Located within the boundaries of the Parque Nacional Marino Ballena in Southern Puntarenas, Playa Bahia Ballena lies 7 km south of the town of Uvita. Created in 1990 to protect the coral and rock reefs around the Isla Ballena just off the coast, the Marino Ballena National Park has long been an important island for seabird nesting colonies as well as basilisk lizards and green iguanas. Humpback whales can also be seen here in the area from December to March, when these whales migrate to warmer climes. Throughout the year bottle-nosed dolphins can be spotted along the coast.
Not a real village, but rather a beach strip with a number of hotels and lodges for tourists to stay at, Playa Bahia Ballena is a wonderful place for the budget traveler. One can surf along the beach here, or go for a short kayak ride along the coast and take in this wildlife rich area. For those who prefer a more sedate time, horseback riding is available on the beach or you can spend a nice quiet afternoon sunbathing. Most people stopover at Playa Bahia Ballena when exploring the Marino Ballena National Park.