Punta Uvita: Where the Whales Lead to a Tail of Land
Discover the natural wonder of Punta Uvita's Whale's Tail: a coastal paradise where wildlife thrives and tides reveal a stunning sandbar.
Punta Uvita is a peninsula within Marino Ballena National Park, known for its famous Whale's Tail formation. This natural tombolo, shaped like a whale's tail, is visible only during low tide, connecting the mainland to what appears to be an island via a narrow sand deposit. The park offers beautiful beaches, opportunities for wildlife viewing, and the chance to walk out to the end of the 'tail'.
A brief summary to Punta Uvita
- CR
Local tips
- Check the tide charts before you go! The Whale's Tail is only visible and accessible during low tide.
- Bring sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water, as there is very little shade on the beach.
- Pay the entrance fee with a credit card, as cash payments may not be accepted.
- Arrive early to secure parking, especially during peak season.
- Consider combining your visit with a whale watching tour for a chance to see humpback whales (seasonal).
Getting There
-
Driving
From Uvita town center, head south towards the main entrance of Marino Ballena National Park. After the BM supermarket, take the first right and follow the road until you see the Dolphin Tours company and restaurant. Turn left and continue to the park entrance. Parking is available in several lots near the entrance, costing approximately 2,000 to 4,000 Colones ($3-$6 USD) per day. Free roadside parking is limited.
-
Walking
From accommodations in Bahia, the Colonia entrance to Marino Ballena National Park may be closer. From Uvita town center, the Uvita entrance is about 3 km / 1.8 mi away. Follow the main road south, then turn right after the BM supermarket, continuing to the park entrance. Note that it is a long walk from town and a taxi is recommended.
-
Public Transport
Buses from San José and Quepos stop in Uvita. From the bus stop in Uvita, it's best to take a taxi to the Marino Ballena National Park entrance, as it is a considerable distance. Taxi fares are typically under $5 USD.
Discover more about Punta Uvita
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Punta Uvita
0.0 km
Discover the natural wonder of Punta Uvita's Whale's Tail: a coastal paradise where wildlife thrives and tides reveal a stunning sandbar.
Corcovado National Park - Sirena and San Pedrillo Ranger Station
2.2 km
Explore Costa Rica's crown jewel: Hike through rainforests, discover hidden waterfalls, and encounter rare wildlife at Corcovado National Park's ranger stations.
Flutterby House
2.6 km
Experience Uvita's charm at this eco-friendly hostel near Marino Ballena National Park, offering comfort, community, and sustainable living.
Arco Beach
5.2 km
Discover Arco Beach in Puntarenas: a hidden tropical paradise with golden sands, clear waters, and stunning natural beauty within Costa Rica's Marino Ballena National Park.
Tiki Villas Rainforest Lodge & Spa
6.8 km
Experience a luxurious rainforest escape at Tiki Villas Rainforest Lodge & Spa, where sustainability meets serenity on Costa Rica's Pacific Coast.
Cristal Ballena
7.2 km
Experience luxury and nature at Cristal Ballena Boutique Hotel & Spa, near Uvita, Costa Rica. Ocean views, rainforest trails, and national park adventures.
Rancho Pacifico
7.3 km
Escape to Rancho Pacifico: A luxury rainforest retreat with ocean views, gourmet dining, and unforgettable adventures near Uvita, Costa Rica.
Hotel Cuna del Angel - Dominical Costa Rica
8.6 km
Experience boutique elegance and natural beauty at Hotel Cuna del Angel, your tranquil escape in Costa Rica's Costa Ballena.
Pacific Edge Eco Lodge
11.5 km
Discover tranquility at Pacific Edge Eco Lodge in Dominicalito: stunning views, eco-friendly comfort, and unforgettable Costa Rican experiences await.
Plaza Ventanas (Administración)
11.9 km
Experience Costa Rican culture at Plaza Ventanas in Ojochal: shopping, local cuisine, and artisan crafts in a friendly, vibrant atmosphere.
