Things to Do Near Marino Ballena National Park
Costa Rica's first marine national park sits ten minutes below Villa Ballena — 9 miles of protected coastline, the largest coral reef on the Pacific coast of Central America, and the famous Whale's Tail sandbar. Here's how to make the most of it, plus what's just beyond the park gates.
Walk the Whale's Tail — at low tide
The park's signature experience: a natural sandbar that stretches roughly a kilometer into the Pacific and, from above, forms a perfect whale's tail. It's only walkable around low tide (it disappears completely at high tide), so check a tide chart the night before and aim to arrive at the low-tide mark. From the Uvita entrance it's about a 20–30 minute walk each way — bring water, sun protection and shoes for the rocky tip.
Know before you go
The park's main Uvita sector opens at 7 AM daily. Entry is $6 USD plus tax for adult visitors — paid by card only, so have one on you — and children under 12 are free. Your ticket is good all day, so you can leave for lunch in town and come back. Private lots by the entrance charge about 2,000–4,000 colones (~$4–6) for the day. There are no shops inside the park.
On the water
In season, whale-watching boats leave from the park daily — see our full whale watching guide for timing and costs. At low tide you can snorkel the shallow, warm water beside the Whale's Tail; for serious snorkeling, take the day trip to Caño Island Biological Reserve, about 90 minutes offshore. Kayaking and paddleboarding tours run inside the park too.
Beyond the park
Within 20 minutes of the park you've got the Uvita Waterfall and its natural rock slide, surf lessons at Playa Dominical, and Ojochal's celebrated restaurant scene. Further afield, Nauyaca Waterfalls and the Alturas Wildlife Sanctuary make a great full-day pairing. Our activities page maps it all out.
Stay above it all
Villa Ballena overlooks the whole park — the Whale's Tail is the view from the pool. Three king suites, ensuite bathrooms and ten minutes to the park entrance.