Escape to Casa Ballena, nestled in the old growth jungle of Marino Ballena National Park. Imagine secluded beaches, monkeys and toucans greeting you each morning, or swimming under warm waterfalls. The house features a newly-completed gourmet kitchen, laundry room, two outside patio areas with an infinity pool overlooking the Pacific Ocean and beautiful sunsets.
Reviews
1010 out of 10
Exceptional
Entire home
3 bedrooms2 bathroomsSleeps 6200 sq m
Popular amenities
Ocean view
Kitchen
Washing machine
Dryer
Free Wi-Fi
Add dates for prices
About this property
Amazing Whitewater View Of The Ballena Marine Preserve Islands
Important points below! Pura Vida!
This is the Costa Rican expression for everything that is good. It translates as pure life and is used as a greeting and a salutation. It is always spoken with a smile. Costa Rica is rated as one of the happiest places on earth. You can discover why.
Imagine secluded beaches where the jungle meets the sand, monkeys and toucans greeting you each morning, or swimming under warm waterfalls. All this happens everyday in the unspoiled beauty of Uvita.
Our rental home is situated in an old growth jungle minutes from the beach on the Pacific coast in Marino Ballena National Park, the only national marine park in Costa Rica. Ballena translates to whale. Humpbacks from the southern and northern hemisphere travel thousands of miles to have their babies in this area. Excellent whale watching, snorkeling and diving! We are halfway between Manual Antonio, the most popular park in Costa Rica, and the famous Osa Penninsula. National Geographic named our area one of the most bio-diverse areas on the planet. From the house and pool you can see the ever changing pacific ocean, local islands, incredible wildlife, rainforest, and beautiful sunsets.
The food in the area is the best in Costa Rica and maybe some of the best we have ever had - think Napa in the South Pacific. Expats from around the world have created amazing culinary delights. We can recommend at least 10 restaurants in the area. You can drink the water and eat the food and not worry.
The home has three bedrooms and two bathrooms, a newly-completely remodeled full gourmet kitchen, laundry room, two outside patio areas, a modest infinity pool, and a stone BBQ (boogie boards, beach chairs, beach and pool towels, a cooler, small binoculars and a telescope). Listen to the waves crashing on the shore from bed as you awake to howler monkeys calling in the trees. The jungle is right outside the door. Take a walk and see all the wonders you expect from Costa Rica.
The house is an easy accessible drive from the main road with a wide, short maintained road leading to the house. This should not be underestimated. Most homes in the area take a long drive up a steep, single lane, winding road taking up to 20 minutes from the main road, especially difficult at night. Look next to the map on the listing to where the closest beach is. If it more than .5 miles from the beach you will regret it. We are .3 miles to the beach. There will be no anxiety driving to this house. Rent a 4x4 or all wheel drive to get the most out of your trip in this area.
This is not a resort town. It is an agrarian area with beautiful farms and unspoiled beaches and jungle. It is a place to explore and discover. It will excite your inner adventurer. 5 islands are visible from our home. I don't now of anyone else that can boast that!
We would love to welcome you as our guest to Casa Ballena.
Pura Vida!
Proud of this review. It is what we strive for. Best Vacation Rental We Have Ever Booked! 5/5 Stayed Jan 2023 Janet M. I have rented over 30 vacation homes throughout Costa Rica, Europe and Australia and I owned my own vacation rental which has made me rather picky and critical. It takes a lot to impress me. But this property really impressed me! The attention to detail is outstanding. This is a lovely home is set in a gorgeous setting with outstanding views. The house has everything you could possibly need, is very comfortable, very clean and we felt very safe. The outdoor furniture is very good quality and comfortable. We never wanted to leave the awesome pool. It is very conveniently located to beaches and the towns of Uvita and Ojochal. The kitchen is very well stocked - which is rare! The fact that Mark provides boogie boards, beach chairs and a good supply of beach towels speaks volumes. Communication with Mark was excellent and he provided all kinds of information. He has a full binder of information on the house and recommendations on what to do in the area - perfect! We loved this place and will certainly stay here again when in the area.
