A riverside village with colorful houses, a large fort on a hill, and lush greenery.

El Castillo Hotels

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Oct 2 - Oct 3
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Oct 3 - Oct 4
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Oct 2 - Oct 4
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Oct 9 - Oct 11

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Our top choices for El Castillo hotels

1. Chateau Arenal

Chateau Arenal
Peñas Blancas
United States
Andres
P5,044
P5,700 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 9 - Oct 10
Chateau Arenal

2. Essence Arenal Spa & Yoga

Essence Arenal Spa & Yoga
Peñas Blancas
United States
Yang
P3,712
P4,195 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 15 - Oct 16
Essence Arenal Spa & Yoga

3. Arenal cautiva

Arenal cautiva
El Millon
United States
Jocelyn
P4,337
P4,901 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 16 - Oct 17
Arenal cautiva

4. Hotel Linda Vista

Hotel Linda Vista
La Fortuna
United States
Jill
P4,793
P5,416 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 3 - Oct 4
Hotel Linda Vista

5. Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails

Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails
La Fortuna
Mexico
Jorge Isai
P7,159
P8,089 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 17 - Oct 18
Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails

6. Lost Iguana Resort and Spa

Lost Iguana Resort and Spa
La Fortuna
United States
Mehrzad
P8,564
P9,677 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 19 - Oct 20
Lost Iguana Resort and Spa

7. Sangregado Lodge

Sangregado Lodge
La Fortuna
United States
Danielle
P10,338
P11,682 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 11 - Oct 12
Sangregado Lodge

8. Tabacón Thermal Resort & Spa

Tabacón Thermal Resort & Spa
La Fortuna
United States
Valeriia
P25,940
P29,312 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 3 - Oct 4
Tabacón Thermal Resort & Spa

9. Hotel Los Lagos Spa & Resort

Hotel Los Lagos Spa & Resort
La Fortuna
United States
David
P8,720
P9,853 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 5 - Oct 6
Hotel Los Lagos Spa & Resort

10. Hotel Arenal Lodge

Hotel Arenal Lodge
La Fortuna
United States
henk
P6,460
P7,299 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 31 - Nov 1
Hotel Arenal Lodge

11. Baldi Hot Springs Hotel and Spa

Baldi Hot Springs Hotel and Spa
La Fortuna
United States
Sabrina
P18,534
P20,943 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 3 - Oct 4
Baldi Hot Springs Hotel and Spa

12. The Springs Resort and Spa at Arenal

The Springs Resort and Spa at Arenal
Monterrey
United States
Cher
P36,023
P40,706 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 5 - Oct 6
The Springs Resort and Spa at Arenal

13. Hotel Lomas del Volcán

Hotel Lomas del Volcán
La Fortuna
United States
Rachel
P12,538
P14,168 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 5 - Oct 6
Hotel Lomas del Volcán

14. Hotel Magic Mountain SPA & Conference center

Hotel Magic Mountain SPA & Conference center
La Fortuna
United States
irene
P9,903
P11,191 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 3 - Oct 4
Hotel Magic Mountain SPA & Conference center

15. Amor Arenal Adults Friendly

Amor Arenal Adults Friendly
La Fortuna
United States
Muhammad
P46,071
P52,060 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 3 - Oct 4
Amor Arenal Adults Friendly

16. Arenal Manoa & Hot Springs Resort

Arenal Manoa & Hot Springs Resort
La Fortuna
United States
Suzie
P14,941
P16,883 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 6 - Oct 7
Arenal Manoa & Hot Springs Resort

17. Paradise Hot Springs - Thermal Water & Volcano Views

Paradise Hot Springs - Thermal Water & Volcano Views
La Fortuna
United States
Jose Alejandro Carvajal
P14,076
P15,906 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 22 - Oct 23
Paradise Hot Springs - Thermal Water & Volcano Views

18. Hotel El Silencio del Campo

Hotel El Silencio del Campo
La Fortuna
United States
Guang
P15,741
P17,788 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 3 - Oct 4
Hotel El Silencio del Campo

19. Arenal Waterfall Lodge

Arenal Waterfall Lodge
La Fortuna
United States
candice
P3,571
P4,036 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 4 - Oct 5
Arenal Waterfall Lodge

20. Volcano Lodge Hotel & Thermal Experience

Volcano Lodge Hotel & Thermal Experience
La Fortuna
United States
Ernesto
P8,338
P9,422 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 5 - Oct 6
Volcano Lodge Hotel & Thermal Experience
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Stay near popular El Castillo attractions

Butterfly Conservatory

8.8/10 (98 reviews)
Meet the animals who live at Butterfly Conservatory during your travels in El Castillo. Wander the lush forest or discover the volcano viewpoints in this romantic area.
See properties

Learn more about El Castillo

Check out the local area in El Castillo—home to attractions like Lake Arenal and Butterfly Conservatory.

