The long weekend around Presidents’ Day, in the middle of February, is a favorite moment for Americans to escape winter. In 2027, the holiday falls on Monday, February 15, and many schools and families extend it into a full week. Costa Rica is a natural choice: the dry season is in full swing, the beaches are warm and the flight from many American cities is short. But because the holiday is short and demand is concentrated, planning matters. This guide explains how to make the most of a winter week in Costa Rica.
Why February is a great month
February is one of the best months to visit Costa Rica. The dry season is well established, the days are sunny, the evenings are comfortable and the landscape is golden in the north. The sea is typically calm for swimming and boating, and wildlife is easy to spot. Because the weather is reliable, you can plan activities with confidence. Our guide to when to visit Costa Rica compares the seasons.
How to use a short trip well
With only a few days, simplicity matters. Choose one base, and let it do the work. Fly into the airport closest to your property, so you spend less time in transit. For Guanacaste, that is Liberia, which can put you at the pool within an hour of landing. See our Liberia airport guide and flying to Costa Rica from the US.
Where to go for a long weekend
- Papagayo: polished resorts, calm bays and golf.
- Tamarindo: lively and sociable, with a choice of villas.
- Manuel Antonio: ocean views and wildlife, with a longer drive from San José.
- Arenal: volcano and hot springs, for couples or small groups.
See where to stay in Costa Rica for a full comparison.
Book early: demand is concentrated
The holiday weekend is short and highly demanded, so the best villas and resorts book early. Ask about minimum stays and rates for your dates, and confirm what is included. Our guide to holiday rates and minimum stays explains how they work, and the how to book a villa guide walks you through the steps.
Ideas for couples
A February break can be a perfect romantic getaway: a villa with a private pool, a chef for one or two dinners, a sunset sail and a spa treatment. Valentine’s Day falls on the weekend before, so if you are combining the two, book especially early. Browse our honeymoon villas and resorts and adults-only hotels and resorts.
Ideas for families
For families, the holiday week is a chance to introduce children to nature and the beach. A villa with a pool, a chef for easy dinners and a guided wildlife walk make a simple, memorable trip. Read Costa Rica with kids for ideas, and see our family stays.
Packing and practicalities
Pack light clothing, swimwear, a hat, reef-safe sunscreen and a light layer for evenings. A rain jacket is useful for mountain areas. Bring your passport and confirm entry requirements with official sources before you travel. Arrange a private transfer in advance, and confirm the check-in time with your property.
Insider notes
A short trip is easiest when you remove decisions. Ask your host to stock the kitchen before arrival, reserve one or two special experiences in advance and leave the rest open. Resist the temptation to see multiple regions. A well-chosen base, a good team and a clear plan give you more rest than a packed itinerary. If you can, add a day on either end of the holiday to avoid the busiest travel dates, which also tends to improve availability.
A sample long-weekend schedule
Consider a five-night stay with an arrival on Friday. The first evening is for settling in: a swim, an easy dinner and an early night. On Saturday, enjoy the beach or the pool in the morning, and book a sunset sail or a private chef dinner for the evening. Sunday can be an excursion day, with a guided walk, a hot springs visit or a boat trip, followed by a relaxed dinner. Monday, the holiday itself, is perfect for a spa morning and a long lunch. Tuesday and Wednesday offer time for one more activity and a last sunset.
If you can extend the trip by a day or two, you will gain a calmer arrival and departure, and you may find better rates and availability outside the holiday weekend itself. Whichever schedule you choose, confirm transfers, check-in and check-out times and any special dinners well in advance, since February is a popular month. See our luxury resorts and private villas to start your shortlist.
Plan your stay with Allure
Tell us your dates, the size of your group and the atmosphere you want, and we will prepare a tailored selection of villas and resorts. Send us your request or browse our luxury resorts and private villas.
Frequently asked questions
When is Presidents’ Day in 2027?
Monday, February 15, 2027, so the holiday week runs around that date.
Is February a good time to visit Costa Rica?
Yes. It is the dry season, with sunny days and calm seas.
How long should I stay for a Presidents’ Week trip?
Four to seven nights, based in one region, is a good balance.
Should I book early?
Yes. The holiday is short and demand is concentrated.
