Whale Seasons in Uvita, Costa Rica
Two humpback whale migrations make Costa Rica’s South Pacific an essential habitat for these ocean giants.
When Can You See Humpback Whales in Uvita?
Planning a whale watching trip to Uvita? The main southern humpback whale season runs from July through October, with another migration during the northern winter. Whales visit the warm waters of Marino Ballena National Park to breed and raise their calves. Explore our Whale Watching & Dolphin Combination Tour from Uvita for departure times, prices, and booking.
Southern Humpback Whales
Season: July through October
These whales migrate from the waters near Patagonia to Costa Rica’s warm South Pacific coast. The protected bay provides favorable conditions for calves and shelter from major predators.
The first sightings usually occur during the second or third week of July. August and September are the peak months, when sighting success often exceeds 90%.
Northern Humpback Whales
Season: Late December through February
During Costa Rica’s dry season, humpback whales from the Northern Hemisphere reach Uvita after migrating south from the Pacific coast of North America.
They also come to reproduce and care for their young. This population is smaller than the southern migration, so sightings are less frequent.
Whales, Community, and Conservation
Bahía Ballena celebrates September as whale month, recognizing how important cetaceans and Marino Ballena National Park are to the community. The annual Whale Festival brings residents and visitors together through educational activities, local events, and opportunities to learn about marine conservation.
Bahía Ballena was historically a fishing community. By the late 1990s, local fishermen began offering boat trips along the coast and sharing encounters with dolphins and whales. Training supported by Costa Rican tourism authorities helped professionalize these excursions and establish responsible operating practices.
Today, local companies work with experienced captains and bilingual guides. Coral Expeditions Costa Rica follows responsible whale-watching practices: boats maintain a safe distance, travel carefully around cetaceans, and never permit swimming with whales or dolphins. The captain and guide continually assess animal behavior and end an encounter whenever more space is needed.
Uvita Whale Watching Season: Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time for whale watching in Uvita?
July through October is the main southern migration season, with August and September highlighted by our local team. A smaller northern migration takes place during the dry season. Migration dates and sightings vary each year.
Can I see humpback whales in October?
October is part of the southern whale season in Uvita. Sightings remain possible, but whale movements and ocean conditions change, so an encounter cannot be guaranteed.
Are whale sightings guaranteed?
No. Humpback whales are wild animals, and their presence varies from day to day. Our crew also looks for dolphins and other marine wildlife while exploring the coast; all wildlife sightings depend on natural conditions.
Where can I check tour times and book?
Visit our Whale Watching & Dolphin Combination Tour page for departure times, current prices, what is included, and online booking. You can also contact our Uvita team with questions about your travel dates.
Plan your visit with our local team and choose a tour that fits your travel dates.
Experience Whale Watching in Uvita
Join our local crew for a responsible whale and dolphin combination tour in Marino Ballena National Park.