See all hotels in El Castillo
A riverside village with colorful houses, a large fort on a hill, and lush greenery.

Top El Castillo Hotel Reviews

Hotel Los Lagos Spa & Resort

Hotel Los Lagos Spa & Resort

10/10 Excellent
"It’s an amazing experience. The stay is memorable with great service and hospitality. The hot springs, food, location, scenic views everything is just fantastic. Highly recommend this please in La Fortuna for a family stay. The room size is awesome too. Very spacious for 4 ppl."
Babu Prasad 3-night trip
Posted 3 hours ago
Hotel Los Lagos Spa & Resort
Hotel Lomas del Volcán

Hotel Lomas del Volcán

10/10 Excellent
"We had such a wonderful stay! The property is beautiful, peaceful, and very well maintained. The entire staff was incredibly friendly, welcoming, and attentive throughout our stay. One of the biggest highlights was the food. The hotel restaurant truly went above and beyond our expectations—everything we had was delicious, fresh, and beautifully prepared. We honestly looked forward to every meal! Overall, we had an amazing experience and would absolutely recommend this hotel to anyone visiting the area. We would happily stay here again!"
Samantha 7-night trip
Posted 6 hours ago
Hotel Lomas del Volcán
Arenal Manoa & Hot Springs Resort

Arenal Manoa & Hot Springs Resort

10/10 Excellent
"I like everything in the hotel the staff and the rooms are very clean and nice we love the breakfast and the pool too definitely a beautiful place to come back again."
Leticia 2-night trip
Posted 8 hours ago
Arenal Manoa & Hot Springs Resort
Hotel Rancho Cerro Azul

Hotel Rancho Cerro Azul

8/10 Good
"Great stay!! Would definitely recommend! We loved having a hot tub in our suite, to enjoy during those rainy hours!"
Sarra 4-night trip
Posted 11 hours ago
Hotel Rancho Cerro Azul
The Royal Corin Thermal Water Spa & Resort - Adults Only

The Royal Corin Thermal Water Spa & Resort - Adults Only

10/10 Excellent
"Rooms are very nice and the view of the Arenal Volcano from all of the rooms is amazing on clear days. The included breakfast is very good with a great variety of foods including local specialities like gallo pinto, chicharron with salsa verde, fresh fruits, fresh squeezed orange juice, coffee and lots of other hot items. The staff are all very nice and make the effort to remember you and your name throughout your stay. The hot springs facilities are amazing to relax in after a day of exploring Costa Rica. Great swim up bar also."
John 4-night trip
Posted 13 hours ago
The Royal Corin Thermal Water Spa & Resort - Adults Only
Amor Arenal Adults Friendly

Amor Arenal Adults Friendly

10/10 Excellent
"Excellent, everything was nice, staff very helpful, i will recomend 100%"
Alexandra 2-night trip
Posted 1 day ago
Amor Arenal Adults Friendly
Casa Luna Hotel & Spa

Casa Luna Hotel & Spa

10/10 Excellent
"Excellent place! Everything is wonderful except the weak internet connection in the room"
Mengyu 3-night trip
Posted 1 day ago
Casa Luna Hotel & Spa
Tabacón Thermal Resort & Spa

Tabacón Thermal Resort & Spa

10/10 Excellent
"Great resort it’s our second time there and it’s always top notch service and staff. Loved it."
Kim 3-night trip
Posted 1 day ago
Tabacón Thermal Resort & Spa
Baldi Hot Springs Hotel and Spa

Baldi Hot Springs Hotel and Spa

10/10 Excellent
"Room was spacious with a nice balcony although we had a parking lot view. The property was beautiful and all the pools-spa were worth the drive ."
Nalinda 1-night trip
Posted 2 days ago
Baldi Hot Springs Hotel and Spa

More cheap stays in El Castillo

Viajero La Fortuna Hostel

Viajero La Fortuna Hostel

Av. 325 La Fortuna Provincia de Alajuela
P2,261
P2,555 total
Oct 12 - Oct 13
includes taxes & fees
Viajero La Fortuna Hostel
Arenal Xilopalo

Arenal Xilopalo

Calle 478 La Fortuna Alajuela
P3,553
P4,014 total
Oct 4 - Oct 5
includes taxes & fees
Arenal Xilopalo
Hotel Villas Vilma

