tour uvita costa rica

Life at the Sea Tour, Uvita, Costa Rica

Marino ballena, corcovado cano island, we work with the saying “pura vida” that will make you feel like family and at home..

Whale and Dolphin watching tour

Uvita Rappelling

Surf Lessons

Sport fishing

Mangrove Kayaking Tour

Kayak on the whale’s tail – Marino Ballena National Park

Horseback Riding

Cowboy Experience

Corcovado National Park – San Pedrillo Ranger Station

Cano Island Biological Station

Boat mangrove

Things to do in uvita.

Sierpe Mangrove Boat Tour

The Sierpe mangrove is the largest in Central America so it is incredibly important for...

Bird watching

The South Pacific rainforest is home to a ton of birds and offers fantastic birdwatching in...

Catarata Uvita (Uvita Waterfall)

There is a small but charming waterfall right in Uvita and is worth a visit....

Day Trip to Corcovado National Park

If you’re not planning on going any further south, then a day trip to Corcovado...

Caño Island Snorkeling and Scuba Diving

Caño Island Biological Reserve is one of the best snorkel/scuba dive spots in Costa Rica...

Take a Surf Lesson

There are a couple of good spots for surf lessons in Uvita, particularly the Sector...

Do a Whale and Dolphin watching tour

As Marino Ballena National Park is the best place to go humpback whale watching in Costa...

Marino Ballena

Marino Ballena National Park is a huge national park in Uvita encompassing four different beaches and...

How to get there?

Google Maps

What my clients say

Connect with us

Henry Segura: +50684945172 Rebeca Godinez: +50687502049

Email Address

[email protected]

Business Hours

MON to SUN: 07 a.m. to 05 p.m.

50 m before the main entrance of the Marino Ballena National Park

• Enter Costa Rica

Uvita Tours

The small village of Uvita resides closest to Marino Ballena National Park aptly named for the magnificent humpback whales that visit twice a year as they migrate. Hawksbill and Olive Ridley sea turtles also come to the beautiful white sand beaches for nesting. Music lovers like gravitating to the internationally popular Envision Festival every year. Locally grown fruits and vegetables can be found at the farmer’s market before you set out on a day of adventures such as scuba diving, snorkeling caves, ziplining or riding horses to the splendid Tocori Waterfall. You’ll find sport fishing tours, kayaking trips, catamaran cruises, and whitewater rafting opportunities. Damas Island offers the eco-tourist a guided riverboat safari to enjoy watching wildlife, and many hiking tours are available. At the end of the day, you can relax into the quiet jungle atmosphere set in the mountains surrounding this peaceful beach community centrally located on the Pacific coast.

Cano Island Biological Reserve Tour

Adventure, Nature, Archaeology, Beach

Cano Island Biological Reserve is a totally protected island found offshore in the southern Pacific side of Costa Rica. Home to a variety of fish and underwater creatures, you will likely be amazed by this colorful underwater world and have an experience of a lifetime. On this tour, you will explore the area by boat and have an opportunity to snorkel in two of the captain’s favorite spots.

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Suggested age range: 4+

Combo Tour Snorkeling, Caves, and Whale Watching

Beach, Snorkeling

Hop on board this well-reviewed combo tour and experience ocean exploring at its finest. The Combo Tour- Snorkeling, Caves and Whale Watching tour is a nature enthusiast’s dream and an animal lover’s paradise. You’ll travel as a group to visit a number of different areas in search of humpback whales, bottle nosed dolphins and schools of colorful tropical fish. You will also have an opport ...

Suggested age range: 1+

Corcovado National Park Tour

Adventure, Nature, Learning Family, Hiking, Wildlife Hike

Corcovado National Park Tour is a great way to explore the lush nature in Costa Rica both by boat and on foot. Be prepared to be amazed at the picturesque landscape as you hop on board the vessel and get whisked away to paradise. Your captain and guides will provide lifejackets and saf ...

Damas Island Kayaking Safari

Adventure, Nature

Damas Island and the surrounding mangroves provide one of the better places in Costa Rica to go boating in a wildlife refuge. Kayaking through the mangroves can be a thrilling experience as you immerse yourself in the local wildlfie habitat. The tour starts off when you are picked up from your hotel. If you are in Manuel Antonio, the drive will be around a half hour. The drive will take ...

Damas Island Riverboat Safari

Safari Cruise

Located on the Central Pacific coast, a little north of Manuel Antonio, the Damas Island Estuary is a great place to observe rare and exotic wildlife. This half day tour will take you through this interesting refuge on a covered riverboat, allowing you to sit back and enjoy the scenery and natural surprises around every turn. The tour starts when you are picked up from your local ar ...

Fishing Tour Full Day - Private

Today you will be fishing for Dorado, Mahi Mahi, Snapper, Roosterfish and Wahoo just to name a few. This full day, 8 hour tour includes boat, captain, mate, bait, tackle, lunch, and soft drinks on board. Valid for up to 4 anglers. Does not include 30 Dollar fishing license which must be paid in person on arrival. It can take between 15 and 45 minutes to get from your hotel to the beach dep ...

Horseback Ride to Tocori Waterfalls

Adventure, Nature, Waterfalls

The Horseback Ride to Tocori Waterfalls is a unique tour that combines natural beauty, nature, and local culture into one unique experience. In one action-packed tour, you will horseback ride on a country farm, walk through the jungle, observe and swim beneath a waterfall, and then spend time at the family farm, enjoying a traditional Costa Rican meal! The day starts when you are picke ...

Inshore Fishing - Half Day

Today you will go on a half day of inshore sport fishing along the Pacific coast. Common catches include mahi mahi, blackfin tuna, wahoo, and roosterfish. This fun filled private half day tour includes boat, equipment and beverages. Valid for up to 4 anglers. Does not include 30 Dollar fishing license which must be paid in person on arrival. TRANSPORTATION NOT INCLUDED. It can take between ...

Inshore Sport Fishing 28 Foot Boat - Full Day

A full day of inshore sport fishing on a 28-foot boat. You will be fishing for Blackfin Tuna, Dorado, Mahi Mahi, Snapper, Roosterfish, and Wahoo just to name a few. This full-day, 9-hour tour includes transportation, boat, captain, bait, tackle, lunch, Snacks, fruit, water, sodas, safety equipment and beer on board. Valid for up to 4 anglers. Does not include 17 Dollar fishing license which mu ...

Suggested age range: 1 - 100

Inshore Sport Fishing 28 Foot Boat - Half Day

A half day of inshore sport fishing on a 28-foot boat. You will be fishing for Blackfin Tuna, Dorado, Mahi Mahi, Snapper, Roosterfish, and Wahoo just to name a few. This full-day, 4-hour tour includes transportation, boat, captain, mate, bait, tackle, Snacks, fruit, water, sodas, and beer on board. Valid for up to 4 anglers. Does not include 17 Dollar fishing license which must be paid in pers ...

Inshore Sport Fishing 33 Foot Boat - Half Day

A half day of inshore sport fishing on a 33-foot boat. You will be fishing for Blackfin Tuna, Dorado, Mahi Mahi, Snapper, Roosterfish, and Wahoo just to name a few. This full-day, 4-hour tour includes transportation, boat, captain, mate, bait, tackle, Snacks, fruit, water, sodas, and beer on board. Valid for up to 6 anglers. Does not include 17 Dollar fishing license which must be paid in pers ...

Kayaking at Marino Ballena Park - Ballena Aventura

Adventure, Beach, Snorkeling

The Kayaking Adventure at Marino Ballena Park is an awesome half day adventure!Round trip transportation times vary from 15 minutes to a little over an hour based upon whether you are picked up from your hotel in the local area of Uvita or from areas around Dominical and Manuel Antonio. You will be brought into the Marino Bellena National Park and your admission is included in the tour. ...

Manuel Antonio National Park

Nature, Beach, Wildlife Hike

A guided hike through Manuel Antonio National Park promises an immersive journey into the heart of one of Costa Rica's most celebrated natural gems. Led by knowledgeable local guides, this experience unveils the park's rich biodiversity, captivating landscapes, and fascinating ecosystem dynamics. As you embark on the hike, your guide will take you along well-maintained trails that wind ...

Offshore Sport Fishing 28 Foot Boat Full Day

A full day of offshore sport fishing on a 28-foot boat. You will be fishing for Marlin, Sailfish, Yellowfin Tuna, Dorado, Mahi Mahi, Snapper, Roosterfish, and Wahoo just to name a few. This full-day, 9-hour tour includes transportation, boat, captain, bait, tackle, lunch, Snacks, fruit, water, sodas, safety equipment and beer on board. Valid for up to 4 anglers. Does not include 17 Dollar fish ...

Offshore Sport Fishing 33 Foot Boat - Full Day

A full day of offshore sport fishing on a 33-foot boat. You will be fishing for Marlin, Sailfish, Yellowfin Tuna, Dorado, Mahi Mahi, Snapper, Roosterfish, and Wahoo just to name a few. This full-day, 8-hour tour includes transportation, boat, captain, mate, bait, tackle, lunch, Snacks, fruit, water, sodas, and beer on board. Valid for up to 6 anglers. Does not include 17 Dollar fishing license ...

Offshore Sport Fishing 38 Foot Boat - Full Day

A full day of offshore sport fishing on a 38-foot boat. You will be fishing for Marlin, Sailfish, Yellowfin Tuna, Dorado, Mahi Mahi, Snapper, Roosterfish, and Wahoo just to name a few. This full-day, 8-hour tour includes transportation, boat, captain, mate, bait, tackle, lunch, Snacks, fruit, water, sodas, and beer on board. Valid for up to 6 anglers. Does not include 17 Dollar fishing license ...

Tour to the Mangroves of Terraba

Nature, Learning Family, Safari Cruise

Mangroves are one of the most interesting ecosystems in the world. On this riverboat tour, you’ll explore a protected Mangrove led by a knowledgeable nature guide. Mangroves typically live where fresh water meets salt water. In this difficult environment, they thrive and provide protection for newly spawned fish to grow and survive. Their massive air roots create an impenetrable web and their ...

Whale and Dolphin Watching Marino Ballena National Park - Dolphin Tours

Nature, Learning Family

Uvita invites you to come whale watching! Imagine seeing these mammoth creatures breach and flip their thundering tails! Certain species come to breed every year at Marino Ballena National Park. These waters are also home to several species of dolphin, some migratory and some living here year round. You will be picked up from Dolphin Tours Office in Uvita and driven to the beach where y ...

Whitewater Rafting Rio Naranjo

Whitewater rafting is a thrilling adventure and Costa Rica is home to some of the best rivers and internationally trained rafting guides in the world.This full day extreme tour is available only during the rainy season which is typically from May to December but, due to unpredictable weather patterns, it is good to check availability before booking. Appropriate for experienced rafters or ...

Suggested age range: 12+

Whitewater Rafting Rio Savegre

Extreme, Rafting

Safe fun for family and perfect for first timers, imagine the excitement learning to shoot whitewater rapids in the renown Savegre River led by safety trained rafting experts.You’ll begin this trek riding a 4 x 4 as you and your family or group will journey through remote areas of jungle canopy for approximately 45 minutes following spectacular views of the river until you reach a that ...

Suggested age range: 8+

What are the best tours in Uvita, Costa Rica?

