Playa Uvita, South Puntarenas

Described by many as one of the most biologically diverse areas in the world, southwestern Costa Rica has plenty of beautiful beaches and fantastic vistas.

Of the many spectacular beaches found here, Playa Uvita is among the most stunning beaches on Costa Rica’s southern Pacific coast.

Marino Ballena National Park

Located in the southern Puntarenas province roughly 16 km south of Dominical, a surfing hotspot, Playa Uvita is situated within the Marino Ballena National Park.

This marine park is very popular because between the months of December and April Humpback, whales migrate here to the warm waters off the coast to mate before returning up north.

Getting to Playa Uvita

Lying south of San Jose, the best way to get to Playa Uvita is to fly in to the Juan Santamaria International Airport near San Jose, and then catch a bus to Quepos, Dominical, or San Isidro de El General.

From here, you can get another bus to Playa Uvita, which is a short drive away. An alternative option for tourists is to fly to the Palomar Sur Airport and then drive out to Uvita beach.

Accessible throughout the year as the weather is gorgeous most of the time, Playa Uvita is a 2-mile white sand beach with moderate waves and crystal clear blue waters.

What to do in Uvita

Since this beach is part of the Marino Ballena National Park, fishing and hunting any marine life is strictly prohibited. However, swimming conditions are ideal here and tourists can enjoy a variety of water sports.

The best feature of Playa Uvita is its beautiful landscape with estuaries and mangrove swamps as well as its lovely local village atmosphere.

Map of the Area

Click to enlarge map - Map of the Area

Horseback riding, snorkeling, kayaking and scuba diving are very popular activities here, while for those of you who prefer a more relaxed pace, you can go for long walks along the coast, sunbathe on the beach and enjoy the fabulous scenic beauty and marine life that Playa Uvita has to offer.

A relatively quiet beach with not many tourists, you can also take a tour of the nearby Caño Island, Violines Island or Ballena Island, or you can hike to the forests and mountains a few miles away.

Staying at Playa Uvita

Accommodations are very reasonable at Playa Uvita with many budget guesthouses, hotels and rustic lodges in the area.

If you want to stay on the beach, there are cabinas and rooms available for rent. There are also plenty of local and cozy bars and restaurants to eat at as well, as street side sodas (small cafes) that offer delicious local delights.