Ojochal, Costa Rica: Food, Hidden Beaches & Quiet Luxury
Ojochal is a small jungle village at the southern end of Costa Ballena. It is famous for an unusually diverse dining scene for its size, quiet beaches and a peaceful, residential feel — ideal for travelers who want to slow down.
The culinary capital of Costa Ballena
Ojochal is often called the culinary capital of the South Pacific coast. International chefs have settled here, so in a few streets you will find French, Asian, Italian and modern Costa Rican cooking.
Prefer to eat in? A private chef can cook a local, seasonal menu in your villa.
Playa Ventanas and nearby beaches
Playa Ventanas is known for its sea caves (the "windows"), which you can explore at low tide. Playa Tortuga, at the mouth of the Balsa River, is a wide, quiet beach popular for long walks and sunsets.
As everywhere on this coast, check tides and currents before swimming.
Things to do in Ojochal
Ojochal is a peaceful base with plenty nearby:
- Hikes to jungle waterfalls in the hills above the village
- Mangrove boat tours in the Sierpe area
- Day trips to Caño Island and Corcovado National Park
- In-villa spa treatments after a day outdoors
- Whale watching departures from nearby Uvita
Best time to visit Ojochal
The dry season runs roughly December to April. The green season brings afternoon showers and very green scenery, and it overlaps with the main humpback whale season.
Getting around
Ojochal sits just off the Costanera highway, about 15–20 minutes south of Uvita. Many homes and restaurants are up hill roads, so plan on a 4x4 or a private driver.
Frequently asked questions
- Why is Ojochal known for food?
- Chefs from many countries have opened restaurants in the village, giving it a dining scene far bigger than its size.
- When can you see the caves at Playa Ventanas?
- The caves are best explored around low tide; check a tide table before going.
- Is Ojochal close to Uvita?
- Yes, it is a short drive south of Uvita along the coastal highway.
Plan your stay with a local concierge
We arrange private transportation, tours and experiences, in-villa chefs and spa and 4x4 rentals across Uvita, Dominical and Ojochal.