We're going to Costa Rica - should I take a skirt or dress?

Question

We're taking our first trip to Costa Rica. I am very excited. I know I will need shorts and lightweight pants, plus a rainjacket. I would like to take a skirt and matching top to wear at night, to be a bit more dressy. I would like to fit in with what locals are wearing if possible, and to be comfortable and hopefully look nice.

What clothing would those of you who've traveled to Costa Rica recommend?

All answers appreciated, thank you!

Answer 1

Take a skirt, at least. I don't think you have to take a dress. I am from the Caribbean and I found Costa Rica quite chilly, especially at night, so when I wore a skirt I was freezing! I ended up wearing jeans most nights. The temperature at night was around 55 degrees, but when you're used to 85, that's really cold.

People in Costa Rica dress like in the USA, you'll find some over-dressed, some under-dressed, but unless you're going out to a fancy restaurant, jeans or a casual skirt is fine. Lovely country, though! I hope you're staying at the Hotel Bougainvillea - it's relatively inexpensive and the grounds are GORGEOUS! It's about 20 minutes outside of San José but they do offer a free shuttle in the DAY TIME.

Answer 2

You don't need a skirt or dress, but you also won't stand out if you have one (at least any more than otherwise). Whether to bring a dress or bring a skirt depends on how fancy the place is that you are going to. If you are going to a fancy hotel and restaurants and such, then you'll want a dress. If you are just going out to bars and what not, then a skirt is probably better.

Personally, I would just bring whatever you feel best wearing.

Answer 3

If you are at one of the nice hotels, then yes you should take a skirt or dress. However if not you really don't need one. You don't see many locals with nice dresses or skirts on even in San Jose.