Whale Watching in Costa Rica
An Unforgettable Experience from Paradise Lodge
Humpback Whales in Costa Rica: Two Whale Seasons Every Year
Costa Rica is one of the few places in the world where you can observe humpback whales during much of the year. This is possible because two different whale migrations meet along the Pacific coast.
- Southern humpback whales migrate from Antarctica and arrive between July and November, with peak season from August to October.
- Northern humpback whales travel from Alaska and can be seen between December and April, with peak sightings in January and February. This migration includes fewer individuals than the southern population.
Every year, these magnificent whales travel thousands of kilometers to the warm tropical waters of Costa Rica to give birth and nurse their calves.
Mothers with newborn calves are often found in shallow coastal waters, where they seek protection from adult males that are eager to mate again. The males generally stay farther offshore, making the calm nearshore waters an ideal nursery area.
Marino Ballena National Park – One of Costa Rica’s Best Whale Watching Destinations
One of the best places for whale watching in Costa Rica is Marino Ballena National Park in Uvita.
Covering more than 5,000 hectares of protected marine area, the park is famous for its whale-tail-shaped sandbar, visible at low tide. The protected waters provide ideal conditions for humpback whales and serve as one of the most important breeding grounds along Costa Rica’s Pacific coast.
Paradise Lodge is located just 35 minutes from Uvita, making it easy to join one of the daily whale-watching tours during the season.
Whale Watching Tours from Uvita
We stay in close contact with local tour operators and usually know when whales have recently been sighted in the area. We are happy to arrange the best tour for you.
Standard Tour Includes
- Boat trip with experienced captain and naturalist guide
- Entrance fee to Marino Ballena National Park
- Fresh fruit and drinking water
- Approximately 3 hours duration
- Meeting point usually at 8:30 AM in Uvita
Prices start at approximately US$75 per person.
In addition to humpback whales, you may also encounter dolphins, sea turtles, flying fish, and a variety of seabirds.
Private Whale Watching Tours
For a more exclusive experience, we can arrange a private boat charter.
Tours usually depart from Dominicalito, just 20 minutes from Paradise Lodge. Depending on your preferences, the trip can be combined with:
- Snorkeling
- Sport fishing
- Coastal sightseeing
- Wildlife observation
Departure times are flexible, although morning conditions are generally the best.
Private charters start at approximately US$400 per boat for up to 6 guests, depending on the activities and duration selected.
What to Bring
- Swimsuit
- Towel
- Sunscreen
- Hat or cap
- Sunglasses
- Camera or waterproof camera
- Lightweight quick-dry clothing
Helpful Tips
- Ocean conditions can occasionally be rough. If you are prone to seasickness, consider taking medication before the tour.
- Boarding takes place directly from the beach, so expect to walk through shallow water to reach the boat.
- Wear appropriate footwear that can get wet.
- Keep phones, keys, and other valuables in a waterproof bag.
Your Whale Watching Adventure from Paradise Lodge
Paradise Lodge is located right next to the famous Nauyaca Waterfalls, making it the perfect base for exploring Costa Rica’s South Pacific region. Uvita and Marino Ballena National Park, one of the country’s premier whale-watching destinations, are only about 35 minutes away.
We are happy to help you plan and book your whale-watching adventure. Seeing a humpback whale in the wild is one of the most unforgettable experiences Costa Rica has to offer.
