Search Ballena hotels

Top reasons to visit Ballena

• Stunning Beaches: Ballena boasts beautiful beaches like Playa Cat and Elba Costa Ballena, perfect for sunbathing and relaxation.
• Outdoor Adventures: Enjoy thrilling activities such as ziplining through lush landscapes and playing beach volleyball.
• Golfing Opportunities: Tee off at the scenic Costaballena Golf Course, providing a great experience for golf enthusiasts.
• Ecotourism Experience: Embrace the natural beauty and warm hospitality of friendly locals in this hidden gem.
• Diverse Accommodations: Choose from charming bed and breakfasts to luxurious beachfront resorts for a perfect stay.

Find great hotels in Ballena

Discover a range of inviting accommodations in Ballena, Puntarenas, perfect for your adventure-filled getaway. From charming bed and breakfasts to comfortable beachfront resorts, the area boasts options like the Costa Ballena Hotel and Barceló Costa Ballena Hotel. Whether you're after family-friendly facilities or a relaxing beach experience, you'll find the best hotels here to make your Costa Rican holiday unforgettable.

• Oxygen Jungle Villas & Spa: Nestled in the lush surroundings of Ballena, Oxygen Jungle Villas & Spa is a luxurious 4.5-star resort that promises an adventurous and rejuvenating escape. This property is perfect for travellers seeking a blend of luxury and outdoor excitement. With a range of adventure sports available, including kayaking, ziplining, and rafting, guests can explore the beautiful natural landscape. After a day of adventure, unwind in the full-service spa offering in-room massages, manicures, and outdoor pool relaxation.
• Cristal Ballena Boutique Hotel & Spa: A charming 3-star resort, Cristal Ballena Boutique Hotel & Spa is ideal for those looking for a mix of adventure, business, and beach experiences. This hotel boasts direct beach access, allowing for a perfect blend of relaxation and activity. Business travellers will appreciate the on-site meeting rooms and conference spaces. Enjoy thrilling activities like surfing and horse riding nearby, and return to the hotel to relax in comfort and style.
• Golden Pineapple Villas: Golden Pineapple Villas is a romantic 4-star hotel, perfect for couples looking for a nature-themed escape. Set in the picturesque Ballena area, this property offers romance packages and intimate dining experiences delivered via room service. Guests can indulge in spa treatments and enjoy the outdoor pool, equipped with pool umbrellas and a poolside bar, making it an ideal spot for relaxation. The tranquil atmosphere and beautiful surroundings make this hotel a perfect choice for a romantic getaway.

Where to stay in and around Ballena

Ballena, Costa Rica, is a hidden gem for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike. With its stunning beaches like Playa Cat and Playa de Costa, you can soak up the sun while enjoying a relaxed atmosphere. The nearby Cádiz Coast offers luxurious beachfront options, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration. Embrace the ecotourism vibe and warm hospitality of friendly locals as you discover the natural beauty that surrounds Ballena.

• Uvita: Nestled in the picturesque area of Ballena, Uvita is a charming village that serves as a gateway to stunning outdoor adventures. Known for its beautiful beaches and the nearby Marino Ballena National Park, visitors flock here for activities like whale watching and snorkelling. While traveller arrivals peak from January to March, Uvita maintains a steady allure throughout the year. Enjoy the vibrant local scene with its array of resorts and recreational areas, perfect for soaking up the sun or exploring lush landscapes. The scenic views and laid-back atmosphere make Uvita a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
• Dominical: Located within the Ballena region, Dominical is renowned for its surf culture and breathtaking coastal scenery. This village attracts a moderate flow of tourists, especially between January and March, drawn by the promise of outdoor fun and adventure. Dominical is home to pristine beaches and lush national parks, creating an ideal playground for water sports, hiking, and wildlife spotting. The local vibe is relaxed yet vibrant, with plenty of resorts and recreational options to enhance your stay. Whether you’re riding the waves or enjoying a sunset stroll along the shore, Dominical offers an unforgettable experience.
• Ojochal: Just a short drive from Ballena, Ojochal is a delightful village known for its stunning natural beauty and tranquil atmosphere. With a peak in visitor numbers from January to March, this serene destination is perfect for those seeking outdoor adventures and scenic exploration. Ojochal boasts access to beautiful beaches and national parks, along with a variety of resorts that cater to all types of travellers. Indulge in the local dining scene featuring diverse flavours, or embark on an adventurous hike through lush rainforest. Ojochal is the perfect blend of relaxation and excitement, making it a hidden gem worth exploring.

