity, invigorating the lush landscapes, but also bringing occasional afternoon showers. As May bridges the dry and wet seasons, it presents an ideal opportunity for those seeking a balance of sun and refreshing tropical rainfall, creating a captivating atmosphere for adventure and relaxation alike.

May Weather in La Fortuna: Daily Temperature Highs, Lows, and Averages

The chart illustrates May temperature patterns in La Fortuna, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends. In La Fortuna, May typically has an average temperature of {2}°C ({3}°F), with highs reaching up to {4}°C ({5}°F) and lows dropping to around {6}°C ({7}°F).
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec747575777776767676757574
Data source: Temperature data for La Fortuna generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
Choose your preferred temperature unit
The average of daily temperatures (24 hours) calculated across all days in the month.

May Precipitation in La Fortuna

May marks a significant shift in La Fortuna's climate, as the region experiences its peak rainy season. With a staggering 308 mm (12.1 in) of precipitation spread over 25 days, May stands out as one of the wettest months of the year. This is a dramatic increase compared to the lighter rains of earlier months, like April's 52 mm, emphasizing the transition into a lush, vibrant landscape. As the clouds gather and showers become more frequent, visitors can expect a more humid atmosphere, making it an ideal time for vibrant greenery and thriving wildlife. This burst of rainfall not only enriches the natural beauty of La Fortuna but also sets the stage for the months ahead, which continue to see substantial rain, peaking in October.

May Precipitation Trends in La Fortuna

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in La Fortuna, with values for each month alongside May’s data, which is highlighted for easy comparison. It shows the amount of precipitation, providing insights into how May’s conditions compare to those of other months. In La Fortuna, May typically receives around {2} mm ({3} inches) of precipitation spread over approximately {4} days.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec4218195230831414625729539116960
Data source: Precipitation data for May generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
Choose your preferred precipitation unit

May Humidity in La Fortuna

In May, La Fortuna, Costa Rica experiences a steady humidity level of 63%, consistent with the preceding months of March and April. This indicates a slight rise in comfort compared to the drier conditions at the beginning of the year, as humidity levels were 66% in January and gradually decreased through February. However, as the region transitions into the rainy season starting in June, humidity surges dramatically to 74% and continues to climb, reaching its peak in the summer months with levels around 85% in July. This trend highlights the increasing moisture in the atmosphere, setting the stage for the lush and vibrant environment that La Fortuna is renowned for.

May Average Humidity in La Fortuna

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in La Fortuna, with May’s data highlighted for easy comparison. It shows the fluctuation in humidity throughout the year, helping you understand how conditions vary by season. In May, average humidity in La Fortuna is approximately {2}%, offering insight into how humid the weather typically is during this month.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec66%64%63%63%63%74%85%82%80%79%79%70%
Data source: Humidity data for May generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

May UV Index in La Fortuna

As dawn breaks over La Fortuna in May, sun-seekers should prepare for another intense month in terms of UV exposure. With a UV Index of 14, May continues the trend of extreme exposure levels that began in January and peaked in April. Consequently, the burn time remains a swift 10 minutes, emphasizing the importance of sun protection throughout the month. Interestingly, the UV Index holds steady even as we transition into the early green season, indicating that despite potential afternoon showers, the sun's rays are still quite potent. For detailed insights into the UV Index trends and recommendations for sun safety, visit La Fortuna UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in La Fortuna for May

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for La Fortuna in May, representing the highest UV radiation level. The UVI measures the intensity of ultraviolet radiation from the sun, indicating the potential risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues. In May, the maximum UV index in La Fortuna typically reaches {2}, which falls under the {3} exposure category.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec111314151414141313141110
Data source: La Fortuna May UVI data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

UV Risk Categories

  •  Extreme (11+): Avoid the sun, stay in shade.
  •  Very High (8-10): Limit sun exposure.
  •  High (6-7): Use SPF 30+ and protective clothing.
  •  Moderate (3-5): Midday shade recommended.
  •  Low (0-2): No protection needed.

May Sunshine in La Fortuna

In La Fortuna, Costa Rica, May offers a delightful respite from the vibrant sunshine of earlier months, boasting an impressive 270 hours of sunlight. This marks a slight dip from April's peak of 320 hours, yet it remains comfortable as the region transitions into its rainy season. The consistent glow of sunshine during May reflects a broader trend, where the early half of the year shines brightly, with March leading the pack at 333 hours. As the calendar shifts towards the latter months, sunlight gradually wanes, but visitors can still expect a good mix of sunny days and refreshing showers, making May a splendid time to explore the lush landscapes and breathtaking waterfalls that define this beautiful destination.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in La Fortuna: May Highlighted

The May sunshine duration represents the total number of hours La Fortuna experiences direct sunlight during the month of May, excluding cloudy or obstructed periods. This chart compares the sunshine duration of May with the other months of the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec256h299h333h320h270h272h300h271h262h244h287h313h
Data source: La Fortuna May Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in La Fortuna During May

In La Fortuna, Costa Rica, the trend of sunny weather shifts notably as the year progresses. January kicks off with a respectable 34% chance of sun, peaking in February at 47%, yet by April, this has dwindled to 24%. As May arrives, the likelihood of sunny days takes a further dip to just 18%, marking it as one of the cloudier months. This trend continues into the following months, with June and July offering even less sunshine at 14% and 16% respectively. With a gradual decline in sunny spells, May is a reminder that the lush rainforest of La Fortuna often flaunts its beauty under overcast skies.