Uvita, located on Costa Rica's stunning Pacific coast, offers a range of exciting tours and activities that allow you to explore the natural beauty and biodiversity of the region. Here are some of the best tours in Uvita:

Visit to Hacienda Baru : Take a guided tour of Hacienda Baru, a private wildlife reserve and conservation area. Explore the lush rainforest, hike through scenic trails, and spot a variety of wildlife, including monkeys, sloths, and exotic birds. Learn about the conservation efforts and sustainable practices implemented at Hacienda Baru. Cano Island Biological Reserve Tour : Embark on a boat tour to Cano Island Biological Reserve, a protected marine area known for its vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life. Enjoy snorkeling or scuba diving in the crystal-clear waters, where you can encounter tropical fish, rays, turtles, and even dolphins and whales during the migration season. Combo Tour to Marino Ballena National Park : Experience a combination tour that includes snorkeling in the fascinating underwater caves of Marino Ballena National Park and whale watching. Marvel at the majestic humpback whales as they migrate through the waters of the Marino Ballena National Park, and explore the marine caves that showcase a unique underwater ecosystem. Corcovado National Park Tour : Venture on a guided tour to Corcovado National Park , renowned as one of the most biodiverse places on the planet. Explore the pristine rainforest, spot rare wildlife species, and discover the rich flora and fauna of this protected area. Keep an eye out for monkeys, sloths, jaguars, and a variety of bird species. Kayaking at Marino Ballena Park : Enjoy a kayaking adventure in the calm waters of Marino Ballena Park. Paddle along the coastline, admire the scenic beauty, and keep an eye out for marine life such as turtles, dolphins, and colorful tropical fish. It's a great way to explore the coastal ecosystem and appreciate the tranquility of the surroundings. Surf Lessons : Uvita is a popular destination for surfers of all levels. Take advantage of the great surf conditions and join a surf lesson or surf camp to learn how to ride the waves. Experienced instructors will guide you through the basics and help you improve your skills while enjoying the beautiful beaches of Uvita. Whale and Dolphin Watching in Marino Ballena National Park : Embark on a boat tour specifically focused on whale and dolphin watching. Witness these magnificent marine creatures in their natural habitat and learn about their behavior from knowledgeable guides. It's a memorable experience to see the acrobatic displays of dolphins or the massive size of humpback whales. These tours in Uvita offer a mix of adventure, marine exploration, wildlife encounters, and coastal beauty. Whether you're interested in snorkeling, kayaking, surfing, or observing marine mammals, Uvita provides a range of options to make your Costa Rica experience unforgettable.

Unsure of what to do? Let us make you a free custom trip plan!

13 Best Things To Do in Uvita, Costa Rica

Welcome to Uvita, a lovely backpack-ish town on the South Pacific of Costa Rica where there are fewer crowds and greener landscapes. It has become a traveler’s favorite for its whale watching, stunning beaches with full sunsets, and close location to Corcovado National Park. The village itself is a mix of unpaved and paved roads with trees leaning over, a lot of wildlife, and little cafes and eye-catching restaurants tucked away in between.

Things to do in Uvita

1. marino ballena (whale tail) – great to do in uvita.

Marino Ballena National Park is a protected reserve located right in the heart of Uvita. During low tide, a natural phenomenon happens where two beaches meet and form a 600-meter wide sand passage in the shape of a whale tail. You’re able to walk along the tail during low tide ( check today’s tide here ). And, as a beautiful coincidence, if you pick the right season, Uvita is the best place for spotting whales – more on that later in this travel blog.

Also see: Ultimate 2-week Costa Rica Itinerary

Unfortunately, due to the tail’s enormous size, you won’t be able to see it properly without a drone. But luckily, there’s so much more to admire in the national park. Marino Ballena National Park is filled with wildlife like iguanas, beautiful birds, and occasionally even sloths. This is not only here but also inside Uvita town.

Additionally, the beaches inside Uvita’s national park are some of the best in Costa Rica! You could spend an entire day here relaxing on the beach and swimming.

Here are all your hotel options in Uvita.

We recommend visiting as early as possible as the park is completely empty in the early mornings. It’s one of the popular things to do in Uvita and, therefore, the busiest. They open daily at 8 AM, and the walk to the tail is about 20 minutes. The entrance fee is 6 USD per person.

Also read: Best Things to do in La Fortuna, The volcanic area

2. El Pavon Waterfall (Cascade El Pavon)

El Pavon is a unique and serene waterfall about 25 minutes’ driving from Uvita. The beautiful waterfall gains its character from a giant rock stuck at the top of the waterfall. It is surrounded by lush jungle and has natural swimming pools in front of the waterfall and down the river. There’s even a natural water slide! Everything is easily accessible, and there’s no hike required. There is no entrance fee or maintenance for this waterfall, so please leave it cleaner than you found it. 

Also read about Manuel Antonio National Park .

Getting there

El Pavon Waterfall is tucked away and not that well known. To get there, take Route 34 towards Coronado. After a 20-minute drive from Uvita, exit the highway on the left just before crossing a small bridge. There will be a sign ‘El Pavon Talapia farm & restaurant’. Follow the road for about 4 kilometers until you see a sign on your left hand saying ‘Cascade el Pavon’ (just past the restaurant). You don’t need a 4×4 car for this road, but it’s definitely bumpy.

3. Go Whale Watching 

One of the best things to do in Uvita is whale watching. Humpback whales from both the North and South migrate to this area for breeding. They alternate with each other, and for that reason, Uvita has two whale watching seasons. The best time to go whale watching in Uvita is from January to March or July to October. In the months of November, December, and May, June, you might have little to no encounter.

Many tour operators offer whale-watching tours in Uvita. There are signs all over town that read: ‘Ballena’ (Spanish for whale). You can either book in advance online or at one of the offices in town. It’s good to book your trip in advance during the whale season. 

Book your whale watching tour online here.

4. Nauyaca Waterfall

If there’s one thing to do in Uvita, it’s to visit the Nauyaca Waterfall ! It’s named multiple times as the most beautiful waterfall in Costa Rica. There are two enormously powerful waterfalls on different levels with natural swimming pools at the foot. It’s one of those places that looks as if it has come straight out of a movie scene. 

It takes about 1 hour / 1.5 hours from Uvita to get to Nauyaca , but it’s 100% worth the trip. Once at the parking, there are multiple ways to get to the falls; walking, by horse, or motorized transport, and all with different prices. You could also join a multi-stop day tour that takes you to this must-see waterfall and more.

Here’s everything you need to know about the Nauyaca Waterfalls .

5. Sierpe Mangrove Tour

A great thing to do in Uvita is taking a morning or afternoon boat tour through the Mangroves at Sierpe. This stunning mangrove is a nationally protected wetland and full of wildlife!

With a relaxing 3-hour boat cruise through the mangroves and rivers, there’s a high chance of seeing monkeys, tropical birds (like Macaws and Hornbills), sloths, crocodiles, snakes, turtles, and so much more. Kokopelli is a popular and well-known tour operator for mangrove tours, and we highly recommend booking your trip with Kokopelli .

Sierpe and the dock to the mangrove are about 50 minutes driving from Uvita on a very straightforward paved road that’s accessible for any car.

Good to know: We once learned in Langkawi, Malaysia , that mangroves protect our shorelines as wave breakers, to prevent erosion, and as a natural shelter for many animals in need. Malaysians are now planting back what they took to let mother nature do her work.

6. Horseback-Riding on the Beach

Another beautiful thing to do in Uvita is a horseback-riding tour. Walk the peaceful trails through the river and over the beach, and your guide explains more about the Costa Rican plants and animals. Before riding horses always look at the horse’s body, the condition of their hooves, and the way the guide treats the horses. So far, we have found that Rancho La Merced is the best one in Uvita.

Learn more about how animal are used in tourism and the better alternatives

7. A Day Trip to Dominical

Dominical is the village next to Uvita, about 15 minutes drive away. This hippie surfer town is a great place if you love surfing. Dominical is much smaller than Uvita, and there are many popular hostels with young people, making the vibe even more laid-back. 

Top to do in Uvita: Rocas de Amancio 

Apart from the fantastic surfing, we highly recommend visiting this hidden spot: Rocas de Amancio. It is a stunning spot covered by palm trees and small beaches. At low tide, you can climb up the large rock that is located there. Alternatively, watch during high tide the waves crash violently onto the rocks. It’s one of the best things to do in Uvita because you’ll likely be one of the only foreigners there.

Rocas de Amancio is only accessible via the highway (Dominical to Uvita), turning into this steep street down. 

8. Uvita Waterfall

Another waterfall much closer to Uvita is the Uvita Waterfall. This small waterfall is similar to El Pavon, with slides and natural pools to relax in. It is located on private property, and there’s a small entrance fee of 1000 – 1500 colones. 

9. Playa Hermosa

Dark sand and a backdrop of palm trees; Playa Hermosa is a beautiful 2-kilometer dark sand strip where both locals and visitors come for their afternoon surf. Most of the time, someone is selling fresh coconuts. Playa Hermosa is a short drive from Uvita, and the large parking is accessible for any kind of car. Have a serene beach to yourself by visiting in the mornings.

Tip : Take a stainless steel straw with you to drink from the coconut and scrape out the coconut flesh. Here are our best tips for traveling plastic-free !

10. Sunset at Uvita Beach (Playa Uvita)

See the sun disappear on the horizon and the sky turning orange/pink at Playa Uvita. Every day many people with their dogs hang out at Uvita Beach to experience the amazing sunsets it has to offer. 

Also visit: The coastal paradise Santa Teresa in Costa Rica

11. Unique to do in Uvita: A Sunset Dinner at Gusto Italian

For a unique sunset experience and dinner, make a reservation at Gusto Italian. This Italian-owned restaurant is located on top of a hill overlooking Playa Hermosa. Set your reservation about an hour before sundown so you can have a delicious Italian glass of wine watching the sunset. 

The pasta and pizzas are absolutely delicious. It’s on the pricier side, but that’s 100% worth the experience and lovely staff! Our review is completely unbiased; we just loved the spot! Make a booking by calling them on this number: +50684483571

Getting here is the hardest part: after about 8 minutes from Uvita, turn right up a steep paved hill. To access their unpaved property, we would recommend having an SUV-type car instead of a regular one that’s lower to the ground.

12. Surfing

Both locals and visitors surf at Uvita. It is an excellent place for beginner and intermediate surfers to work on their skills. Surfing can be done at many beaches around Uvita; Playa Uvita, Playa Hermosa, Playa Chaman and Playa Colonia. If you’re planning to take surf lessons, look at popular lessons of South Surf Costa Rica (book in advance when visiting in high season). 

Book your surf lessons in Uvita here .

13. Envision Festival – Popular to do in Uvita

If you’re visiting Uvita in February, you might be able to experience the Envision Festival. This 7-day experience to reconnect with nature, named Envision Festival, was inspired by Burning Man. You can expect a lot of music, a community feeling, educational workshops, and yoga. The festival is immensely popular so definitely plan this in advance.

Best restaurants in Uvita

Uvita is quite pleasing for foodies with great restaurants all over the town. Below we’ve noted down our favorite places and what kind of food they offer.

• Indómitos Cafe (Healthy, Bowls, Burgers)
• Gusto Italian (Pasta & Pizza)
• Kinsu Restaurant (fair prices)
• House of Ginger (Asian)
• Chirincoco café (Lovely coffee)
• Pizza Time & Bagel Time
• El Hornito (Empanadas & Pizzas)
• Le French Cafe (French Bakery)

Where to stay in Uvita

We recommend spending 3 or 4 nights in Uvita with all the things to do mentioned above. Uvita town is basically split up into two parts: the main town near the beach and the upper town across the highway towards Uvita Waterfall. When staying in the main town , hotels are more expensive, but you’re always walking distance from the beach and mostly surrounded by lush green.

Hotels in Uvita 😴

Both parts of the village offer good restaurants so that shouldn’t really affect your final decision. It’s just that across the highway is much more affordable and about 45 minutes walking from the beach.

