Things to Do

Local Beaches

These beaches offer a mix of experiences, from gentle family-friendly spots to wild, untouched nature reserves, ensuring a memorable.

  • Beach Crime: Generally low, but non-violent crimes of opportunity can occur.
  • Safety Tips: Avoid leaving valuables in your car or unattended on the beach. Some suggest leaving the car unlocked to show there is nothing of value inside.
  • General Directions: Use Google Maps/Waze
  • Surf and Tide Report

Ojochal

  • Playa Ventanas
    • Location: 5 minutes from Vista Cascada.
    • Highlights: Gentle surf, suitable for all ages, known for unique cave formations leading to a separate beach accessible only during low tide.
    • Amenities: Vendors selling food, drinks, souvenirs, and beach gear. Limited bathroom and shower facilities.
    • Access: No 4x4 needed.
  • Playa Tortuga Reserve
    • Location: Entrance 100 yards south of Ojochal town.
    • Highlights: Nesting site for Green and Olive Ridley Sea Turtles. The beach feels primordial, with a wild, untouched landscape.
    • Cautions: Not a swimming beach due to Saltwater Crocodiles at the river mouth.
    • Activities: Driftwood collecting, and surf casting are popular. No facilities available.
    • Access: No 4x4 needed.
  • Playa Tortuga Norte
    • Location: North of Ojochal, just past the Restaurant Bar Fusion.
    • Highlights: Even more secluded than Playa Tortuga Reserve. True unspoiled nature.
    • Cautions: Strong currents have been reported; swim with caution.
    • Access: 4x4 is necessary due to difficult and often impassable road conditions after rain. Park and hike down to the beach.

Uvita

  • Marino Ballena National Park (Whale’s Tail)
    • Amenities: Several restaurants and bars outside the park entrance. Ample facilities.
    • Fees: Is required upon entry. (approx. $6 USD).
    • Access: No 4x4 needed.
  • Playa Arco
    • Location: Within Marino Ballena National Park.
    • Highlights: Accessed only at low tide via a rugged jungle trail. Alternatively, access via La Cusinga Lodge.
    • Cautions: Plan your visit according to the tide tables.
    • Fees: National Park entrance fee and possibly additional fees for lodge access.
    • Playa Chaman / Playa Colonia
    • Location: 5 minutes south of Uvita town.
    • Highlights: Quiet, soft sand, gentle to moderate surf, perfect for families and beginner surfers.
    • Access: No 4x4 needed.
  • Playa Pinuelas
    • Highlights: The least visited beach within Marino Ballena Park, offering soft sand, gentle surf, and views of the Hermanas rocky islands.
    • Access: No 4x4 needed.
  • Playa Hermosa
    • Location: 3 miles north of Uvita Town.
    • Highlights: Popular for tourists and locals, especially at sunset. Unique parking experience under palm trees.
    • Access: No 4x4 needed.

Dominical

  • Playa Dominicalito
    • Location: 9 miles north of Uvita Town.
    • Highlights: Known for surfing. The beach is swimmable but a bit rocky.
    • Amenities: Numerous shops and vendors under palm trees selling local crafts and refreshments.
  • Playa Dominical
    • Location: Main beach of Dominical Town.
    • Highlights: Mostly rocky, popular for surfing and beach walks with excellent local restaurants and bars nearby.

Local Waterfalls

These waterfalls provide a diverse range of experiences, from serene spots perfect for a quick dip to adventurous locations offering activities like cliff diving and overnight stays.

Whether you're seeking a simple nature walk or an adrenaline-filled adventure, the Ojochal area has something to offer.

