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Costa Rica Region

South Pacific

Whales & Waterfalls

CouplesWhale enthusiastsLuxury seekersThose avoiding crowds

About South Pacific

The South Pacific coast from Uvita to Dominical offers a perfect blend of dramatic landscapes, world-class whale watching, and some of Costa Rica's most exclusive jungle retreats. The famous "whale's tail" sandbar at Marino Ballena National Park is just the beginning of this under-the-radar region.

Highlights

  • Humpback whale watching (July-Nov, Dec-March)
  • Marino Ballena National Park - whale tail sandbar
  • Nauyaca Waterfalls - one of Costa Rica's most beautiful
  • Exclusive jungle lodges
  • Uncrowded beaches

Wildlife to Spot

Humpback WhalesBottlenose DolphinsScarlet MacawsToucansSloths

Best Time to Visit

July-November and December-March for whale watching. Year-round for waterfalls and beaches.

Getting There

3.5-hour drive from San José or fly to Palmar Sur.

Plan Your South Pacific Trip
Where to Stay

Curated Eco-Lodges

View All Partners
Boutique Hotel$$$$$

Kura Boutique Hotel

Adults-only infinity luxury perched above the coastline with panoramic ocean and jungle views. Personalized service and exceptional dining.

Adults-onlyInfinity poolPanoramic viewsPersonalized service
Boutique LuxurySustainable Practices
Wellness Resort$$$$

Rancho Pacifico

Adults-only luxury resort with full spa, fine dining, and easy access to national parks and waterfalls.

Full-service spaFine diningAdults-onlyAdventure access
CST Certified
Things to Do

Experiences in South Pacific

Humpback Whale Watching

Boat excursion to see migrating humpbacks. Costa Rica sees whales from both hemispheres!

4 hoursEasy

Nauyaca Waterfalls

Horseback or hiking trip to spectacular twin waterfalls with swimming hole.

Half dayModerate

Whale Tail Snorkel

Snorkel around the famous whale tail sandbar at Marino Ballena.

3 hoursEasy

Jungle Night Tour

Discover nocturnal wildlife in the dense jungle surrounding your lodge.

2 hoursEasy
Sample Itinerary

South Pacific Whales & Waterfalls

Experience Costa Rica's most exclusive coastline.

4 Days
South Pacific

This is a sample itinerary to inspire your journey. Our experts can customize every detail based on your interests, pace, and travel style.

Customize This Itinerary
1

Arrival

  • •Transfer to lodge
  • •Infinity pool relaxation
  • •Sunset dinner
2

Whale Watching

  • •Morning whale watching expedition
  • •Beach lunch
  • •Afternoon spa
  • •Night walk
3

Waterfalls & Adventure

  • •Horseback to Nauyaca Falls
  • •Waterfall swimming
  • •Sunset whale tail walk
4

Departure

  • •Morning yoga
  • •Final beach time
  • •Transfer out

Ready to Experience South Pacific?

Let our Costa Rica specialists help you plan the perfect itinerary based on your interests, timeline, and travel style.

Start Planning Your Trip