Discover Costa Rica’s Secret Season

May 7, 2025 by Hidden Doorways


As summer starts to unfold, a remarkable transformation quietly takes place along Costa Rica’s Pacific coast. The emerald hills grow more lush, thunderstorms roll dramatically across afternoon skies, and most spectacularly, the waters off Peninsula Papagayo become a nursery for one of Earth’s most magnificent creatures. “The southern humpbacks arrive from Antarctica to give birth in our warm waters,” explains Costa Rican Trails, the award-winning travel company that has spent over 25 years guiding visitors through the country’s natural wonders.

From May through November, this extraordinary green season coincides with countless wildlife journeys, creating what locals call Costa Rica’s most magical, if misunderstood, season.

Nature’s Grand Performance

What some travelers dismiss as the “rainy season” is actually Costa Rica’s prime wildlife viewing period. The team at Costa Rican Trails refers to these months as “Migration Season,” when the country transforms into a wildlife highway.

Between July and November, southern humpback whales journey thousands of miles from Antarctica to give birth in the warm Pacific waters. While the whales can be spotted via boat tours from various coastal locations (including the nearby Gulf of Papagayo), several remarkable wildlife destinations are within reach for those staying on the Peninsula Papagayo.

Playa Ostional hosts one of nature’s most extraordinary spectacles from May through November. Here visitors can witness an “arribada,” a rare event where thousands of olive ridley turtles come ashore at the same time to lay eggs. Las Baulas National Park (October–February) serves as one of the last strongholds for endangered leatherback turtles, the largest sea turtles on Earth.

In the skies above, more than 200 bird species pass through on their annual migrations, creating a constantly shifting tapestry of avian travelers. Carara National Park, an accessible day trip destination, is home to scarlet macaws and many migrating species, making it an ideal excursion for bird enthusiasts staying at Peninsula Papagayo.

Luxury Villas: Perfect Home Bases for Wildlife Exploration

Two exceptional villas offer ideal home bases for exploring these natural wonders while providing unparalleled comfort upon return from your wildlife adventures.

Perched high on the hillside, The Hive offers panoramic views that make it a perfect sanctuary after days of exploration. “The Green Season provides lush scenery and abundant wildlife,” explains Edward Florian, Residence Manager. “With fewer tourists visiting our national parks and beaches, it’s the best time for an intimate experience.” The property’s elevated position offers sweeping views of the verdant landscape, while its interiors showcase a meticulously curated collection of art and design elements sourced from more than ten countries, providing a sensory retreat after days spent in nature.

At Villa Avellana, guests enjoy immediate beachfront access to the Pacific and its natural beauty. “A typical day begins with waking up and opening the automatic blackout blinds to find monkeys in the treetops outside your balcony,” explains General Manager Thomas Freitag. This 33,000-square-foot, 10-bedroom retreat stands out with its private beachfront and exceptional amenities. Among these is a private 42′ motor yacht for exploring the coastline. “Our activity guide and lifeguard will assist in loading the party onboard our dedicated yacht,” says Freitag. With unparalleled privacy at “the end of the beach with no neighbors,” Villa Avellana offers an exclusive sanctuary between your wildlife excursions.

The advantages extend beyond wildlife. “The ocean is typically clear and warm, the waves are excellent, and the crowds have diminished,” notes Freitag. Both properties offer favorable rates during these magical months.

For those seeking to witness nature’s grandest migrations while enjoying world-class accommodations, Costa Rica’s green season emerges not as a compromise, but as the most privileged option of all, one of nature’s best-kept secrets, revealed.


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