Where the Jungle Meets the Ocean
Uvita
Playa Uvita is one of the main beaches within Marino Ballena National Park and offers a truly special experience. With its golden sand stretching for miles and backed by dense rainforest, this beach feels like paradise.
During low tide
Whale’s Tail
But what really makes Playa Uvita famous is the Whale’s Tail—a naturally formed sandbar that, during low tide, looks like a giant whale’s tail when viewed from above. It’s one of the most iconic spots in Costa Rica. Stroll out to the tail and enjoy stunning ocean views, or just relax on the soft sands.
prime spot for
Whale watching
And don’t forget—this area is a prime spot for whale watching from August to October and January to March!
Quiet, Scenic, and Perfect for Families
Playa Chaman
Looking for a quieter spot in Marino Ballena? Playa Chaman offers a relaxed vibe with fewer crowds. This long, scenic beach is ideal for families, offering safe waters for swimming and a great spot for those just learning to surf. The beach is known for its calm, consistent waves, which make it perfect for surf lessons, especially for beginners. Local surf schools are available to guide you through your first wave-riding experience. With its laid-back atmosphere and beautiful surroundings, Playa Chaman is a fantastic place to enjoy a day at the beach with the whole family.
The Surfing Hotspot
Dominical
Dominical is the place to be if you’re into surfing. This public beach is famous for its powerful waves and consistent swells, making it a favorite among experienced surfers. The beach is surrounded by lush jungle and has a laid-back vibe, perfect for those looking to ride the waves or hang out in a relaxed surf town. You’ll find a few restaurants and shops nearby, as well as surf schools for beginners looking to catch their first wave. Be cautious, though—this beach is known for its strong rip currents, so swimming isn’t ideal here.
A Chill Surf and Swim Combo
Dominicalito
Just a short drive from Dominical, you’ll find Dominicalito, a smaller and quieter beach. While it’s also a surfing spot, the waves here are more gentle, making it perfect for beginners or those looking for a less intense surf session. It’s a fantastic place to relax, swim, and enjoy the stunning views of the coastline. The small, crescent-shaped bay is framed by lush hills, offering an intimate vibe. At low tide, you can even explore the exposed rock formations and tiny tidal pools along the shore.
Long Beach, Big Waves
Playa Hermosa
Playa Hermosa, as its name suggests, is a beautiful stretch of sandy coastline. This public beach is well known for its consistent surf and spacious shoreline, giving you plenty of room to spread out. The waves here can be big, so it's ideal for intermediate and advanced surfers. But even if you're not surfing, Hermosa is perfect for long beach walks, sunbathing, or simply taking in the stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. It’s also a great spot to catch a sunset—it doesn’t get more “pura vida” than that.
sea caves that open up like windows to the ocean
Playa Ventanas
Last but definitely not least, Playa Ventanas is one of the most unique beaches in the Uvita area. Its name, “Ventanas,” means windows in Spanish, and it’s easy to see why—this beach features large sea caves that open up like windows to the ocean. You can explore these caves during low tide and take amazing photos. The beach itself is small and offers gentle waves, perfect for swimming and surfing beginners. With its beautiful setting and natural caves, Playa Ventanas is a must-see!
Other beaches
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Playa Ballena
If you're looking for something more secluded, Playa Ballena is the hidden gem of the park. It’s quieter than some of the other beaches, offering a peaceful retreat where you can escape the crowds. This beach is perfect for a romantic stroll or simply taking in the beauty of nature. The calm waters make it great for swimming, and during low tide, you can explore the tide pools and rock formations.
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Playa Piñuelas
Small and beautiful beach made of a mix of sand and small rocks, giving it a unique look. From the shore, you can admire views of Isla Ballena and the striking rock formations known as Tres Hermanas (Three Sisters). It’s a peaceful spot to relax and take in the natural beauty of the area, with fewer crowds than some of the more well-known beaches. It’s an excellent place to enjoy a quiet, scenic day by the sea.
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Playa Tortuga
Tranquil beach that stands out for its proximity to the Térraba River. You can see Isla Garza from the shore, and it’s an ideal place for a peaceful walk along the coast. However, visitors should be cautious around the river area, as crocodiles are known to inhabit these waters. The beach is also home to the Reserva Tortuga Project, a conservation initiative dedicated to protecting sea turtles.
