Bahía Ballena Holidays

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Bahía Ballena Holiday

Things to do in and around Ballena

Ballena is perfect for outdoor and adventure enthusiasts, offering stunning scenery and thrilling activities. Highlights include dolphin watching, engaging in water activities, and enjoying wildlife viewing. Visitors can also experience the joy of playful dolphins and vibrant dance performances, making for an unforgettable holiday. Whether you're zip-lining through the treetops or relaxing at a resort, Ballena promises an exciting getaway in Costa Rica.

Shopping

In Ballena, you can explore local markets like the Uvita Farmer's Market for fresh produce and handmade crafts. If you're up for a drive, check out the larger shopping malls in nearby towns, such as the Paseo de los Dioses, for more extensive shopping options and souvenirs.

Recreation

Experience the serene atmosphere at Anamaya Resort, where daily yoga sessions and holistic therapies rejuvenate the body and mind. Explore the lush surroundings with guided nature walks, or unwind with a spa treatment featuring local ingredients for a truly restorative getaway in paradise.

Adventure

Experience the thrill of ziplining at Hacienda Baru, a fantastic ropes course in Ballena that immerses you in nature. For water enthusiasts, try Stand Up Paddle Boarding, located 24.1km away, where you can enjoy stunning coastal views and an exhilarating adventure. Lastly, explore the outdoor beauty of Sabana de los Leones, situated 40.2km away.

Nightlife

In Ballena, the vibrant nightlife is complemented by the Alexander Skutch Bird Sanctuary, located 25.7km away, where you can enjoy nature-inspired evening events. The atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming, perfect for those seeking a unique experience after a day of exploration.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions in and around Ballena

Ballena, located in Puntarenas Province, offers an ideal getaway for outdoor and adventure enthusiasts. Visitors can explore stunning beaches, national parks, and breathtaking waterfalls, while enjoying activities like whale watching for humpback whales, snorkelling among colourful fish, and soaking in spectacular sea views. Whether you're after relaxation or adventure, Ballena caters to all your tropical holiday desires.

  • Uvita Beach: A stunning stretch of golden sand, Uvita Beach offers a relaxed atmosphere perfect for sunbathing and swimming. With its gentle waves and vibrant beach vibes, it's ideal for families and those seeking a laid-back beach experience.
  • Marino Ballena National Park: This national park is a treasure trove of adventure and picturesque scenery. Known for its unique whale tail sandbar, it’s perfect for hiking, bird-watching, and exploring diverse marine life, making it a haven for outdoor enthusiasts.
  • Catarata Uvita: Nestled within Ballena, this enchanting waterfall is a romantic spot for couples and an adventurous retreat for nature lovers. Surrounded by lush greenery, it invites visitors to swim in its refreshing pools and enjoy the serene ambiance.

Best time to go to Ballena

The best time to visit Ballena is dependant on what kind of holiday you are seeking. April is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with frequent rain. November and December are its coolest month on average. At the time of December, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January68.0°F (20.0°C)Light RainMostly CloudyModerately HighAverage
February68.9°F (20.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately HighAverage
March69.4°F (20.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately HighSlightly High
April69.8°F (21.0°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly High
May68.7°F (20.4°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
June68.4°F (20.2°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudyModerately LowAverage
July68.0°F (20.0°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
August68.2°F (20.1°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
September68.2°F (20.1°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudyModerately LowSlightly Low
October67.6°F (19.8°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudyModerately LowSlightly Low
November67.5°F (19.7°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
December67.5°F (19.7°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly High

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Ballena

Ballena, Costa Rica, offers plenty of budget-friendly options for travellers. Enjoy free activities such as Catarata Uvita, Arco Beach, and Tortuga Beach. For transport, consider taking the bus for a cheaper option. The best time to visit is from August to October when accommodation prices drop. Book your hotel about a month in advance or look for last-minute deals on Expedia, especially on Saturdays for the best rates. Combine your hotel, flights, and activities in an Expedia package to save even more. Remember to use filters for eco-friendly options and sort by price for the best deals.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Ballena are August to October, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to March to April and December, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel in Ballena is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals which could secure you a cheaper stay. Look out for the green banner below the price to spot the deals.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Ballena is Saturday. The most expensive day to stay in Ballena is Thursday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and the type of accommodation you prefer. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels currently available. To find the best prices and offers, sort the results by price from low to high.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save some dollars by combining your Ballena hotel reservation with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Ballena Beach Holiday

Relax by the water and feel the salty sea air on your skin during your Ballena holiday. If it's your first time, why not pick up some pretty seashells as a memento of your trip to Ballena? Base yourself near Ventanas Beach, a popular strip of coast only 3 kilometres from the downtown area. We also have terrific Ballena holiday packages that are closer to Arco Beach, another terrific option.

Things You Should Know About Ballena

  • Why not think about Ballena beach hotels for your getaway? Check out what's available — there's nothing better than staying at close to the shore.
  • Private holiday homes such as Villa DahlMar and Casa Vista Verde are also very popular. Whether you're planning a family getaway or a romantic escape with your significant other, you're sure to find something that suits your requirements.

Our pick of the best Bahía Ballena Hotel Deals

Golden Pineapple Villas

Golden Pineapple Villas

4 out of 5
3km East of Banco Costa Rica, Camino a Racho Pacifico, Bahía Ballena, Puntarenas
The price is NZ$916 per night from 4 Nov to 5 Nov
NZ$916
4 Nov - 5 Nov
includes taxes & fees
9.8/10 Exceptional! (102 reviews)
Great view and accommodations

Reviewed on 12 Oct 2025

Golden Pineapple Villas
Canavida Villas & Resort

Canavida Villas & Resort

4 out of 5
Calle la Union, Bahía Ballena, Puntarenas Province
The price is NZ$163 per night from 5 Nov to 6 Nov
NZ$163
5 Nov - 6 Nov
includes taxes & fees
9.8/10 Exceptional! (60 reviews)
Jessica is very friendly, accommodating and very helpful with activities and dining options. Great with communication and service!

Reviewed on 3 Oct 2025

Canavida Villas & Resort
Villas Rio Mar

Villas Rio Mar

3 out of 5
Dominical Beach, Bahía Ballena, Puntarenas
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
8.8/10 Excellent! (619 reviews)
One of my favorite hotels. It’s clean, the swimming pool is nice, and the staff is very kind. There are many beautiful beaches nearby. They also have an electric outlet available for charging electric cars, which is very convenient.

Reviewed on 2 Oct 2025

Villas Rio Mar
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

What to do in Bahía Ballena

* Savings based on package bookings compared to the price of the same components booked separately. Savings not available on all packages.