Isla Ballena: A Tropical Paradise Awaits
Discover the enchanting Isla Ballena in Costa Rica, a paradise of pristine beaches, rich wildlife, and breathtaking sunsets perfect for relaxation and adventure.
Isla Ballena, a stunning island off the coast of Costa Rica, offers pristine beaches, lush rainforests, and abundant wildlife. This paradise is perfect for relaxation and adventure alike, making it a must-visit for travelers seeking a slice of paradise.
A brief summary to Isla Ballena
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Local tips
- Visit during the whale migration season (December to April) for the best chance to see humpback whales.
- Bring snorkeling gear to explore the rich underwater life around the coral reefs.
- Don't miss the sunset at Playa Uvita; it's one of the most beautiful views on the island.
- Consider a guided tour to explore the island's hidden gems and learn about the local ecosystems.
- Pack insect repellent for hiking in the rainforest to avoid mosquito bites.
Getting There
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Car
From Manuel Antonio National Park, head south on Route 618 towards Dominical. Continue on this road for approximately 20 kilometers. Look for signs towards Uvita and Isla Ballena. When you reach the town of Uvita, turn left onto Route 34. After about 3 kilometers, you will see signs for Isla Ballena. Park your car at the designated parking area. Note that there may be a parking fee of around $5 USD.
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Public Transportation
Take a bus from Manuel Antonio to Uvita. Buses run frequently throughout the day from the main bus station. The fare is approximately $3-4 USD and the journey takes about 30-40 minutes. Once in Uvita, you can either walk or take a taxi to the Isla Ballena entrance, which is about 3 kilometers away. Expect to pay around $5-10 USD for a taxi. If walking, head towards Route 34 and follow the signs for Isla Ballena.
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Boat
If you are looking to reach Isla Ballena directly by water, arrange for a boat tour from Uvita. Various companies offer tours to the island, which typically include snorkeling and wildlife viewing. Prices for boat tours can range from $50 to $100 USD per person, depending on the package and duration of the trip. Make sure to book in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.
Discover more about Isla Ballena
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Arco Beach
3.0 km
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Cristal Ballena
3.7 km
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Flutterby House
5.5 km
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Punta Uvita
5.8 km
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Corcovado National Park - Sirena and San Pedrillo Ranger Station
6.1 km
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Plaza Ventanas (Administración)
6.5 km
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Rancho Pacifico
10.2 km
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Tiki Villas Rainforest Lodge & Spa
12.4 km
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Hotel Cuna del Angel - Dominical Costa Rica
14.4 km
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Pacific Edge Eco Lodge
17.4 km
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Pacific Journeys
20.2 km
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Costa Paraiso
20.3 km
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Don Lulos Nauyaca Waterfall
21.3 km
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Waterfall Villas - Wellness, Vegan, Yoga Retreat
22.3 km
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Danyasa Yoga Retreat
22.5 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Bahía Uvita
1.5 km
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Playa Ballena
3.4 km
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Playa Colonia
4.7 km
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Playa Chaman
5.0 km
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Uvita Beach
5.3 km
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Parque Nacional Marino Ballena
5.5 km
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Playa Ventanas
5.6 km
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Playa Uvita
6.0 km
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Bahía Ballena, Uvita, Puntarenas, Costa Rica.
6.0 km
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Mercado Bahía Ballena
6.0 km
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Ballena Tour Costa Rica
6.1 km
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Tour a caballo/ Horseback riding
6.1 km
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360 Uvita Costa Rica
6.1 km
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Biological Reserve Cano Island Costa Rica
6.1 km
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Ballena Infocenter
6.1 km
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Essential places to dine
Rancho Cielo Alto - BY RESERVATION ONLY
11.1 km
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Restaurante Scala
15.4 km
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La Parcela Resturant and Cabins
18.3 km
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Selva Orgánica Café y EcoMercado
22.0 km
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Fika Bar & Restaurante
22.1 km
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Lori Restaurant
22.4 km
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Fuego Brewing Company
22.5 km
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El Pescado Loco
22.6 km
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Luna Nueva Bar y Restaurante
23.3 km
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Mirador Los Chorros
23.5 km
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Urban Farm
29.2 km
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Restaurante Chirripo
29.9 km
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Kamut
30.1 km
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Snack la Bonita
32.0 km
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Cervecería, Bar y Restaurante Chirripóberg
32.3 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Costa Verde Surf shop
7.0 km
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Tico Roots Souvenier
21.9 km
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Tico Roots Souvenirs, Supporting Local and National Artist
22.6 km
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Souvenirs Raíces
22.6 km
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Centro Comercial Montegeneral
26.9 km
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Mariposario Casa Alegria, ecotour ,yoga & cafe Restaurante
40.8 km
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Caño Divers
46.1 km
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Creaciones RyB
46.1 km
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Etnias, Bahia Drake
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Casa de Windell
49.5 km
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Pulpería Jimenez
54.2 km
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Villa Vanilla Spice Tour and Shop
54.6 km
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Gelateria El Parque
55.9 km
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JP Seats & Shade Manuel Antonio Beach
56.0 km
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Souvenir Colores de Costa rica (Gift Shop)
56.2 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Whale Tail Brewery CR
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Sonia's bar krustaceo kascarudo
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The Bamboo Room Restaurant
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Bar la Terraza
30.5 km
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Centro Turístico, Bar y Restaurante La Perla
33.5 km
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Rio Chirripo
41.5 km
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Kapi Kapi Chirripo Eco Mercado & Café ️
42.2 km
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Bar y restaurante los malinches
43.7 km
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Crestones Base Camp
46.0 km
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Ficus Bar
46.8 km
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Bar La Jungla
46.9 km
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TWINS BAR Y RESTAURANT
46.9 km
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Sukia Lounge Bar & Cafe
47.4 km
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Naciente #1
48.6 km
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Amayas de Osa
50.0 km
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