Published Feb 7, 2023
Property amenities
Beach
Beach loungers
Beach towels
Pool/Spa
Infinity pool
Massage
Outdoor pool
Private pool
Internet
Available in the house: Free WiFi
Parking and transport
Limo/town car service
Car available
Car required
Parking on site
Kitchen
Blender
Coffee/tea maker
Cookware, dishware, and utensils
Dishwasher
Electric kettle
Hob
Kitchen island
Microwave
Oven
Paper towels
Refrigerator
Spices
Toaster
Dining
Breakfast available for a fee
Chef service
Dining table
Bedrooms
3 bedrooms
Bedsheets provided
Bathroom
2 bathrooms
Hair dryer
Shower
Soap
Toilet paper
Towels provided
Living spaces
Dining table
Living room
Entertainment
Books
DVD player
Games
Smart TV
Outdoor areas
Barbecue grill
Fenced yard
Garden
Outdoor furniture
Patio
Telescope
Laundry
Laundry facilities
Washing machine
Work spaces
Desk
Desk chair
Comfort
Air conditioning
Heating
Pets
No pets allowed
Suitability/Accessibility
If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
In-room accessibility
Smoke-free property
Services and conveniences
Concierge services
Housekeeping on request
Iron/ironing board
Meal delivery service
Phone
Safe
Location highlights
Near a health/beauty spa
Near the sea
On a river
Things to do
Bodyboard
Golf
Birdwatching nearby
Ecotours nearby
Fishing nearby
Golfing nearby
Hiking/biking trails nearby
Horseback riding nearby
Jet skiing nearby
Kayaking nearby
Motor boating nearby
Mountain biking nearby
Mountain climbing nearby
Parasailing nearby
Rafting nearby
Rock climbing nearby
Sailing nearby
Scuba diving nearby
Snorkelling nearby
Surfing/bodyboarding nearby
Swimming nearby
Whale watching nearby
Wildlife walks nearby
Windsurfing nearby
Safety features
Carbon monoxide detector not reported (host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector)
Smoke detector not reported (host has not indicated whether there is a smoke detector on the property)
You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions
Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools
Pets
Pets not allowed
Children and extra beds
Children are welcome
Events
No events allowed
Smoking
Smoking is not permitted
Important information
You need to know
Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector with you on the trip
Host has not indicated whether there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit and a deadlock
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios and terraces, which may not be suitable for children; if you have any concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm that they can accommodate you in a suitable room
This property is managed through our partner, Vrbo. You will receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account, where you can change or cancel your reservation
We should mention
A car is required for transport to and from this property
About the area
Located in Bahía Ballena, this holiday home is on a river. Marino Ballena National Park and Terraba Sierpe National Wetlands reflect the area's natural beauty and area attractions include Uvita Arts Center and Alturas Wildlife Sanctuary. Discover the area's water adventures with jet skiing and kayaking nearby, or enjoy the great outdoors with hiking and ecotours. Visit our Bahía Ballena travel guide
Does Amazing Whitewater View Of The Ballena Marine Preserve Islands have a pool?
Yes, this property has an outdoor pool. Pool types include infinity pools.
Is Amazing Whitewater View Of The Ballena Marine Preserve Islands pet-friendly?
No, pets are not allowed at this property.
How much is parking at Amazing Whitewater View Of The Ballena Marine Preserve Islands?
On-site parking is available at the property.
What time is check-in at Amazing Whitewater View Of The Ballena Marine Preserve Islands?
Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.
What time is check-out at Amazing Whitewater View Of The Ballena Marine Preserve Islands?
Checkout is at 10:00 AM.
Where is Amazing Whitewater View Of The Ballena Marine Preserve Islands located?
Situated by the sea, this holiday home is within a 10-minute walk of Playa Ballena and Pinuela Beach. Arco Beach and Marino Ballena National Park are also within 2 miles (3 km).
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Amazing Whitewater View Of The Ballena Marine Preserve Islands Reviews
Reviews
Exceptional
All reviews shown are from real guest experiences. Only travellers who have booked a stay with us can submit a review. We verify reviews according to our guidelines and publish all reviews, positive or negative.
We could not have had a better experience. The views are amazing. The care with which the hosts took in preparing, maintaining, and ensuring we had a great stay was phenomenal.
Our stay at Mark and Allyson’s place was fantastic! Well situated with everything we needed. Pool was very nice to have, and the birds in the yard were incredible. We had a daily toucan visit us. Will definitely be back! Loved it.
