Pura Osa
Whale season at a glance
| Months | Who visits | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| July – November | Southern Hemisphere humpbacks, from Antarctic waters | The main season. Peak from August to October, often with mothers and calves |
| December – April | Northern Hemisphere humpbacks, from North America | Fewer whales, but calm dry-season seas |
| All year | Dolphins | Bottlenose and spotted dolphins are frequent |
Seasons as published by SINAC for Marino Ballena National Park. Nature sets the schedule, so sightings are likely but never guaranteed.
Marino Ballena National Park: the essentials
The park protects about 5,160 hectares of ocean and a 15 km strip of coastline between Uvita and Ojochal, including coral reefs, islands and the Whale Tail itself.
- Entrance fee: US$6.78 for non-residents and ₡1,130 for resident adults, tax included. Children under 11 and residents over 65 enter free. Card payment only.
- Sectors and hours: Uvita and Colonia, 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.; Ballena, 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Piñuela was temporarily closed at the time of writing.
- Leave behind: alcohol, pets, single-use plastics and loud speakers. Do not take shells, stones or plants.
Official information: SINAC – Parque Nacional Marino Ballena
Walking the Whale Tail
At Punta Uvita, a sandbar and rocky reef form the shape of a whale's tail, best seen from the air or from the hills above Uvita. At low tide you can walk out along it from the Uvita sector. Check a tide table, go a little before low tide, and head back before the water rises.
Choosing a responsible whale-watching tour
Costa Rica regulates whale watching (Executive Decree 32495). A good operator follows these rules without being asked:
- At least 100 meters from whales and 50 meters from dolphins.
- Approach slowly, from behind and at an angle, never head-on.
- No more than 30 minutes with a group, and no more than two boats at a time.
- No swimming, diving with or feeding whales and dolphins.
Whales also pass close to Drake Bay and Caño Island, so you can combine a sighting with snorkeling or a Corcovado trip. How to get to Drake Bay · Corcovado guide
The Whale and Dolphin Festival
Every September, Uvita celebrates the season with the Whale and Dolphin Festival: tours, music, crafts, food, kite workshops, surf lessons and conservation activities for families. The 16th edition took place on September 4–6, 2026. Tours sell out quickly on festival weekend, so book early.
Frequently asked questions
When is the best month to see whales in Uvita?
August to October usually offers the most humpback sightings, often with calves. December to April is the second season.
Is the park fee included in tours?
Often not. Ask your operator, and carry a card: the park only accepts card payments.
Can I swim with the whales?
No. It is prohibited by Costa Rican law, for your safety and theirs.
When can I walk the Whale Tail?
Around low tide only. Check the tide table the day before.
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