What to Wear in Paradise: The Ultimate Costa Rica Outfit Guide
Planning a trip and wondering what to pack for Costa Rica? You’re in the right place. Because yes—Costa Rica is stunning, wild, sunny, rainy, humid, and full of adventures… which means your Costa Rica outfit choices matter more than you might think.
Whether you’re ziplining over cloud forests, chasing waterfalls, lounging on white-sand beaches, or exploring San José’s urban scene, packing the right clothes can make your trip feel effortless. In this friendly guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need for every type of experience Costa Rica offers—without overpacking or stressing.
Let’s dive in!
Why Your Costa Rica Outfit Matters
Costa Rica’s beauty is unmatched, but the climate? It’s a mix of tropical sun, humidity, sudden rain, and outdoor adventure. That means your outfit needs to be:
- Breathable
- Lightweight
- Quick-drying
- Comfortable
- Adventure-ready
- Cute for photos (let’s be honest)
Think of your Costa Rica wardrobe as “functional vacation chic”—you’ll look good, feel good, and stay ready for anything.
What to Wear in Costa Rica: The Essentials
Lightweight, Breathable Fabrics Are Your Best Friends
Humidity in Costa Rica is no joke. You’ll thank yourself for packing outfits made of:
- Linen
- Cotton
- Moisture-wicking athletic fabric
- Rayon
- Bamboo blends
Imagine wearing thick denim while hiking through a rainforest—nope, not happening.
Quick-Drying Clothes = Life-Savers
From unexpected showers to waterfall dips, clothes can get wet fast. Quick-dry shorts, active tops, and swimwear will keep you comfortable throughout your day.
Sun Protection Is a Must
Costa Rica sits close to the equator—UV rays are strong! Include:
- A wide-brim hat
- UV-blocking sunglasses
- SPF long-sleeve rash guard (for surfing or snorkeling)
- Light UPF shirt
Trust me, you’ll be grateful when you can explore without turning into a tomato.
Costa Rica Outfit Ideas by Activity
Let’s break it down by the adventures you’ll most likely experience.
1. Beach Outfits for Costa Rica
Costa Rican beaches feel like paradise—turquoise water, soft sand, palm trees swaying. Here’s what to wear to match the vibe.
Women’s Beach Outfit Ideas
- Cute bikini or one-piece swimsuit
- Breezy cover-up or kimono
- Straw hat
- Flip-flops or slide sandals
- Sunglasses
- Linen shorts + tank for walking around beach towns
Example:
Picture yourself strolling through Tamarindo with a flowy white cover-up, bikini underneath, oversized sunglasses, and beachy waves from the ocean air. Comfortable, effortless, and absolutely vacation-perfect.
Men’s Beach Outfit Ideas
- Quick-dry swim trunks
- Tank or linen button-down
- Flip-flops
- UV sunglasses
- Lightweight shorts for grabbing food or exploring
Tip: Beaches can get windy—pack a light towel or sarong.
2. Rainforest & Jungle Outfits
If you’re visiting Manuel Antonio, Monteverde, La Fortuna, or Tortuguero, get ready for lush greenery, misty forests, and—yes—bugs.
What to Wear
- Quick-dry hiking pants or shorts
- Moisture-wicking T-shirt
- Breathable long-sleeve shirt (for bug protection)
- Sturdy hiking boots or trail shoes
- Waterproof jacket or poncho
- Wide-brim hat
Why These Work
Rainforests can be hot and humid, but also damp. You want to stay protected without overheating.
Relatable analogy:
Think of the rainforest as a sauna that occasionally dumps a bucket of water on you. Dress accordingly.
3. Adventure Outfits (Ziplining, Rafting, ATV Tours)
Costa Rica is known for adrenaline-filled adventures. The outfit rule? Comfort first, safety second, cute photos third.
Perfect Adventure Outfit Checklist
- Athletic shorts or leggings
- Quick-dry, fitted top
- Closed-toe shoes
- Sports bra (for women)
- Waterproof pouch for essentials
- Light jacket for wind during ziplining
Important: Avoid loose clothing or accessories—they can snag on equipment.
4. Waterfall Outfits
Costa Rica has iconic waterfalls: La Fortuna, Nauyaca, Llanos de Cortés… all Insta-worthy.
What to Wear
- Swimsuit (preferably one that stays in place)
- Quick-dry shorts
- Water shoes or sturdy sandals
- Pack a microfiber towel
- Lightweight tank or tee
Tip: Rocks can be slippery, so skip the flip-flops. Your ankles will thank you.
5. City Outfits (San José, Liberia)
While most of the country is beachy and casual, cities have a slightly more polished vibe.
Women’s City Outfits
- Casual sundress
- Cute top + linen trousers
- Comfortable sandals or sneakers
- Crossbody bag
Men’s City Outfits
- Polo or linen button-down
- Chino shorts or lightweight pants
- Sneakers or loafers
Think “smart casual with a tropical twist.”
