San Mateo Weather & Climate: Best Time to Visit

Average temperatures, rainfall, sunshine and the best time to visit San Mateo.

Climate overview of San Mateo

San Mateo, Alajuela, Costa Rica, enjoys a steady climate throughout the year, with daytime temperatures typically around 29°C (84°F). March is the warmest month at 31°C (88°F), while October is the coolest at 28°C (82°F).

The city has a wet climate, receiving around 3695 mm (145 in) of rainfall per year. Despite the high annual total, it has a distinct rainy season from May to November. October is the wettest month. The sunniest month is March, with 9.4 hours of sunshine per day on average.

San Mateo Weather by Month

Pick a month to see the average temperature, rainfall and sunshine in San Mateo - and find the best time to visit.

Monthly Temperature in San Mateo

The temperature in San Mateo remains steady throughout the year, providing a consistently very warm climate. On average, daytime temperatures range from a very warm 31°C (88°F) in March to a comfortable 28°C (82°F) in October.

Nighttime temperatures range from 22°C (72°F) in March to 21°C (70°F) in October.

Check out our detailed temperature page for more information.

Temperature ranges by month

Rainfall in San Mateo

San Mateo has a relatively rainy climate with high precipitation levels, averaging 3695 mm (145 in) of rainfall annually. The seasons in San Mateo bring significant changes in precipitation. The wettest month, October, receives heavy rainfall, with an average of 548 mm (22 in) of precipitation. This rainfall is distributed across 22 rainy days.

In contrast, the driest month, February, experiences much less rainfall, totaling 38 mm (1.5 in) over 7 rainy days. These distinct seasonal differences provide diverse experiences throughout the year. For more details, please visit our San Mateo Precipitation page.

The mean monthly precipitation over the year, including rain, hail, and snow

Sunshine Hours in San Mateo

In San Mateo, summer days are longer and more sunny, with daily sunshine hours peaking at 9.4 hours in March. As the darker season arrives, the brightness of the sun becomes less. June sees a soft sun for only 5.2 hours per average day.

Visit our detailed sunshine hours page for more information.

Monthly hours of sunshine

Data from: Puntarenas, Costa Rica (34 KM, 21 Miles).

Daily hours of sunshine

Data from: Puntarenas, Costa Rica (34 KM, 21 Miles).

Best Time to Visit San Mateo

For comfortable weather, consider visiting San Mateo in December. Conditions are usually least favourable in May, June, July, August, September, October and November.

Monthly ratings reflect general weather comfort, based on daytime temperature and rainfall. Swimming and winter conditions are highlighted separately where relevant.

  • Best overall: December
  • Warmest weather: January, February, March and April
  • Most sunshine: March
  • Fewest rainy days: February, March and April
  • Seasonal pattern: A distinct rainy season from May to November

Frequently asked questions about the climate in San Mateo

What is the best time to visit San Mateo?

December typically offers the most optimal weather in San Mateo. In contrast, May, June, July, August, September, October and November tend to have less optimal conditions. San Mateo has a distinct rainy season from May to November.

What temperatures can I expect in San Mateo?

Daytime highs range from 28°C (82°F) in October to 31°C (88°F) in March. Nighttime lows range from 21°C (70°F) to 22°C (72°F). Temperatures stay relatively stable year-round.

How much rain does San Mateo get?

Annual rainfall is around 3695 mm (145 in). October is the wettest month with 548 mm (22 in), while February is the driest with 38 mm (1.5 in).

How sunny is San Mateo?

San Mateo receives around 2,489 hours of sunshine per year. March is the sunniest month with 282 hours, while June is the cloudiest with just 156 hours. Overall, San Mateo enjoys abundant sunshine.

San Mateo 3-Day Forecast

San Mateo 3-Day Forecast

San Mateo on the map

San Mateo is highlighted - select any city to see its climate.

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