Uvita, Costa Rica: 10 Thrilling Activities and Nearby Attractions
Are you planning your next trip to Uvita, Costa Rica? Looking for things to do in Uvita but haven’t found anything yet! Don’t worry you will find it here!
There is a place in Costa Rica with fewer crowds, abundant wildlife, rich rainforests, and empty beaches. Yes, you heard it right Welcome to Uvita! It is located in the Puntarenas province on Costa Rica’s southern coast. It offers a range of activities to give tourists a memorable experience.
In this blog, you will find the top activities to do in Uvita, Costa Rica, the best restaurants and accommodations, and also tips for travel to Uvita, Costa Rica. Stay tuned!
Overview of Uvita, Costa Rica
Location: Uvita is located in the Puntarenas province on Costa Rica’s southern coast. It is approximately 15 minutes south of Dominical and is surrounded by famous towns such as San Isidro de El General, Sierpe, Quepos, Dominical, and Savegre.
How to get there?
By air: Uvita is 319 km (198 miles) from Guanacaste Airport and 212 km (131 miles) from San José International Airport.
By Road: It takes approximately 3.5 hours to drive from San José and about 5 hours from Liberia. Private and public modes of transportation options are also available. A rental car is good to go to. If you have low budget, buses are available to reach Uvita.
Green Season: May to November (Rainy there but rich landscapes and fewer crowds)
Dry Season: December to April (Great for beach activities and other outdoor adventures)
10 Best Things To Do In Uvita, Costa Rica
Uvita is located on Costa Rica’s southern Pacific coast. Consequently, it is famous for its natural beauty. Here’s a list of the top things to do in Uvita, Costa Rica:
1. Explore Marino Ballena National Park
If you are planning to visit Uvita, Costa Rica, Marino Ballena National Park should be on your itinerary. This gigantic park has four distinct beaches and a rich rainforest to explore. Beaches at Marino Ballena National Park are huge and lined with palm trees.
One of the coolest features of this park is the Whale’s Tail. During low tide, the rocks and sand come together to form a shape that looks like a whale’s tail, pretty awesome, right? Uvita, Costa Rica is known as one of the best spots to see humpback whales! Don’t miss this!
The park is divided into four sections, but the main one is Sector Uvita. It is the closest to the Whale’s Tail and offers some of the best views. And, if you are still around in the evening, don’t miss the sunset here, it’s breathtaking!
Opening hours: Every day from 7 am to 4 pm
Rates:
- National and residents: ¢1.000.
- Foreign Non-residents: $6.
- Children under 11 years of age and elderly people: Free
Phone: +506 2786-5392
2. Trip to Corcovado National Park
One of the top spots to visit in Uvita, Costa Rica is Corcovado National Park. If you have a few days to spare, make your way to Drake Bay, the nearest jumping-off point to the park, and you can also stay overnight inside the park for the full experience.
When visiting, you can explore the large trail network, which offers guided and self-guided hikes through different habitats, from packed jungles to serene beaches. Wildlife watching is a main attraction, with early mornings and late afternoons. To improve your experience, join a guided tour to ensure you get key wildlife and natural features.
Due to the distance, day trips from Uvita usually only reach the San Pedrillo Ranger Station. On the other hand, Sirena is the best spot for wildlife sightings, but San Pedrillo offers an incredible glimpse into Corcovado’s stunning biodiversity.
Wildlife Attractions in Corcovado National Park
Big Cats: While jaguars, pumas, and ocelots do roam the park. Sightings are extremely infrequent, but you will find a jaguar paw print.
Monkey Mania: Corcovado is home to all four of Costa Rica’s monkey species howler, spider, squirrel, and white-faced capuchin.
Birdwatcher’s Paradise: With over 350 bird species, you might see hummingbirds, toucans, macaws, owls, and more.
Mammal Central: Expect to see a variety of mammals including two and three-toed sloths, coatis, Baird’s tapirs, anteaters, and peccaries.
Marine Life: The surrounding waters host sea turtles, whales (seasonal), dolphins, and bull sharks, while the rivers are home to crocodiles and caimans.
Opening hours: Every day from 7 am to 4 pm
In October the Sirena Park sector closed but the other sectors are open.
Rates:
- National and residents: ¢1.600.
- Foreign Non-residents: $ 15.
- Camping Zone: $ 4 (San Pedrillo and Sirena Stations).
- ¢ 500 nationals and residents ( from 2 to 12 years) children.
- $ 5 nonresidents Children (from 2 to 12 years)
- Children under 2 years and visitors older than 65 years: Free
Phone: +506 2735 5036
3. Visit Manuel Antonio National Park
If you are a wildlife enthusiast Manuel Antonio National Park in Uvita, Costa Rica, is a must-visit place. It is known for its beautiful trails, pristine beaches, and abundant wildlife. Be prepared, though it can get a bit crowded, so plan accordingly!
It’s highly recommended to hire a guide while you visit Manuel Antonio National Park. Guides are skilled naturalists with amazing eyesight and they are experts in spotting wildlife.