Costa Paraiso
14.4 km
Discover a coastal paradise at Costa Paraiso in Dominicalito, Costa Rica. Relax on pristine beaches, explore lush rainforests, and enjoy breathtaking ocean views.
Pacific Journeys
15.0 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes and rich biodiversity of Costa Rica with Pacific Journeys, your premier tour agency in Pérez Zeledón.
Don Lulos Nauyaca Waterfall
15.6 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Nauyaca Waterfalls in Costa Rica: swim, hike, and explore this natural paradise near Dominical and Uvita.
Danyasa Yoga Retreat
16.6 km
Rejuvenate your mind, body, and soul at Danyasa Yoga Retreat in Dominical, Costa Rica. Eco-friendly sanctuary for yoga, wellness, and nature-based adventures.
Waterfall Villas - Wellness, Vegan, Yoga Retreat
16.6 km
Discover a secluded rainforest escape with luxurious villas, private waterfalls, vegan cuisine, and wellness programs near Dominical, Costa Rica.
Unmissable attractions to see
Parque Nacional Marino Ballena
1.4 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty of Parque Nacional Marino Ballena, a national park in Costa Rica known for its stunning landscapes and diverse marine life.
Playa Uvita
1.7 km
Explore Playa Uvita, a stunning beach destination in Costa Rica renowned for its breathtaking views, vibrant marine life, and rich biodiversity.
360 Uvita Costa Rica
1.8 km
Experience the thrill of surfing and local adventures at 360 Uvita, Costa Rica's premier surf school and tourist information hub.
Dolphin Tours
1.9 km
Experience the magic of Costa Rica's marine life with Dolphin Tours, offering unforgettable dolphin and whale watching adventures in Uvita.
Biological Reserve Cano Island Costa Rica
2.2 km
Discover the vibrant marine life and stunning landscapes of Cano Island Biological Reserve, a premier scuba diving destination in Costa Rica.
Uvita Beach
2.3 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Uvita Beach in Puntarenas Province, Costa Rica, where golden sands meet turquoise waters and adventure awaits.
Cola de la ballena
2.5 km
Explore the breathtaking Cola de la Ballena in Uvita, Costa Rica, where nature meets adventure in a stunning coastal paradise.
Bahia Aventuras
2.5 km
Explore the wonders of Costa Rica's marine life with Bahia Aventuras, offering unforgettable whale watching and boat tours in Uvita.
Ballena Tour Costa Rica
2.6 km
Discover the wonders of marine life with unforgettable whale watching tours in Uvita, Costa Rica at Ballena Tour Costa Rica.
Tour a caballo/ Horseback riding
2.6 km
Discover the enchanting landscapes of Uvita through unforgettable horseback riding adventures amidst lush forests and stunning beaches.
Ballena Infocenter
2.8 km
Experience the thrill of whale watching in Uvita, Costa Rica at Ballena Infocenter—your gateway to marine adventures.
Playa Chaman
2.8 km
Discover the enchanting beauty of Playa Chaman, a pristine beach in Uvita, Costa Rica, perfect for relaxation and adventure amidst stunning coastal views.
Mercado Bahía Ballena
2.8 km
Discover the heart of Uvita at Mercado Bahía Ballena, where fresh produce meets vibrant local culture in a colorful marketplace.
Bodhi Surf + Yoga
3.0 km
Discover Bodhi Surf + Yoga, where adventure meets tranquility in the heart of Uvita, Costa Rica. Surf, stretch, and rejuvenate in paradise.
Playa Colonia
3.2 km
Discover Playa Colonia: A serene beach within Marino Ballena National Park, perfect for families, surfers, and sunset lovers in Uvita, Costa Rica.
Essential places to dine
Rancho Cielo Alto - BY RESERVATION ONLY
5.5 km
Discover exquisite dining at Rancho Cielo Alto in Playa Hermosa - where culinary art meets breathtaking coastal views.