Hotel Villas Vilma

3 Km West From Fortuna Central Park La Fortuna Alajuela
P5,709
P6,452 total
Oct 4 - Oct 5
includes taxes & fees
9.2/10 Wonderful! (126 reviews)
Hotel Villas Vilma
Tityra Lodge

Tityra Lodge

Ruta Nacional Treciaria 606 Monteverde Puntarenas
P6,653
P7,518 total
Oct 25 - Oct 26
includes taxes & fees
Tityra Lodge
BAUMA

BAUMA

Zeta Trece La Fortuna Provincia de Alajuela
P10,785
P12,187 total
Oct 14 - Oct 15
includes taxes & fees
9.8/10 Exceptional! (321 reviews)
BAUMA
Hostel La Choza Inn

Hostel La Choza Inn

Avenue 331 La Fortuna Alajuela
Get rates
7.8/10 Good! (232 reviews)
Hostel La Choza Inn

Find out more about El Castillo

Top reasons to visit El Castillo

  • Stunning Natural Beauty: El Castillo boasts breathtaking landscapes, including lush forests, waterfalls, and hot springs, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.
  • Adventure Activities: Enjoy a range of exciting excursions, from hiking to exploring nearby volcanoes, ensuring an adrenaline-filled holiday.
  • Relaxing Spa Experiences: Indulge in rejuvenating spa treatments and unwind in serene surroundings, ideal for relaxation.
  • Charming Local Culture: Experience the warm hospitality of friendly locals and immerse yourself in the laid-back lifestyle.
  • Diverse Accommodation Options: Choose from luxurious hotels to cosy lodges, catering to various preferences and budgets.

Find great hotels near El Castillo

Discover the enchanting charm of El Castillo, Peñas Blancas, where a variety of lodging options await you, from luxurious boutique hotels to adventure-filled lodges. Perfect for family vacations and those seeking unique hot spring experiences, El Castillo offers an array of accommodations tailored to your needs. Enjoy exceptional service and explore captivating reviews to find your ideal star-rated hotel in this picturesque Costa Rican haven.

  • Hotel Los Lagos Spa & Resort: Nestled in a lush setting, Hotel Los Lagos Spa & Resort is a delightful 3.5-star retreat perfect for families and relaxation seekers. Located 11.3km from El Castillo, this hotel embraces a hot spring and spa theme, offering a natural hot spring onsite for a soothing experience. Families can enjoy amenities such as a children’s pool and first aid kit, ensuring a safe and enjoyable stay for younger guests. The full-service spa offers a variety of treatments including aromatherapy and body wraps, making it an ideal choice for those looking to unwind amidst stunning natural beauty.
  • Volcano Lodge Hotel & Thermal Experience: This 4-star lodge, situated 11.3km from El Castillo, is a haven for adventure enthusiasts and business travellers alike. With its thrilling hot spring theme, the Volcano Lodge provides guests with access to natural hot springs onsite. The property is an adventure sports paradise, offering activities like kayaking, mountain biking, and cave exploring nearby. Whether you're seeking a weekend getaway or a base for exploration, this lodge promises an exhilarating experience paired with the comfort and convenience of modern amenities.
  • The Royal Corin Thermal Water Spa & Resort - Adults Only: For a romantic and adventurous escape, The Royal Corin Thermal Water Spa & Resort is a 4.5-star oasis located 11.3km from El Castillo. Exclusively for adults, this property combines nature-themed luxury with thrilling activities such as ziplining and horse riding. Guests can indulge in romantic dining experiences with garden and pool views, enhanced by options like limited-hour room service and champagne service. The spa offers rejuvenating treatments including mud baths and massages, perfect for couples seeking relaxation and intimacy amidst breathtaking surroundings.

Where to stay in El Castillo

El Castillo, nestled in the picturesque Alajuela Province, offers a delightful escape for those seeking outdoor adventures and natural beauty. Wander through its charming streets, where friendly locals embody the spirit of relaxation and recreation. Nearby attractions provide the perfect setting for family-friendly outings, while the serene atmosphere invites casual elegance. Whether you're exploring lush landscapes or enjoying a tranquil getaway, El Castillo promises an unforgettable experience for every traveller.