Seren Glamping

For half of our time in Uvita, we stayed at Seren Glamping. It’s a beautiful glamping site with large tents, very comfy beds, and a lovely outside bathroom with a bath and shower. Best of all, it’s just three minutes away from Playa Chaman.

Book your glamping stay at Seren Glamping

Campsites in Uvita

If you’re planning to go camping in Costa Rica with a tent or camper, these are the best campsites in town:

• El Tecal (Hotel + Campsite)
• Camping El Chaman

How to visit Uvita

Uvita is about 4 hours driving from San Jose and 1 hour from Manuel Antonio by car. The highway towards Uvita is perfectly paved, and you will not need a 4×4 vehicle to visit Uvita. Do check with your hotel if it’s necessary since they could be located up a steep hill. We recommend using Waze instead of Google Maps because it leads you along easier roads (even though the other road seems shorter, it isn’t). 

We recommend to rent a car in Costa Rica through Sunny Cars with free cancellation and insurance included. Book your rental car here .

By Public Transport / Shuttle Bus:

The best way to get to Uvita from San Jose is to take a direct Tracopa bus or shuttle to Sierpe and get off at Uvita. The buses run every hour on the half-hour from San Jose.

Book your shuttle tickets here.

Getting Around Uvita 

Although Uvita is a small town it’s too large to do everything on foot. To get around town you can rent bikes at La Casa Del Ciclista .

However, if you’re planning to visit Nauyaca Waterfall or do a mangrove tour at Sierpe, having a rental car is recommended. Alternatively, hitch-hiking is a common thing done by travelers in Costa Rica and considered safe to do. We took multiple hitch-hikers on our trip. 

Your Budget for Uvita

The price in Uvita depends on the season you’re visiting. Expect to pay anywhere from 30 – 200 USD a night for a room and 10 – 40 USD for a meal. On top of that, most things to do in Uvita have an entrance fee as well. For example, the national park and waterfalls. Know that tap water is safe to drink in Uvita like most places in Costa Rica.

Costs of Traveling in Uvita

Travel on a budget in Uvita, from $230 − $760 USD weekly per person, mid-range $670 − $1320 USD, and high-end from $1290 − $2130 USD. However, costs depend on factors like accommodation, transportation, and activities. We did not include flights. Check flight prices here

• Hotels: $45 − $250 USD Check available hotels
• Hostels: $10 − $80 USD Check available hostels
• Transport: $10 − $30 USD Book public transport
• Food: $8 − $25 USD
• Activities: $2 − $20 USD See tickets & tours
• Sim: $1 − $3 USD Get an eSIM or SIM here
• Travel Insurance: $2 − $6 USD Get Travel Insurance

Best Time to Visit Uvita

Uvita is a destination with many things to do year-round, but what is the best time? It depends on your preference! 

The green (rain) season is perfect for whale watching, and it’s far less crowded than the dry season. Waterfalls are also much more powerful, and the climate is more comfortable. This season usually means dry mornings and an afternoon shower. The season runs from mid-April to late November, with most rain in October.

The dry season (December to April) is for beautiful sunsets, sunny beach days, and activities on the water. If you’re lucky, there is still a bit of whale watching, but it’s not guaranteed. 

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Costa Rica 2-week Itinerary: Ultimate Travel Guide

Camping in costa rica with a 4×4: the ultimate road trip itinerary, costa rica itinerary: ultimate 7-day travel guide.

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Hey there, thanks for the blog and info, really helpful. A little update for you on bus travel from San Jose. You can get a bus to Sierpe from San Jose that goes through Uvita so is direct and doesn’t need a change. They run every hour on the half hour from San Jose.

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Mangrove Boat Tour

• Information

USD70 per person

This is a boat tour for nature lovers, those of you who wish to relax and at the same time explore the authentic Costa Rica by going off the beaten track. An easygoing activity that is accessible to anyone and a fantastic opportunity to connect with the unspoiled wildlife of Costa Rica. Monkeys, fishing birds, iguanas, alligators, and crocodiles are the most common species you will see.

Kayak and SUP Tours are also available.

Destination

Departure time, not included, from our gallery, be our guest and see it for yourself.

This is the perfect low-key adventure for animal lovers!

10% discount on all our whale watching and dolphin tours.

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Whale watching in Uvita, Costa Rica

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Ultimate flexibility

We have various payment options and a free cancellation policy

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Exceptional Tour Guides

We work with guides who are all experts and have great (educational) stories to tell

Whales and Dolphins tour Uvita

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Responsible whale watching

Memorable experience

Educational component

Travelers rate us with a 9.6, clara, germany, laura, argentina, greg, united states, sam, united states, special offer, we are offering a temporarily 10% discount on our whale watching tour. book this memorable experience now online and save 10%..

• Try Diving Isla del Caño
• Try Diving Marino Ballena
• Scuba Diving Isla del Caño
• Scuba Diving Marino Ballena
• Snorkeling Isla del Caño
• Snorkeling Marino Ballena
• Corcovado Combo Tour
• Whale Watching Tour
• PADI Open Water + Advanced in 4 Days
• Zero to Hero Divemaster Program
• Rent a Camera GoPro
• Buy a Gift Voucher
• Private Guide & Instructor
• Scuba Refresher Program
• PADI Scuba Diver
• PADI Open Water Marino Ballena
• PADI Open Water Isla del Caño
• PADI Adventure Diver
• PADI Advanced Diver
• PADI Rescue Diver
• PADI Divemaster + Internship
• DSD Leader Upgrade
• Deep Diver Specialty
• Night Diver Specialty
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• Performance Buoyancy
• Search and Recovery
• Underwater Navigation

• • TRY DIVING ISLA DEL CAÑO
• • TRY DIVING MARINO BALLENA
• • SCUBA DIVING ISLA DEL CAÑO
• • SCUBA DIVING MARINO BALLENA
• 📌 Scuba Diving in Costa Rica – Ultimate Guide
• • SNORKELING ISLA DEL CAÑO
• • SNORKELING MARINO BALLENA
• • CORCOVADO COMBO TOUR
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• 📌 Snorkeling in Costa Rica – Ultimate Guide
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Snorkeling in Marino Ballena National Park | Fun for the Whole Family

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Are you ready for an unforgettable adventure in the mesmerizing waters of Marino Ballena National Park? Embark on a snorkeling tour that will immerse you in the vibrant marine life and breathtaking beauty of this tropical paradise. Whether you’re an experienced snorkeler or a beginner looking to explore the underwater world, snorkeling tour in Marino Ballena offers an extraordinary experience for everyone.

Discover a beautiful park in Costa Rica

Nestled along Costa Rica’s Pacific coast, Marino Ballena National Park is a pristine marine reserve renowned for its rich biodiversity and breathtaking landscapes. The park encompasses over 13,000 acres of protected land and sea, making it an ideal destination for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike. With its warm tropical waters, Marino Ballena offers a gateway to a fascinating underwater world. As you slip into the ocean, you’ll be greeted by an explosion of colors and an abundance of marine life. The park boasts a diverse array of coral reefs, seagrass beds, and rocky outcrops that serve as habitats for an impressive range of species.

Snorkeling in Marino Ballena is a great activity for the whole family and a great way to spend the day. The national park offers many great things to see, not just on the surface. A snorkeling tour at Marino Ballena National Park is a way to peek below the surface of the water and see tropical animals in their natural habitat. Enjoy private snorkeling tour from Uvita, where you’ll see what lies beneath the water’s surface with the guidance of a guide.

Snorkeling tour from Uvita

Embark on an extraordinary snorkeling adventure in the enchanting Marino Ballena National Park. This incredible tour will allow you to explore the breathtaking Uvita area from a unique perspective, while also providing the opportunity to visit Whale Rock and admire the stunning caves of Ventanas Beach. Joining an organized snorkeling tour is the key to experiencing the best of Marino Ballena, and our Uvita snorkeling trips are renowned as some of the finest in Costa Rica. Get ready for a day filled with unforgettable memories that will stay with you long after you’ve left the park.

Snorkeling with Costa Rica Divers

At Marino Ballena Snorkeling Tours, we take pride in organizing our tours with meticulous attention to detail and a focus on creating unforgettable experiences for our clients. Our goal is to ensure your comfort and satisfaction throughout every moment spent with us, leaving you with memories that will be cherished for a lifetime. As an authorized PADI dive center in Uvita, we stand out as a leading provider of snorkeling tours in the area. Our commitment to excellence is reflected in our state-of-the-art training pool and fully equipped dive center. This allows us to offer top-notch facilities and resources to enhance your snorkeling experience.

Discover a beautiful national park in Costa Rica

Departure & return location.

Costa Rica Divers

Departure Time

Price includes.

• all necessary equipment
• snorkeling guide
• entrance fees
• snacks and drinks
• boat transport

Price Excludes

• transport to our center

Snorkeling Tour in Uvita

Experience a unique outlook on Marino Ballena National Park, one of Costa Rica’s top tourist destinations. Join us for a snorkeling excursion with Uvita, where you can witness the mesmerizing underwater wonders of Costa Rica . The park is situated within the Osa Conservation Area, designated as a protected zone for the annual migration of humpback whales. This explains its name, as “Ballena” means “whales” in Spanish. Encompassing 5,160 hectares of sea and 171 hectares of land, the national park offers a diverse and breathtaking natural landscape to explore.

Try snorkeling in Marino Ballena

Embark on an unforgettable snorkeling adventure where you’ll have the chance to witness the vibrant marine life up close. The tour’s carefully planned itinerary will take you to the most captivating snorkeling locations, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the splendor of Marino Ballena National Park. Our tours commence at Uvita beach and conclude at the same location. The tour package encompasses all necessary equipment, refreshments, snacks, entrance fees, and the invaluable guidance of a knowledgeable and skilled guide.

Your instructor will provide a detailed explanation of the day’s activities, ensuring that you feel prepared and at ease. You’ll quickly realize that there’s nothing complicated about it. In fact, this day has the potential to become an unforgettable memory, filled with awe-inspiring moments and newfound excitement. So take the plunge and embrace the extraordinary adventure that awaits you beneath the waves.

What is included in the tour price?

The tour price covers all essential snorkeling gear, including a mask, snorkel, fins, and a life jacket, ensuring an enjoyable and secure snorkeling experience. Throughout your time in the water, our guide will accompany you, pointing out the finest locations and attractions. It’s important to note that our price is all-inclusive and already incorporates local taxes, leaving no room for additional fees .

What does the experience look like?

Our snorkeling excursions in Marino Ballena Park begin at our dive center, where you’ll receive a warm welcome and a refreshing bottle of water. We will handle all the necessary formalities and discuss the day’s itinerary and safety guidelines . From there, we’ll make our way to the beach, where our awaiting boat will transport us to the finest snorkeling spots within Marino Ballena.

Snorkeling Tour in Marino Ballena

Due to the park’s close proximity, our trip will be relatively short compared to excursions to Isla del Caño. This allows us to start the tour slightly later. The entire trip will span a few hours, providing ample time to explore multiple snorkeling sites.

Throughout all water activities, an experienced guide will accompany you, making an effort to locate and showcase intriguing marine life. Snacks and beverages will be available during breaks between water entries. You are welcome to return to the boat at any point if desired. Eventually, we will return to the beach where the captain will disembark. If you wish, you can choose to remain in the national park, as the entry tickets are valid for the entire day.

PADI 5 Star Dive Center in Costa Rica

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the duration of the tour.

The snorkeling tour in Marino Ballena starts at 9 AM from our dive center. The return time is scheduled for 12 PM, depending on the ocean conditions.

