Summer Solstice: Things to do in Costa Rica on the Longest Day
Today is the summer solstice, the longest day of the year for the Northern Hemisphere. Down in Costa Rica, the changes in day length aren’t quite so noticeable as the far north, where certain parts of Norway, Alaska, and Canada will have midnight sun today.
Still, there’s a full 30 minutes of daylight today that you wouldn’t find on the winter solstice, which means 30 more minutes to be out around town. And of course, there are lots of things to do in Costa Rica with the extra time!
With the sun shining this morning, a light ocean breeze, and temperatures in the low 80s throughout the day, here are three ideas for what to do with your extra 30 minutes.
Explore the Coast on a Paddleboard
Looking out on the water this morning, there’s a gentle surf and a high tide, making for an easy pass out through the break zone. From there, the clear conditions and calm waves are an inviting platform to explore the Guanacaste coast and some of the best beaches in Costa Rica from the water.
If you set out during the afternoon, you’ll be welcomed by a lower tide and a slightly more active surf, perfect conditions to try paddle surfing. For the more experienced paddle boarder, catching surf in the break zone brings a new challenge. Beginners looking to get into surfing will also find the sport to be a pleasant introductory course, offering the chance to get comfortable riding waves before completely committing to the water.
Kick Back and Relax
In a world that can be too busy at times, it’s nice to live in a town that appreciates time for rest and relaxation. And there are few better ways to spend those extra minutes of daylight today than sitting outside on a porch, in a pool, or in a hammock, and simply taking a moment to relax.
Do you have a good book that you’ve been waiting to read? Now’s a good time to crack it open again. A dip in the pool at the Beach Club at Las Catalinas followed by some fresh tacos is a perfect way to enjoy the great weather. Or maybe you’ll just lay back under the trees in a shady spot and nap.
You’ve got an extra 30 minutes to do it today after all.
Enjoy an Extended Sunset
As today winds to a close, town will experience the longest sunset of the year. Thanks to the angles of the earth, the sun will set far to the northeast tonight, making sunset that little bit longer. Combined with the green season atmosphere, which fills the sky with just enough moisture to create the rainbow celaje that’s so beautiful this time of year, there’s a good chance tonight’s sunset will be something special.
Due to the direction of sunset today, you’ll want some elevation for best viewing. A sunset hike to McHenry Peak, an evening bike ride to Punta Guachipelines, or enjoying time with family on one of town’s many rooftop terraces will be just the trick tonight.
There's plenty of things to do in Costa Rica this season. And on a day like today, you've got extra time to do them!