'''Uvita''' is a small town south of Dominical, and north of Ojochal. It is the heart of Ballena Marine National Park. There has been a tremendous influx of foreigners (non-Costa Ricans) moving into Uvita over the past few years. Uvita was once considered "remote" but now features numerous grocery stores, banks, doctors, dentists, Internet cafe's and a thriving expat and local culture.

The local '''Uvita Information Center''', [http://www.uvita.info], can help you with general information on Uvita and the surrounding areas.

Get in

From Quepos take a Bus to Uvita

From San Jose you have to option take the bus via Quepos or take the bus to San Isidro de Perez Zeledon and from there the bus to Uvita. The first option is longer, but a great drive next to the ocean. The Second one a shorter ride, and great view over a great mountain range.

From Palmar Norte and south of there, the bus to Dominical goes by Uvita, or the Uvita bus stop at the town.

You can also fly into Palmar Sur via Sansa or Nature Air.

Or rent a car and drive your self.

Eat

You will find a great deal of places, from a drive thrue hot dog place, to lots of little SODAS (small little restaurants that are traditional all over Costa Rica. Seafood is great. Uvita is on the ocean. Pizza places are around, La Fogata is the oldest and best one, they also have great BBQ Chicken. For more upscale you can visit Terrazas, up in the hills of Uvita, great view. Also La Cusinga Eco Lodge, the first hotel in the area, a truly Eco Lodge. You need to call ahead for reservations, as it is reservation only. La Cusinga offers a great view of Ballena Marine National Park. They have trails and a Private Preserve. A new Mexican place is open, next to the Gas Station (i have not eaten there so can not review it).

Drink

Well you are at the beach and a hot sun will make you search for a cool drink, along the beach there are a few bars, also in the main road there are a few too. there are always something happening, Karaoke, ladies night, a soccer match on TV. Try the local beer, Imperial, or the Cacique ron. SOme of the place are Marino Ballena, Almendros, Pachanga, Delfines, and some that come a go. For a more upscale sunset relaxing mood Terrazas is the place, drink special, and movie nights are always popular.

Sleep

  • '''La Cusinga Eco Lodge''', [http://www.Lacusingalodge.com/]. An Eco Lodge next to the park.
  • Canto Ballena
  • Toucan Hotel
  • Rana Roja Cabins
  • Nido del Halcon
  • Cabinas Gato
  • Get out