Is the tour guided?

Absolutely, every snorkeling tour in Marino Ballena is accompanied by a certified and experienced guide. This arrangement ensures the utmost comfort and safety for our clients, in addition to complying with the regulations and guidelines set by the national park. Our dedicated team of professionals will provide expert guidance throughout the tour, ensuring a memorable and secure experience for all participants.

What can I see while snorkeling?

During your snorkeling tour in Marino Ballena, prepare to witness a fascinating variety of marine life and mesmerizing underwater vistas. The surrounding waters of the island boast vibrant coral reefs that serve as a breathtaking backdrop for your exploration. Be prepared to encounter a multitude of marine species, such as tropical fish, reef sharks, dolphins, and the awe-inspiring whales. The remarkable biodiversity of Marino Ballena National Park ensures that every dive is a distinct and thrilling experience.

What kind of boat will we use?

Embarking from the beach situated within the national park in Uvita, our snorkeling excursions to Marino Ballena set off on speedy and comfortable motor boats. This efficient means of transportation ensures a quick trip, allowing you to make the most of your time and fully immerse yourself in the extraordinary diving experience that awaits you at Marino Ballena National Park. Say goodbye to lengthy commutes and embrace more moments of awe and adventure.

Do I need to have prior snorkeling experience?

No prior experience is required, as our guide will provide a comprehensive explanation of all safety rules and regulations. They will continuously supervise all participants to ensure their well-being. To prioritize your comfort and safety during snorkeling, buoyancy vests will be provided. For more detailed information about snorkeling and safety guidelines, please refer to our dedicated page on snorkeling in Costa Rica.

Do I need to bring my own equipment?

For your snorkeling experience in Marino Ballena, we supply all the necessary standard snorkeling equipment. There’s no need to worry about bringing your own gear, as we have you covered. However, if you prefer to use your own snorkel equipment during the tour, you are more than welcome to do so. Our primary objective is to ensure your comfort and convenience throughout the snorkel adventure, enabling you to fully immerse yourself in the experience. If you desire to rent additional equipment, such as a GoPro camera , it is also available for an extra fee.

What is the cancellation policy?

We acknowledge that unforeseen circumstances may arise, leading to the need for reservation cancellations. However, kindly bear in mind that our operations take place within a national park, necessitating meticulous organization for each tour for snorkeling in Marino Ballena. As a result, we kindly request you to review our comprehensive cancellation policy, which can be found here: Cancellation Policy .

When is the best time for this tour?

The prime tourist season in Costa Rica commences in December and extends through June, making it the optimal period for engaging in water activities and excursions. During this time, snorkeling conditions are exceptional, characterized by water temperatures ranging from 75-84°F (24-29°C). Underwater visibility is also excellent, reaching up to 30 meters (100 feet). While the rainy season brings about changes in conditions and a decrease in water temperature, it is worth noting that intriguing marine creatures can still be observed during this period. Consequently, the snorkeling in marino Ballena is virtually year-round, providing ample opportunities for exploration.

How many snorkelers will be in my group?

At our diving center, we prioritize small group sizes to enhance your snorkeling on Isla del Caño. It is essential to understand that snorkeling trips are typically conducted in a group setting. However, if you prefer a private guide exclusively for yourself, we offer such a service as well. Each snorkel guide is assigned to a maximum of 15 snorkelers, although our groups usually consist of no more than 10 clients. This deliberate approach allows us to provide personalized attention, ensuring the safety and enjoyment of everyone involved in the diving adventure.

What if I have more questions?

If you have any questions or need additional information about our snorkeling in Marino Ballena in Costa Rica, we encourage you to contact us without hesitation. Our main goal is to help you and provide answers to all your questions. Our team is fully committed to providing comprehensive information to make your snorkeling experience truly exceptional. Contact us at your convenience and we will be happy to provide you with prompt assistance.

Read more on our blog:

Scuba Diving vs Snorkeling

Want to try Scuba Diving?

Would you like to try scuba diving? We have scuba diving program for beginners without any experience!

COSTA RICA DIVERS

Marino Ballena is the first marine national park. A snorkeling tour from Uvita will allow you to see the underwater beauty of Costa Rica.

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Mangrove Kayaking Tour

River kayaking is an easy and relaxing activity, providing an excellent way to discover nature and explore the coast. During this tour, you will find yourself immersed in deep mangrove forests in Matapalo with abundant tropical wildlife.  

As we drive towards the Matapalo Mangroves, we take our time to stop and observe the incredible wildlife that may appear on our journey. Once on the water, the guide takes you slowly through the estuaries, allowing you to learn about the plants and animals that inhabit the area. The river is very calm, enabling you to paddle and relish the water without feeling tired or scared.  

There is so much to see and do on a Mangrove Kayaking Tour. Book now!  

  Please inform us if you are a larger person (more than 230 lbs or 104 kilos) for equipment reasons.

• Departure Dominical (If you don’t have a vehicle , we can help you to coordinate a reliable taxi)
• Departure Time The schedule is based on the tide chart
• Included Kayak guides Dry bag Kayak & paddle Water & Fruits Life Jackets
• What to Bring? Insect Repellent Water Hat Sun Glasses Sunblock

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Uvita 360, Costa Rica TEL: (506) 8586-8745 E MAIL: [email protected] Uvita, Bahia Ballena, Osa, Puntarenas, Costa Rica. 100 Metros Sur de Dolphin Tour.

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Domincal Snorkeling Tours

Let us help you plan your trip. you're just a click away, snorkeling tours departing from domincal, uvita & costa ballena.

Home to an astounding 7,000 marine species, or 3.5% of the planet´s total aquatic life, Costa Rica´s incredible biodiversity attracts snorkelers and scuba divers from all corners of the world. Book one of our Costa Ballena snorkeling tours departing from Uvita & Dominical and we are sure it will be the highlight of your Costa Rica vacation. With over 13,000 underwater acres of marine life paradise, snorkeling Marino Ballena National Park in Uvita should definitely be on your Costa Rica bucket list! Better yet, Dominical and Uvita are the perfect launch pads to Costa Rica´s top snorkeling destination south of the Costa Ballena, Caño Island. Caño Island snorkeling tours will give you the opportunity to get up close encounters with sea turtles, white tip reef sharks, spotted eagle rays, a variety of other tropical fish and maybe even a resident sea horse. Just to the north of Dominical is Manuel Antonio, home to the not only the most famous national park in Costa Rica, but also some amazing snorkeling tours in Costa Rica too. Hop on board a catamaran tour and head to the best places for snorkeling in Manuel Antonio, Las Gemelas (The Twins) rock formations just 15 minutes by boat from Manuel Antonio National Park. Below we have compiled a list of the best snorkeling tours departing Dominical and Uvita. Catamaran, motor boat or kayak; Dominical snorkeling tours has something for everyone! Book your discounted snorkeling tour in Costa Rica with The Real Deal Tours today and ensure you are getting the best deals in Costa Rica on the best snorkeling tours in Uvita, Domincal & Costa Ballena!

Looking for a great snorkeling excursion in Costa Rica but short on time? Our Marino Ballena snorkel tour from Uvita is only 2 hours long but takes you to some of the best snorkeling coves in Uvita and the Marino Ballena National Park.

Retail: $78.00

The Real Deal: $70.00

Child (4-8):

Retail: $40.00

The Real Deal: $38.00

Marino Ballena Snorkel Express Tour deposit is $15.00 per Adult and $10.00 per Child. (The balance of $55.00 per Adult and $28.00 per Child in cash must be paid the day of the tour) Departure times will be in your e - ticket.

The Real Deal Tours Sea Kayak and Snorkel tour is the absolute highlight of the Costa Ballena region. This incredible 2 hour eco tour lets you experience some of the most amazing snorkeling in Costa Rica at the Marino Ballena Reserve while navigating your own sea kayak.

Retail: $80.00

The Real Deal: $74.00

TEMPORARILY NOT AVAILABLE

Sea Kayak & Snorkel Marino Ballena Reserve deposit is $10.00 per person. (The balance of $64.00 per person in cash must be paid the day of the tour) Departure times will be in your e - ticket.

Kayak your way along the mountainous shoreline of Quepos & Manuel Antonio and discover the local “secret” of Biesanz Beach and the best snorkeling cove on this snorkeling trip to Manuel Antonio. Save money and meet in Quepos or let us provide round trip transportation from most Dominical or Uvita hotels.

(Uvita / Costa Ballena & Dominical):

Retail: $149.00

The Real Deal: $132.00

Manuel Antonio Sea Kayak & Snorkel Tour deposit is $20.00 per person. (The balance of $112.00 per person in cash must be paid the day of the tour) This tour departs at 6:30 AM.

There is no marina in Dominical or Uvita, so if you are craving that laid back catamaran cruise on your vacation, you will need to travel to Quepos. But snorkeling in Manuel Antonio, cruising Biesanz Bay, & sipping cocktails on board a double decker catamaran make the trip will worth it.

Retail: $159.00

The Real Deal: $139.00

Manuel Antonio Catamaran Snorkel deposit is $20.00 per person. (The balance of $119.00 per person in cash must be paid the day of the tour) This tour departs at 6:30 AM.

Caño Island Biological Reserve Snorkel Tour

Departing from Uvita, snorkeling the Cano Island Biological Reserve in the Osa Peninsula is so worth the trip. This uninhabited and well protected marine reserve is home to some of the best snorkeling in Costa Rica. So grab your mask and fins and come dive into this undersea adventure snorkeling Cano Island.

Retail: $160.00

The Real Deal: $142.00

The Real Deal: $71.00

Caño Island Biological Reserve Snorkel Tour deposit is $30.00 per Adult and $15.00 per Child. (The balance of $112.00 per Adult and $56.00 per Child in cash must be paid the day of the tour) This tour departs at 7:00 AM.

Corcovado Hike and Caño Island Snorkel Super Combo

If you are going that far south for one of the best snorkeling in Costa Rica at Cano Islad, you may as well hit up one of the most biodiverse national parks in Costa Rica too. This super saver combo saves you money while letting you experience 2 of the most popular things to do from Domincal & Uvita in one amazing day!

Retail: $230.00

The Real Deal: $207.00

Corcovado Hike and Caño Island Snorkel Super Combo deposit is $46.00 per person. (The balance of $161.00 per person in cash must be paid the day of the tour) This tour departs at 7:00 AM.

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Side By Side (UTV) & ATV

Tours in costa rica.

There’s no better way to discover the diverse beauty of Costa Rica than by grabbing the wheel of your own 4X4 ATV or UTV and blazing down off-the-beaten-track trails.

Leave the tourist map behind and encounter the real Costa Rica as we drive over lush mountain ranges, head deep into the misty jungle, and pass gorgeous ocean views.  Many miles of our pristine trails are accessible only by ATV , meaning you’ll experience insanely dynamic terrain… trails few others have had the opportunity to explore.

We chose Uvita, Costa Rica as our ATV tour headquarters for countless reasons, but one of the most notable is the astounding diversity of the Southern Zone of Costa Rica. This variety of landscapes is largely because, from sea level, it’s a quick ride up to 4000′, where the air is cool and crisp, and the valley and ocean views are expansive.

From unspoiled jungles to palm-fringed beaches to verdant mountain trails, Uvita is brimming with beauty. We can’t wait to share it with you—all from the seat of your state-of-the-art ATV or Side by Side.

Our Jungle ATV Tours office is conveniently located in the center of Uvita, from where all our adventures start. That means you don’t waste any valuable vacation time in transport to some remote location, only to wonder why you spent half your ATV tour in a van. With Jungle ATV Tours, the heart-racing fun begins the moment you step into our headquarters!

