Punta Uvita and the Whale's Tail
The main entrance. At low tide you can walk along the sandbar to its tip. The walk depends on the tide, so check the times before you go.
Uvita · Puntarenas · Costa Rica
Marino Ballena National Park
The Whale's Tail sandbar, humpback whales, dolphins and quiet beaches on the southern Pacific coast near Uvita.
- Created in 1990
- Mostly marine, about 5,400 ha
- Whale's Tail sandbar
- Humpback whale seasons
About the park
Marino Ballena is a marine national park that protects the coast, the beaches and the sea around Uvita on the southern Pacific coast. Its best-known sight is the Whale's Tail: at low tide a sandbar in the shape of a whale's tail appears at Punta Uvita and can be walked to the end.
Humpback whales visit these waters twice a year, because animals from both the northern and the southern hemisphere come here to breed and give birth. The park is a base for boat trips to see whales and dolphins, for snorkelling and for walks on the quiet beaches.
- The Whale's Tail sandbar at low tide
- Humpback whales in two seasons each year
- Dolphins on boat trips
- Long, quiet beaches with forest behind
Wildlife
Humpback whalesBottlenose and spotted dolphinsSea turtlesFrigatebirds and pelicansScarlet macawsTropical fish
What to see and do
Whale and dolphin watching
Boat trips from Uvita and Bahia Ballena to see humpback whales and dolphins. Whales are present in two seasons, and dolphins are seen on most trips.
Snorkelling
The islets and the reef off the coast can be visited on guided snorkelling trips when the sea is clear.
Beaches
Playa Ballena, Playa Colonia and Playa Piedras Blancas are quiet beaches along the coast for walking and relaxing.
Plan your visit
- Opening hours
- Daytime. The Whale's Tail can only be walked at low tide.
- Entrance
- Paid per person per day according to the SINAC fee schedule, which changes from time to time. We confirm the current price in your quote.
- Whale seasons
- Humpback whales are seen from about December to April and again from about July to October. We recommend a boat trip with an authorised operator.
- Best time
- The sea is usually calmest in the morning. The dry season is December to April; the green season from May to November has fewer visitors.
- What to bring
- Swimwear, sun protection, a hat, water and light shoes for the sand.
Book your entrance yourself
Entrance tickets to the national parks are sold online through the official SINAC reservation system. Booking your own ticket there is the quickest and cheapest way.
If you book a tour, a stay or an itinerary with us, we can also arrange the reservation for you.
Dates, areas and conditions are approximate and based on published information from SINAC; hours, fees and rules can change. We confirm the current conditions when you book.
Getting there
By road
Uvita is about 3.5 hours from San José on the Pacific coast road. The main park entrance is at Punta Uvita, a few minutes from the village.
Transfer
We arrange private transfers and shared shuttles from San José, Manuel Antonio, Dominical, Sierpe and Drake Bay. Ask us for a quote.
Tours around Uvita and Dominical
Where to stay
Frequently asked questions
When can I see whales?
Humpback whales are seen from about December to April and again from about July to October.
Can I walk the Whale's Tail any time?
Only at low tide. Check the tide table or ask us.
Do I need a guide?
Not to walk the beach, but boat trips are made with authorised operators and guides.
How long should I stay?
A day is enough for the sandbar and a boat trip. Many guests also add a waterfall tour.
Where should I stay?
In Uvita, Dominical or the hills above; we offer Paradise Lodge near the Nauyaca waterfalls.