Where boats leave from
The operator we list leaves from Uvita Beach, in Marino Ballena National Park. It includes the park entrance fee.
What you can do
- Whale and dolphin watching
- Snorkeling, when the sea allows
- Trips toward Caño Island, with some operators
When to see whales
Humpback whales visit from about December to April, and again from about July to October, according to Costa Rica's tourism board (ICT). SINAC, the national parks agency, lists July to November for Marino Ballena. Sightings are never guaranteed.
Watching wildlife the right way
Costa Rica bans swimming or diving with whales and dolphins, and it protects mothers with calves. Boats must stay at least 100 meters from whales (200 meters when they're feeding or socializing) and 50 meters from dolphins with the engine on (30 with it off). They may stay with one group for up to 30 minutes. Choose an operator who follows the rules.
Charters we list
We list one operator in Uvita.
Coral Expeditions
- Listed as: Operator
- Departs from: Uvita Beach, Marino Ballena National Park, per the operator. Check-in 8:00 a.m., departure 8:30 a.m.
- Private or shared: Shared (regular tour) or private on request
- Trip: Whale and dolphin boat tour, with snorkeling when conditions allow
- Length: 2.5 to 3 hours
- Boat: Tour boat
- Included: An ICT-certified bilingual tour guide and the Marino Ballena National Park entrance fee, per the page.
- Not included: Not listed. Ask.
- Price: Regular tour: adults $85, children under 10 $58, per person (regular price, checked 2026-10-19). Private: See current price
- Cancellation: Not listed on the page. Ask before you pay.
- How to book: Request availability from the operator. It says sightings cannot be guaranteed.
- Source: Coral Expeditions, checked 2026-10-19
More tours from Uvita
Select Tour Deals
Shared and bookable tours
Tours you can book online through our partner. Check each listing for times, inclusions and whether the boat is shared or private.
The Wonders of Cano Island Snorkeling Tour
Check the listing: shared or private
Select Tour DealsCano Island Snorkeling Tour From Uvita
Check the listing: shared or private
Select Tour DealsSnorkeling at Caño Island
Check the listing: shared or private
Select Tour DealsWhere to stay nearby
Hotels near the departure point, through our hotel partner.
