Costa Rica’s South Pacific
Discover Uvita, Costa Rica
Where rainforest-covered mountains meet the Pacific—and every day begins with a new nature adventure.
🐋 Whale Watching Gateway
🌿 Rainforest & Wildlife
🏝️ Beaches & Ocean
📍 Perfect South Pacific Base
A natural base for adventure
Why visit Uvita?
Uvita is a peaceful coastal town surrounded by dark-sand beaches, tropical rainforest, rivers, mangroves, and abundant wildlife. It is the gateway to Marino Ballena National Park and an ideal starting point for Caño Island, Corcovado, and the greater Osa region.
Its relaxed atmosphere comes with the practical services travelers need—restaurants, accommodations, supermarkets, pharmacies, banks, and gas stations—without losing the authentic feel of Costa Rica’s South Pacific.
Signature experiences
Top things to do in Uvita
Three unforgettable journeys connect Uvita with the ocean and rainforest.
Whales & Dolphins
Explore Marino Ballena by boat while searching for whales, dolphins, turtles, and seabirds.
Caño Island Snorkeling
Travel from Uvita to one of Costa Rica’s most remarkable protected marine environments.
Corcovado Rainforest
Reach San Pedrillo by boat and hike through one of the planet’s richest tropical forests.
TWO WHALE WATCHING SEASONS
Humpback whale watching seasons in Uvita
Uvita welcomes humpback whales from both hemispheres during two migration seasons. Southern Hemisphere whales visit from July through October, with peak activity usually in August and September. Northern Hemisphere whales arrive from late December through late February, offering another opportunity to see these magnificent marine mammals in Costa Rica’s warm Pacific waters.
A wild encounter: Wildlife sightings vary with nature and cannot be guaranteed.
More ways to explore
Kayaking & Mangroves
Paddle the coast of Marino Ballena or discover the peaceful wildlife channels of the Térraba-Sierpe wetlands.
Wildlife After Dark
Walk with a guide after sunset and look for frogs, insects, reptiles, and other nocturnal rainforest life.
Plan your visit
When to come
Uvita is a year-round destination. Drier months generally bring sunnier days, while green season means lush landscapes, fuller rivers, and the southern whale migration. Routes and schedules may change with ocean and weather conditions.
What to bring
- Light clothing, swimsuit, towel, hat, and sunglasses
- Reef-safe sunscreen and insect repellent
- Rain jacket or poncho and comfortable shoes
- Reusable water bottle and waterproof phone protection
First time in the country? Read our Costa Rica facts and visitor guide.
Uvita, Costa Rica: Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main things to do in Uvita?
Explore Marino Ballena National Park, join a whale and dolphin watching tour, go sea kayaking or discover rainforest wildlife after dark. Uvita also provides boat departures for Caño Island snorkeling and a Corcovado day tour.
When is the southern humpback whale season?
The southern humpback whale season generally runs from July through October, with August and September usually bringing peak activity. Sightings vary naturally and cannot be guaranteed. Read our southern whale season guide for more information.
Do all tours meet in Uvita?
No. The Sierpe Mangrove Wildlife Boat Tour meets in Sierpe, and the Térraba Mangrove Kayaking Tour meets in Coronado. Check your selected tour’s meeting point and directions before traveling.
How do I choose a tour for my stay?
Browse our tours and activities to compare experiences, itineraries and inclusions. Contact Coral Expeditions with your travel dates and group details to check availability and find an experience that suits you.
Explore Uvita with local experts
Coral Expeditions is a family-run Uvita operator committed to safe, responsible, and memorable nature experiences across Costa Rica’s South Pacific.