Percentage of Sunny Days in May in La Fortuna

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in La Fortuna throughout the year, with May highlighted. It highlights the variation in sunshine across each month and provides an overview of the typical frequency of sunny days, offering insights into how often La Fortuna experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec34%47%43%24%18%14%16%7%12%16%24%39%
Data source: La Fortuna May chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in La Fortuna in May

In La Fortuna, Costa Rica, the duration of daylight presents a fascinating rhythm throughout the year. From January to February, residents and visitors enjoy approximately 11 hours of sunlight, setting the stage for vibrant beginnings. As spring approaches in March and continues into April, daylight stretches to 12 hours, providing ample time for outdoor exploration and adventure. This trend of consistent 12-hour days continues through the heart of the rainy season from May to August, allowing for long afternoons filled with lush greenery and stunning landscapes. As we transition into October and the rest of the year, daylight gradually recedes back to 11 hours, creating a cozy atmosphere as the days become shorter once again. Overall, La Fortuna’s daylight variation beautifully complements its captivating natural charm, inviting everyone to revel in each season’s unique offerings.

Average Daylight Hours in La Fortuna for May

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in La Fortuna throughout the year, with May highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec11h 33m11h 46m12h 3m12h 21m12h 36m12h 43m12h 39m12h 26m12h 9m11h 51m11h 37m11h 29m
Data source: La Fortuna daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

May Winds in La Fortuna

In May, La Fortuna experiences a gentle shift in wind patterns, with an average speed of 2.7 m/s (6 mph). This is a slight decrease from the more breezy months earlier in the year, like March, which boasts winds of 4.0 m/s (9 mph). As the rainy season approaches, the winds begin to calm, foreshadowing the lush greenery that will soon envelop the landscape. Compared to the drier months of January and February, both averaging 3.7 m/s (8 mph), May's milder breezes create a tranquil atmosphere perfect for enjoying the vibrant surroundings and preparing for the upcoming downpours. This noticeable dip in wind speed continues into June, making May a unique transitional month in the region's meteorological calendar.

Average May Wind Speed in La Fortuna

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in La Fortuna, with values for each month shown alongside May's data, which is highlighted for easy comparison. It illustrates the average wind speed, offering insights into how May's wind conditions compare to the rest of the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec3.73.74.02.82.7 m/s1.82.51.51.51.42.83.4
Data source: La Fortuna May wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How May Weather in La Fortuna Compares to Other Months

Weather in La Fortuna varies notably across the year, with each month offering distinct climate conditions. This page compares May’s weather to other months in La Fortuna, focusing on differences in temperature, rainfall, humidity, and UV levels.

May and January present contrasting weather patterns, with May generally being warmer and wetter than January. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 19°C (67°F) to a maximum of 34°C (93°F), with an average of 25°C (77°F). This month also experiences significant rainfall, totaling 308 mm (12.1 in) over 25 days, resulting in a humidity level of 63%. In contrast, January has a milder temperature range, with minimums at 14°C (58°F) and maximums reaching 30°C (87°F), averaging 23°C (74°F). Rainfall is much lighter in January, amounting to only 42 mm (1.6 in) over 11 days, with a slightly higher humidity of 66%. For more details on the weather in January, you can visit La Fortuna weather in January.

May and February present distinct weather patterns, with May generally feeling warmer and wetter. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 19°C (67°F) to a maximum of 34°C (93°F), averaging at 25°C (77°F), while February's temperatures are slightly cooler, with a minimum of 17°C (63°F) and a maximum of 33°C (91°F), averaging 24°C (75°F). The difference in precipitation is significant, as May receives 308 mm (12.1 in) over 25 days, making it much rainier than February, which sees only 18 mm (0.7 in) in 6 days. Humidity levels are similar in both months, hovering around 63% in May and 64% in February. For more detailed insights, you can explore La Fortuna weather in February.

In comparing the weather of March and May, we find that both months exhibit similar temperature ranges, with March having a minimum of 18°C (64°F) and an average of 24°C (76°F), while May shows slightly warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 19°C (67°F) and an average of 25°C (77°F). However, May is significantly wetter, experiencing 308 mm (12.1 in) of precipitation over 25 days, compared to just 19 mm (0.8 in) over 6 days in March. Furthermore, the humidity levels remain consistent at 63% for both months, making them comparably humid, yet the raininess of May contrasts sharply with the drier conditions found in March. For more detailed information, you can check La Fortuna weather in March.

In comparing the weather of April and May, both months exhibit similar temperature ranges, with minimum temperatures around 18-19°C (64-67°F), average temperatures near 25°C (77°F), and maximums reaching up to 34°C (93°F). However, one notable difference is in precipitation: May experiences significantly higher rainfall, with 308 mm (12.1 in) over 25 days, compared to April's 52 mm (2.1 in) across just 12 days. Both months share a consistent humidity level of 63%, but the increased rainfall in May makes it feel particularly wetter. For more detailed insights, you can check out La Fortuna weather in April.