Restaurante Scala
9.6 km
Experience exquisite cuisine at Restaurante Scala in Osa Peninsula - where fresh local flavors meet stunning natural beauty.
La Parcela Resturant and Cabins
12.5 km
Discover La Parcela Restaurant & Cabins: where exquisite Costa Rican flavors meet stunning natural beauty in Puntarenas Province.
Selva Orgánica Café y EcoMercado
16.5 km
Experience fresh flavors and sustainability at Selva Orgánica Café y EcoMercado - your go-to spot for organic vegan delights in Pérez Zeledón.
Lori Restaurant
16.6 km
Experience exceptional vegan cuisine at Lori Restaurant in Dominical – where flavor meets sustainability in every delightful dish.
Fika Bar & Restaurante
16.6 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican flavors at Fika Bar & Restaurante in Pérez Zeledón – where culinary delight meets warm hospitality.
Fuego Brewing Company
16.7 km
Discover Fuego Brewing Company in Dominical – where craft beer meets exquisite local cuisine amidst stunning natural beauty.
El Pescado Loco
16.8 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican seafood at El Pescado Loco, where fresh flavors meet a vibrant coastal atmosphere.
Luna Nueva Bar y Restaurante
17.5 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine at Luna Nueva Bar y Restaurante, where culinary delights meet breathtaking natural beauty.
Mirador Los Chorros
18.6 km
Experience breathtaking views and authentic local cuisine at Mirador Los Chorros in Alfombra, Costa Rica.
Urban Farm
25.4 km
Discover Urban Farm in San Isidro de El General for fresh Costa Rican cuisine served in a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
Restaurante Chirripo
26.1 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine at Restaurante Chirripo in San Isidro de El General - where flavor meets hospitality.
Kamut
26.3 km
Experience fast food like never before at Kamut in San Isidro de El General - where local flavors meet quick service.
Cervecería, Bar y Restaurante Chirripóberg
28.3 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican flavors at Cervecería Chirripóberg - where local brews meet delicious cuisine.
Snack la Bonita
28.5 km
Discover Snack la Bonita: A family-friendly gem in San José offering delicious Costa Rican snacks in a vibrant atmosphere.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Costa Verde Surf shop
3.6 km
Experience the ultimate surfing adventure at Costa Verde Surf Shop in Uvita, where expert advice meets high-quality gear in a vibrant coastal setting.
Tico Roots Souvenier
16.1 km
Explore Tico Roots Souvenir for authentic Costa Rican crafts and unique gifts, capturing the essence of your travels in Dominical.
Tico Roots Souvenirs, Supporting Local and National Artist
16.7 km
Explore Tico Roots Souvenirs in Dominical for authentic Costa Rican gifts crafted by local artists, showcasing the beauty of national artistry.
Souvenirs Raíces
16.8 km
Discover authentic Costa Rican treasures at Souvenirs Raíces, a boutique filled with unique handcrafted gifts and vibrant local artistry.
Centro Comercial Montegeneral
23.8 km
Discover a vibrant shopping experience at Centro Comercial Montegeneral, where local culture meets modern retail in the heart of San Isidro de El General.
Mariposario Casa Alegria, ecotour ,yoga & cafe Restaurante
38.1 km
Discover the vibrant ecotourism gem of Mariposario Casa Alegria, where nature meets relaxation in a delightful blend of coffee, yoga, and wildlife.
Casa de Windell
48.1 km
Discover the authentic flavors of Costa Rica at Casa de Windell, a premier butcher shop in Limón offering high-quality meats and local culinary insights.
Gelateria El Parque
50.3 km
Discover the refreshing taste of Gelateria El Parque, where delicious ice creams meet the stunning backdrop of Parque Nacional Manuel Antonio.
