Photo by Guardavidas Costa Ballena

The Gem of Costa Rica: Costa Ballena!

Are you travelling to Costa Ballena, Costa Rica? Here are our highlights about our area as well as gems and what not to miss. Nothing says quintessential Costa Rica like enjoying laid back luxury with a beach setting in the backdrop. Whether you enjoy sipping a freshly opened, cold ‘pipa’ (coconut) or spending your time poolside overlooking the Pacific Ocean, Costa Ballena has a “je ne sais quoi” that embraces you and sun kisses both cheeks warmly. 

Visitors report deeper, more peaceful sleep, a youth they haven’t felt in years and an overall improvement on their outlook on life. It could be the proximity to Nature that rejuvenates the soul and reignites childhood wonder. From loosing yourself in the moment while letting sand slip through your fingers on the beach, to heading out early on an adventure to a, new to you, waterfall in the depths of the jungle, both leave long lasting, fond memories that we hold dear forevermore.

relaxing poolside in costa ballena

Truly, the people that make up our community are a wonderful mix of individuals whom have come from diverse backgrounds to settle in the area. Nomads in search of the best life, this lifetime, the melting pot we call home is also a beckon for those who may be likeminded. Between the beach and the ocean, the river mouths and waterfalls, from the fresh food to the artisans that make it, it is no wonder Costa Ballena has been dubbed the next up and coming in Costa Rica.

“The six best doctors: sunshine, water, rest, air, exercise and diet.” – Wayne Fields

playa dominical, costa rica

Costa Ballena: A Community Unlike No Other

Costa Ballena is a close knit community made up of three coastal towns: Dominical, Uvita-Bahía and Ojochal. It is physically designated as the area from Río Baru until Boca Coronado. 

Dominical

Dominical is an artsy surf town where the big river mouth meets the ocean. Big heavy waves are commonplace, as are the expert surfers who catch them. A stroll through town will only take about 20 minutes and it’s a great place to meet up with locals. 

Uvita-Bahía

Uvita-Bahia is a typical Costa Rican town that is the bustling urban centre of Costa Ballena. All essential services can be found, as well as the famous Whales Tail at Marino Ballena National Park. Many families have settled in the area and enjoy a relaxed pace of rising with the sun and  planning their day in accordance to the rhythm of the changing tides – this is of course to get the maximum amount of everyone’s favourite beach time!

Ojochal

Ojochal, the furthest South and other than the first few kilometres at the main entrance, the town is vastly spread out with residents in their mountain homes. Many retirees and snowbirds have found safe haven from the cold in their beautifully manicured works of art, they call gardens. It also hosts many fine dining options and is the gateway to the Osa Peninsula that opens up to Sierpe, Golfito, Pavones, and Drake.

Playa Ballena from Above, Costa Rica - Photo by Rob Peterson

What Not to Miss on the Ballena Coast of Costa Rica

  • Sunset at the ‘playa
  • Local cuisine hotspots
  • Immersion in Nature
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