6. Nighttime Outfits
Evenings in Costa Rica are relaxed, but you can definitely dress up a little—especially in beach towns with night markets or bars.
Night Outfit Ideas
- Flowy dress
- Lightweight jumpsuit
- Linen shirt + shorts
- Off-the-shoulder tops
- Comfortable sandals
- Minimal jewelry
Night temperatures drop a bit, especially in mountain areas—carry a thin sweater.
Costa Rica Outfit Guide by Weather & Region
Costa Rica’s climate varies a lot depending on where you go. Here’s a quick breakdown.
Dry Season (December–April)
Expect sun, clear skies, and warm weather.
Outfit style: breezy, beachy, lightweight
Wear:
- Shorts
- Sundresses
- Tanks
- Swimwear
- Sandals
- Sunglasses
Green Season / Rainy Season (May–November)
It rains almost daily (especially afternoons).
Outfit style: waterproof + quick-dry everything
Wear:
- Rain jacket
- Fast-drying clothes
- Hiking shoes
- Waterproof bags
Caribbean Side (Cahuita, Puerto Viejo)
Tends to be humid, vibrant, and culturally rich.
Think: breathable fabrics, reggae-inspired colors, beach-casual vibes.
Pacific Coast (Tamarindo, Jaco, Santa Teresa)
Hot, sunny, surfer-oriented.
Think: surf shorts, rash guards, bright colors, relaxed outfits.
Cloud Forests (Monteverde)
Cooler, mistier, windier.
Think: layers, jackets, long pants.
Packing List: Your Complete Costa Rica Wardrobe
Here’s a simple, practical list so you don’t overpack:
Clothing
- 3–4 breathable tops
- 2–3 athletic tops
- 2–3 shorts
- 1–2 lightweight pants
- 1 sundress or night outfit
- Swimwear (2–3 pieces)
- Rashguard
- Light jacket / raincoat
- Sleepwear
Footwear
- Hiking shoes or trail runners
- Water shoes
- Sandals or flip-flops
Accessories
- Sun hat
- Sunglasses
- Quick-dry towel
- Waterproof phone pouch
- Small backpack
Optional but useful
- Bandana
- Insect repellent bracelet
- Compression bag for dirty clothes
Costa Rica Outfit Tips to Make Packing Easier
1. Pack Less Than You Think
Most travelers overpack! Lightweight clothes mean you can rewear pieces easily.
2. Avoid Heavy Denim
Jeans + humidity = sticky discomfort.
3. Stick to a Color Palette
Think whites, beige, olive, navy—easy to mix and match.
4. Choose Comfort Over Aesthetic—But Aim for Both
You don’t want to be stuck hiking in something cute-but-impractical.
5. Bring a Compact Laundry Bag
Perfect for wet swimsuits and muddy clothes.
Common Outfit Mistakes Tourists Make in Costa Rica
Wearing black in the sun
It absorbs heat—stick to lighter colors.
Hiking in sandals
A twisted ankle isn’t a fun souvenir.
Overdressing for dinner
Most places are extremely casual (unless you’re at a resort or upscale restaurant).
Ignoring bug protection
Long sleeves and repellent help a lot, especially in rainforest areas.
Costa Rica Outfit Ideas for Instagram-Worthy Photos
Let’s be real—we all want the “I’m living my best life in paradise” shot.
Women
- White bikini + straw hat
- Flowing maxi dress on the beach
- Linen shorts + crop top at sunset
- Activewear at a waterfall
Men
- Tropical shirt + shorts
- Neutral-toned outfits for rainforest hikes
- Swim trunks in bright colors
- Linen shirt unbuttoned by the beach
Tip: Natural lighting in Costa Rica is unbeatable—sunrise photos are chef’s kiss.
Conclusion: Pack Smart, Dress Right, Enjoy Every Moment
Your Costa Rica adventure will be unforgettable—and the right outfits will help you stay cool, comfortable, and stylish during every hike, beach day, and city stroll.
Think simplicity, breathability, and versatility. And remember: Costa Rica isn’t a destination where people care about fancy outfits. They care about pura vida—living simply and joyfully.
So pack light, dress for the climate, and dive into the experience.
Ready to plan your trip?
If you want help creating a personalized Costa Rica packing list, outfit inspo, or a full travel itinerary—just ask!
FAQs About Costa Rica Outfits
1. Do I need warm clothes in Costa Rica?
Only if you’re visiting cloud forests or high-elevation areas like Monteverde. Nights can get chilly.
2. Can I wear shorts everywhere?
Yes! Costa Rica is very casual. Shorts are acceptable in almost all settings except upscale restaurants.
3. Are sandals okay for hiking?
Not recommended. Use trail shoes or sturdy sneakers for safety.
4. What shoes should I bring?
Three essentials: hiking shoes, water shoes, and sandals.
5. Is it safe to wear jewelry?
Keep it simple—Costa Rica is casual, and flashy jewelry isn’t necessary.
