Playa Conchal in July

December through April is peak season for good reason — zero rain, consistent 85-degree days, and trade winds that keep the humidity bearable. But here's the trade-off: hotel prices double, the beach gets crowded by 11am, and you'll be sharing those Instagram shots with dozens of other photographers. January and February are the absolute driest months, but also the most expensive. December and March offer the best balance of weather and crowds. The rainy season (May through November) isn't as bad as people make it out to be — most rain falls in the afternoons, leaving mornings perfect for beach time. Plus, hotel rates drop by 40%, the landscape turns emerald green, and you might have the entire beach to yourself. September and October see the heaviest rains, but even then, it's usually just a couple hours in the afternoon. The water temperature stays around 80 degrees year-round, so you're never too cold for a swim.