If you are looking for a premium experience, take a guided tour from Manuel Antonio. They come equipped with telescopes to help you see birds, sloths, and other critters closely. Most guided tours start at the entrance, but there is also a great option that includes transport from Uvita.
Opening hours: Wednesday to Monday from 7:00 am to 3:00 pm and Tuesday closed.
Rates:
Foreign or non-residents
- Adults (12+ years old) $ 16 + IVA
- Children (from 2 to 12 years old) $ 5 + IVA
- Children under 2: Free
National and residents
- Adults (12+ years old) 1600 costarican colons.
- Children (from 6 to 12 years old) 500 costarican colons.
- Children under 6 and Adults over 65 years: Free (Carry your identity card)
Phone: +506 2777 5185
4. Enjoy the Humpback Whale Watching Tour
Humpback whale watching is one of the coolest experiences you can have in Uvita, Costa Rica. The best time to catch the whales is from August to October and December to April.
The tour usually starts early in the morning to make the most of your time on the water. You will hop aboard a boat with a crew that knows all the best spots to find the whales. As you cruise along, keep your eyes open and your camera ready you might see these giants tail-slapping, breaching, or gracefully gliding through the water.
Opening hours: 10:30 am and 3 pm
Rates:
- Adult: $115
- Child (2-10): $85
- Infants: Free
5. Visit Nauyaca Waterfalls
Looking for an unforgettable adventure in Uvita, Costa Rica? In that case, Nauyaca Waterfalls is a perfect spot for adventure! It is located in a stunning canyon about eighty meters wide. The first cascades 45 meters in a dramatic free fall, while the second gently steps down 20 meters, creating a pool at its base.
However, visiting Nauyaca Waterfalls can be a bit of a puzzle. There are two main entrances you can choose from Don Lulo’s Nauyaca Waterfalls and the Nauyaca Waterfall Nature Park, so you will need to pick one.
Here you can splash around in the thousand-square-meter pool, six meters deep, or explore the smaller, enchanting natural pools perfect for family fun. Whether you are into horseback riding, swimming, hiking, climbing, or simply clicking photos, this is the perfect spot to visit. It is just 35 minutes from Marino Ballena National Park and an hour from Manuel Antonio National Park.
Opening hours: Monday to Saturday from 7 am to 2 pm, Sundays from 8 am to 2 pm
Rates:
- Premium Tour 4×4: $80
- Economic Tour 4×4: $32
- Horse Riding: $80
6. Swim in the Uvita Waterfall
When we talk about the beautiful waterfalls in Uvita, Costa Rica, we can’t miss the Uvita Waterfall. This is a very charming spot located near town and features a natural waterfall slide that adds a bit of excitement to your visit.
The natural pool at the base of the waterfall is a perfect spot for a refreshing swim and emerald-green water, surrounded by rich tropical foliage, makes it beautiful. Furthermore, the shallow end of the pool is great for wading, while the deeper sections are ideal for a relaxed swim.
If you want a bit more adventure, at the end of the property, you will find another natural pool created by the river. An iron bridge has been set up a few meters above this pool, allowing you to slide down into the water or stand underneath the cascading falls. Jumping from the top might not be the safest option as the waterfall is not very tall.
7. Enjoy the Caño Island Snorkeling Tour
This Snorkeling Tour from Uvita, Costa Rica, is an exciting adventure if you are looking to explore the rich marine life of the Pacific Ocean. If you sneak in early morning you can spend time on the open ocean, where you can enjoy stunning views of the coastline.
As you head on a journey, keep an eye out for dolphins, whales, and turtles they are often spotted along the way. You might see turtles, manta rays, stingrays, and devil rays, among others. Once you reach the island, you will snorkel at two different spots but fingercross for favorable conditions. The visibility underwater is generally excellent, and exceeds 80 feet, offering an incredible view of the marine life.
Cano Island, or Isla de Caño, is considered the second-best snorkeling and scuba diving destination in Costa Rica. It is located about 52 kilometers off the coast of Marino Ballena National Park, this biological reserve is bustling with marine life.
Opening hours: 8 am
Rates: $111 (taxes included)
8. Beautiful beaches in Uvita, Costa Rica
Costa Rica is famous for its stunning beaches, each offering its unique charm. Here are some of the most beautiful beaches you should visit:
Playa Hermosa
Just 5 minutes from Uvita, you will find this gorgeous beach, which is a real gem. It is right outside the National Park, you can access it for free!
Hermosa Beach is pristine and undeveloped as there are no buildings in sight and only a few people around (except during the holiday season and on weekends). You can stroll along the shore to enjoy the beauty and keep an eye out for scarlet macaws in the almond trees.
Additionally, you can enjoy swimming here, but be cautious of rip currents. It’s always good to check with the lifeguards. Surfing is great for beginners and intermediate surfers as well, so you can have a blast catching waves in this stunning setting.
Playa Dominicalito
Costa Rica’s southern Pacific coast has dozens of empty beaches. One hidden gem is Playa Dominicalito near the town of Dominical. The sand at Playa Dominicalito is brownish-gray and somewhat rocky in places.
