Visit any time of year at The Club’s flagship Peninsula Papagayo property, and you’ll experience nature on full display, with indelible sunsets, friendly wildlife, and plenty of zip-lining for your little adventurers. Yet when visiting Costa Rica during the off-peak months of May to mid-December, Lopez says cooler temps, fewer visitors, and calm waters make it his favorite time of year. Plus, you’ll enjoy easier access to top restaurants, where you can meet and talk to the local chefs while lazing over the best seafood in the Guanacaste region. And if that’s not enticing enough, here are all the reasons Lopez, a longtime local, most enjoys Costa Rica’s lush season.  

1. The Life Aquatic
While peak season in Costa Rica brings warmer temperatures for those wanting to escape the cold, it’s also drier and windier. During off-season, less wind equals calm water, making it the ideal time to scuba dive, snorkel, jet ski, and take private yacht charters. Additionally, Lopez says this time of year is primed for idyllic surf lessons. Expect calm conditions and beginner waves all to yourself.  

2. Jungle Adventures
It’s much more fun to race ATVs in the mud versus dry and dusty weather. New inland adventures include racing side-by-side on tricked-out ATVs — fun for the entire family. One adventure starts and ends next to the Tempisque River. You’ll travel on dirt roads for a couple of miles, following the tropical dry forest and a river. Another experience winds along the Iguanita Beach National Refuge, where you’ll witness the unique flora and fauna of the tropical forest. And, if seeing the area from above the canopy is enticing, your Concierge can arrange for the Canopy Tour with Safari Costa Rica, during which you’ll fly above the trees via zipline (over eleven suspended cables) and enjoy views of farmlands, canyons, and rivers.  

3. In-Residence Private Dinners
The wetter months are the perfect time to enjoy a cozy evening in the comfort of your Club residence, with private meals by top chefs. Concierges can help arrange for big celebration décor to commemorate any special occasion. 

4. Cooking Classes
The Club can arrange for several regionally inspired culinary adventures, including in-residence smoothie making for the kids, plus tequila-sampling and wine tasting for the adults.  

5. Sunset Sails & Sport Fishing
Imagine watching the sun dip into the horizon from your private yacht, with no one else around. Whether you prefer a quick ride on a smaller sport boat or desire a cruise aboard a luxury 110-foot yacht, the ultimate water adventure awaits. And aside from beautiful beaches and surfing spots, the Guanacaste is also famous for sport fishing. Common catches include marlin, sailfish, yellow-fin tuna, amberjack, mahi mahi, wahoo, and roosterfish — get ready to hook ‘em!  

6. Thermal Baths & Sea Planes
Experience thermal baths during the cooler temps found from May to November. Lopez suggests spending a day at the Anáhuac Wellness Thermal & Spa (anáhuac means “surrounded by water”). Inspired by the environment and the Japanese thermal culture, the spa is set near hot springs from the Rincón de la Vieja volcano. The sound of water anchors this sanctuary experience, which promotes healing and renewal. And if you’re rather unwind in the comfort of your residence, opt for an in-room massage at Peninsula Papagayo.  

7. On Par
With less players on the incredible Peninsula Papagayo golf course during off-peak months, you’ll play faster and have the course nearly to yourself on beautiful cool mornings. Designed by Arnold Palmer, the 18-hole, par-72 championship course was designed with the resort golfer in mind and is ranked among the "Top 100 Courses outside the United States" by Golf Digest. The signature hole, number 6 (El Bajo), features a dramatic 446-yard par 4 with a tee shot that plays 61 meters (200 feet) downhill to a receptive valley-shaped fairway. The green is perched out on a cliff with the ocean behind it, and your round will culminate on the scenic 18th green, with views of both the Pacific Ocean and Bahía Culebra. 

8. Day Trips
While Lopez can mention a dozen day trips that are reason enough to visit the Guanacaste region, his favorites include a guided drive to Palo Verde National Park. And treks to either Rio Celeste or La Leona waterfalls are well worth the effort, as both are considered two of the most beautiful sites in the region. Lastly, whitewater rafting on the Tenorio River during rainy season is better than dry season, according to Lopez. Expect fun, category 3-4 rapids, and plenty of time to connect with family and friends in nature. 

9. Dining
A longtime local, Lopez says, “You can have exquisite meals all around the peninsula year-round, yet it’s easier to secure reservations in the off-season.” His favorite local restaurants include: The Members-only Poro Poro Club House — the ultimate hideaway featuring three Latin-inspired signature culinary and cocktail venues plus a gym, kids club, and an infinity-lap pool; Meso at the reimagined Andaz Beach Club; Chao Pescao, which features an awesome ambiance and amazing tapas in the Andaz Hotel; and Pesce for fresh seafood and Italian inspired fare.  

10. For the Kids
Peninsula Papagayo is always named a Member favorite because the kids will be talking about your trip for years. In addition to the aforementioned day trips and water adventures, Lopez suggests the Explorers Club inside Peninsula Papagayo, which is always a hit for kids of all ages. It features nighttime nature walks, a small beginner zipline, and adventures to search for monkeys. He adds, “and kids love snorkeling during sunny mornings. It’s the best there is. Our Concierge can share great spots to view sea life and coral without scuba diving.”