Discover the Serenity of Playa Ballena
Experience the untouched beauty of Playa Ballena, a serene coastal paradise in Costa Rica, perfect for relaxation and wildlife adventures.
A brief summary to Playa Ballena
- 4863+XV2, Carr. Pacífica Fernández Oreamuno, Osa, Puntarenas Province, CR
- +50689467134
- Monday 7 am-4 pm
- Tuesday 7 am-4 pm
- Wednesday 7 am-4 pm
- Thursday 7 am-4 pm
- Friday 7 am-4 pm
- Saturday 7 am-4 pm
- Sunday 7 am-4 pm
Playa Ballena is a hidden gem located in the heart of Costa Rica’s Puntarenas Province, renowned for its magnificent landscapes and serene beaches. This picturesque coastal area features a stunning stretch of golden sand bordered by lush tropical forests, making it a perfect retreat for nature lovers and beachgoers. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, including swimming, sunbathing, and beachcombing along the tranquil shoreline. The area is part of the larger Ballena National Marine Park, which is famous for its rich marine biodiversity and the migratory humpback whales that visit the waters from December to April. These majestic creatures can often be spotted from the shore or during boat tours, providing an unforgettable experience for those lucky enough to witness them. In addition to its natural beauty, Playa Ballena offers a range of amenities and services to enhance your visit. There are several local restaurants serving delicious Costa Rican cuisine, where tourists can savor fresh seafood and traditional dishes while enjoying breathtaking ocean views. For those who love adventure, guided tours can be arranged for kayaking, snorkeling, or hiking through the nearby trails that lead to stunning viewpoints overlooking the ocean. Whether you seek relaxation or adventure, Playa Ballena caters to all preferences, making it an ideal destination for families, couples, and solo travelers alike. This paradise invites you to immerse yourself in its natural beauty, explore its vibrant ecosystems, and create lasting memories in one of Costa Rica’s most enchanting locations.
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and stunning sunrise views.
- Bring sunscreen and plenty of water, as shade can be limited on the beach.
- Consider taking a guided whale watching tour during the migration season for a unique experience.
- Explore the nearby hiking trails for breathtaking views of the coastline and diverse wildlife.
Getting There
-
Car
From Manuel Antonio National Park, start by heading south on the main road (Carr. Pacífica Fernández Oreamuno) towards Osa. Continue driving for about 15 kilometers (approximately 20-25 minutes). You will see signs for Playa Ballena along the way. Once you reach the coordinates 4863+XV2, you will find a parking area nearby. Please note that there may be a small parking fee, typically around 2,000 to 4,000 CRC (Costa Rican Colón).
-
Public Transportation
If you prefer public transport, you can take a bus from the Manuel Antonio area to the town of Uvita. Buses run frequently throughout the day. Check with local bus schedules, but typically you can catch a bus from the main road near Manuel Antonio. The fare to Uvita usually costs around 1,500 CRC. Once in Uvita, you will need to take a taxi or walk approximately 5 kilometers to Playa Ballena, which may take about an hour on foot or around 10 minutes by taxi. Taxi fares from Uvita to Playa Ballena can range from 3,000 to 5,000 CRC.
Attractions Nearby to Playa Ballena
- Playa Ventanas
- Isla Ballena
- Bahía Uvita
- Playa Colonia
- Playa Chaman
- Uvita Beach
- Parque Nacional Marino Ballena
- Mercado Bahía Ballena
- Osa Costa Rica
- Ballena Infocenter
- Tour a caballo/ Horseback riding
- Ballena Tour Costa Rica
- Bahia Aventuras
- The Waterfall of Ojochal
- Biological Reserve Cano Island Costa Rica
Landmarks nearby to Playa Ballena
- Cristal Ballena
- Arco Beach
- Plaza Ventanas (Administración)
- Flutterby House
- Corcovado National Park - Sirena and San Pedrillo Ranger Station
- Punta Uvita
- Rancho Pacifico
- Tiki Villas Rainforest Lodge & Spa
- Hotel Cuna del Angel - Dominical Costa Rica
- Pacific Edge Eco Lodge
- Nauyaca Waterfall Nature Park
- Pacific Journeys
- Playa Dominicalito
- Costa Paraiso
- Nauyaca Waterfalls