San Jose Weather in February

February: dry-season days

San José feels warm and mostly sunny in February, with comfortable evenings. The average high is 26°C, and rain falls on only seven days. It's one of the best months for exploring on foot, from the National Theatre to the cafés around Barrio Escalante.

You can also take a day trip to Poás Volcano or the coffee farms outside the city. February is drier than January and March, but a shower can still interrupt an outdoor plan. Keep a city museum or a long lunch at Mercado Central in mind for a rainy spell.

Events and local plans

Valentine's Day is marked in San José, and restaurants can be busier that evening. It isn't a major public holiday, so most sights and services keep to their usual routines.

For a local food stop, try a casado at Mercado Central. It's a filling plate with rice, beans and other sides, and the market is an easy place to duck into if the afternoon turns cloudy.

Crowds and costs

February is high season in Costa Rica, thanks to the dry weather. San José can feel busier, and hotel rates are often higher than in the rainy season. The city is still a useful base, though, and the pleasant weather makes walking between central sights easier.

Couples who like sunny city breaks may enjoy February, but should expect to pay more than in wetter months. For a practical city tip, take the train from central San José toward Heredia on a weekday, when it runs; it's a handy way to see more of the Central Valley without arranging a car.