JP Seats & Shade Manuel Antonio Beach
50.4 km
Discover the ultimate beachwear selection at JP Seats & Shade Manuel Antonio Beach, where style meets adventure in a tropical paradise.
Souvenir Colores de Costa rica (Gift Shop)
50.6 km
Explore Souvenir Colores de Costa Rica for unique, handcrafted treasures that celebrate the vibrant culture and beauty of Costa Rica.
Supermarket Pura Vida
50.6 km
Explore Supermarket Pura Vida in Manuel Antonio for fresh local produce, international snacks, and a taste of Costa Rican culture.
Caño Divers
51.1 km
Explore the vibrant marine life and stunning underwater landscapes at Caño Divers in the breathtaking Peninsula de Osa, Costa Rica.
Creaciones RyB
51.3 km
Experience the vibrant essence of local artistry at Creaciones RyB in Bahía Drake, your go-to art supply store in Costa Rica.
Etnias, Bahia Drake
51.7 km
Explore the heart of Bahia Drake at Etnias, your essential tourist information center and unique gift shop in the Osa Peninsula.
Osa Great Adventure
51.8 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Costa Rica's Osa Peninsula with Osa Great Adventure, your premier tour operator for unforgettable outdoor experiences.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Whale Tail Brewery CR
4.2 km
Experience the finest craft beers and delicious bites at Whale Tail Brewery CR, a hidden gem in Uvita, Puntarenas Province.
The Bamboo Room Restaurant
15.0 km
Discover the vibrant culinary scene at The Bamboo Room Restaurant, where delicious food meets live music in the heart of Ojochal, Costa Rica.
Sonia's bar krustaceo kascarudo
15.0 km
Experience the vibrant coastal culture at Sonia's Bar in Osa, where delightful seafood meets breathtaking ocean views.
Bar la Terraza
29.4 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Pérez Zeledón at Bar la Terraza, where karaoke and fun blend beautifully in an inviting atmosphere.
Centro Turístico, Bar y Restaurante La Perla
30.3 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Costa Rica at La Perla, San Isidro's beloved grill and bar, where every meal is a celebration of local cuisine.
Rio Chirripo
38.9 km
Experience tranquility and rejuvenation at Rio Chirripo, Costa Rica's premier lodge and yoga retreat center surrounded by breathtaking landscapes.
Kapi Kapi Chirripo Eco Mercado & Café ️
39.6 km
Discover the flavors of Costa Rica at Kapi Kapi Chirripo Eco Mercado & Café, where local ingredients and sustainability meet in a cozy atmosphere.
Crestones Base Camp
44.5 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes of Costa Rica from Crestones Base Camp, where adventure meets serenity amidst nature's splendor.
Lauraceas Restaurante Cafeteria Lodge
45.2 km
Experience the flavors of Costa Rica at Lauraceas Restaurante Cafeteria Lodge, where local cuisine meets stunning natural beauty in San Gerardo de Dota.
Tami Lodge & Cafetería
45.8 km
Discover the charm of Tami Lodge & Cafetería, where comfort meets Costa Rican culture in the heart of nature.
Restaurante Doña Marlen
47.2 km
Experience the flavors of Costa Rica at Restaurante Doña Marlen, a culinary gem in the scenic San Gerardo de Dota, renowned for its local dishes and warm hospitality.
Bar y restaurante los malinches
49.3 km
Experience the authentic flavors of Costa Rica at Bar y Restaurante Los Malinches, where local cuisine meets vibrant atmosphere in Osa.
B&B Beach and Drinks
50.6 km
Experience the best seafood dining with stunning ocean views at B&B Beach and Drinks, a hidden gem near Manuel Antonio Beach.
Bar Y Restaurante Relax
50.6 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Costa Rica at Bar Y Restaurante Relax, a must-visit restaurant in Quepos offering delightful local cuisine and a lively atmosphere.
Cocos
51.0 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Cocos, the perfect bar in Quepos for exquisite cocktails and a taste of Costa Rican culture.
