Uvita, Costa Rica: The Complete Travel Guide
Uvita is the heart of Costa Ballena on Costa Rica's South Pacific coast. It is best known for Marino Ballena National Park and its famous Whale's Tail sandbar, but it is also a relaxed base for waterfalls, rainforest hikes and boat trips to Caño Island. Here is what to know before you arrive.
Marino Ballena National Park and the Whale's Tail
Marino Ballena is a marine national park protecting beaches, reefs and the waters where humpback whales come to breed. At low tide, a long sandbar shaped like a whale's tail (Punta Uvita) appears and you can walk out onto it.
Check the tide table before you go: the walk is only possible around low tide. The park charges an entrance fee and has set opening hours, so arrive early for the calmest water and fewer people.
Whale watching season in Uvita
Uvita is one of the best places in Costa Rica to see humpback whales. Whales arrive from the Southern Hemisphere roughly from late July to November, and a smaller group from the Northern Hemisphere visits roughly from December to April.
Boat tours leave from the beach inside the park. Dolphins are often spotted year-round.
Top things to do in Uvita
Beyond the beach, Uvita has plenty for every kind of traveler:
- Whale and dolphin watching boat tours
- Snorkeling and diving trips to Caño Island Biological Reserve
- Swimming at Uvita waterfall and nearby jungle falls
- Kayaking around the Whale's Tail at high tide
- Day trips to Corcovado National Park on the Osa Peninsula
- Sport fishing departures along the South Pacific
Best time to visit
The dry season runs roughly December to April, with sunny mornings and calm seas. The green season (May to November) brings afternoon rain, lush landscapes, fewer crowds and the main whale season. September and October are usually the wettest months.
Getting to Uvita
Most travelers fly into San José (SJO) and continue by private transfer, or take a short domestic flight to Quepos or Palmar Sur and drive the rest of the way. A 4x4 rental or private driver makes it easy to reach waterfalls and hillside villas.
Frequently asked questions
- Can you walk the Whale's Tail any time?
- No. The sandbar is only walkable around low tide, so plan your visit with a tide table.
- When is whale season in Uvita?
- Roughly late July to November, with a second smaller season roughly December to April.
- Is Uvita a good base for Corcovado and Caño Island?
- Yes. Many tours to Caño Island and day trips toward the Osa Peninsula depart from or pick up in the Uvita area.
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.