Highlights

Whale and dolphin watching

A visit to Uvita is not complete without tour to sport some of the ocean’s most beautiful and most sensitive mammals. The Humpback whale and Bryde´s whale populate these waters in pretty big numbers and can grow up to 15 meters long. Tours offering whale and dolphin watching, usually also pass through he stunning Marino Ballena National Park.

Marino Ballena National Park

Marino Ballena National Park encompasses nearly nine miles from Rio Morete to Punta Pinuela. And includes over 5000 sea hectares of protected area. It is famous for abundant sea life. Uvita Costa Rica offers one of the longest whale-watching seasons of any place in the world. From December to March and then again from mid-July thru October. The giant humpback whales make their way to the warm, tropical waters of Costa Rica. The diverse nature of Marino Ballena National Park includes over seventy-five species of fish. Including sharks and dolphins and large populations of Olive Ridley, Leatherback and Green turtles.

Uvita Waterfall

When you think about waterfalls in Costa Rica, you probably envision these huge, natural bathing pools in an idyllic setting. Very true! But what about one that is less about relaxation and more about adrenaline? The Uvita waterfall is a natural waterslide. You can climb to the top and slide down into the deep, serene pool at the bottom. The Nauyaca Falls are also worth a visit for sure!

Beautiful Whale Tail and Coral Reefs

The Whale’s Tale is a naturally formed sand and rock spit extending over a mile and a half of the beach in Uvita. During low tide, many visitors walk out on the Whale’s Tail. They enjoy the fantastic views and unique Pacific Ocean perspective. The Uvita area also includes a large stretch of coral reef perfect for snorkeling and scuba adventures. You certainly will be amazed at the large quantity of brightly colored tropical fish and other sea life that you can see in this natural wonderland. Several small islands including Las Tres Hermanas and Isla Ballena add to the amazing landscape.

Tips

Visit between December and March: The Costa Rica dry season is the best time to visit! The whale watching seasons tend to be around rainy season, but here you have a good shot at spotting them while avoiding the sometimes-temperamental weather of Costa Rica’s south.

Explore the area: Places like Playa Hermosa, Dominical, Ojotal and Quepos are close-by. Take advantage of this and visit them!

Go to Envision Festival: Don’t miss Uvita’s 4-day annual music festival! Music, yoga, dance… There’s something for everyone!

Getting there

Closest International Airport:Juan Santamaria International Airport (SJO)

Uvita is located at around 220 km from San Jose. It will take you up to 3.30 hours to reach by car. You can also organize for a shared or private shuttle. You can also take domestic flight into Quepos and take a shuttle or car for the additional 60 km.

Dining

Try the traditional Gallo Pinto breakfast and Casado lunch at Soda Ranchito Dona Maria. If you favor sublime tastes in a fusion styled restaurant, make sure to book a table at Aracari Restaurant. For some of the best seafood in the area, Sabor Espanol will not disappoint!

Where to stay

Hotel Cristal Ballena is a classic choice within the Uvita region and will never let you down with its superior amenities and gourmet restaurant. Rancho Pacifico is an adults-only resort and true hidden gem in Costa Rica. The natural setting awards you sights of all kinds of tropical birds. If you favor an more edgy stay, have a look at Kura design Villas.