  • La Fortuna: Located around 12.9km from El Castillo, La Fortuna is a vibrant city renowned for its stunning natural beauty and adventure offerings. This popular destination attracts visitors year-round, with peak arrivals from January to March and April. Adventurers flock to La Fortuna for a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, hot springs, and scenic views of the Arenal Volcano. The area is dotted with resorts and spas, providing relaxation after a day of exploration. Be sure to visit the Arenal Volcano National Park for an unforgettable experience.
  • Peñas Blancas: El Castillo is situated within the charming city of Peñas Blancas, which boasts a similar appeal to La Fortuna. The visitor numbers peak in March and during the festive season in December and January, making it a lively spot for outdoor enthusiasts. Here, you can immerse yourself in nature, with activities such as hiking and wildlife watching. The city offers a range of accommodations and recreational areas, making it convenient for travellers seeking adventure and scenery. Don’t miss the nearby national parks that showcase the area's rich biodiversity.
  • El Fosforo: Just 644m from El Castillo lies the quaint village of El Fosforo, a hidden gem for those seeking a more intimate experience. The village attracts visitors throughout the year, peaking in March and during the holiday season. Known for its outdoor activities, El Fosforo offers exciting options such as ziplining and adventure courses. With close proximity to stunning national parks and the Arenal Volcano, this village serves as an ideal base for exploring the lush surroundings while enjoying the tranquillity of rural Costa Rica.

Things to do near El Castillo

El Castillo in Peñas Blancas offers a wealth of outdoor and adventure activities for an unforgettable holiday. Visitors can enjoy alfresco adventures, relax in a resort or spa, and explore the scenic recreational areas. Highlights include a golf course with stunning ocean views, outdoor excursions, and comfortable beach chairs for leisure by the water. This picturesque location is perfect for those seeking a blend of relaxation and adventure amidst beautiful scenery.

Shopping

In El Castillo, you can visit El Pilon Station, a vibrant shopping area located 41.8km away, offering a mix of city and family vibes. If you're up for a drive, the San Ramon Municipal Market is 48.3km away, providing a bustling atmosphere for local goods and souvenirs.

Recreation

Experience tranquillity at Wellness Park Costa Rica, a serene recreational area offering relaxation and rejuvenation vibes, located 8.0km from El Castillo. Alternatively, indulge in the therapeutic hot springs at Termales Los Laureles, a wellness haven situated 11.3km away, perfect for unwinding amidst nature.

Adventure

At Costa Rica Sky Adventures, located 3.2km from El Castillo, experience the thrill of ziplining through lush canopies. Selvatura Adventure Park, 9.7km away, offers an exhilarating ropes course. For a unique adventure, Sky Adventures Monteverde Park, 11.3km from El Castillo, provides stunning views and exciting zipline experiences.

Nightlife

Experience the vibrant nightlife at El Castillo with a visit to the local tavern for some traditional Costa Rican cocktails. Enjoy the lively atmosphere while mingling with friendly locals. Don’t miss the occasional live music events that showcase talented musicians, adding to the charm of your evening.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for El Castillo

To save money during your trip to El Castillo, consider visiting in the low season of May and September to October when prices are generally lower. Book your accommodation at least a month in advance or check Expedia's last-minute deals for discounts. Saturdays tend to be the least expensive days to stay, while Thursdays are pricier. Use Expedia's search tool to filter by budget and eco-friendly options, and consider booking a package that includes flights and activities for additional savings.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in El Castillo are May and September to October, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to March to April and July, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel in El Castillo is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay, though if you're late to the party, have a look at Expedia's last minute deals - the green banner below the hotel's price indicates a discounted rate.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in El Castillo is Saturday. The most expensive day to stay in El Castillo is Thursday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, including your budget, desired location, and preferred type of accommodation. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels currently available. To find the best prices and offers, arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by booking an Expedia package that combines your El Castillo hotel accommodation with your flights and activities.

Find the best attractions near El Castillo

El Castillo, nestled in Alajuela Province, offers an ideal escape for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers. Visitors can explore a variety of attractions such as hot springs, volcanoes, and stunning waterfalls, all perfect for relaxation and wellness. Whether you're seeking thrilling activities or serene landscapes, El Castillo provides a diverse range of experiences that cater to every type of traveller, ensuring a memorable holiday in this picturesque destination.

  • Arenal Volcano National Park: Located 6.4km from El Castillo, this park features the majestic Arenal Volcano, surrounded by lush scenery. Experience thrilling outdoor adventures such as hiking and wildlife spotting, all set against the backdrop of one of Costa Rica's most iconic natural wonders.
  • Tabacon Hot Springs: Situated 8.0km away, Tabacon Hot Springs offers a serene wellness retreat. Relax in the natural thermal pools, surrounded by tropical gardens, and indulge in rejuvenating spa treatments, making it a perfect spot for unwinding after a day of exploration.
  • La Fortuna Waterfall: Just 9.7km from El Castillo, La Fortuna Waterfall is a breathtaking sight, cascading down into a crystal-clear pool. The area invites adventurous souls to swim and explore the lush surroundings, creating a romantic atmosphere for couples and nature lovers alike.

