With its laid-back beach atmosphere and natural beauty, Uvita is one of Costa Rica's emerging destinations. Discover beaches, waterfalls and wildlife adventures in this blessed region of Costa Ballena.

History

The first settlers arrived on this stretch of Costa Rica's coastline in the late 19th century, marking the beginning of Uvita's history. The town's name is linked to the viscoyol, a plant that produces small round purple fruits resembling grapes and grows abundantly throughout the region.

In the 1950s, the Cruz family purchased several hectares of land in Uvita to establish a large cattle ranch and an aeronautical venture called Hacienda Bahia. However, due to mismanagement by the heirs, the property was purchased by aluminium company ALCOA in the 1960s. The company planned to use the site for bauxite exports, but a student strike and opposition from environmental activists prevented this controversial project from moving forward—deemed "unpatriotic" by many residents. During the 1980s and 1990s, the Agrarian Development Institute implemented a land redistribution policy favouring poor farmers in the region.

Discovering Uvita

Just 17 km south of Dominical, along the pristine Costanera Sur highway, Uvita moves to its own rhythm. This small coastal town boasts supermarkets, banks, pharmacies and all essential amenities. Tourism thrives here, with visitor numbers growing annually, infrastructure expanding, and activities diversifying. Dedicated to music, art and nature, the Envision Festival draws peace-seekers from around the world. Parque Nacional Marino Ballena is highly prized for whale watching.

Visit Parque Nacional Marino Ballena

Each year from July to October, humpback whales arrive at Parque Nacional Marino Ballena to complete their breeding cycle. During other months, you can stroll along the "Cola de la Ballena" (Whale's Tail), a sandy formation resembling a whale's tail, sunbathe on the beach, swim in crystalline waters and explore the park's underwater wonders. Manta rays, sea turtles and dolphins, alongside countless fish species, inhabit this zone.

Relax on the Beach

The town's main beach, Playa Uvita, displays splendid tropical scenery across two miles of sand. Numerous activities await you both on the sand and in the water. It's an excellent surf spot for enthusiasts of the sport. For a quieter experience, head to Playa Arco where you can swim in calm seas and discover nearby islands. Located some fifty kilometres offshore from Uvita, Isla del Caño is renowned as Costa Rica's second-best diving site.

Discover Stunning Waterfalls

Near the town, Cascada Verde offers unforgettable moments of fun. After a short hike through the forest where monkeys and toucans roam, you'll emerge at magnificent natural pools. It's time to pluck up courage and try Mother Nature's water slide—a water channel carved into the rock that empties directly into the waterfall basin. Be warned: this spot gets very crowded on weekends. Alternatively, slightly north of Uvita, the Nauyacas Falls offer a quieter swimming experience.

Experience Exciting Adventures and Wildlife Encounters

It's hard to tear yourself away from the water in Uvita, but don't miss exploring the surrounding jungle and mountains. Some 70 miles south of town, Parque Nacional Corcovado will astound you with howler monkeys and scarlet macaws in the only remaining patch of pristine lowland rainforest in Central America. To the north along the coast, the mangroves of Rancho La Merced offer a rich birdwatching experience.

When to Visit?

You'll have the best chances of seeing whales by visiting in September or October. However, February is also an excellent time to visit Uvita. The weather is beautiful and coincides with the Envision Festival.

How to Get There?

The nearest airport is in San José (Juan Santamaría International Airport). From the capital, you can reach Uvita by bus—the journey takes approximately 6 hours. If you're renting a car, take Highway 2 to San Isidro de El General, then turn onto Highway 243 toward Uvita.

How to Get Around?

Rent a scooter or bicycle to explore Uvita while enjoying the tropical breeze. Walking around town is equally pleasant. For longer distances, you can take a taxi or rent a car. The town doesn't operate a bus system.

What to Do in Uvita?

• Spot whales at Parque Nacional Marino Ballena

• Walk along the Cola de la Ballena at low tide

• Cool off in the pools at Cascada Verde

• Search for howler monkeys in Parque Nacional Corcovado

• Experience ranch life at Rancho La Merced, and more