In comparing the weather between May and June, we observe that both months have similar average temperatures, with May experiencing a range from a minimum of 19°C (67°F) to a maximum of 34°C (93°F), while June shows slightly warmer nights with a minimum of 20°C (69°F) and a peak of 32°C (90°F). However, June is characterized by higher humidity levels at 74%, compared to May's 63%. Precipitation also sees a slight increase, with 314 mm (12.4 in) falling over 28 days in June, compared to 308 mm (12.1 in) over 25 days in May. For more detailed insights into this month's weather, check out La Fortuna weather in June.

In May, temperatures in La Fortuna typically range from a minimum of 19°C (67°F) to a maximum of 34°C (93°F), with an average of 25°C (77°F). The month experiences significant rainfall, accumulating 308 mm (12.1 inches) over 25 days and maintaining a humidity level of 63%.

In contrast, July features slightly warmer nights with a minimum temperature of 20°C (68°F) and a cooler average of 24°C (76°F) during the day, with a maximum of 31°C (88°F). Rainfall decreases to 146 mm (5.7 inches), despite having 28 rainy days, and humidity rises to a higher average of 85%. For more details on the weather patterns, you can check La Fortuna weather in July.

Overall, while both months are characterized by warm temperatures and considerable rainfall, May tends to be hotter with more precipitation, whereas July sees a rise in humidity with slightly milder temperatures.

May and August both showcase warm temperatures, but with some notable differences in weather patterns. In May, daily temperatures range from a minimum of 19°C (67°F) to a maximum of 34°C (93°F), averaging around 25°C (77°F). However, it also experiences significant rainfall, totaling 308 mm (12.1 in) over 25 days, with a humidity level of 63%.

In contrast, August has slightly warmer low temperatures at a minimum of 20°C (68°F) and average highs reaching 32°C (90°F), with an average of 24°C (76°F). Although it features less rainfall, with 257 mm (10.1 in) over 27 days, the humidity markedly increases to 82%. This shift in humidity can create a noticeably muggier atmosphere in August. For a more detailed look at August weather patterns, you can check La Fortuna weather in August.

May and September showcase contrasting weather patterns, yet both are characterized by warmth and substantial rainfall. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 19°C (67°F) to a maximum of 34°C (93°F), with an average of 25°C (77°F). The month experiences about 308 mm (12.1 in) of precipitation over 25 days, accompanied by a humidity level of 63%. In comparison, September has slightly warmer nights with a minimum temperature of 20°C (68°F) and an average of 24°C (76°F). The maximum temperature is a bit lower at 32°C (89°F), while precipitation is also significant, totaling 295 mm (11.6 in) over 28 days and higher humidity at 80%. For a more detailed look at typical conditions, check out La Fortuna weather in September.

May and October both experience warm temperatures but differ in several key aspects. In May, the temperatures range from a minimum of 19°C to a maximum of 34°C, with an average of 25°C, while October's temperatures are slightly higher, with a minimum of 20°C, an average of 24°C, and a maximum of 31°C. Precipitation levels are significantly greater in October, with 391 mm (15.4 in) of rain over 29 days, compared to May's 308 mm (12.1 in) over 25 days. Additionally, October has higher humidity at 79%, compared to May's 63%. For more details on October weather, you can check La Fortuna weather in October.

May and November present contrasting weather patterns in many ways. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 19°C (67°F) to a maximum of 34°C (93°F), with an average of 25°C (77°F). This month experiences high precipitation, totaling 308 mm (12.1 inches) over 25 days, coupled with a humidity level of 63%. In comparison, November shows slightly cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 18°C (65°F) and a maximum of 30°C (87°F), averaging 24°C (75°F). The rainfall in November is notably lower at 169 mm (6.7 inches), falling over 24 days, but the humidity is higher at 79%. For a deeper look into the specifics of November weather, you can visit La Fortuna weather in November.

In May, the weather is typically hotter with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of 19°C (67°F) to a maximum of 34°C (93°F), paired with significant rainfall of 308 mm (12.1 in) over 25 days, creating a humid environment at 63%. In contrast, December offers milder conditions, with temperatures generally between 18°C (64°F) and 29°C (85°F). The precipitation also decreases substantially to 60 mm (2.3 in) over 20 days, contributing to a slightly higher humidity level of 70%. For more details on December weather, you can visit La Fortuna weather in December.

Compare La Fortuna's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From May Weather in La Fortuna

May in La Fortuna brings a vibrant shift in weather, characterized by warmer temperatures and increased moisture compared to previous months. With maximums reaching into the low 30s°C, the average feels comfortably tropical, though the frequent rain—spanning about half the month—adds a refreshing coolness to the air. Humidity levels rise, creating that lush, verdant landscape the region is known for. This month serves as the transitional period into the rainy season, where nature unfurls its beauty in vivid greens and cascading waterfalls. For more insights on the captivating climate of La Fortuna, visit La Fortuna Climate.