Cocos Island National Park, Costa Rica: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

Empty Lighthouse is a reader-supported site. This article may contain affiliate links to Amazon and other sites. We earn a commission on purchases made through these links.

Ready to pack for Cocos Island National Park, Costa Rica? If you're planning to go to Cocos Island National Park, I've got some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

  1. When to go to Cocos Island National Park
  2. Important essentials for Cocos Island National Park
  3. Activities for Cocos Island National Park
  4. Cocos Island National Park in January: weather and what to pack
  5. Cocos Island National Park in February: weather and what to pack
  6. Cocos Island National Park in March: weather and what to pack
  7. Cocos Island National Park in April: weather and what to pack
  8. Cocos Island National Park in May: weather and what to pack
  9. Cocos Island National Park in June: weather and what to pack
  10. Cocos Island National Park in July: weather and what to pack
  11. Cocos Island National Park in August: weather and what to pack
  12. Cocos Island National Park in September: weather and what to pack
  13. Cocos Island National Park in October: weather and what to pack
  14. Cocos Island National Park in November: weather and what to pack
  15. Cocos Island National Park in December: weather and what to pack

When to go to Cocos Island National Park, Costa Rica

Based on the climate and weather in Cocos Island National Park, Costa Rica, the best time to go is February. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Cocos Island National Park, Costa Rica

Already know when you're traveling?

Here are some general tips on what to wear in Cocos Island National Park, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.

What to wear/what to pack for Cocos Island National Park, Costa Rica by month

January

January in Cocos Island National Park is constantly hot and very rainy. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 70s F (high 20s C) to high 80s F (low 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Costa Rica has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing luggage recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Cocos Island National Park. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Take care to pick the correct type. Most adapters currently being sold are simply plug changers and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most places.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

February

February can be very hot and very rainy. Temperatures average in the low 80s F (low 30s C) during the day. It rains most days.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Costa Rica has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Cocos Island National Park. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck support pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be sure to choose the correct kind. A lot of adapters that you can buy are simply plug changers and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most locations.

March

March in Cocos Island National Park is extremely hot and extremely rainy. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 80s F (high 20s C) to low 90s F (low 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Costa Rica has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Cocos Island National Park. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing luggage these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Check that you choose the correct type. The vast majority of adapters that you can buy are simply plug changers and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most places.

  • Travel pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

April

April in Cocos Island National Park can be very hot and extremely rainy. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 80s F (high 20s C) to low 80s F (low 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Costa Rica has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Cocos Island National Park. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing luggage these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck support pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Take care to get the right type. The majority of adapters currently sold are just plugs and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most countries.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

May

If you are traveling to Cocos Island National Park in May, you will notice that it is extremely hot and extremely rainy. Expect it to rain most days. Daytime temperatures are in the high 80s F (low 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Costa Rica has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing bags recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Cocos Island National Park. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Take care to get the right kind. Many adapters currently sold are simply plug changers and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most places.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our fave is this one

June

If you go to Cocos Island National Park in June, you will notice that it can be very hot and extremely rainy. Expect it to rain most days. Daytime temperatures are in the high 80s F (low 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Costa Rica has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Cocos Island National Park. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Take care to pick the right kind. The majority of adapters currently available are simply plugs and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most places.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

July

If you vacation in Cocos Island National Park during July, you might find that it is really hot and extremely rainy. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 80s F (low 30s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 70s F (low 20s C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain most days.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Costa Rica has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Cocos Island National Park. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be sure to pick the necessary kind. The vast majority of adapters currently being sold are just plugs and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most places.

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our fave is this one

August

August in this region is consistently hot and extremely rainy. Temperatures average in the high 80s F (low 30s C) during the day. It rains most days.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Costa Rica has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Cocos Island National Park. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. It's important that you pick the necessary kind. The majority of adapters for sale now are simply plugs and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most places.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

September

September in this region is really hot and extremely rainy. Temperatures average in the high 80s F (low 30s C) during the day. It rains most days.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Costa Rica has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Cocos Island National Park. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be careful to pick the right type. Many adapters on sale are simply plugs and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most countries.

