Marino Ballena National Park, Uvita · 3 hours · From $90/person · Dolphins year-round · Whales in season
Search for dolphins, seasonal whales, sea turtles and marine birds on a 3-hour ocean safari inside Marino Ballena National Park — one of the most spectacular marine reserves on Costa Rica’s South Pacific coast. Certified ICT guide, park entrance, sea caves at Playa Ventanas, snorkeling from December to April and the famous Whale’s Tail sandbar. Book instantly via WhatsApp with our local team.
| Adults | $90 per person |
| Children 4–8 years | $55 per person |
| Children 0–3 years | Free |
| Minimum | 2 people required |
| Duration | Approximately 3 hours |
The Whale and Dolphin Watching Experience at Marino Ballena National Park is one of the most rewarding marine wildlife tours on Costa Rica’s South Pacific coast. Located in Uvita, the park is named after the humpback whale and shaped — remarkably — like one. Closer to Jacó, the Tortuga Island Experience offers a full catamaran day with snorkeling included.
The experience begins at 8:30 AM with coffee, appetizers and a safety briefing. Bottlenose and spinner dolphins are frequently spotted year-round. Humpback whales visit during two seasons — July to November and December to April — making this one of the few places worldwide with two separate whale migration periods in the same year.
Depending on conditions, the tour may include the Playa Ventanas sea caves and, from December to April, open-water swimming and snorkeling. If you want more underwater time, see the dedicated Snorkeling Experience.
NOTE: There is no marina at the departure point. Guests may get wet up to the knees when boarding. Marino Ballena is a drive from Jacó — our private transportation can get you there comfortably.
Whale sightings are seasonal and cannot be guaranteed. Dolphin sightings are frequent year-round.
Snorkeling is available December to April when ocean conditions allow.
Not included. Costa Rica Experiences can coordinate pickup from Jacó, Manuel Antonio, Quepos, Dominical and Uvita on request.
Yes. Children 4–8 get a reduced price, children 3 and under are free.
Approximately 2 to 2.5 hours south of Jacó along the South Pacific coastal route.
Shorts, swimsuit, sandals or comfortable clothes suitable for getting wet.
Please notify us at least 24 hours in advance via WhatsApp to cancel or reschedule at no charge.
Ready to book your Whale and Dolphin Watching tour? Send us your date, number of people, ages of children and pickup location on WhatsApp and we confirm availability in minutes.