7 Beautiful Beaches Near Uvita You Have To Visit

If you're dreaming about the best beaches near Uvita, you’re about to find out why the Costa Ballena region of Costa Rica is one of the country’s most magical — and still surprisingly uncrowded — coastal escapes.

Uvita, sitting along the southern Pacific coast, is the gateway to lush rainforests, dramatic rocky outcrops, and some of the most pristine beaches in Central America. Whether you're chasing wild surf, palm-fringed coves, or snorkeling reefs, these beaches around Uvita will totally blow you away.

Playa Uvita (Marino Ballena National Park)

Right in town, Playa Uvita is part of Marino Ballena National Park — home to the famous “Whale Tail” sandbar visible at low tide. The beach is huge, incredibly clean, and totally wild — backed by jungle, and often practically empty if you go early.

Playa Uvita Highlights

• Home to the famous "Whale Tail" formation.
• Wide, wild beach perfect for long walks and photography.
• Whale watching tours leave right nearby (best from July–October and December–April).
• Protected waters ideal for beginner swimming and snorkeling.
• Entry fee supports national park conservation.
• Incredible sunsets right from the sand.

Playa Hermosa (Uvita)

Just north of Playa Uvita, Playa Hermosa lives up to its name — “beautiful beach” — with miles of soft, golden sand and a super relaxed vibe. It’s quieter than its northern namesake near Jaco, and offers wide open space for swimming, surfing, or just swinging in a hammock under a palm tree.

Playa Hermosa Highlights

• Massive open beach — perfect for solitude seekers.
• Gentle surf great for beginner surfers and bodyboarders.
• Small beach bars and surf schools nearby.
• Palm trees and shaded spots right on the sand.
• Easy public access — no park fees here.
• Best spot for sunrise beach walks.

Playa Arco

Playa Arco is a true hidden paradise — tucked inside Marino Ballena National Park and reachable only at low tide by hiking through the rainforest and scrambling over a few rocks. Once you reach it, you’ll find a secret cove with a natural rock arch, waterfalls dripping down the cliffs, and soft, white sand.

Playa Arco Highlights

• Secret cove beach with natural rock formations.
• Tiny waterfalls flowing into the ocean.
• Wild, untouched vibe — no facilities, no crowds.
• Amazing photo opportunities.
• Only accessible at low tide — check times carefully.
• One of Costa Rica’s true hidden beaches.

Playa Ballena

Located south of Playa Uvita inside Marino Ballena National Park, Playa Ballena is a chill, easy-going beach perfect for laid-back days.

It’s flatter and easier to swim here than on some of the bigger surf beaches, and the views across the bay toward rocky islands make it feel postcard-perfect.

Playa Ballena Highlights

• Soft, gently sloping sand great for swimming.
• Fewer visitors compared to Playa Uvita.
• Views of the Tres Hermanas Islands offshore.
• Perfect beach picnic spot under shady trees.
• Great for spotting dolphins in the distance.
• National park protected area — entry fee required.

Playa Ventanas

About 20 minutes south of Uvita, you’ll find Playa Ventanas — famous for its unique sea caves ("ventanas" means windows). At low tide, you can actually walk through the caves and explore the rock tunnels carved by the ocean — it’s insanely beautiful and super fun.

Playa Ventanas Highlights

• Sea caves you can walk through at low tide.
• Calm, swimmable bay thanks to the protected cove shape.
• Shady picnic areas right off the beach.
• Food trucks and local vendors on weekends.
• Best beach for families with kids.
• Stunning jungle backdrop right up to the sand.

Playa Dominical

A little north of Uvita, Playa Dominical is a surfer’s paradise. The town itself is small and super laid-back, with a beach famous for consistent, powerful waves and a cool mix of locals, expats, and backpackers.

Playa Dominical Highlights

• World-class surfing year-round.
• Chill surf town vibe with cafes, yoga studios, and food trucks.
• Massive beach market selling crafts and local goods.
• Colorful sunsets almost every night.
• Beginner surf lessons available right on the beach.
• Less developed and touristy than Costa Rica’s northern beaches.

Playa Tortuga

Just south of Uvita near Ojochal, Playa Tortuga offers a more rugged, off-the-radar beach experience.

The beach is backed by mangrove forests, and it's a prime nesting spot for sea turtles — volunteer programs sometimes let visitors help with hatchling releases!

Playa Tortuga Highlights

• Wide, rugged beach surrounded by nature.
• Important turtle nesting site (hatchlings June–December).
• Incredible birdwatching in nearby mangroves.
• Very few crowds — peaceful and wild.
• Short drive from Uvita — easy half-day trip.
• Volunteer opportunities at Reserva Playa Tortuga.

When you're planning your Costa Rica adventure and wondering where to find the best beaches near Uvita, these incredible coastal spots offer everything from secret waterfalls to perfect surf waves. Bring your hammock, your snorkel, and your sense of adventure — the Costa Ballena is ready for you!