Packing for Costa Rica means balancing style with practicality — because this lush paradise takes you from misty rainforests to golden beaches, mountain towns, and city cafés in a single day.
You’ll need outfits that can handle tropical heat, unexpected rain, and lots of adventure while still keeping your look fresh and modern. Think airy fabrics, neutral palettes with pops of color, and versatile pieces that mix and match easily.
Whether you’re zip-lining through Monteverde, sipping coffee in San José, or lounging on the beaches of Tamarindo, these 15 chic and modern Costa Rica outfit ideas will help you stay cool, confident, and effortlessly stylish throughout your trip.
🌿 1. Breezy Linen Travel Set
Start your trip in comfort with a lightweight linen two-piece set in beige or sage. The breathable fabric keeps you cool on the plane and fresh when you step into humid air. Pair with slip-on sneakers, gold hoops, and a straw tote for understated travel chic.
☀️ 2. Flowy Midi Dress + Sandals
For sightseeing in town or coastal strolls, a flowy printed midi dress is both comfortable and photogenic. Choose tropical patterns in coral or teal. Add leather slides and a woven bag for a laid-back yet refined daytime look.
🧢 3. Athletic Shorts + Tank Combo
Perfect for outdoor adventures, this sporty look combines moisture-wicking shorts with a fitted ribbed tank. Top it off with a baseball cap, breathable sneakers, and a backpack. Ideal for hiking trails, volcano parks, or waterfall treks.
🌴 4. Crop Top + Linen Pants
High-waisted linen pants paired with a cropped cotton top create a stylish contrast between structured and relaxed. Add statement sunglasses and minimalist sandals for a modern coastal aesthetic that’s ideal for warm afternoons.
🌧️ 5. Light Rain Jacket + Leggings
Costa Rica’s weather changes quickly! A lightweight waterproof jacket over black leggings and a simple tee keeps you ready for sudden showers. Add hiking boots and a small crossbody for jungle or city exploring.
🏝️ 6. Swimsuit + Wrap Skirt Look
For beach days, layer a bright one-piece swimsuit under a flowy wrap skirt or sarong. Finish with shell earrings and flip-flops. This look easily transitions from lounging by the water to grabbing lunch at a beach café.
☕ 7. Casual Romper + Sun Hat
A short printed romper is the perfect grab-and-go outfit for relaxed days in town. Pair it with flat sandals, a wide-brim sun hat, and minimal jewelry for effortless charm during coffee tastings or markets.
🌄 8. Cargo Shorts + Button-Up Shirt
For adventure excursions, wear high-waisted cargo shorts with a breathable button-up linen shirt tied at the waist. Add sporty sandals or trail sneakers. The utility vibe looks cute but works perfectly for hikes or nature tours.
🕶️ 9. Denim Shorts + Flowy Blouse
Classic and versatile — light denim shorts paired with a soft, flowy blouse in white or pastel shades. Add tan slides and a crossbody bag. This relaxed combination works for day trips or casual beach dinners.
🦋 10. Tropical Jumpsuit Look
A sleeveless tropical-print jumpsuit in soft fabric makes a one-and-done outfit that travels beautifully. Pair with espadrilles and a straw clutch for a resort-ready, modern vacation vibe. Add hoop earrings for a chic finish.
🌿 11. Activewear Set for Adventures
For zip-lining or exploring Arenal Volcano, choose a stylish matching activewear set — biker shorts or leggings with a crop top or sports bra. Layer with a lightweight hoodie or flannel. Add sturdy sneakers for comfort and confidence.
🌸 12. Breezy Maxi Skirt + Tank
Combine a printed chiffon or cotton maxi skirt with a neutral fitted tank top. Add dainty gold jewelry, open-toe sandals, and a woven handbag. Perfect for dinner by the beach or a romantic sunset walk.
🌞 13. Sleeveless Jumpsuit + Slides
A solid-color sleeveless jumpsuit in mustard, olive, or terracotta is the definition of easy elegance. Pair with minimal slides and a crossbody bag. It’s comfortable for travel days yet polished enough for evening cocktails.
🌺 14. Boho Wrap Dress
A bohemian wrap dress with flutter sleeves and floral patterns suits Costa Rica’s laid-back energy. Add espadrilles, delicate jewelry, and a straw hat for a feminine yet relaxed outfit ideal for resort evenings.
🌈 15. Evening Chic Look
For a night out in San José or a beachside dinner, wear silky wide-leg trousers with a satin camisole. Add statement earrings, sleek sandals, and a clutch. This elevated combination transitions perfectly from dinner to dancing under the stars.
