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LOCATION
Ballena National park is located on the
central Pacific side of Costa
Rica south of Dominical, which is south of Manuel Antonio park.
The area has become very popular since the Costera Sur highway
connected it to other areas along the Pacific coastline. The 1
1/2 hour trip from Quepos to Dominical just north of Costera Sur is
still unpaved and quite rough but roads all the way from San Jose are
good otherwise.
WHAT TO DO
Ballena means 'whale' in Spanish. The
park features whale and dolphin activity especially from December
through April each year as mating season occurs. Between May and
November Olive ridley and hawksbill turtles nest here. Green
marine iguana are common as they feed on algae and bask in the sun.
Ballena National park has the largest coral
reef on the Pacific side of Costa Rica. Snorkeling is great at low
tide and beach combing and exploring is really fun.
Ballena and Las Tres Hermanas (three
sisters) are neighboring islands offering dive trips for underwater
enjoyment.
CAMPING & BEACHES
Punta Uvita is a tombolo (narrow sandbar
connecting the shoreline to an island) of golden sand offering a
secluded beach vacation for those interested in beach combing and
exploring. Camping is allowed on the beaches in Ballena National park (locals do all the
time) but no amenities are available. Drinking water is available
at the ranger station.
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