Hey friends,
We just spent the last two weeks exploring the vibrant town of Uvita, Costa Rica. We’re excited to share our experience with you! Uvita, often described as a “tiny village,” is anything but. It’s a bustling town with many amenities and a unique charm that has drawn people from all over the world. Many of our friends recommended we consider moving here, so we decided to check it out for ourselves. Let’s dive into what makes Uvita so special.
What is Uvita known for?
The Whale Tail at Marino Ballena National Park
Uvita is best known for the iconic “whale tail” in Marino Ballena National Park. This natural sandbar, shaped like a whale’s tail, becomes accessible during low tide, allowing visitors to walk out to the rocks that form this unique feature. The park also boasts stunning beaches that cater to everyone—calm waters near the whale tail for swimming and surf-worthy waves further south.
Wildlife lovers will be thrilled by the park’s rich biodiversity. During our visit, we spotted macaws, toucans, howler monkeys, white-faced capuchin monkeys, and even two sloths! Entrance to the park is just $6, and the atmosphere is wonderfully laid-back, making it a must-visit destination.
Playa Hermosa: The Local Favorite
Just 5 kilometers north of Uvita lies Playa Hermosa, a free beach that’s perfect for relaxing. Weekdays offer a peaceful experience. As sunset approaches, the beach becomes a lively gathering spot for locals and tourists alike. While weekends can get hectic, we loved Playa Hermosa because it’s dog-friendly—perfect for spending time with our pup, Kira. Unfortunately, dogs aren’t allowed in Marino Ballena National Park, so Playa Hermosa was our go-to.
Unique Experiences and Services in Uvita
Local Businesses That Impress
Uvita has an array of unique services. We were amazed by the import store where you can ship a container of belongings directly from the United States. Additionally, we got new tires for our truck at an incredibly affordable price—less than half of what we expected!
One standout discovery was a local surfboard shaper. This talented craftsman helps you design your dream board, complete with a custom photo, making each surfboard a one-of-a-kind masterpiece. Even with this level of personalization, the cost is still cheaper than buying a surfboard in the U.S.
Off-Road Adventures and Hidden Gems
For the adventurous, Uvita has plenty of off-the-beaten-path treasures. We explored dirt roads and stumbled upon San Josecito, a quaint mountain town with stunning ocean views and nearby waterfalls. Another highlight was an off-road journey to a secluded beach where we had the entire shoreline to ourselves. This spot has some of the roughest roads I have seen to date here! We almost couldn’t make it in our 4×4 truck. A sedan would never stand a chance!
Nearby Towns: Exploring Beyond Uvita
We also ventured to Ojochal, a sprawling valley town with a mix of local charm and expat influence. Known for its high-end restaurants and American-style markets, Ojochal felt like a blend of Costa Rican wilderness and Western luxury. It’s a unique spot worth visiting if you’re in the area. We checked out the waterfall and of course Adam dove in!
The Verdict: Is Uvita the Place to Be?
Uvita offers a lot, from breathtaking wildlife to unique services and adventurous experiences. Still, it didn’t quite capture our hearts as a potential new home. The neighborhoods felt busy and noisy, and the houses were closer together than we’d prefer. Additionally, the limited options for dog-friendly beaches were a drawback for us.
That said, Uvita remains a fantastic destination for a visit. You can soak in the natural beauty of the whale tail. Enjoy the lively vibe of Playa Hermosa. Discover hidden gems in the mountains. There’s something here for everyone. While it is not our future home, it’s a place we’ll always recommend for an unforgettable Costa Rican adventure.
Have you been to Uvita? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below! And don’t forget to subscribe to Peligro Life’s Blog and Youtube Channel for more travel stories and tips. 🌍
PELIGRO LIFE 