What to do in Uvita

The best activities in the paradise of Costa Rica

The small coastal village of Uvita on the Pacific coast of Costa Rica is a real insider tip for nature lovers, adventurers, and anyone who wants to experience the “Pura Vida” way of life. Between rainforests, waterfalls, and dream beaches, Uvita offers the perfect mix of relaxation and action.
Here are the best things to do in Uvita:

Visit Marino Ballena National Park

The highlight of the region is Marino Ballena National Park. It is famous for its natural sandbank in the shape of a whale’s fin, which becomes visible at low tide.
What to expect:

Miles of unspoiled beaches
Snorkeling and diving
Boat tours for whale and dolphin watching (especially from July–October & December–March)

Tip: Plan your visit at low tide so you can walk along the “whale fin.”

The “Whale Tail” is a natural sand and rock formation in Marino Ballena National Park that looks exactly like a humpback whale’s tail at low tide.

Uvita Beach (Playa Uvita) is located in Marino Ballena National Park and costs $6 per day to enter.

The Marino Ballena National Park is a prime destination in Costa Rica for watching migrating humpback whales.

The Wednesday Market

A special highlight in Uvita is the weekly market, which takes place every Wednesday.
The market usually opens on Wednesday mornings, from around 8:00 a.m. until early afternoon (approximately 1:00–2:00 p.m.). It is a colorful, lively gathering of locals, expats, and curious travelers.
What to expect there:

Fresh fruit & vegetables: Many stalls offer tropical fruits and regional products – from exotic varieties to classic coconuts and bananas.
Handicrafts & souvenirs: Arts and crafts, jewelry, clothing, and small souvenirs invite you to browse.
Delicious food: Street food and local specialties, freshly prepared, provide pure enjoyment and give you an authentic taste of Costa Rica.

Tip: Come early in the morning when the selection is freshest and there aren’t so many people around yet.

Learn to surf

I’ve been told that Uvita is ideal for beginner surfers. The waves are generally gentler than in other regions of Costa Rica. Numerous local surf schools offer courses for beginners and advanced surfers.

Discover the rainforest

Around Uvita, you will find lush tropical rainforest with incredible biodiversity. Guided tours offer the chance to spot monkeys, sloths, toucans, and colorful frogs.

Corcovado: Costa Rica’s wildest adventure

An absolute highlight for nature lovers is a trip to Corcovado National Park. The park is located on the Osa Peninsula and is considered one of the most biodiverse places in the world. You can expect untouched rainforest, secluded beaches, and impressive wildlife, including monkeys, sloths, tapirs, macaws, and, with a little luck, even jaguars. Guided day and multi-day tours are organized from Uvita, often including a boat trip along the spectacular Pacific coast. Important: Access is only possible with a certified guide.

Enjoy yoga & wellness

Uvita is also a hotspot for yoga retreats and holistic relaxation. Many accommodations offer:

Open-air yoga classes
Massage services
Meditation with ocean views

The relaxed atmosphere makes it easy to completely unwind.

Culinary highlights

In Uvita, you will find a mix of local sodas (small, typical restaurants) and international cafés. Be sure to try:

Gallo pinto (rice with beans)
Tropical fruits such as mango, papaya, and pineapple

Why Uvita is worth a visit

Uvita is perfect for anyone who wants to combine nature, adventure, and relaxation without mass tourism. Whether whale watching, waterfalls, or yoga in the jungle: here you can experience Costa Rica at its most authentic.
Pura Vida guaranteed.