When travelers think of Costa Rica’s green season—from May through November—they often imagine rainy days and muddy trails. But for those in the know, this is one of the most magical times to visit Jacó Beach, especially if you’re drawn to wildlife encounters, rainforest adventures, and quieter travel experiences.
At Oceano Boutique Hotel & Gallery, you’re perfectly positioned to explore the best of the Central Pacific coast during this lush, life-filled season. Whether you’re an amateur birdwatcher, a wildlife photographer, or simply a nature lover, May offers the ideal blend of adventure, relaxation, and biodiversity.
What Is the Green Season—and Why Is It Great for Wildlife?
The green season in Costa Rica isn’t as rainy as it sounds. In Jacó, mornings are usually sunny, with short afternoon or evening showers that cool the air and revive the rainforest. This cycle of sun and rain sparks a burst of biological activity, drawing animals out of hiding and triggering seasonal behaviors.
From nesting birds and flowering trees to reptiles warming themselves in soft sunlight, May is when the forest pulses with life. And with fewer tourists, you’ll often have the trails—and the sightings—mostly to yourself.
Wildlife Watching Adventures Near Jacó
Jacó is more than a surf town—it’s surrounded by incredible nature reserves and ecosystems where wildlife thrives. Here are some top places and tours where you can combine adventure with up-close animal encounters:
1. Carara National Park
Just 30 minutes north of Jacó, Carara is a birder’s paradise and a transitional forest teeming with life. In May, the trails are cooler and more active, making it easier to spot:
- Scarlet macaws flying in pairs
- Capuchin monkeys swinging through trees
- Poison dart frogs hiding in the leaf litter
- Crocodiles lounging by the Tárcoles River
Hire a local guide for deeper insight and better chances of spotting elusive creatures.
Carara National Park also boasts a universal access trail, the first of its kind in Costa Rica´s national parks system. It is 1.2km long and has 9 resting bays, signage in English, Spanish and Braille among other universal access facilities.
2. Rainforest Zipline and Aerial Tram Tours
Several nearby eco-parks offer canopy zipline experiences where you’ll glide through treetops and possibly spot toucans, sloths, or iguanas sunbathing on the branches. Some even offer aerial tram rides—a quieter way to observe wildlife in the upper layers of the forest.
3. Boat Tour on the Tárcoles River
Wildlife meets adventure on a river safari, where you’ll cruise past giant crocodiles, herons, roseate spoonbills, and basilisks. The riverbanks are especially lively in the green season, and photographers love the dramatic light and misty atmosphere.
4. Playa Hermosa Turtle Watching (Seasonal)
From May onward, olive ridley sea turtles begin to nest on nearby Playa Hermosa. While the peak season is later in the year, early green season sightings can happen—and local guides offer ethical, low-impact night tours for those hoping to see turtles in their natural habitat.
5. Manuel Antonio National Park (Day Trip)
A bit further south but doable as a day trip from Jacó, Manuel Antonio is Costa Rica’s most iconic park, home to sloths, squirrel monkeys, coatis, and more than 180 bird species. May means fewer crowds and vibrant, green trails.
Why Stay at Oceano Boutique Hotel & Gallery
After a day filled with wildlife and adventure, Oceano Boutique Hotel & Gallery is the perfect sanctuary. Just a few blocks from the beach and close to the town center, it offers the ideal blend of modern comfort and natural charm:
- Spacious suites and residences with kitchens, balconies, and even private Jacuzzis or plunge pools
- In-room laundry—perfect after muddy jungle hikes
- An outdoor pool to relax rain or shine
- Fast, reliable Wi-Fi for sharing your wildlife photos or working remotely.
- Concierge service to help you book eco-tours and adventures
It’s your home base for experiencing Jacó’s wild side—with a touch of boutique luxury.
Pro Tips for Enjoying Jacó in the Green Season
- Early bird gets the sloth: Wildlife is most active in the early morning—another reason to rise with the sun.
- Pack light, but smart: Bring a waterproof jacket, quick-dry clothing, and binoculars or a good camera.
- Go with a guide: Especially in parks like Carara or Manuel Antonio, local guides dramatically improve your chances of spotting and identifying wildlife.
- Embrace the rhythm: Green season means a slower pace and more time to connect with nature and locals alike.
Rain or Shine, Jacó Comes Alive
There’s something uniquely magical about watching scarlet macaws soar across a green-season sky, hearing howler monkeys call after a fresh rain, or glimpsing a sloth curled up in a tree.
In May, Jacó becomes more than just a surf destination—it becomes a gateway to the wild heart of Costa Rica, and Oceano Boutique Hotel & Gallery puts you right in the center of it all.
So whether you’re chasing monkeys through the treetops or sipping coffee while watching hummingbirds outside your suite, one thing’s for sure:
Rain or shine, this is the season when nature puts on a show.
Book your May wildlife escape at Oceano—and experience Jacó like never before.
