Along Costa Rica’s southern Pacific coast, Costa Ballena stretches between moun-tains and ocean, offering a mix of raw nature, hillside communities, and a pura vida attitude you only embody once you’ve spend enough time here. Dominical, Uvita, and Ojochal anchor the region, each with its own identity and pockets of municipalities peppered along the way—familiar to locals, fresh for newcomers, and unforgettable for travelers.
Manuel Antonio
To the north, Manuel Antonio delivers a lively contrast with its world-renowned national park, accessible wildlife, and ridge-top hotels overlooking turquoise bays. Travelers come for the iconic beaches and easy wildlife sightings, while those who know the area slip into quieter corners like Playitas at low tide.
Dominical
A surf town with a soul, often referred to as Playa Dominical, this town blends its laid back beach town vibe and a growing wellness community, alongside musical performances and social gatherings. Visitors come for the waves, but insiders stay for the Friday market, the jungle swimming holes, and the tucked-away cafés hidden along the backroads. It’s a place where surfers, expats, and locals share the beach at sunset and where the mountains and streams uphill hold as much adventure as the ocean out front.
Uvita
Often seen as the “practical hub” of the region, Uvita is where people get things done, such as banking, health services and professional services, but it’s also home to some of the area’s most iconic natural treasures. The Marino Ballena National Park and its famous Whale Tail attract thousands each year. The tombolo can be walked at low tide and seen from views up above. A quick visit to a waterfall, shop, and class of some sort are part of daily life, giving Uvita a balance of functionality with authentic living.
Ojochal
A quiet village set into lush foothills, Ojochal remains Costa Ballena’s culinary destination. Long known among locals for its gourmet dining and international community, it maintains an elegant atmo-sphere. Mountain homes enjoy cooler breezes, and manicured gardens are put on display. Ojochal’s charm lies in its simplicity and its refined, slow-living spirit. The caves of Playa Ventanas is among their popular destinations.