After a brief instructional course on vehicle operation and a quick test ride to ensure you feel comfortable, you’ll be on your way with a once-in-a-lifetime Costa Rica excursion you won’t soon forget.    

Our Costa rica atv tours

4 - 5 hour tour, includes coffee tour, from $120 usd.

Now that you’re comfortable and confident on your Side by Side or ATV, it’s time to explore the highlights of Uvita, Costa Rica.

Your knowledgeable, bilingual guides will lead you out of town and over several idyllic mountain ranges. As we head deeper into the jungle, we’ll cross trickling streams, pass lush coffee and banana plantations, and enjoy striking ocean and valley views.

Your ATV tour in Costa Rica continues as we ride through a small, typical Costa Rican village and past quaint farms, even glimpsing the mesmerizing San Luis waterfall. One of the tallest waterfalls in all of Costa Rica, the top of San Luis is often hidden in a mist of rolling clouds.

About halfway through your exhilarating ATV tour in Uvita, you’ll stop at a family-run coffee farm for a tasting and mini-tour. This is an authentic Costa Rican coffee tasting experience that’s both delightful and delicious.

Feeling fully recharged from your caffeine boost, you’ll continue your heart-racing drive through the rainforest. After a bit, you’ll stop for fresh local fruit and take a refreshing swim at another small waterfall before heading back to our headquarters.

Learn more about our unforgettable ATV tours in Costa Rica here .

Discover why Jungle ATV is the #1 tour in Uvita, Costa Rica

Best day ever.

This experience was unforgettable. The guys that took us on our tour were super fun and friendly. Me and my family were there for my cousins wedding so we had about 30 members and they were so organized and were really there to show us the best. From the moment we left to the mini coffee shop along the way to the water falls to the end, every moment was PERFECT! I can not wait to go back. That experience was hands down the best I could have asked for and definitely UNFORGETTABLE !!! I can not thank my cousin Matt and all the members that took us out that day through the mountains. It was so beautiful and breath taking. Now, riding those quads was SO MUCH FUN !!!! I felt invincible, and literally felt like i was on top of the world. I cant thank that team enough for giving me that experience. 🙂

– Breetee Lodi, New Jersey

FUN FUN FUN Great Scenery

“I have taken 3 different ATV tours a round the area. This is the best. It is worth the drive from Quepos if you are there as the mountain route is beautiful and much more fun. Don’t forget you money to buy coffee to take home from the coffee plantation. The guides are excellent and make sure you are having a good time. Say Hi to Luis!”

– Copper

Such A Fun Day!

We spent this morning with Jungle ATV, and it was well worth it! I recommend the single ATVs, seemed more fun than the bigger buggies that fit multiple people. We stopped at a coffee plantation that was super cool, the coffee was amazing, we bought some to bring back with us, and it was nice supporting local families. We also stopped at the top of the mountain for amazing views including whales tail. Last stop was the waterfall, we were pretty tired by that point but it was a nice last stop before the trip was over – the spread of fruit for everyone was also amazing. A few pointers – definitely wear sunscreen, there’s a few parts of the trail that are all sun, do not wear white (to say you get dirty is an understatement), and if you have long hair like me, wear a bandana underneath the helmet – it will make for showering and cleaning your hair afterwards much easier! What an awesome time, would highly recommend to anyone in Uvita, thanks again for such a fun day!

– Lisa B

Jungle ATV has recruited the top bilingual guides from the Southern Zone, each outstanding for their extensive off-roading skills, unparalleled knowledge of the area, and entertaining personalities.

What Are You Waiting For?

surf. in paradise

Be. in nature.

There is no better place to learn to surf than in the the national park of the most biodiverse region on the planet. The Osa region, home to Uvita Surf and Tour and the 'Whale Tail' National Park within which you'll surf, contains 3% of the world's biodiversity.

Given this remarkable abundance, as you surf the calm, warm waves to shore you'll see and hear all that Costa Rica has to offer. From scarlet macaws to howler monkeys, sea turtles to iguanas. You'll experience them all.

be. in good hands

Uvita Surf and Tour is led by Leandro. Born and raised in Uvita, he knows both the best conditions to surf and the most beautiful, and secret spots to visit around the region.

Your experience of his home town and this beautiful corner of the planet is his primary goal. And whether that is spending more time with you on land before the surf lesson to build your confidence, or longer on the beach after surfing to enjoying fresh coconuts or ripe pineapple, he'll leave you smiling and excited for your next adventure in the waves.

Leandro and his team guarantee you'll be up and surfing on your first lesson. Book now and get excited to surf, in paradise!

be. surfing

All our surf lessons are conducted in the Marino Ballena National Park (colloquially named 'Whale Tail', due to the natural, curved sand bar - see image to the right). With that brings no crowds, safe and friendly conditions, and trained lifeguards on watch.

Warm waters (no wetsuits), calm, manageable waves await. And with the sun shining bright you'll experience the best of Costa Rica, from the comfort of your surf board, surrounded by friends.

be. exploring

Costa Rica is synonymous with waterfalls. Whether for you that means a short drive to the Nauyaca Falls, or one of the many local falls which we can walk to from town, the beauty remains.​

Just one option of the many tours Leandro and his team can take you on, or we can direct you towards following your surf lesson experience.

Tours can be added during the booking process.

Our surf lessons are 2 full hours. We'll start on the beach and get you comfortable with the basics of learning to surf. When you're ready, we'll get in the water! To begin with, we'll just surf the whitewater and replicate the surf movements we learned on land in the waves. When you've got that nailed, we'll start moving out to the green waves and you'll be surfing like a pro.

At all times you'll be close to Leandro and his team, and within sight of the lifeguards.

Classes include everything you'll need. Just bring a water bottle, some sunscreen, and a big smile. Entrance to the park (normally $7) is included too.

Group Classes

Group classes are mixed with other surfers.

Classes up to 8, 4 people per instructor. ​

You may have the lesson to yourselves, but if others join in you'll get to share your lesson and make some new friends.​

1-2 People - $70 per person 3-4 People - $65 5-8 People - $60

You will receive a booking confirmation with meeting location

Private Classes

Private classes are just for you and your friends.

Up to 4 people per instructor.

You'll have the undivided attention of Leandro and his team. You'll progress faster and have more personalized teaching.

1 person - $120 2-3 People - $80 4-8 People - $70

For private groups above 8, please contact us.

With surf behind us, jungle calls...

Leandro knows this area better than most. Let him take you to the secret waterfalls, quiet beaches, and hidden gems of this paradisiacal destination.

Tours can be added during checkout.

Uvita and Dominical have the most consistent surf waves in Costa Rica!

You'll always have great waves, whether you're just starting to surf or progressing your surf level to shoulder or head height. When you’re in the National Park, you’ll have the safety of lifeguards too.

Uvita offers you the best surf experience in Costa Rica.

Explore nature's beauty and Uvita's hidden gems with our local expert, Leandro Solis.

Leandro has lived in the area his entire life and knows some of the best spots to see the very best flora and fauna in the ​Osa Peninsula. Just add your waterfall, nature, or coffee/cacao tour during your booking.

Welcome to the most biodiverse region ​on the planet.

Uvita has retained it's charm and the community is strong and welcoming.

​From the local markets and community events, to the warm and friendly restaurants, cafes, and bars. From the organic produce, hand-made souvenirs, and natural remedies, Osa has got you.

You'll feel at home here. In nature, naturally.

be. connected

Our booking system allows you view live availability and reserve your spot. If you have questions, however, please feel free to reach out and we'll respond as soon as possible.​

If you'd prefer to call or WhatsApp (the standard communication tool in Costa Rica) then reach Leandro on +506 8440 9604.

Also, why not join us on Instagram

Leandro Solis, Uvita Surf and Tour In Partnership with Surf Costa Rica LLC.

[email protected] +506 84409604 (WhatsApp / Call / Msg)

Chocolate Tour

• $ 40.00

Chocolate is your passion, and you want to learn everything there is to know about cocoa? This tour is perfect for everybody who loves chocolate and is interested in its production.

Departure: 9 am and 2 pm stimated time:  2,5 – 3 hours Place:  Playa Hermosa (4 km north of Uvita) Requirements: Minimum 2 people. Must like chocolate 

Includes   Bilingual guide (English/Spanish), and chocolate drink.

Traveling alone? Don’t hesitate to contact us, we do have some dates already open.

We offer private tours with the best tour operators for each activity. Contact us and we will gladly quote you tailored to your needs.

Can’t reserve the date you are looking for or are you a solo traveler? Contact us, we may have the date open with another tour operator.

Description

Terms and conditions.

This trip is ideal for everybody who wants to learn about the traditional way of making chocolate, explained by a local Costa Rican guide Ronald who is also the owner of the project. 

You will have the opportunity to be part of the process, by helping to peel, grind and cook the cocoa. Additionally, your host will show you some cocoa plants in his garden. Afterward, you will get to enjoy a delicious chocolate drink.

It is recommended to wear closed shoes to walk comfortably through the plantation.

People of all ages are welcome and Perfect tour for every chocolate lover!

• Learning how to make chocolate in a traditional way
• Bilingual guide
• People of all ages are welcome

This trip is ideal for everybdy who wants to learn about the traditional way of making chocolate, explained by a local Costa Rican guide. You will have the opportunity be part of the process, by helping to peel, grind and cook the cocoa. Additionally, your host will show you some cocoa plants in his garden. Afterwards you will get to enjoy a delicious chocolate drink.

Perfect tour for every chocolate lover!

Children from 4 to 9 years old pay the half price, Children under 4 years are not recommended, in both cases the parents take all the responsibility for the kids.

Weather conditions: Any tour will be canceled for the weather conditions if those put at risk the health and safety of the customers, in this case, the payment will be fully refunded, or the tour will be rescheduled.

Clients must not be under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

The customer takes all responsibility for personal injury.

If you require medical treatment is your responsibility to carry it with you.

Pregnant Women

The company does not recommend doing the trip.

We recommend you no travel with valuable things.

The company is not responsible for lost or stolen things.

Cancelations before 48 hours are 90% refundable, less hours before the tour are nonrefundable.

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For more information about our tours. Call +(506) 2743-8013

We are a company with over 20 years of experience in the field of responsible sea tourism

It is very important for us to offer our customers a safe adventure journey in which you will also be able to take advantage and make the most of all the marine resources we have in our area, in a responsible and balanced way, appreciating their natural environment, but always looking for ways to intervene as little as possible in their habitat, abiding by the rules established about sightings of whales and other marine life systems.

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Uvita and Tamarindo? Or OR? - Costa Rica Forum

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Uvita and Tamarindo? Or OR?

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6 replies to this topic

Pura Vida Hotel

Re : What would we miss by not visiting the Tamarindo area?

A. Crowds of Americans, drugs and prostitution, horse poop on the beach and lots of loud bars.

Tamarindo has a lot of restaurants, good surfing and plenty of nightlife. There’s surfing for beginners and experts near Uvita and great restaurants in the Uvita/Ojochal area.

You’ll save roughly 6 hours of driving if you cut out Tamarindo.

While I didn't like Tamarindo , plenty of people do. What "sucks" for some visitors is exactly what others are looking for. If you want a lot of restaurants and some night life you may prefer Tamarindo over Uvita.

@4, the OP specifically wrote "Please put aside comments on travel times and driving and just focus on the merits of either place" Perhaps read the question.

As far as my comment they you chose to make fun of - I clearly stated it was an opinion and I stand by it.

