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Uvita

Costa Rica · Coast · CRC · 9.170400, -83.739500
Family friendly 7.1/10 · Rank 656 of 2 709
Best season: December-April

Best for

Suitable for nature lovers, beach holidays, whale watching, snorkeling, and families

Best season

December-April

Daily budget
$89.00 (≈ 7 469 ₽ · ≈ 47 170 CRC)
For 7 days
$623.00 (≈ 52 282 ₽ · ≈ 330 190 CRC)
Uvita is a small cosy resort on the southern Pacific coast, home to the famous Ballena National Park with its "whale's tail" — a sandbar visible during low tide. This is a popular spot for humpback whale watching, which arrive here from December to April. Uvita attracts travellers with its peaceful atmosphere and excellent opportunities for snorkelling and diving.
Summer
32.0°C
Winter
22.0°C
Sea
30.5°C
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Description and atmosphere

Energy

calm

Pace of life

slow

Local character

Friendly, hospitable, with Costa Rican "pura vida" traditions

Pros and cons

Pros

  • Unique Marino Ballena National Park
  • Whale and dolphin watching
  • Coral reefs for snorkeling
  • Scenic beaches
  • Visa-free entry for Russians up to 90 days
  • Relaxed atmosphere

Cons

  • No direct flights from Moscow
  • High humidity
  • Rainy season from May to November
  • Limited nightlife
  • Transport needed to get around the outskirts
Climate
Summer Temperature
Average air temperature in June–August
32.0°C
Summer Daytime Temp
Average daytime temperature in June-August
31.0°C
Summer Max Temp
Maximum daytime temperature in summer months
32.0°C
Winter Temperature
Average air temperature in December–February
30.0°C
Winter Daytime Temp
Average daytime temperature in December-February
30.0°C
Winter Min Temp
Minimum temperature in winter months
22.0°C
Summer Water Temperature
Average sea temperature in the warm season
29.0°C
Water Max Temp
Maximum water temperature in warm season
30.5°C
Rainy Season
Months with the heaviest rainfall
May-November
Sea and beach
Sand Type
Type of beach surface
sand
Sand Color
Colour of the beach sand
white
Water Entry
Type of water entry
gentle
Waves
Level of waves
weak
Water Clarity
Clarity of the water
clear
Best Beach
Name of the most popular beach
Playa Uvita
Beach
Availability of a beach
Yes
Tides
Whether tides are noticeable
Yes
Rip Currents
Presence of dangerous rip currents
No
Sunbeds
Availability of sunbeds
Yes
Beach Cafe
Availability of a cafe or bar
Yes
Toilet / Shower
Availability of toilets and showers
Yes
Lifeguards
Presence of lifeguards
No
Safe for Swimming
Whether swimming is safe
Yes
Sea hazards
Sea Urchins
Presence of sea urchins
None
Corals / Reefs
Presence of corals or reefs
Present
Jellyfish
Presence of jellyfish
Present
Sharks
Presence of sharks
None
Overall Danger
Overall danger rating
low
Note

Marine danger is minimal. Swimming on guarded beaches recommended

Sea urchins — details

  • Sea urchins — inhabit coral reefs, rocky beaches and cliffs around Uvita, stings are painful but not fatal
  • Special swimming shoes recommended

Corals and reefs — details

  • Coral reefs present in Marino Ballena National Park, popular snorkeling and diving spots

Jellyfish — details

  • Jellyfish may appear seasonally, caution recommended

Sharks — details

  • Whitetip reef shark (Triaenodon obesus) — most commonly encountered species on reefs near Cano Island, harmless to humans
  • Hammerhead shark (Sphyrna lewini) — found in Uvita waters, large but rarely dangerous to humans
  • Bull shark (Carcharhinus leucas) — found in coastal waters, potentially dangerous, but attacks are rare
  • Nurse shark (Ginglymostoma cirratum) — inhabits the sea floor, not aggressive
Attractions