Things to do in and around Ballena

Ballena offers an exciting blend of outdoor adventures and stunning scenery, making it a perfect vacation spot. Visitors can enjoy various activities such as ziplining through lush landscapes, relaxing at resorts, and engaging in sports like beach volleyball and tennis. For those keen on golf, there are courses available, ensuring a fun-filled holiday experience for all. Whether you're seeking thrills or relaxation, Ballena has something special to offer every traveller.

Shopping

In Ballena, you can find local shops offering unique souvenirs and gifts. For a larger selection, if you're up for a drive, head to San Isidro de El General, about 32.2km away, where you’ll discover vibrant markets and shopping centres featuring a mix of local crafts and international brands.

Recreation

In Ballena, the Anamaya Resort offers holistic wellness retreats with yoga classes and organic meals amidst lush surroundings. Experience rejuvenation at the Oxygen Jungle Villas' spa, featuring soothing treatments and panoramic views of the jungle, perfect for relaxation and connection with nature.

Adventure

Experience the thrill of ziplining at Hacienda Baru, an exhilarating ropes course set in the lush landscapes of Ballena. For a unique water adventure, try Stand Up Paddle Boarding, a fun way to explore coastal waters. Don't miss the stunning scenery on the hiking trails at Drake Bay, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.

Nightlife

The nightlife in Ballena is laid-back yet vibrant, with the Alexander Skutch Bird Sanctuary offering unique evening activities. Just 25.7km from Ballena, it’s a perfect spot for nature lovers to enjoy a serene atmosphere under the stars while soaking in the local wildlife.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Ballena

Ballena is budget-friendly with free entry to attractions like Catarata Uvita, Arco Beach, and Tortuga Beach. For transport, consider using the local bus or driving, as these options are economical. The best time to visit is from August to October for lower accommodation rates. Booking a month in advance usually yields the best deals, while Saturday stays are cheapest. Use Expedia to search for last-minute deals and package savings on flights and activities, and keep an eye out for genius discounts at local hotels for even more savings.

• 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 preferred hotel style. To discover the best prices and offers, be sure to sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save some cash by bundling your Ballena hotel booking with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.

Find the best attractions in and around Ballena

Ballena, in Puntarenas Province, is perfect for outdoor and adventure lovers seeking stunning scenery. Explore beautiful beaches, such as Ballena Beach and Elba Costa Ballena, or enjoy a round of golf at the Costaballena Golf Course. With its impressive waterfalls and national parks nearby, Ballena offers myriad activities for those keen on beachside relaxation and thrilling experiences alike.

• Uvita Beach: A stunning stretch of sand located 4.8km from Ballena, Uvita Beach offers a laid-back atmosphere perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and soaking up the tropical vibes. Enjoy the scenic beauty and relax to the sound of the waves lapping the shore.
• Marino Ballena National Park: Just 8.0km away, this national park is a paradise for adventure seekers. Explore lush landscapes, spot diverse wildlife, and enjoy breathtaking coastal scenery. It's ideal for hiking, snorkelling, and experiencing the stunning marine life.
• Catarata Uvita: Nestled within Ballena, this enchanting waterfall is a romantic escape surrounded by nature. Enjoy a refreshing swim in the natural pool or take a picturesque hike to the falls, making it a perfect spot for adventure and relaxation.

Best time to go to Ballena

The best time to visit Ballena can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Ballena falls in April, when visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with frequent rain. The coolest average temperature in Ballena falls in November and December. December has average visitor numbers and mostly cloudy weather.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	68.0°F (20.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately High	Average
February	68.9°F (20.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Average
March	69.4°F (20.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Slightly High
April	69.8°F (21.0°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly High
May	68.7°F (20.4°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
June	68.4°F (20.2°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately Low	Average
July	68.0°F (20.0°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
August	68.2°F (20.1°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
September	68.2°F (20.1°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately Low	Slightly Low
October	67.6°F (19.8°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately Low	Slightly Low
November	67.5°F (19.7°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
December	67.5°F (19.7°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly High

The nearest major airports for your trip to Ballena

To reach Ballena, you can fly into three major airports. Quepos Airport (XQP) is 59.5km away, with nearby hotels such as Makanda by the Sea, Gaia Hotel and Reserve, and Shana by the Beach offering various transportation services like 24-hour airport shuttles. Puerto Jiménez Airport (PJM), located 77.2km from Ballena, features hotels like Botanika Osa Peninsula and Lapa Rios Lodge, both providing free and paid shuttle options. Golfito Airport (GLF) is also 77.2km away, with accommodations such as Playa Cativo Lodge and Hotel Casa Roland, offering convenient access to the airport. Each hotel provides various transport services to ensure a smooth arrival.