Playa Dominicalito is a popular beach for surfing at the mid-to-high tide. In case you don’t have your board don’t worry you will get board on rent, the rate is $10 for a one-hour rental or $15 for a two-hour rental. (Prices may vary)
Dominicalito is historically a fishing village, it is a great place to throw in a line. There are rocks at low tide, you may see fishermen climbing out over them to get to the deeper water. The locals usually use simple spinning rods or handlines to catch fish like snapper, snook, and other inshore species.
Playa Colonia
In Uvita, Costa Rica Playa Colonia is an unknown gem which provides a more intimate beach experience with its stunning surroundings and clear waters. It is the perfect spot if you are seeking a peaceful escape away from the crowds.
This beach offers a serene environment where you can enjoy a more private and peaceful day by the sea. The natural beauty of Playa Colonia makes it an ideal choice for those who want to soak up the calm, unspoiled charm of Costa Rica’s coastline.
If you are looking to explore more beaches, you should check out the best beaches in Costa Rica.
9. Enjoy Bird Watching in Uvita, Costa Rica
Uvita is a top destination for bird watchers, and if you are a fan of colorful birds, this tour is perfect for you! Oro Verde, a private reserve spanning 155 hectares, features rich primary and secondary forests. It allows you to spot a diverse array of bird species in a beautifully preserved setting.
The rainforests of Uvita are heaven for birdwatchers, attracting a variety of fascinating species. Keep an eye out for the colorful Toucans and Aracaris. You might also spot the golden-hooded and Cherrie’s tanagers, as well as woodpeckers, scarlet macaws, and several hummingbird species.
There are several options for birdwatching, including guided tours in the land sections of Marino Ballena National Park or exploring the rainforest areas in the hills. Whether you book a wildlife tour or choose a self-guided hike, you will have plenty of opportunities to enjoy the diversity of the region.
Departure: 6:00 am
Rates: $40 per person, minimum 2 people.
10. Enjoy the Sierpe Mangrove Boat Tour
The Terraba Sierpe Mangroves National Wetlands is one of the largest mangrove ecosystems in Uvita, Costa Rica, providing a rich habitat for a variety of reptiles, birds, and mammals. To fully experience this incredible jungle, take a kayak tour through the mangrove channels. As you paddle along, you will be surrounded by life both in the water and up in the trees.
Opening hours: 7:30 am
Rates: $70.00
Other Recommendations
The local market, “El Mercado de Bahia Ballena,” is held on Wednesdays from 8 AM to 2 PM and Saturdays from 8 AM to 1 PM. It’s a great spot to explore local crafts, art, and fresh produce from regional vendors.
Each year, between February and March, Uvita hosts the Envision Festival, one of the largest and most vibrant festivals of its kind. This celebration has a diverse range of activities including music, art, dance, martial arts, fire performances, and meditation. Tickets sell out quickly, so it’s a good idea to secure yours as soon as possible.
Best Restaurants and Cafes In Uvita
Uvita, Costa Rica has several fantastic restaurants that cater to a variety of tastes. Here are some of the best options:
- Sibu Restaurant & Coffee Store
Phone: +506 2743 8674
- Sabor Español
Phone: +506 8367 7930
- Mosaic Wine and Sushi Bar
- Pizza Time
Phone: +506 2201 5300
- Bagel Time
Phone: +506 2102 9902
- Cabinas Los Laureles
Phone: +506 8327 5124
- Soda Ranchito Doña Maria
Phone: +506 8318 8157
Accommodation Options In Uvita
In Uvita, Costa Rica offers a range of accommodation options to suit different preferences and budgets. Here’s a selection of some popular choices:
5-star hotels
4-star hotels
3-star hotels
Other hotels
Tips For Visit Uvita, Costa Rica
Here are some tips to make the most of your visit to Uvita, Costa Rica:
- If you are visiting during the rainy season don’t forget to pack plenty of mosquito repellent, sunscreen, and rain gear and other travel essentials.
- Reserve your stay in advance, especially during peak times like the Envision Festival.
- Observe animals from a distance and follow guidelines to protect their natural habitats.
- Knowing some Spanish can improve your interactions and experience.
- Take guided tours for activities like birdwatching and snorkeling.
FAQs
Is Uvita worth visiting Costa Rica?
From snorkeling and kayaking to watching wildlife and hiking, Uvita is a place to get back to nature in peaceful surroundings. And, with top surf spot Domincal within reach, you don’t have to go far to enjoy some of Costa Rica’s best waves.
What is a fun fact about Uvita Costa Rica?
It is famous for its abundant sea life. Uvita Costa Rica offers one of the longest whale-watching seasons of any place in the world. From December to March and then again from mid-July through October. The giant humpback whales make their way to the warm, tropical waters of Costa Rica.
How many days to spend in Uvita, Costa Rica?
5-6 days.
We would recommend spending 5-6 days in Uvita and then the remaining 4 days on the Osa Peninsula near Corcovado National Park at El Remanso Rainforest Wildlife Lodge.
