Uvita (Puntarenas Province)

Welcome to the small coastal village of Uvita, one of the most hidden and most naturally beautiful communities in southern Costa Rica. Located just about an hour south of Manuel Antonio, within the Puntarenas Province, Uvita is known as the gateway to Marino Ballena National Park, this village being the closest one to the park's entrance. The national park itself will show you a diverse range of coastal and montane habitats, the area most highly known for its whale and dolphin watching opportunities.

Aside from the National Park access and gorgeous coastal beaches throughout, Uvita is also known as an almost hidden treasure culture-wise. There may not be too much going on around here as far as Americanized tourism, but there are plenty of things to see and plenty of locals to interact with throughout. A couple popular musical events happen here yearly, such as Best Fest and the Envision Festival. If you happen to be here in the first couple weeks of September you will also have a chance to see the Humpback Whale watching festival, this being a peak migration time.

Here’s a quick list of other activities you may want to take part in during your day in Uvita:

  • Explore the local stores and eateries along the streets
  • Snorkel or scuba at any of the many beaches
  • Visit the Uvita Waterfall
  • Head to the nearby Playa Ventanas (beach caves)
  • Take a trek to Terraba Sierpe Wetlands a bit further south and catch a glimpse of a Costa Rican crocodile or monkey