Best time to go to El Castillo

The best time to visit El Castillo is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. April is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. November is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with moderate rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January79.2°F (26.2°C)No RainSunnySlightly HighAverage
February80.6°F (27.0°C)No RainSunnySlightly HighAverage
March81.9°F (27.7°C)No RainSunnySlightly HighSlightly High
April82.2°F (27.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
May81.3°F (27.4°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
June79.9°F (26.6°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
July79.5°F (26.4°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly High
August79.5°F (26.4°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudySlightly LowAverage
September79.3°F (26.3°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
October78.6°F (25.9°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
November78.3°F (25.7°C)Moderate RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
December78.4°F (25.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage

The nearest major airports for your trip to El Castillo

When visiting El Castillo, Costa Rica, you can fly into two major airports: San José (SJO-Juan Santamaría Intl.) and Liberia (LIR-Daniel Oduber Intl.). San José Airport is located 77.2km away, with nearby hotels such as the 5-star InterContinental Costa Rica at Multiplaza Mall, 8.0km from the airport, and the 4.5-star Costa Rica Marriott Hotel Hacienda Belen, 3.2km away, offering 24-hour airport shuttle services. Liberia Airport is 86.9km from El Castillo, with excellent options like the 4.5-star Planet Hollywood Costa Rica, 14.5km away, and the Andaz Peninsula Papagayo Resort, 12.9km away, providing airport transportation services for guests.

Frequently asked questions

What's the best place for a stay in El Castillo?
Based on our traveler data, Chateau Arenal is one of the top choices for your stay. This hotel is a short 12-minute walk from Lake Arenal, and it offers free breakfast and a restaurant. Other good choices for your stay in the area are Tabacón Thermal Resort & Spa and Hotel Los Lagos Spa & Resort. See all available top hotels, or vacation rentals in El Castillo.
What are some of the best vacation rentals in El Castillo?
Green Forest Vacations Homes: You might want to consider this vacation home rental near El Castillo, which offers an indoor pool, a balcony, and free WiFi to help you feel perfectly comfortable in your new surroundings. Kitchen amenities include a stovetop, a microwave, and a coffee maker. Make the most of the garden in this rental home to help you unwind. See all vacation rentals in El Castillo.
If I need to cancel my hotel reservation in El Castillo, will I receive a refund?
Yes! You'll find that most hotel reservations are fully refundable as long as you cancel before the accommodation's cancellation deadline, which often is within 24-48 hours of your arrival date. If your reservation is non-refundable, it might still be possible to cancel it and get a refund within a 24-hour period of booking. Filter your search by fully refundable to find flexible hotel deals in El Castillo.
What's the best budget-friendly hotel in El Castillo?
Based on our traveler reviews, Essence Arenal Spa & Yoga is a top choice for a less expensive stay. View all budget hotels in El Castillo.
What's the best high-end place to stay in El Castillo?
Arenal Vista Lodge is a luxury hotel with a deli and private patios, and it's a popular choice for Expedia travelers looking for an elegant place to stay. Find more luxury hotels in El Castillo.
What are some accommodations with pools in El Castillo?
Chateau Arenal: Hotel, 12-minute walk from Lake Arenal. Features a children's pool, an outdoor pool, and spa services. Tabacón Thermal Resort & Spa and Hotel Los Lagos Spa & Resort are two additional hotels with an onsite pool. View all hotels with pools in El Castillo.
What is the best spa hotel in El Castillo?
Chateau Arenal is a top spa hotel featuring a bar, an outdoor pool, and a restaurant. Treat yourself to a facial, body scrub, or Swedish massage at the onsite spa. Another popular spa hotel in El Castillo is Essence Arenal Spa & Yoga. See all spa hotels in El Castillo.
How is it to stay in El Castillo?
Travelers to El Castillo will find plenty to explore and enjoy. A top sight in the area is Arenal Volcano National Park. In El Castillo, there are 39 hotels and other accommodations to choose from. Find out more about El Castillo.
What should I do while I'm visiting El Castillo?
A couple of favorite places to visit are Lake Arenal and Butterfly Conservatory. Additionally, you'll find Arenal Volcano National Park in the area. Check out what more to see and do in Expedia's El Castillo guide.
What's the weather like in El Castillo?
The hottest months are usually March and February with an average temp of 81°F, while the coldest months are January and December with an average of 79°F. The rainiest months in El Castillo are October, August, June, and September, with each month seeing an average of 19 inches of rainfall.