6 best things to do in Uvita, Costa Rica

Uvita is a small town located on the southern Pacific coast of Costa Rica. It is known for its beautiful beaches, lush rainforests, and Pura Vida vibes. Uvita offers a variety of outdoor activities such as surfing, snorkeling, hiking, and whale watching. The town itself has a laid-back and bohemian atmosphere, with several restaurants and cafes. Uvita is a popular destination for nature lovers and those seeking a relaxed beach getaway.

Best time to visit Uvita, Costa Rica

The dry season on the Pacific coast runs from December to April, making it the ideal time to plan a visit. Because this time attracts the most visitors, I would highly

recommend to consider the shoulder seasons like May or November, if you are open to a bit of rain.

How to get to Uvita

My recommendation is to rent a car. It's a 3.5-4 hour drive from San Jose. You can take Route 27 towards Caldera, then head south on Route 34 towards Quepos and Dominical. Uvita is located about 17 km south of Dominical.

Wild Rider offer a variety of 4x4 cars, with full coverage and they pick you up at the airport.

There are also direct buses from San Jose to Uvita, with the journey taking about 4-5 hours. The buses depart from the Tracopa terminal in San Jose. You can check the current schedule and purchase tickets directly at the terminal or on their website.

6 best things to do in Uvita, Costa Rica

Explore Marino Ballena National Park

Start your adventure by visiting Marino Ballena National Park, home to the famous "Whale's Tail," a natural sandbar shaped like a whale's tail. The park offers opportunities for snorkeling, swimming, and hiking through the surrounding jungle.

The Whale's Tail is located at Playa Uvita, a long, wild and breathtaking beach.

The entrance fee for the park is 6 USD per person. The fee helps with the maintenance and conservation of the area.

I highly recommend checking the tides to plan the time of your visit, because the whale tail is only visible at low tide.

Watch the sunset at Playa Uvita

Playa Uvita is probably the most beautiful beach in Costa Rica. It is surrounded by lush jungle and crystal-clear waters, making it a true paradise for nature lovers.

Keep an eye out for the diverse wildlife that calls this area home, from colorful tropical birds to playful monkeys swinging through the trees.

As the sun begins to dip below the horizon, casting a golden glow over the water, you'll be treated to a breathtaking sunset that will leave you in awe of the natural beauty that surrounds you.

Nauyaca waterfalls

Nauyaca waterfall is one of the most magical waterfalls in Costa Rica. It is a 45 min drive from Uvita Costa Rica. It opens at 7 am, and the entrance fee is 10 USD per person.

There is a ticket office on the road where you can park your car. But I recommend driving past the ticket office, since there is a bigger parking a bit further down. From there, it’s a 4 km hike to the waterfall. The trail is gorgeous, but can be very muddy and slippery. Wear appropriate shoes. I recommend going first thing in the morning, that way it is not too hot, you can enjoy the trail and beat the crowds.

Go surfing or take a surf class

The pacific coast of Costa Rica is a surfer’s paradise. Around town, you will see a lot of surf schools and board rentals. Uvita can be a great place to start if you are new to surfing. Join a surf lesson with local instructors who will ensure you catch your first wave or enhance your skills. Playa Hermosa and Playa Dominical are popular spots offering consistent waves and a vibrant surfing community.

Go whale watching

One of the main highlights of Marino Ballena National Park is the opportunity to witness the migration of humpback whales. From December to April and again from July to October, these majestic creatures can be spotted off the park's coast. Consider booking a boat tour or hiring a local guide to enhance your chances of spotting them.

Indulge in the Pura Vida lifestyle

Uvita is the perfect place to experience the authentic Pura Vida lifestyle. The town has this laidback, beach and tropical vibes. There are plenty of restaurants where you can savor traditional Costa Rican dishes. Try gallo pinto (rice and beans), ceviche, plantains, and casados (typical lunch plates). Don't forget to pair your meal with a refreshing fruit smoothie or a local craft beer.

I highly recommend the restaurant Fernando's. It is just next to Marino Ballena National Park, so it is the perfect stop after a morning at the beach. The staff is one of the friendliest I have ever met and they give you some very valuable insider tips (hidden gems) which will enhance you experience in the area.

Try their patacones (fried plantain), they're chifrijo (rice and beans, pork and pico de gallo salsa), and their fresh pineapple juice (you can ask for sugar free).

For coffee and breakfast I recommend Le French Café. They offer a large variety of pastries, as well as vegan and healthy options. The açaí bowl and iced coconut latte were amazing.

Where to stay in Uvita

There are a lot of accommodation options in Uvita. From luxury villas to more budget-friendly options.

I recommend staying in Tropical Beach, a small hotel with just a few rooms, a swimming pool and a restaurant (Mexican style). The area is quiet and its location is perfect to explore the surroundings.

Conclusion

Uvita embodies the essence of the Pura Vida lifestyle. The chill vibes of the town promote a slower pace of life, allowing you to embrace the simplicity and enjoy the natural beauty that surrounds you. Uvita is an essential destination during your Costa Rica trip, for its authentic experiences and aesthetics.