Hi, I'm interested in going on a trip sometime in August to Costa Rica. I've done a bit of reading, and it sounds like this isn't exactly the ideal time of year to visit. That said, would it still be possible to enjoy about 7 days there? Basically looking for a little bit of the beach and some of the rain forest type stuff as well.

Thanks in advance for any comments/ideas.

And if this doesn't sound like a great idea, are there any other destinations you might suggest for a 1-week trip?

We spent a week in CR last Aug and thoroughly enjoyed it. Spent the whole time in Manuel Antonio - wanted some serious r & r and didn't want to move around much; though there was plenty to do and we were busy. The pros to us were 1) less crowded, and 2) some great lodging rates.

We only had rain in the afternoons beginning about 2 and lasting about 3 hours, but did have one storm that lasted until 9 one night. The mornings and early afternoons were beautiful. We did all of our tours and excursions in the morning, then stayed by the pool or did "indoor" activities in the afternoons (spa, nature centers, butterfly houses, etc). The rains in the afternoon cooled things off and we rarely used the AC in our rooms.

We wouldn't hesitate to go back during the summer.

We were there last Aug and had a similar experience with the weather, although where we were it typically rained for 1-2 hours. I would not hesitate to go back in August again. I think the weather tends to be drier earlier in Aug rather than later.

Guanacaste area (north Pacific beaches) will be drier in August than other parts of the country. You will likely have occasional days with NO rain. From there, you have nice access to the Rincon de la Vieja area, a national park, and a very nice area to visit for ziplines, horseback, hiking, mud baths (thermal activity), etc. The Mega Combo Tour is excellent, full day, and easily managed from the north Pacific.

Suggestions: Playa Flamingo (Flamingo Beach Resort)

Playa Potrero: Bahia del Sol or Hotel Sugar Beach

Playa Hermosa: Villas del Sueno

Manuel Antonio also a good idea, although more rain there, as stated earlier. Same with Arenal.

For a visit to Guanacaste, look into the international airport at Liberia (30 min. from Playa Hermosa, little over 1 hour from Playa Flamingo).