My family and I spent 5 days at Mark's house. Not only was it a wonderful house but the wealth of information that Mark provided took all of the guesswork out of vacation research. Every recommendation we followed turned out great: David's river tour, Adventuras Bahia, Jungle ATV, and Arcos Beach and the hikes around it to name a few. Mark was incredibly attentive checking in and ready for any question or unexpected event. We wish we could have stayed longer and can't wait to to come back! The house was as beautiful as described and super comfortable.
We spent 2 months and loved it here. It was easy to settle in to the natural beauty surrounding the home and area. Hosts were very accommodating and responsive. Lots to do. Location, the home and the view were all spectacular.
Three weeks flew by at this luxury estate. Mark was a responsive and generous host. The views are spectacular and every detail high end. Definitely want to come back.
We had an exquisite stay in this beautiful home. Our family loved everything about our time in Uvita. The views, the birds, the amenities. Thanks to Mark for taking such good care of us and for being a wonderful and welcoming host. We can’t wait to return. ¡Pura Vida!
Our family has stayed at many properties in the area. This location of this house is what sets it apart for us. We've gone a half hour up the mountain to get to houses, this was 1 minute. There's a little highway noise because of it, but not annoying enough to take away from the close proximity to everything and the amazing view. We would definitely stay here again.
Beautiful place to chill and appreciate nature and friendly locals!
Outstanding property with astonishingly responsive hosts! Mark and Allyson go above and beyond. The road/driveway are unusually easy to navigate, this makes a big difference. Delicious restaurants nearby. Great home base, whether you want a perfect place to relax in, or someplace to sleep in between tour activities. HIGHLY recommend!
This is our second time staying at Mark's house. We had a great time. The house is beautiful, the view is unbelievable. This was the first time we brought our kids to Costa Rica and they loved it. The area was great and everyone loved the pool. But highly recommend the house ❤️❤️❤️🌴🦜
Despite the rain (not to self check the rainy season) we had a wonderful time at Mark and Allyson's stunning house - the view is just divine, the main area was very spacious, there was a great BBQ, Mark was super helpful with tips and suggestions and the array of wildlife literally on your front doorstep was out of this world. Thank you very much for having us.
This home was the perfect place for our vacation! Mark the home owner provides everything you may ever need to know about vacationing in Costa Rica. It made planning our trip so easy. The home is exceptionally clean and comfortable. We loved cooling off in the pool and watching birds from the patio. This home was absolute paradise!
Beautiful home with a spectacular view. Beautiful view from the pool. Saw all kinds of Toucans and birds. Heard the howler monkeys, but they never came to the house. The owner was very helpful in scheduling excursions, etc. I would definitely stay here again.
We had an absolutely unforgettable stay at this stunning villa just south of Uvita. The views of the ocean and surrounding canopy were truly breathtaking—every sunrise and sunset felt like a dream. Hands down, the best beaches we have ever seen were literally just a few min away from this property. The villa itself was beautifully designed, and incredibly comfortable. If you are a bird lover, you will not be disappointed! We experienced seeing more types of amazing birds while just enjoying the veranda in the early morning and the evenings. What really set this experience apart was the host—his local recommendations were spot-on (we didn’t have a single bad meal!), and he was consistently responsive and helpful throughout our stay. If you’re looking for the perfect combination of natural beauty, relaxation, and great hospitality, this is it. We can’t wait to come back!
This was my parents first time to Costa Rica and we wanted them to have a wonderful experience. Ballena did not disappoint. The house was well appointed, clean and spacious... and the views - just amazing. But it was the morning and sunset experiences that made this a great experience. The sounds and sightings from the birds, iguanas, howler monkeys and agotis made it extra special. The sunset views are the best too! We hope to visit again Ballena.
We thoroughly enjoyed our stay! The location could not have been better, easy to get to our favorite beaches, restaurants and groceries. Owners were very responsive and super helpful with booking tours extra. Very well appointed! The pool was a cocktail pool which we weren’t expecting so we didn’t really use much and we didn’t have much hot water. That is not uncommon for the area but if you aren’t used to that just take note. It does take getting used to when everyone is trying to get ready for dinner, etc. For nature, pure beauty and convenience, you can’t go wrong! We had a great time! Pura Vida
This location was exactly what our family needed. The house was beautiful. It had a breathtaking ocean view and the natural wonders of the jungle. We saw toucans, Izzy the resident Iguana and a small tapir. We could hear howler monkeys all around in the mornings. Mark was on the spot communicating with us to make our arrival seamless. Rolando was a huge help checking.
