11 BEST Things to Do in Uvita, Costa Rica
Ahhhh Uvita. A lesser-known slice of paradise situated along Costa Rica’s southwest coast.
This small beach town is brimming with natural beauty. While town might be overstating things (it’s more like a spread-out village), there are TONS of awesome things to do in Uvita.
You’ve got the classics: beach bumming, surfing, and waterfall chasing. But there’s also national parks, great whale-watching, and best of all, no crowds!
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1. Marino Ballena National Park
The park is famous for its whale tail-shaped sand bar, visible at low tide. It’s an awesome place to wander along palm-lined beaches or hang out all day. You can even spot wildlife like sloths and iguanas! Make sure to plan your visit during low tide to walk on the sandbar.
2. Whale and Dolphin Watching Tour
Uvita is famous for being a prime whale-watching spot. You can spot humpback whales twice a year! Join a tour between January-March or July-October for a chance to see dolphins, tropical fish, and more!
3. Uvita Beach
Located within Marino Ballena National Park, Uvita Beach is perfect for lazy days or scenic sunsets. It’s easily accessible and great for wildlife spotting along the treeline. Keep your ticket for reentrance if you’re popping in and out.
4. Playa Hermosa
Playa Hermosa is a local favorite with its tan sand and dense jungle surroundings. There are food stalls with coconut water and ceviche, but it’s a bit outside town, so you’ll need a car or take a bus to reach it.
5. Uvita Waterfall (Catarata Uvita)
Only about 1.5 miles from Uvita town, the waterfall is a must-see. You can swim in the pools or hang out by the falls for the day. There’s a small entrance fee of about $4 USD, and you’ll find a little bar at the top.
READ MORE: Uvita Waterfall
6. Uvita’s Secret Swimming Holes
A bit of an adventure to get to, but totally worth it! The swimming holes are tucked away in a bamboo forest, with small waterfalls and pools to cool off in. It’s about a 40-minute walk from Uvita Waterfall, and not many tourists make the trek out here, so it’s usually pretty quiet.
7. Nauyaca Waterfalls
Located about 30 minutes from Uvita, Nauyaca Waterfalls are some of the most stunning in Costa Rica. You can swim at the bottom of the falls and even hike the 7.5-mile trail to get there, or take a 4WD tour or horseback ride. It’s well worth the effort!
RELATED: 10 Best Waterfalls in Costa Rica (+ Costs and Tips)
8. Caño Island
This marine preserve is a hotspot for snorkeling and diving, with tons of tropical fish, sea turtles, and even reef sharks! You can’t go on the island itself, but the surrounding waters are full of life. Many tours are available to take you out for a day of underwater adventures.
9. Visit Dominical
Dominical is a laid-back surfer town just 15 minutes from Uvita. Spend the day catching waves, exploring the chill atmosphere, or sipping craft beer at the local brewery. Don’t miss the sunsets—they’re legendary here!
10. Manuel Antonio National Park
Just an hour from Uvita, Manuel Antonio National Park is one of Costa Rica’s most popular parks. It’s perfect for a day trip, with hiking trails, beaches, and wildlife like monkeys and sloths. You can book a tour to explore it all!
READ MORE: 8 Best Things to Do in Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica + Tips!
11. Corcovado National Park Day Tour
Corcovado, two hours south of Uvita, is often called the “Amazon of Costa Rica.” You’ll likely spot dolphins on the boat ride over, and once in the park, expert guides will help you spot wildlife like monkeys, macaws, and more.
READ MORE: What to know about backpacking in Costa Rica