Marino Ballena National Park

Park with unique whale tail-shaped sandbar and coral reefs

Playa Uvita

Scenic beach with white sand and calm water

Uvita Waterfall

Scenic waterfall with natural pools, popular swimming spot

Ventanas Beach

Beach with golden sand and surfing waves

Best areas

Uvita Center

Main area with hotels, restaurants, and shops

Playa Uvita

Beach area with hotels and restaurants

Bahia Ballena

Scenic area with hotels and restaurants

Must-try food

Casado

Traditional dish of rice, beans, meat, and salad

Gallo Pinto

Traditional breakfast of rice and beans with egg

Ceviche

Fresh fish marinated in lime

Pescado Entero

Whole fried fish, popular dish

Patacones

Fried plantain, popular side dish

Where to go next

Marino Ballena National Park

Park with whale tail, 5 minutes away

Uvita Waterfall

Scenic waterfall, 10 minutes away

Ventanas Beach

Surfing beach, 15 minutes away

Dominical

Town with beaches and restaurants, 20 minutes away

Family Friendly
Suitable for families with children
Yes
Nightlife
Level of nightlife
low
Getting there
Nearest airports
Аэропорт Кепос (XQP).
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Visa
Visa requirements
not required (up to 90 days)
Best Season
Months with the most comfortable weather
December-April
Accommodation
Hostel (Dorm Bed)
Average price for a hostel dorm bed
$20.00
≈ 1 678 ₽ · ≈ 10 600 CRC
3-Star Hotel
Average price for a 3-star hotel room
$60.00
≈ 5 035 ₽ · ≈ 31 800 CRC
4-Star Hotel
Average price for a 4-star hotel room
$110.00
≈ 9 231 ₽ · ≈ 58 300 CRC
5-Star Hotel
Average price for a 5-star hotel room
$200.00
≈ 16 784 ₽ · ≈ 106 000 CRC
Villa / House
Average nightly rate for a villa or house
$150.00
≈ 12 588 ₽ · ≈ 79 500 CRC
Apartment
Average nightly rate for an apartment
$60.00
≈ 5 035 ₽ · ≈ 31 800 CRC
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Food and drinks
Lunch at a Cafe
Average price for lunch at a casual cafe
$8.00
≈ 671 ₽ · ≈ 4 240 CRC
Dinner at a Restaurant
Average check for dinner at a nice restaurant
$18.00
≈ 1 511 ₽ · ≈ 9 540 CRC
Coffee (Cappuccino)
Average price for a cappuccino
$3.00
≈ 252 ₽ · ≈ 1 590 CRC
Beer (0.5L)
Average price for a 0.5L beer
$2.50
≈ 210 ₽ · ≈ 1 325 CRC
Water (1.5L)
Average price for a 1.5L bottle of water
$1.20
≈ 101 ₽ · ≈ 636 CRC
Pizza
Average price for a pizza
$10.00
≈ 839 ₽ · ≈ 5 300 CRC
Burger
Average price for a burger
$8.00
≈ 671 ₽ · ≈ 4 240 CRC
Dessert
Average price for a dessert
$4.00
≈ 336 ₽ · ≈ 2 120 CRC
Fast Food Combo
Average price for a fast food combo
$8.00
≈ 671 ₽ · ≈ 4 240 CRC
Transport
Airport Taxi
Average taxi fare from the airport to the city centre
$80.00
≈ 6 714 ₽ · ≈ 42 400 CRC
Public Transport
Average price for a single public transport ticket
$1.00
≈ 84 ₽ · ≈ 530 CRC
Short Taxi Ride
Average fare for a short taxi ride
$5.00
≈ 420 ₽ · ≈ 2 650 CRC
Car Rental (per day)
Average daily rate for an economy car rental
$55.00
≈ 4 616 ₽ · ≈ 29 150 CRC
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Activities and rentals
Bike / Scooter Rental
Average daily rate for a bike or scooter
$12.00
≈ 1 007 ₽ · ≈ 6 360 CRC
Motorbike / Scooter Rental
Average daily rate for a motorbike or scooter
$30.00
≈ 2 518 ₽ · ≈ 15 900 CRC
Excursion
Average price for an organised excursion
$45.00
≈ 3 776 ₽ · ≈ 23 850 CRC
Yacht / Boat Cruise
Average price for a boat cruise
$60.00
≈ 5 035 ₽ · ≈ 31 800 CRC
Tiqets — museums & landmarks Uvita Partner
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Shopping
Shopping
Average amount spent on shopping
$30.00
≈ 2 518 ₽ · ≈ 15 900 CRC
Souvenirs
Average amount spent on souvenirs
$12.00
≈ 1 007 ₽ · ≈ 6 360 CRC
Tourist SIM / Internet
Average price for a tourist SIM card
$15.00
≈ 1 259 ₽ · ≈ 7 950 CRC
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Frequently asked questions
Uvita: when is the best time to go?
The best season for a holiday is December-April. At this time of year the weather is the most comfortable: minimal chance of rain, moderate humidity and optimal air temperature. This is also when the tourist infrastructure runs at full capacity — all hotels, restaurants and entertainment are open. If you want to save money, consider the period right after the high season ends: accommodation prices are lower, and the weather is still pleasant. You can check the temperature by month in the match-by-month tool.
Uvita: what is the weather like in summer?
In summer, the air warms up to an average of +32.0°C, during the day — up to +31.0°C. This is a great time for beach holidays and long walks. Sunscreen is recommended during the peak hours from 11:00 to 16:00.
Uvita: what is the weather like in winter?
In winter, the air temperature stays around +22.0°C, during the day — up to +30.0°C. For the winter period these are very comfortable figures that allow swimming and sunbathing. Evenings can be cooler, so a light jacket will not go amiss.
Uvita: what is the sea temperature?
The sea near the resort warms up to an average of +30.5°C in the warm season. This water temperature is considered ideal for long swims — you can stay in the sea for hours without discomfort. The water is comfortable for both adults and children. If you want to know the exact temperature by month, use the match-by-month tool.