October

In October, Cocos Island National Park is constantly hot and extremely rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the 80s F (low 20s C) range. At night, lows are in the low 70s F (low 20s C). This is also a rainy time for Cocos Island National Park, with most of the days of the month having rain.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Costa Rica has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Cocos Island National Park. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel neck pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Make sure to pick the necessary kind. The vast majority of adapters for sale now are just plug changers and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most places.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

November

If you are traveling to Cocos Island National Park in November, you will notice that it is constantly hot and extremely rainy. Expect it to rain most days. Daytime temperatures are in the 80s F (low 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Costa Rica has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing things recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Cocos Island National Park. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be sure to find the right type. The vast majority of adapters currently available are simply plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most countries.

  • Travel pillow

    Our favorite is this one

December

If you are traveling to Cocos Island National Park in December, you will notice that it is constantly hot and very rainy. Expect it to rain most days. Daytime temperatures are in the high 80s F (low 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Costa Rica has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Cocos Island National Park. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Ensure that you pick the necessary kind. Most adapters on sale are simply plug changers and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most countries.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

What to do in Cocos Island National Park, Costa Rica

Cocos Island National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located off the coast of Costa Rica. It is known for its stunning beaches, diverse wildlife, and scuba diving opportunities. Here are the top tourist attractions in Cocos Island National Park that you do not want to miss.

1. Scuba Diving:

Cocos Island is considered one of the best scuba diving spots in the world. The island is surrounded by five diving locations, including Manuelita Coral Garden, Bajo Alcyone, Dirty Rock, and more. You can explore underwater mountains, rocky reefs, and swim with hammerhead sharks, whales, dolphins, and schools of fish. Scuba diving in Cocos is a unique and unforgettable experience for all divers.

2. Waterfall Bay:

Waterfall Bay is a popular destination on Cocos Island, known for its stunning waterfall that cascades down to the sea. The bay is accessible by boat and is an excellent spot for swimming, snorkeling, and picnicking. Boat tours are available that will take you to the waterfalls and other scenic spots around the island.

3. Chatham Bay:

Chatham Bay is one of the most picturesque beaches in Cocos Island National Park. The beach is surrounded by luscious greenery and is an ideal spot for sunbathing, swimming, and snorkeling. You can also kayaking around the bay or stroll along the beach to enjoy the stunning scenery.

4. Santa Maria:

Santa Maria is a must-visit spot for history buffs. It was formerly a whaling station in the 19th century that has now been abandoned. Visitors can see the ruins of the station, including the abandoned boats, huge kettles used for rendering blubber, and the resident's housing. The site is an excellent place to learn about the island's history.

5. Isla del Coco:

Isla del Coco is a small island around 500 meters from Cocos Island. The island is uninhabited, but it is still worth visiting because it is home to several bird species that can be seen nesting in the cliffs. Visitors can take a boat tour around the island to see bird species such as seagulls, frigatebirds, and boobies.

6. Punta Maria:

Punta Maria is another famous spot among tourists visiting Cocos Island. It is located on the north side of the island and offers visitors a picturesque landscape filled with dense Amazonian vegetation. Beachgoers can also enjoy the black sand beach, take a swim, snorkel with tropical fish, or relax and sunbathe.

In conclusion, Cocos Island National Park offers a variety of attractions for visitors to enjoy. Whether you are an adrenaline junkie or someone looking for a relaxing getaway, this island is the perfect destination. With its stunning landscapes, rich history, and diverse wildlife, Cocos Island National Park is an ideal spot for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. So, what are you waiting for? Book your trip to Cocos Island National Park today!

About your travel guide

Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.

Check out our guides for these other locations: Shenandoah National Park, Virginia, United States of America, A Coruña, Spain, Nowy Wiśnicz, Poland, Flores, Guatemala, Kizhi, Russia, Glarus, Switzerland, Layang Layang, Malaysia, Samarkand, Uzbekistan, Dordrecht, Netherlands, Samobor, Croatia, and Gilman, Illinois, United States of America.