Casablahnik,

I would split your 10-day itinerary between Arenal/La Fortuna and Dominical/Uvita areas, as in Post 2. Dividing your time between the 2 vs 3 areas should allow you more time to relax. There is also enough to explore locally in these 2 areas.

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Best Places to Live In Costa Rica For Families

I have talked to so many families who want to relocate to Costa Rica. In 2019, we packed up our kids and moved to Costa Rica for a year. There were pros and cons to that decision, but we wouldn’t change it for the world!

In this post, I won’t go into as much detail about our experience living in Costa Rica in this post, but I will outline some of the best places to live in Costa Rica for families. We loved being near family, living in a safe place in Central America, and the “second world” feel of the small country- for example, you can drink the water and often use US dollars .

I’m a former school teacher- I taught high school for 15 years before starting this blog. My main recommendations for where to live in Costa Rica center around the schools located in each community. If there aren’t great schools and you are not homeschooling or online schooling, it can be hard to feel good about your decision to move. My best advice is to make sure you tour the schools in the communities you are considering.

Here are my top recommendations for where to live in Costa Rica with your family. If you aren’t moving with a family, please read my post about the best places to live in Costa Rica .

The capital city has it all for families. Top international accredited schools- bilingual, International Baccalaureate, and more are located in San Jose. You’ll find private schools that range in price from $5,000 a year to upwards of $17,000 a year. The highest concentration of accredited bilingual schools is in the San Jose area- it’s the perfect place to get your kids an American education.

The cultural capital of Costa Rica is also in San Jose. Think museums, theater, international shopping, and more! You also have really easy access to the Caribbean coast and the pacific Coast from San José.

Many people in San Jose speak English, so if you aren’t speaking Spanish yet you can get around just fine. There are lots of Spanish teachers for ex-pats too.

Medical care in San Jose is great for those with local insurance or international medical insurance. The best international hospitals and doctors are in San Jose.

The cost of living in San Jose tends to be less expensive too- price ranges on rentals and properties for investment are much larger due to so many options on the market.

You’ll find tons of grocery stores, and farmer’s markets in San Jose. Walmart and PriceSmart (like a local Costco) are in San Jose, making the cost of buying food similar to that of the United States.

Schools in the San Jose area include the British School , the Pan American School , and the Country Day School.

Neighborhoods popular with ex-pats in San Jose include Barrio Escalante, Escazu, Pavas, and Santa Ana.

The small town of Atenas boasts ”the best climate in the world.” There is a tight-knit ex-pat community here, despite the town’s relatively small size. The views from the hills for Atenas are sweeping, and you are in the heart of Costa Rican coffee country.

The Green Valley Atenas School is a bilingual school here. It goes through 11th grade and is accredited by the Costa Rican Ministry of Education.

Close proximity to Jaco and San Jose makes this a fun rural community for families to consider when moving to Costa Rica.

San Ramon has the largest ex-pat community in Costa Rica outside of San Jose, and I would be remiss not to include it on this list.

We lived in San Ramon when we lived in Costa Rica because my husband’s family is from there. We love the town as it’s large enough to have everything you need.

From shopping to restaurants to hiking and biking trails, you’ll find San Ramon has everything you need and most of the things you want.

You are in close proximity to the cloud forest, and the bird-watching is second to none. La Fortuna and the Arenal Volcano are just a quick 90 minutes away, and San Jose is just an hour away too .

One of the best things about San Ramon is that the ex-pat community here is united and tight-knit- members meet for breakfast once a week, engage in community service and have a private Facebook group to support each other.

What San Ramon lacks is a strong bilingual school. There is one bilingual private school- Colegio Bilingue San Ramon. Given that the university of Costa Rica has a campus here, you’ll find the public schools brimming with good teachers- albeit instruction in Spanish only.

San Ramon is a great option for those who want to live a truly authentic Costa Rican life. Relocating to San Ramon means you’ll have an instant community of ex-pats and Costa Ricans alike.

If you want to live near Costa Rica’s beautiful Pacific beaches , you have tons of options. Virtually every beach town has an ex-pat community, so it really comes down to where you want to settle.

A few of the top beach towns are Playas del Coco, Tamarindo, Flamingo, Montezuma, and Santa Teresa. These are the best areas from which to beach hop to some favorite hidden beaches.

Each of these communities offers a private school education with varying ranges of tuition. You’ll find lots of bilinguals and bilingual schools.

You’ll want to secure housing with air conditioning as the heat in northern Guanacaste can be a bit oppressive.

Make sure to find a place with a strong internet connection if you plan to work from these areas- the internet in these more rural areas can be spotty at best in the rural areas.

Living in Guanacaste can also be more expensive- there are luxury hotels , fancy restaurants, and more in the area. It’s such a popular destination for tourists that the popular towns here are expensive.

Guanacaste is a great choice, however, if you are looking for a bit less rain during the rainy season as the rain doesn’t come as hard and fast on the Pacific Ocean as it does in other areas of the country.

Your home base for hospitals, large American grocery stores, and other goods will be Liberia, which is about an hour away from all of these towns except Montezuma and Santa Teresa, which are more rural.

Join the Costa Rica With Kids Facebook Group. Ask all the Costa Rica Travel questions you want- we will answer them!

Schools in Guanacaste include:

• Costa Rica International Academy (CRIA)  
• Flourish Children’s School  
• IREN Instituto Renacimiento
• Journey School of Costa Rica
• La Paz Community School  
• Pacific Waldorf School  

Jaco/Playa Hermosa

There’s a nice little ex-pat community in Playa Hermosa, and the kids go to school next door at Jaco . Both beaches are gorgeous and have the advantage of being about an hour away from San Jose. This is a good place to get your feet wet when moving to Costa Rica or exploring where you might want to live.

We’ve written extensively about where to stay in Jaco and where to eat in Jaco , and that’s because it’s one of our family’s favorite beaches.

There are several pre-k to middle school places to study here, but the only k-12 school is the Las Nubes School.

Dominical, Costa Rica is the next hotspot of ex-pat living- and it’s in the Southern Zone of Costa Rica. Right on the beach, it has a thriving community and several options for bilingual and Montessori schools.

The sleepy fishing town has slowly turned into a popular surf beach in southern Costa Rica. Located just an hour south of Manuel Antonio National Park , this laid-back haven for ex-pats has grown exponentially in size over the past 10 years.

Here you have a myriad of beaches within a 25-minute drive, and the rainforest is just behind the beach. The natural beauty here is unparalleled, and it’s a popular spot for locals and expats alike to live and work. There are three hospitals located within 30 minutes of Dominical.

The schools of Dominical are located in Uvita, which is just a 20-minute drive south.

Dominical tends to be more expensive than Central Valley cities as it’s a beach town. Digital nomads and North Americans with dollars do drive the price of goods up. Make sure to plan ahead if you want to move to Dominical- rental housing is more limited than in other areas of Costa Rica.

Rise is its own community near San Isidro El General- offering a Waldorf education, 1-acre land with different housing footprints, and even a relocation specialist.

The couple who started RISE is originally from California they relocated to Costa Rica because they felt a strong disconnect between the life they had and the life they wanted. They created a sustainable community in which families live.

They offer healthy food, on-site glamping and group retreats, and an accredited bilingual Waldorf school.

Close to San Isidro for goods and services, as well as a good hospital makes RISE a great place to relocate if you want a sort of American feel while living in Costa Rica. I have a good friend who relocated from San Ramon to RISE and she is thriving. Her kids adore the school and as a single mom she has found a lot of support from the community.

As you make your decisions about where to live with your family, I highly suggest you take a look at this international and private school guide from Two Weeks in Costa Rica. That can help you narrow down where you want to live if it’s based on schools.

If your decision is not based on schools, then I can help you as you make your transition to living in Costa Rica. Everything from what to pack to when is the best time of year to making sure your kids have a strong transition are things that I can help with. Just book a video chat or phone call with me here – I promise no sales! You just get to pick my brain. 

The post Best Places to Live In Costa Rica For Families appeared first on Pura Vida Moms .

Home » Destinations » Pacific Coast » Uvita » 21 BEST Things to do in Uvita, Costa Rica (Our Favorite Activities!)

21 BEST Things to do in Uvita, Costa Rica (Our Favorite Activities!)

By Author Costa Rica Travel Life

Posted on Last updated: March 17, 2024

This blog may contain affiliate links. Read our disclosure policy for more info.

Uvita is a small town located on the Pacific Coast of Costa Rica , only a short drive from Manuel Antonio National Park. Within a few miles of the town, you have access to a stunning national park, beautiful beaches, friendly locals, and of course, all the wildlife you’d expect to see in Costa Rica. 

Home to the famous “Whale Tail,” Uvita, Costa Rica, is an up-and-coming tourist destination in the country. In fact, in recent years, this once off-the-beaten-path town has exploded in popularity as travelers look for alternative places to visit due to Costa Rica’s increase in tourism. However, Uvita is still a “hidden gem” in my eyes. 

Despite the town’s relatively undiscovered nature, there are plenty of fun and exciting things to do in Uvita. From exploring hidden waterfalls to relaxing on the beach, you won’t get bored in Uvita. 

Of course, not every activity in Uvita is well known. So, this blog will lift the lid on Uvita and show the few lucky travelers who visit all the best things to do in Uvita, Costa Rica. As a bonus, I’ve included other important bit of information to make this your one-stop-blog, or complete guide to visiting Uvita!

Don’t have time to read the full article?  Check out our list of our absolute favorite things to do in Uvita:

• Spot whales, dolphins, and turtles on this boat tour in Marino Ballena National Park.
• Slide down the natural slide at Uvita Waterfall.
• Walk out to the famous “Whale Tail” at Marino Ballena National Park.
• Go on this snorkeling tour at Caño Island.
• Visit the secluded Arco Beach at low tide.

FAQs About Uvita, Costa Rica

Although this blog is a guide to the best things to do in Uvita, there are some extra things you should know before you go. Below are a few of the most FAQs about Uvita, all answered in one place. 

Yes, Uvita is one of the safest towns in Costa Rica. There is a community atmosphere in Uvita and lots of ex-pats living a relaxed life.

Yes! Uvita is a really fun and enjoyable place to visit. There are a ton of things to see and do and the surrounding landscape is beautiful.

Juan Santamaría International Airport in San Jose is the closest airport to Uvita. From the airport, you can reach Uvita in 3 hours. Liberia is over 4 hours away.

The easiest way to get around Uvita is by taxi or to drive yourself. Some attractions are also close enough to walk or bike to.

No. Unfortunately, Uvita Beach is located within Marino Bellena National Park so you must pay the park entrance fee to visit the beach.

3 days is ample enough time to explore the beaches and nearby attractions. However, if you want a more relaxing holiday, 5-7 days would be ideal.

Yes, you can swim at Uvita Beach. Just be mindful of the swells and only swim if you feel confident.

Things to do in Uvita, Costa Rica 

1. go whale watching .

To me, exploring Costa Rica is always about the wildlife. I think I speak for many when I say it’s one of the main reasons to visit this beautiful country. Well, that wildlife doesn’t stop when the jungle ends. In fact, some of the most beautiful creatures live beneath the deep blue sea! 

In Uvita, whale watching is without a doubt one of the best things to do – especially if you love wildlife as much as   me.  On this incredible tour in Marino Ballena National Park , you head out on a boat in search of these majestic creatures. For over 3 hours, you’ll explore the coastline heading out as far as Caño Island. Along the way, you’ll have great chances at spotting whales, dolphins, and even sea turtles. 

If you’d prefer to mix your whale watching tour with some snorkeling,  then this specific tour is a good option . Although you’ll spend less time whale watching, you’ll also visit some sea caves as well as snorkel near Arco Beach. 