Uvita: when is the rainy season?
The rainy season falls on May-November. During this period rainfall is more frequent, but usually short — the rain lasts 1-2 hours, after which the sun comes out again. Humidity is higher, so being outside may be less comfortable. At the same time, accommodation and flight prices during the rainy season are significantly lower — an excellent option for a budget holiday.
Uvita: what are the beaches like?
The beaches here are with a "sand" surface, white sand, clear water. The most popular beaches: Playa Uvita. The beaches have sunbeds and cafes and bars.
Uvita: is it safe to swim in the sea?
Swimming is allowed here, but standard precautions should be taken. The overall danger level in the sea is rated as low — you can swim and enjoy water sports without worry.
Uvita: what are the sea hazards?
The sea contains: corals, jellyfish. Marine danger is minimal. Swimming on guarded beaches recommended. It is recommended to swim in special shoes and avoid contact with marine life.
Uvita: how much does a holiday cost?
A holiday for one person will cost around $89.00 (≈ 7 469 ₽ · ≈ 47 170 CRC) per day. The daily budget includes: a 3-star hotel, lunch at a cafe, dinner at a restaurant, drinking water, two public transport trips. Flights are not included in the calculation. You can calculate the cost of your holiday in more detail in the trip planning calculator across all 70 parameters.
Uvita: how much does accommodation cost?
Accommodation is available for every budget: a hostel dorm bed — $20.00 per night, a 3-star hotel room — $60.00 per night, a 4-star hotel — $110.00 per night, a five-star hotel — $200.00 per night, an apartment — $60.00 per night, a villa — $150.00 per night. In high season prices can be 20-30% higher, and in low season — lower.
Uvita: how much does food cost?
Food is one of the main expense items: lunch at an affordable cafe — $8.00, dinner at a restaurant — $18.00, a cup of cappuccino — $3.00, a 0.5L beer — $2.50, a 1.5L bottle of water — $1.20. You can eat significantly cheaper at markets and street cafes.
Uvita: how much does transport cost?
a taxi from the airport — $80.00, a single public transport ticket — $1.00, a short taxi ride — $5.00, car rental — $55.00 per day. Public transport is the most budget-friendly way to get around.
Uvita: what is there to see?
Among the main attractions are: Marino Ballena National Park — Park with unique whale tail-shaped sandbar and coral reefs; Playa Uvita — Scenic beach with white sand and calm water; Uvita Waterfall — Scenic waterfall with natural pools, popular swimming spot; Ventanas Beach — Beach with golden sand and surfing waves. These places are worth visiting first to get a full impression of the destination.
Uvita: what local food should I try?
Be sure to try the local cuisine: Casado — Traditional dish of rice, beans, meat, and salad; Gallo Pinto — Traditional breakfast of rice and beans with egg; Ceviche — Fresh fish marinated in lime; Pescado Entero — Whole fried fish, popular dish; Patacones — Fried plantain, popular side dish. Local dishes are an important part of the travel experience.
Uvita: what are the best areas to stay?
For accommodation you can consider the following areas: Uvita Center — Main area with hotels, restaurants, and shops; Playa Uvita — Beach area with hotels and restaurants; Bahia Ballena — Scenic area with hotels and restaurants. The choice of area depends on your preferences: active or relaxing holiday.
Uvita: is a visa required?
Visa: not required (up to 90 days). Before your trip, be sure to check the current requirements with official sources, as the rules may change.
Uvita: how do I get from the airport?
The nearest airport — Аэропорт Кепос (code XQP). You can get from the airport to the centre by taxi, the average cost is $80.00. Public transport is also available — a more budget-friendly option.
Uvita: what is the currency and how much money should I take?
Currency — CRC. It is recommended to have cash for small expenses and a bank card for larger purchases. The approximate daily budget is $89.00 (≈ 7 469 ₽ · ≈ 47 170 CRC). Check the current exchange rate before your trip.
Uvita: is it suitable for a holiday with children?
Yes, the destination is excellent for a family holiday with children. It has all the necessary infrastructure: well-maintained beaches, cafes and restaurants with children's menus, and entertainment for all ages.
Uvita: what is the nightlife like?
Nightlife is rated as low. There is not much nightlife, but the basics are available.
Uvita: where can I go nearby?
Nearby you can visit: Marino Ballena National Park — Park with whale tail, 5 minutes away; Uvita Waterfall — Scenic waterfall, 10 minutes away; Ventanas Beach — Surfing beach, 15 minutes away; Dominical — Town with beaches and restaurants, 20 minutes away. These places are convenient to visit on a day trip.

Putivator rating

7.1/10
Overall rank: 656 of 2 709
Rank among coastal: 469