  • Nauyaca Waterfall
    • Description: The largest and most famous waterfall in the region, featuring two sets of falls (upper and lower). The lower falls offer a great swimming opportunity.
    • Distance: ~45-minute drive from Ojochal.
    • Difficulty: 6 km hike or a reservation for a ride to the falls.
    • Vehicle: 4x4 recommended but not necessary.
  • Uvita Waterfall
    • Description: A smaller, easily accessible waterfall with a natural water slide and a calm swimming pool.
    • Distance: 15-minute drive from Ojochal.
    • Difficulty: Easy.
    • Vehicle: 4x4 not required but recommended.
  • Cascada El Pavon
    • Description: Known for the large boulder wedged in the middle of the falls, with a nice swimming hole.
    • Distance: Near Ojochal.
    • Difficulty: 6 km hike or a reservation for a ride to the falls.
    • Vehicle: 4x4 not required but recommended.
  • The Waterfall of Ojochal
    • Description: A medium-sized waterfall located on private property with a small entry fee. It’s quiet and offers a nice swimming spot.
    • Distance: A quick drive from Vista Cascada.
    • Difficulty: Easy, though the trail can be slippery.
    • Vehicle: 4x4 not required but recommended.
  • Diamante Waterfall
    • Description: Offers more adventurous activities like cliff jumping, rappelling, and overnight stays in nearby caverns.
    • Distance: Near Nauyaca Waterfall National Park.
    • Difficulty: Varies by tour.
    • Vehicle: 4x4 not required but recommended.
  • Poza Azul Waterfall
    • Description: A local favorite near Dominicalito beach, with a varying water flow and a swimming hole.
    • Distance: Short walk from Dominicalito beach.
    • Difficulty: Easy.
    • Vehicle: 4x4 not required.
  • Eco Chontales Waterfall
    • Description: A large waterfall surrounded by lush jungle with a natural pool, restrooms, and a restaurant. Overnight camping is an option.
    • Distance: 1 hour 45-minute drive from Ojochal.
    • Difficulty: Moderate, rough gravel road.
    • Vehicle: 4x4 required.

Guided Tours

These tours offer a great way to explore the natural wonders of the region and create lasting memories during your stay. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or wildlife encounters, there’s something for everyone in Costa Ballena.

Below is a shortlist of recommended activities and tours available nearby:

  • 4x4 Trail
  • Coffee Plantation
  • Ziplines
  • Bird/Wildlife Watching
  • Horseback Riding
  • Whale Watching (Seasonal)
  • Dolphin Watching
  • Turtle/Wildlife Sanctuary (Seasonal)
  • Surfing
  • SCUBA
  • Fishing (Deep Sea/Freshwater)

Tour Operator Recommendation

Epic Costa Rica Tours*

Location: Uvita
Website: Epic Costa Rica Tours

Description: This tour operator offers a wide range of tours. They have a reputation for providing excellent service and memorable experiences.

Osa Property Management (property host) also offers complete concierge services, offering local insight, suggestions and scheduling services. Visit https://osapropertymanagement.com/costa-rica-travel/

* Note: Vista Cascada does not receive compensation or guarantee the services provided by these tour operators. Always ensure that you’re comfortable with the operator and the safety measures they have in place before booking a tour.

Self-Guided Tours / Activities

The following is a collection of some of our favorite experiences we have encountered during our time in the Costa Ballena region of Costa Rica.

These experiences offer a mix of adventure, relaxation, and cultural exploration, providing something for everyone during your stay in the Costa Ballena region.

  • 4x4 Adventures: Start in Uvita for a thrilling 4x4 adventure, including river crossings and swims at waterfall pools. Visit a coffee plantation at 4,000 feet.
  • Alturas Wildlife Sanctuary: Near Dominicalito, this sanctuary rehabilitates injured animals. $33 USD tours help fund their efforts, offered Tuesday through Sunday.
  • Cano Island Snorkeling/Diving: Located 32 miles off Uvita, this island offers excellent marine life exploration. Book with a local operator for a day trip.
  • Corcovado National Park: Explore this biologically diverse jungle with a guide. Expect to see various wildlife during a challenging 12-mile hike. Overnight options available.
  • Farmers Markets: Visit Uvita Farmer’s Market for fresh produce and crafts, or Eco Feria Dominical at Domi Plaza for a smaller selection.
  • Finca 6 Stone Spheres: Visit the mysterious, perfectly round Disquis Spheres, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, 45 minutes from Ojochal.
  • Hacienda Baru Wildlife Refuge: Explore walking trails and a birdwatching tower at this refuge in Dominical. Day passes are $15, with optional guided tours.
  • Manuel Antonio National Park: Just 1 hour 20 minutes from Ojochal, this park offers stunning biodiversity. Hire a guide for wildlife spotting and relax on the beaches afterward.
  • Rancho La Merced: Spanning 506 hectares, this area offers bird watching, hiking, horseback riding, and overnight stays in cabins.
  • Surfing: Surf world-class waves at Dominical and Dominicalito. Playa Hermosa suits intermediate surfers, while Playa Colonia is ideal for beginners. Lessons and rentals available.
  • Terraba Sierpe Mangrove Tour: Explore Costa Rica’s large mangrove ecosystem with a tour from Uvita. Located 50 minutes south of Ojochal.
  • Yoga: Practice yoga amidst jungle views and waterfall sounds at Vista Cascada. On-site sessions available; contact Osa Property Management for recommendations.

For more information Google or contact Osa Property Management for more information