Description
General information about the beach
Punta Uva is one of the most beautiful beaches in Costa Rica, located 8 km south of Puerto Viejo. A curved bay with palm trees, turquoise water, and a coral reef is ideal for swimming, snorkelling, and observing marine life.
Beach & Entry
Surface, sand, water entry and bottom
Surface Type
Main surface type
sand
Sand Color
Main sand colour
white
Water Entry
How steep the drop-off is
gentle
Shallow Distance
Metres to waist-deep water
30 m
Bottom Type
Main bottom type
sand
Water Shoes
Whether special footwear is needed
not needed
Beach Length
Beach length in metres
2 000 m
Frequently asked questions
Punta Uva: what is the water like at this beach?
At this beach, water colour — turquoise, clarity crystal, average temperature +28.0°C, warms up to +30.0°C in the warmest season. Check the exact temperature by month in the chart section.
Punta Uva: what are the waves like and is it safe to swim?
Waves at this beach are — calm. Average wave height — 0.3 m. Calm water is great for families with children and those who prefer not to deal with strong swell.
Punta Uva: what is the water entry and bottom like?
Water entry is — gentle. The shallow area extends for 30 metres from the shore. Bottom — sand. Special shoes are not required — the water entry is comfortable. The gentle slope is safe for children and inexperienced swimmers.
Punta Uva: what kind of sand and surface does the beach have?
Beach surface — sand. Sand colour — white. Texture — fine. Beach length — 2 000 metres.
Punta Uva: when is the swimming season?
The swimming season starts in January, February. It ends in December. The best month for a holiday is February. This is when the water is warmest and the weather is most comfortable.
Punta Uva: is it safe to swim?
Water quality is rated as excellent. Rip currents are unlikely. Jellyfish risk — low. Always watch for warning signs and follow lifeguards instructions.
Punta Uva: which dangerous creatures live in the water?
The water contains: sharks, stingrays. We recommend wearing protective footwear, not touching marine life and taking care when entering the water.
Punta Uva: what infrastructure is available on the beach?
The beach offers: sunbeds, umbrellas, showers, toilets, changing rooms, parking. All amenities are listed in the "Infrastructure" section above.
Punta Uva: are there lifeguards and a first aid station?
There are no lifeguards on the beach — be especially careful when swimming.
Punta Uva: where can I eat near the beach?
Popular places nearby: Restaurante Arrecife. Cuisines available: Caribbean. See the "Infrastructure" section for details.
Punta Uva: what should I bring to the beach?
We recommend bringing: SPF50+ cream, Water, Towel, Swimsuit, Flip-flops, Cash, Snorkel mask, Insect repellent.
Punta Uva: when is the best time to swim?
In the morning before 10:00 the water is calmer and there are fewer people. Arrive early to find parking in the shade.
Punta Uva: what are the rules and restrictions on the beach?
Touching corals and marine life is prohibited. Take your rubbish with you.
Punta Uva: what activities are available?
The beach offers: snorkelling, diving, kayaking and SUP. See the "Activities" section above for details.
Punta Uva: who is this beach best for?
Ideal for families with children thanks to calm water, shallow depths and a river lagoon. Suitable for swimming, snorkelling and kayaking. Not suitable for those seeking noisy entertainment.
Punta Uva: what makes this beach unique?
Divided by a rocky headland into two parts, with a hiking trail and viewpoint. A river lagoon where sloths and monkeys can be spotted.
Punta Uva: what are the pros and cons of the beach?
Pros: White sand and turquoise water, Calm waves, safe for children, Coral reef for snorkelling, River lagoon for kayaking, Hiking trail to a viewpoint, Palm trees and tropical forest, Free entry, Kayak rental. Cons: No lifeguards, Limited infrastructure, No Wi-Fi, Mosquitoes possible, Parking can be full on weekends.
Punta Uva: what is near the beach?
Nearby you can visit: Punta Uva Viewpoint, Punta Uva River, Gandoca-Manzanillo Reserve. Detailed descriptions in the "Nearby" section above.
Punta Uva: how do I get to the city of Puerto Viejo?
The beach is located near the city of Puerto Viejo. Full information about the city — hotels, restaurants, attractions, transport — is available on the
city page for Puerto Viejo.