Whale watching in Uvita is best done during one of two seasons. The best season is from July to November, and during this time, it’s easy to see multiple whales each day, including babies! The second season runs from January to April, and although not as good, you still have great chances of seeing whales! 

2. Visit Uvita Waterfall (Catarata Uvita)

The best place to cool off in Uvita isn’t actually the beach. It’s at one of the nearby waterfalls! This first waterfall (there are two more) I’ll mention on this list is Uvita Waterfall . 

Uvita Waterfall is located just on the outskirts of town and can be reached by taxi from almost anywhere in town for under $5 USD. Once there, you can swim in a pristine river with beautiful cascades and, of course, the main attraction, Uvita Waterfall. 

Climb to the top of the waterfall and slide down the natural slide if you dare. It’s scary at first but so much fun. If you prefer to relax, walk downstream a little and swim in the larger pools. There are boardwalks around the and even platforms to jump off. Uvita Waterfall is beautiful and my favorite place to visit in Uvita! 

You can enter Uvita Waterfall at two different entrances. The first is the lower entrance along the road, and this costs 2,000 Colones ($3.75 USD). The entrance here is best for those with a vehicle and with your ticket you can visit a small butterfly garden too. 

The second entrance is slightly further up the road and only costs 1,500 Colones ($2.80 USD). You need to walk down a steep and slippery path from this entrance, and there is very limited parking. It’s less than $1 USD between them, so I prefer the lower entrance for convenience’s sake. 

3. Learn to surf

You can surf almost everywhere in Costa Rica , so it should come as no surprise Uvita is a great place for experienced surfers but especially those wanting to learn. 

The best place to surf in Uvita is at Playa Hermosa, only a short drive north of town. Along the beach, you’ll find lots of surfboard rentals as well as a few vendors. If you’re an expereince surfer, just head to the beach and rent a surfboard. Rentals cost only $10 USD for the entire day. 

If you’re a beginer surfer wanting to learn, it’s best to book a surf lesson in Uvita.  This specific surf lesson  costs $75 USD, lasts for 2 hours, and meets at Playa Hermosa. It includes your board rental, a really talented surf instructor named Josué, digital photos, water, and snacks. 

The waves in Uvita are best for experienced surfers from May to September, when tropical storms create larger swells. For beginners, the best time to surf is during Costa Rica’s busy season, from November to April. During this time, the waves are light, and currents are not as strong.

Related Read: Surfing is also one of the best things to do in Santa Teresa, Costa Rica .

4. Visit the “Whale Tail” in Marino Ballena National Park

Without a doubt, the number one thing to do in Uvita is to visit Marino Ballena National Park and enjoy a walk out to the famous “Whale Tail”. 

Marino Ballena National Park is a small marine and coastal national park that protects this gorgeous coastline. The shape of the sandbar in the park is completely natural and very fitting to the area considering Uvita is one of the best places to go whale watching in Costa Rica . With an aerial view at low tide, you can see this sandbar looks exactly like a whale’s tail – hence the name.

From Uvita, you can easily visit the national park and the Whale Tail. For the best experience, you should  aim to visit the park at around low tide  when you can actually walk onto the Whale Tail. The Whale’s Tail is almost completely covered in water at high tide.

Although the Whale Tail is the main attraction, the beach itself is also spectacular. In fact, you can spot lots of wildlife in the coastal rainforest area and find secluded places to relax and enjoy a swim. Be sure to spend at least a few hours here, and be sure to keep a lookout for whales that frequent the area. 

The entrance to the park is $6 USD for adults, and local guides wait at the entrance to the park in case you want to do a tour. Expect to pay around $40 USD per person for a guided tour, but this price is entirely negotiable depending on group size.

Marino Ballena National Park is open every day from 7 am to 4 pm. Tickets to the park can be bought directly at the park entrance gates in Uvita.

5. Swim at El Pavon Waterfall

If you enjoy exploring off-the-beaten-path attractions, then you’ll love El Pavon Waterfall. Located a 25-minute drive south of Uvita, this gorgeous waterfall is surrounded by lush rainforest. The waterfall is easy to identify because of the round boulder wedged in the middle of the falls. 

El Pavon Waterfall is very easily accessible because there is no hike to the waterfall – an added bonus! You can swim in the pool below the waterfall or head downstream to other natural pools. The water is really cold, but there’s nothing more refreshing than swimming in crystal clear freshwater! 

El Pavon Waterfall is free to visit.  Getting here takes around 25 minutes   from Uvita, and you do not need a 4wd to access the waterfall. 

6. Visit the secluded Arco Beach at low tide

One of the most incredible beaches I have visited in Costa Rica is the secluded  Arco Beach , located just north of Uvita. This small stretch of beach is best accessed at low tide and is a fantastic place to relax – especially if you prefer to stay away from the crowds. 

What I loved so much about Arco Beach was the thick jungle that lined the shore. It’s a cool place to spot wildlife and makes for fantastic photos! There are also some sea caves at one end of the beach. 

You can easily take a taxi ($10 USD) from Uvita or drive yourself to Arco Beach. Because the beach is down the bottom of a cliff, you need to park or get  dropped off at La Cusinga Lodge . They have a security guard, but just tell him you want to visit the restaurant (lower on this list.) 

Once there, you need to follow the hotel’s map down to the beach. It’s easy to find but just ask if you’re having trouble. The trail takes around 15 minutes to walk down to the beach, and it’s best done with suitable footwear. 

Make sure you time your visit with or around low tide and watch your belongings at the beach. There have been reports of petty theft while people are swimming, although, we have never had any problems.

7. Swim in the freshwater pool at La Cusinga Lodge

While at  La Cusinga Lodge , a lovely couple told us about a secret waterfall and swimming hole on the hotel property. So, of course, we decided to check it out! 

This “secret pool” is actually straightforward to find by following the map and signs at the hotel. However, we were surprised to find it completely empty for us to enjoy ourselves. Nevertheless, it was a fabulous find and the perfect place to enjoy a swim. 

The trail to the pool is well maintained, and it only takes 5 minutes to reach the pool. The short trail begins at the hotel’s parking lot and is called the Poza Trail. 

8. Watch the sunset with an epic view 

Around Uvita, there are some spectacular places to enjoy a meal or drink and watch the sunset. 

My personal favorite is at the restaurant and bar at La Cusinga Lodge called  Aracari Restaurant . Not only is the food delicious, but their vantage point overlooking the Whale Tail and Marina Bellena National Park is unmatched. I highly recommend visiting the restaurant for a meal and the bar for a sunset drink!

Another place with a gorgeous view is  Gusto Italian . This top-rated restaurant in Uvita is located just north of town near Playa Hermosa. The views are spectacular, but the food is even more incredible. If you go, get a taxi and make sure they have a 4wd as the property is difficult to access. 

Hot Tip: For a special place to stay, consider booking a room at La Cusinga Lodge. It is really reasonably priced considering how beautiful and remote the property is. This way, right from your room’s doorstep you can enjoy these breathtaking views, the pool above, and access to Los Arcos Beach! Next time we visit Uvita we will definitely spend a couple of nights there.

9. Visit Dominical

Just north of Uvita sits the small surf town of Dominical. Those who love the laid-back hippy vibe will love Dominical, and to me, Dominical is my preferred place to visit when compared with Uvita. 

Pop into Fuego Brewery for a delicious craft beer and lunch – it’s one of the best restaurants in Dominical . Or, head down to the beach for a surf.  There is so much to do in Dominical , and it’s one of the most underated surf towns in Costa Rica! 

I highly suggest spending a night or two in Dominical if you have time, there are a few nice hotels in Dominical to choose from . There is a really fun atmosphere in town, and you can enjoy delicious food at restaurants such as Phat Noodle or Cafe Mono Congo. 

10. Nauyaca Waterfalls 

One of the most beautiful waterfalls in Costa Rica is  Nauyaca Waterfalls . The two spectacular waterfalls stand 197 feet tall (60 meters) and are surrounded by lush rainforest and wildlife on all sides.

From Uvita, it’s a 30-minute  drive to the ticket office , and this is where you’ll need to buy your entrance ticket ($12 USD at the office or $10 USD online). Then, it’s another 1.2-mile drive (2 kilometers) to the parking lot, where you’ll begin the hike to the base of the waterfall. 

The trail from the parking lot is 4 kilometers (2.5 miles) each way along a dirt road. If you don’t visit first thing in the morning, it’s a hot trek with plenty of hills. However, once you arrive at the waterfall, you’ll quickly forget the hike. 

My recommendation is to visit the top waterfall first to check out the view and then walk down the bottom for a swim (the top isn’t for swimming.) Make sure you spend lots of time enjoying the water, it’s so beautiful. 

If you don’t want to walk the 4 kilometers or have mobility issues, other options are available. The first is to take a tour in the back of a truck. This costs $32 USD on top of your entry ticket. The other option is to take a horse, which costs $80 USD. You can book these options online in advance or at the ticket office. 

Nauyaca Waterfalls is open from 7 am, and you cannot begin the trail after 2 pm. 

11. Eat delicious falafel at Falafel Uvita

If you love falafel as much as I do, you need to check out  Falafel Uvita ! This small local restaurant is owned by a family from Israel, and the food is really authentic. 

They serve large falafel plates for those wanting a big meal, as well as falafel wraps. All come with delicious homemade hummus and other sauces. They also have shwarma if you want something with meat. 

Everything we had at Falafel Uvita was terrific, and we ate here a few times during our last visit. 

Related Read: If you love falafel, you need to check out the best restaurants in Manuel Antonio to find my favorite falafel restaurant in Costa Rica!

12. Corcovado Nantional Park

Corcovado National Park is one of the most biodiverse places in the world. In fact, it’s home to 2.5% of the world’s biodiversity! To many, it’s considered the top national park for wildlife lovers in Costa Rica, and I agree! 

The park is most commonly visited from Puerto Jimenez and Drake Bay; however, some tours leave from Uvita too.  This specific tour  organizes everything for you and includes transport, tickets to the park, an expert guide, breakfast, lunch, and snacks. 

The tour visits the San Pedrillo Ranger Station, where you’ll enjoy a hike through the park in search of wildlife. During my visit, we saw every species of monkey in Costa Rica, lots of rare birds , jaguar footprints, rodents, and other wildlife, including snakes. 

It’s a long, tiring day, but if I had my time again, I wouldn’t change a thing. After visiting Corcovado National Park, other national parks can be a little underwhelming! 

Important:  Corcovado National Park can only be visited with an approved guide. The park also only lets 150 people in per day, so booking ahead during peak season is recommended. Visiting the park is considered one of the best tours in all of Costa Rica – so you don’t want to miss out!

13. Caño Island

One of the best snorkeling spots and dive sites in Costa Rica is located off the coast of Uvita. Caño Island Biological Reserve is a small island and marine reserve where visitors can jump in the water and swim with turtles, sharks, and a huge variety of fish. It’s one of the best places to see turtles in Costa Rica !

You can both snorkel or scuba dive around the island, but visitors are no longer allowed on the island itself. 

Tours to the island from Uvita involve a 90-minute boat ride each way, so those who get seasick should avoid this tour. Tours cost around $150 USD, and  Dolphin Tour Costa Rica  can organize them for you. 

If you are planning on visiting Drake Bay, then just save this tour for your visit there. Drake Bay is closer to the island, and the boat ride is only 45 minutes each way from there. 

14. Visit Manuel Antonio National Park 

Around 1 hour north of Uvita sits one of Costa Rica’s best national parks .  Manuel Antonio National Park  is a gorgeous coastal park with tons of wildlife and untouched beaches. Exploring the park is definitely one of the most popular things to do in Uvita.