The recommendation provided by Mark were very helpful. The beaches are a short drive from the house. We had a relaxing week and look forward to visiting again. Thank you Mark.
This is one of the best stays we've ever had. The view is spectacular, the grounds are beautiful and Mark is the best host. He has an extensive guidebook for the area and is super informative about the house. We took a few day trips to the beaches and did some fun excursions - boogie boarding, hiking to the whales tail, seeing the animal sanctuary....But we also loved lounging in the pool and watching the beautiful birds come and go. We also saw an iguana in the trees. My family and I highly recommend!!!
Had a stellar vacation at Mark and Allyson’s Jungle house. Woke every day buy 5:30, watched an amazing amount of birds right there! The house is close to everything. The grounds are incredible. Mark was quick to respond. They really do want you to have the best stay ever! We did follow their list of best places to eat as well as things to do in the area. Heads up though, if you are planning to eat in Ojochal, get reservations. Lots of nicks and crannies to discover in the area. The Pacific Ocean was warm and fun. Fishing in the area is excellent. Thank you so much for sharing your home. Would not hesitate to go back. Well done Mark and Allyson!
I'm not sure I can describe how much my husband and I enjoyed our stay! The house is wonderful, all you could possibly need, well stocked kitchen, grill, beach towels and chairs, comfy bed, lush gardens, and an amazing pool. It's the perfect home base for so many activities but you may not want to leave the pool and porch. We loved listening to the birds each morning with coffee and in the evening with a drink. We were amazed by the birds, especially loved seeing the yellow-throated toucan. Mark provides wonderful information on excursions and restaurants. We hope to visit again!
We love this house and location so much!!!! This was our second stay at Mark's house. The first trip it was just my husband and I with our teenage daughter. This trip we included our other college age daughter and both of our mom's. Considering the grandma's are a little less mobile, we spent more time around the house this trip and it was just as nice. The birds and wildlife combined with the iguanas in the tree made every morning magical. We especially enjoyed the sunsets with the amazing view of the Pacific. We will be back!
We spent the week sitting on the patio or soaking in the pool, watching and listening to wildlife, from monkeys and agoutis to toucans, hummingbirds, and all kinds of other exotic and rare birds (you should seriously consider downloading the Merlin Bird ID app!). We watched humpback whales breaching in the sea, enjoyed the company of geckos and basilisks, and were very happy with the level of comfort and privacy. It was quiet but not far from groceries and anything else you want/need while in the country. We've stayed at 7 or 8 villas/houses in Costa Rica, and this is the one we''ll go back to. Everyone was very responsive and made the entire process seamless. We can't recommend this place enough.
This was our second time staying at this fabulous house. It has great views and an infinity pool from which to enjoy them after a day at the beach or exploring the area.
The house is a short drive to a few beaches and great restaurants, supermarkets, etc.
The property manager is nearby. Our flight to CR was delayed by over 24 hours and we got to the house late. The property manager met us at the house and made sure everything was ok.
We had one small problems with the house and he came by to fix it withing a couple of hours.
We hated for this vacation to end!
We couldn't have dreamed that we would love the home and setting as much as we did!!!
Glorious views of the ocean, coast and sunsets. Peaceful, spacious and elegantly appointed home that had all that we needed. Gorgeous, plush garden and yard. Ideal access to great restaurants and stores. Abundance of enchanting bird watching... and the pool was perfect to cool off in after a full day of adventure.
Mark and Allyson were amazing hosts and such a great resource to enhance our experience! They were always available to address questions both prior to and during our stay. Thank you to both!
We have already told all of our friends that if a Costa Rica trip is in their future, this is the absolute best place to stay! Can't wait to return soon!
This property is just as described and reviewed by many others: clean, comfortable, well located and with amazing ocean views.
We were a family of 4; 2 adults and two children.
The pool is small, but clean and perfectly located to enjoy both sun and view. It was truly a must for us!
The beds are comfortable and the AC in the bedrooms is appreciated during warmer nights.
The location is far enough to enjoy privacy, but close enough to town in case you need something quicker.
We saw countless birds including scarlet macaws, green macaws and toucans.
Excellent quality versus price property and we would without a doubt highly consider it again on our next trip to Costa Rica.
Thanks again!