Things to Do In Uvita

Uvita Waterfall

The Uvita Waterfall, locally known as Catarata Uvita, is a hidden gem, located almost in the center of Uvita. It is about a 10 minute drive or 30 minute walking from downtown Uvita. Click here to see the google maps location of the waterfall. This waterfall might not be the biggest or most impressive you will see during your vacation in Costa Rica, but its natural waterslide and the cheap entrance price do make it a special one. There are two entrances, which are both privately owned and which both offer parking, a bathroom and access to the waterfall. The first entrance takes an entrance fee of 2000 CRC and the second an entrance fee of 1500 CRC. Both are open between 8 am - 5 pm daily.  The only difference between them is that one of the 2000 CRC entrance fee also has a small butterfly garden and that the trail is simply the natural path next to the river, which makes this one a bit more difficult. The other entrance has a proper built trail which is definitely more accesible. But either way it is not necessary to wear hiking boots. After 10 minutes of walking you should reach the waterfall and can enjoy the natural pool as well as the waterslide. Since the pool is not very deep it is not recommended to jump off the top of the waterfall, but you can definitely enjoy sliding down the natural slide!

Local Flavors - Costa Rica Food

After spending your morning enjoying the Uvita Waterfall it is time to refuel with a delicious lunch. Uvita offers a variety of dining options, from beachfront seafood shacks, authentic Costa Rican food, including the traditional 'casado' meal featuring rice, beans, plantains, salad and your choice of protein, to asian cuisine and even vegan and vegetarian options. Don't forget to try some of the local tropical fruit juices or smoothies - they are incredibly refreshing!

Bahia Ballena National Park

Marino Ballena National Park, also known as Bahia Ballena, is a stunning natural gem renowned for its breathtaking beauty and diverse marine life. It is named after the humpback whales that visit its warm waters every year.  Visitors can explore mangroves, lush rainforests, and pristine beaches within the park's boundaries, making it a perfect destination for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers. The park has 4 main access points - Uvita, Colonia, Ballena and Piñuela and the entrance fee is $6 USD for foreigners or 1000 CRC for nationals. When visiting the park do not leave your valuables unattended at the beach! There have been cases where people have been robbed while swimming. Click here to see how to get there exactly. In the following we listed some of the best things to do while visiting this national park:

Whale's Tail

One of the Marino Ballena National Parks most iconic features is the famous "Whale's Tail," a sandbar that stretches out into the ocean, resembling the tail of a whale. It was formed through a natural geological process and it is a unique sandbar formation created by the convergence of strong ocean currents and a specific underwater geological structure. The shape of the Whale's Tail is the result of a submerged ridge or sandbank, which acts as a barrier and causes the tides to deposit sand and sediments in a particular way.

During high tide, the sandbar is mostly covered by water, but during low tide, it is gradually exposed, revealing the distinctive tail-like shape that resembles a whale's tail. The tidal movements and wave patterns in this region play a crucial role in continually shaping and reshaping this remarkable natural formation. Due to its size it might not be recognizable as a whale's tail when actually standing on it. The best way to see it is from above; using a drone, from a hotel balcony or from a road up in the mountains.

Guided Tour

The park covers about 5,000 marine hectares and about 170 terrestrial hectares with a coastline of 9 miles (15 km). In order to make the most out of your visit to this marine park we recommend you to take a guided tour! Taking a guided tour through Marino Ballena National Park is an enriching and immersive experience that allows you to truly appreciate the park's natural beauty and diverse ecosystem. Knowledgeable guides lead you through the park's rainforests and coastal landscapes, offering insights into the local flora and fauna, as well as the park's conservation efforts. Exploring the park with an expert guide not only enhances safety but also maximizes your chances of spotting the local wildlife.

Whale Watching Tour

The park is renowned for its seasonal visits from humpback whales, and embarking on a whale-watching tour here offers a front-row seat to one of the most breathtaking spectacles of the natural world. The thrill of witnessing a humpback whale in its natural habitat, amidst the backdrop of Costa Rica's stunning coastline, is an unforgettable experience that instills a profound appreciation for marine life and the need to protect these incredible creatures and their habitat. Whether you're a wildlife enthusiast or simply seeking an unforgettable encounter with nature, a whale-watching tour in Marino Ballena promises a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to be touched by the grace and grandeur of these magnificent creatures.

Uvita Beach for sunset

After a day full of new insights and switching locations, you might want a more laid-back activity to finish your day-trip to Uvita. Uvita Beach is a magical setting for witnessing a captivating sunset in Costa Rica. As the sun starts to set, the shoreline of Uvita Beach turns into a magical place. Everything is painted in yellow, orange and sometimes even pink colors - the perfect golden hour. The beach's gentle waves provide a soothing soundtrack, and the surrounding palm trees and vegetation create a picturesque backdrop for nature's grand finale of the day. Visitors often gather on the soft, sandy shores to watch in awe as the sun dips below the horizon. The serene ambiance and the dramatic play of colors in the sky make Uvita Beach the perfect place to unwind, reflect, and connect with the natural beauty of Costa Rica, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a peaceful and romantic sunset experience.

Envision Festival

The Envision Festival, held annually in the jungles of Uvita, Costa Rica, is a transformative and immersive experience. People often assume it is something like a yoga festival or yoga retreat, but in reality the Envision Festival combines music, art, and eco-conscious living. This globally renowned event is a celebration of creativity and conscious community, attracting like-minded individuals from around the world. Envision is not just a music festival; it's a journey into sustainability, personal growth, and artistic expression. Festival-goers are treated to an eclectic lineup of world-class musicians and performers, playing across multiple stages nestled in the heart of the rainforest. Beyond the music, Envision offers a diverse array of workshops, yoga sessions, and interactive art installations that encourage self-discovery and a deeper connection with nature. The festival's commitment to environmental stewardship is evident in its eco-friendly practices and emphasis on leaving no trace. It's a one-of-a-kind event that fosters a sense of unity, environmental awareness, and personal growth, making Envision one of the best things to do in Costa Rica for those seeking a holistic and transformative journey in a breathtaking natural setting. Click here to learn more about the festival.

Conclusion

Although Uvita might be a small town there are many things to do an experience during your Costa Rica vacation. Whether you're coming to see the waterfall, try some local food, visit the Marino Ballena National Park to participate in a whale watching tour or if you are visiting Uvita to join the community of the Envision festival, you will not regret it.  Uvita offers some of the best things to do in Costa Rica and hopefully you will visit it soon!