There are a few different hiking trails within the national park that all link up. The best part is the park is relatively small, so exploring some of the best areas doesn’t take a lot of time. You can see lots of sloths and monkeys as well as enjoy the beaches – which are pristine! 

Those with a rental car can either choose to do a self-guided tour of the park or book a guided tour.  This specific tour  is the best option for those who self-drive to Manuel Antonio. The tour is only $25 USD and includes a 2-hour guided walk through the park.

Manuel Antonio National Park  is open from 7 am until 4 pm every day and costs $18.08 USD for adults and $5.65 USD for children.  Tickets MUST be purchased online , and there are limited tickets per day. No food is allowed in the park, and they search bags before you enter. Inside the park, there is a small cafe that sells food. 

Related Read: Visiting Manuel Antonio? Check out all the best things to do in Manuel Antonio before you go!

15. Hacienda Baru Wildlife Refuge

The best place to go hiking near Uvita is at a small hotel and wildlife refuge called  Hacienda Baru Wildlife Refuge . This gorgeous property is home to four trails that navigate the wildlife refuge giving visitors the chance to see lots of Costa Rica’s most well-known wildlife. Spot monkeys, sloths, snakes, caiman, and white-nosed coati, as well as a huge range of birds. 

You can visit the park on your own and do a self-guided tour of the refuge for $15 USD. This is the cheapest option, and you can visit places such as the birdwatching trail and spend as much time as you want to look for birds. There are 4.3 miles (7 kilometers) of trails to explore, and it’s best to visit before 8 am or after 3 pm if you want to see some of the 300+ bird species on site. 

With that said,  Hacienda Baru Wildlife Refuge also has a huge variety of tours  with expert guides. These include birdwatching tours, night walks, hikes, and even ziplining. The tours range in price, but most are only $36 USD, which is very cheap! 

You can also stay at the hotel  Hacienda Baru Lodge . Those who stay at the lodge get free access to the property, which means you’ll get to explore and see a lot more! 

16. Drink local craft beer

Love craft beer as much as us? Well, thankfully, Uvita is home to its own craft brewery!  Whale Tail Brewery  is Uvita’s local brewery serving delicious craft brews fresh to thirsty travelers and locals. It’s safe to say, it didn’t take me long to get to know this place. 

The brewery is only small, but they have ample room to enjoy a beer at their bar, which is attached to the brewery. They serve only a few beers, and during my last visit, three were available to try. What I love most is the price of their craft beer. Each beer costs just over $6 USD, so you can certainly enjoy a few on a budget. 

They also serve food and cocktails so everyone will find something they love. The only drawback is the service, which can lack at times. 

Definitely be sure to check out their menu here .

17. Alturas Wildlife Sanctuary

Supporting wildlife conservation is essential in Costa Rica! The best part is you can do it while viewing rare and unique wildlife. 

Alturas Wildlife Sanctuary  is a non-profit wildlife rehabilitation center with the goal to release every animal they rescue. This involves treating animals in their veterinary clinic and slowly training animals to live in the wild again. It’s a costly but rewarding process that saves thousands of animals. 

You can see lots of wildlife within the center, including sloths, jaguars, pumas, macaws, toucans, and monkeys. These can change as animals are released and rescued continually. 

Alturas Wildlife Sanctuary is located only about a 15-minute drive from Uvita, making it one of the best things to do in Uvita for wildlife lovers! 

Tours through Alturas cost $33 USD for adults and only $17 USD for children. You’ll learn a ton about the animals during the 1.5-hour tour, and all proceeds go to supporting the animals. You can do tours at 9 am, 11 am, and 1 pm from Tuesday to Sunday.

18. Attend Envision Music Festival

One of the things that initially put Uvita on the world map was the  Envision Music Festival  held every year. The 7-day event is held in February and was created by the same people who brought you Burning Man. Although not as large, Envision is well and truly gaining popularity. 

The festival is centered around the idea of disconnecting from modern civilization to dream, learn, and inspire. The festival is a fun event, and those who are looking to connect with like-minded people should really consider going. 

I was supposed to go in 2022, but the event was unfortunately canceled. However, they are all set to go in 2023, so maybe I’ll see you there!

19. Fishing charter

The fishing in Costa Rica is epic in just about every coastal town you can imagine. Uvita is no different. In fact, Uvita’s remote location means less fisherman and more fish, which means you’re almost guaranteed to catch something. 

You can do two typical fishing tours in Uvita, inshore and offshore. 

Inshore tours are 5 hours and involve going after fish such as tuna, roosterfish, mahi-mahi, jack crevalle, bigeye trevally, needlefish, barracuda, and snapper. In Uvita, these tours have a good chance of spotting dolphins, and you’ll get snacks and beer included. Expect to pay around $140 USD a person. 

Offshore fishing charters are 8 hour or full-day tours and normally chase larger fish. However, in Uvita, these tours still go for the same fish as the Inshore charter but also include 1.5 hours of snorkeling at Cano Island. So if you fill the bot with max 8 people, this tour costs only $175 USD a person. That’s really good value considering the Cano Island tour alone is $150 USD! 

The company that offers both of these tours in Uvita is called  Bahia Aventuras . 

20. Sierpe Mangrove Tour 

The Sierpe Mangrove is one of the most extensive mangroves I have ever visited. In fact, it’s the largest mangrove in Central America and a really cool and exciting place to do a tour. 

On a Sierpe Mangrove tour through the wetlands, you’ll spot tons of wildlife, including monkeys, birds, crocodiles, turtles, snakes, and even sloths. You’ll also learn so much about mangroves and their importance to Costa Rica’s wildlife. 

From Uvita, you can reach Sierpe in around 45 minutes by car, and the tours leave from the main dock along the mangrove. Tours cost around $73 USD, and Bahia Aventura also runs these tours too. 

21. Enjoy a delicious coffee at Sibu Café

If you’re after a delicious brew and some tasty food, look no further than Sibu Café in Uvita.  Located along the busy highway  (I am not too fond of the location), this beautiful cafe serves up the best coffee and food in Uvita. 

Their menu  includes lots of interesting drinks such as an ice Nutella coffee, organic choco chai, and an ice coffee cocktail. On their food menu, they have a lot of classics, but they’re all so tasty. Trust me; this is the best cafe in Uvita and one of my favorites in Costa Rica! 

Related Read: Find out about all of the best restaurants in Uvita !

Where to Stay in Uvita, Costa Rica 

When it comes to choosing the right place to stay in Uvita for you, location is essential. For example, those without a car will most likely want to stay near the national park, whereas those with a vehicle can choose to stay further out. If you would like more info on the different areas, be sure to check out our  where to stay in Uvita blog . 

Below are a few of my favorite hotels in all the different areas around Uvita. 

Hostel Cascada Verde – $

For budget travelers,  Hostel Cascada Verde  is a top choice. The reviews of this hostel are fantastic. The location is on the inland side of town, meaning it’s a fair walk to the national park. However, it is right across from Uvita Waterfall and Uvita Beer garden in a quiet area surrounded by lush forest. 

Rates start at $20 USD for a one-night stay. You can check availability and make a reservation online here on Booking.com , here on HostelWorld , here on Hotels.com , or here on Expedia .

Bungalows Ballena – $$

If you’d prefer to be close to the national park,  Bungalows Ballena  is only a 1-minute walk from the entrance to the park. This small hotel offers two-bedroom bungalows with full kitchens and bathrooms. It’s perfect for families, and they also have a pool. We stayed here last time we were in town and loved it – having our own little bungalow was convenient and comfortable.

All of the rooms have a patio. There’s also a pool and grill available for guests. Rates begin at $111 USD per night. You can check availability and book online here on Booking.com , here on Hotels.com , or here on Expedia .

Oxygen Jungle Villas & Spa – $$$

Those looking for luxury have to check out  Oxygen Jungle Villas & Spa . This stunning hotel is located in the hills surrounding Uvita and is perfect for those looking for a romantic getaway. The property features spectacular views, an infinity pool, gorgeous rooms, and an included breakfast.

This is one of the most romantic hotels in Costa Rica. Rates typically begin at $429 USD per night. Book online on Booking.com here , on Hotels.com here , or on Expedia here .

Getting Around Costa Rica

How you choose to get around Costa Rica is one of the biggest decisions you’ll make when planning your holiday here! How you do it depends on your budget, travel style, and comfort level. 

Renting a Car

Without a doubt, the number one way to explore Costa Rica is in a rental car. We book rental cars on the Discover Cars website as we have had good experiences with them in the past.

One of the things you need to watch for when renting a car in Costa Rica is the mandatory insurance that the government requires you to have. There are a lot of very cheap rentals that don’t include this mandatory insurance (TPL) in the original booking price, but there are also ones that do. To avoid additional surprise charges when you pick up your rental car, be sure to rent a car that includes the mandatory insurance when you book.

Thankfully, on Discover Cars it’s easy to tell apart the companies that include the mandatory insurance and those that don’t. The trick is you can’t pick any car on their website. In the picture below, you can see this rental car, with pick up in Jaco, includes the TPL. That means the mandatory insurance is included in the price. Any cover you get above that is extra.

Of course, I still suggest getting the full coverage offered by Discover Cars, which covers you even more.

You can  browse cars on Discover Cars here .

Book Shuttles

If renting a car isn’t in your budget, you don’t feel comfortable driving in Costa Rica , or you just don’t like driving, shuttles are the next best option. There are hundreds of shuttle routes available all over the country, and they are very affordable.

Shuttles in Costa Rica are specifically for tourists and often include pick up and drop off at your selected hotels and airports. The drivers also speak some English, and the vehicles have air conditioning. You’ll also be guaranteed a seat when you book a shuttle (which isn’t the case with the public bus system.)

To get the best price, use the website  Bookaway . They compare all the offers and prices of shuttle companies in Costa Rica so you get the best price! Honestly, we have saved so much money using Bookaway! 

You can search for shuttles online on Bookaway here.

Lastly, you can use the public bus system. On short journeys, such as from San Jose to La Fortuna or Uvita to Manuel Antonio, this system is great. However, the longer the journey the more hassle and time spent on a bus. It’s undoubtedly best to save the public bus in Costa Rica for short and straightforward trips!  

The public buses are definitely the cheapest way to get around Costa Rica, but they are not always very reliable and schedules often change without notice and delays are to be expected. The buses can also be very crowded and hot – so just be prepared!

It’s also good to speak some Spanish if you plan on riding the public bus since most drivers and ticket booth operators don’t speak English.

Pura Vida! 

Uvita is quickly becoming a top tourist destination in Costa Rica, and with the above list of things to do, it’s really not hard to see why. 

I hope this blog has helped plan and inspire your upcoming trip to Uvita, Costa Rica and made planning that little bit easier! If it has, be sure to browse around and check out more of our blogs. We have so much to show you such as:

Day trips from San Jose

Things to do in Montezuma

Best hot springs in La Fortuna

Monday 6th of March 2023

Hello! Do you need to be a guest of La Cusinga Lodge to access the freshwater pool you reference in #7? Or is it possible to just park in the lot and walk down the trail to the water? Thanks!

Costa Rica Travel Life

Wednesday 8th of March 2023

I am not sure about parking, but if you taxi (what we did), you can walk down to the pool without being a guest. At least, that's what we did. The best thing to do, is stop for a drink or food and then walk to the pool. There are maps around the place and one in the parking area.

I hope this helps. It's such a stunning spot to swim!

Thanks Daniel

Letty Vargas

Thursday 21st of April 2022

Súper, I expect visit Unvita soon