Welcome to Cristal Ballena Boutique Hotel & Spa – Uvita

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From200US$ /night
Check-in
11Mar2026Select date
Check-out
12Mar2026Select date
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room
Key details

About the Hotel

7 Km Al Sur De Uvita, Costa Ballena, Puntarenas,, Uvita, Costa Rica, 00000
-
Close to the beach
Perfect
9.1
9.3
/10
4.4
4.5
/5

Location

Cristal Ballena Boutique Hotel & Spa is situated near Uvita, close to Marino Ballena National Park. This location offers breathtaking ocean views while being nestled between the blue waters of the Pacific and lush rainforest-covered mountains. The proximity to the National Park allows guests to easily access various outdoor and water-based activities.

Amenities

The hotel boasts a large swimming pool with a dedicated Pool-Bar and Restaurant, providing an inviting setting for guests to enjoy refreshments. Guests can explore the park grounds, stroll through manicured tropical gardens, or unwind at the onsite spa. A variety of exciting tour options, including whale watching tours, can be arranged through the hotel.

Rooms

Cristal Ballena offers well-appointed rooms designed to maximize ocean views and comfort. Each room features essential amenities and invites guests to enjoy the tranquility of the surrounding landscape. The hotel's unique hillside location ensures that every guest can experience stunning sunsets from their room.

Dining

Dining at Cristal Ballena revolves around the gourmet restaurant, which serves a variety of local and international dishes. Guests can dine with scenic views that enhance the experience of each meal. In addition, the Pool-Bar offers light snacks and refreshing beverages to enjoy poolside.

Activities

The hotel provides access to numerous activities, including snorkeling, kayaking, and bird watching, appealing to adventure enthusiasts. Whale watching tours are particularly popular during specific seasons, allowing guests to witness marine life up close. Trails around the area can also be explored for a deeper connection with the local biodiversity.

Highlights

Location: Near Marino Ballena National Park .

Dining: Gourmet restaurant on-site .

Activities: Whale watching tours available .

Wellness: Spa services are offered .

Must-do experiences

  • Visit Marino Ballena National Park for incredible whale watching.
  • Explore the beautiful waterfalls at Uvita's Cascada Verde.
  • Savor the local ceviche at Soda La Bodega for a fresh bite.
  • Discover the unique flora at the Uvita Botanical Garden.
  • Shop for crafts at the Uvita Farmers Market every Saturday morning.
View all

Select your room type

Choose from doubles, suites, or family rooms, many with breakfast, flexible cancellation, and promotional rates
Junior Suite
2 persons
540 sq. feet 
2 King Size Beds
Shower
Bathtub
Master Suite
2 persons
970 sq. feet 
2 King Size Beds
Shower
Bathtub
Family Suite
2 persons
810 sq. feet 
2 Single beds
Shower
Bathtub

Price and Room Availability Calendar

Check availability and prices for your dates now!

Facilities

Boutique hotels design their amenities with your relaxation and unique travel experiences in mind
Facilities: Perfect
9.1/10Review score

General

  • Smoking allowed in designated areas
  • Free Wi-Fi in public areas
  • Parking
  • Safe deposit box
  • VIP check-in/ -out
  • No pets allowed
  • Rooms/ Facilities for disabled
  • 24-hour security
  • Luggage storage
  • Currency exchange
  • Hairdresser
  • Smoke detectors
  • Fire extinguishers

Sports & Fitness

  • Diving
  • Snorkelling
  • Canoeing
  • Hiking
  • Horseback riding
  • Billiard tables
  • Darts
  • Fishing

Services

  • Paid airport shuttle
  • Room service
  • Car hire
  • Laundry
  • Tours/Ticket assistance
  • Welcome drink

Dining

  • Restaurant
  • Snack bar
  • Bar/ Lounge area
  • Special diet menus

Business

  • Business centre
  • Meeting/ Banquet facilities
  • Fax/Photocopying

Children

  • Cots
  • Children's buffet
  • Game room

Spa & Leisure

  • Outdoor swimming pool
  • Beach access
  • Beach umbrellas
  • Sun loungers
  • Sun terrace
  • Garden area
  • Spa & wellness centre
  • Pedicure
  • Manicure
  • Waxing
  • Facial
  • Beauty treatment
  • Massage
  • Pool with view

Room features

  • Air conditioning
  • Mini-bar
  • Sitting area
  • Garden furniture
  • Tea and coffee facilities
  • Ironing facilities

Bathroom

  • Free toiletries

Media

  • Flat-screen TV
  • AM/FM alarm clock
Show more

Dining Onsite

Restaurant Pura Vida captivates diners with a delightful blend of Australian, international, and European cuisines, all while surrounded by lush tropical gardens. The welcoming atmosphere is suitable for families and couples alike, with splendid views that mirror the vibrant marine life just beyond its doors.
Cristal Ballena Boutique Hotel & Spa Uvita Restaurant photo
Cristal Ballena Boutique Hotel & Spa Uvita Restaurant photo
Cristal Ballena Boutique Hotel & Spa Uvita Restaurant photo

Restaurant Pura Vida

Australian, International, European
Ambiance
Family-friendly and romantic, set in a lush and vibrant environment where the melodies of local birds enhance the dining experience.
Key Offerings
Signature dishes include dairy-free options, and the enchanting backdrop of nature serves as a wonderful complement to each meal.
Reservation
Recommended.
Hours vary.

Cristal Ballena Boutique Hotel & Spa Location

7 Km Al Sur De Uvita, Costa Ballena, Puntarenas,, Uvita, Costa Rica, 00000
Map view
7 Km Al Sur De Uvita, Costa Ballena, Puntarenas,, Uvita, Costa Rica, 00000
Restaurants
Pura Vida Bar & Restaurant
200 ft
Playa Ballena
Explore Uvita
Local Highlights
Top Attractions
Activities
Dining
Entertainment
Playa Ballena
10-minute drive
Playa Ballena features stunning beaches and is known for its whale watching opportunities and vibrant marine life.
Isla Ballena
10-minute drive
Isla Ballena is a beautiful offshore island perfect for snorkeling, kayaking, and spotting diverse wildlife.
Arco Beach
5-minute drive
Arco Beach offers picturesque views and a tranquil atmosphere, ideal for relaxation and photography.
Pinuela Beach
10-minute drive
Pinuela Beach is known for its golden sands and calm waters, perfect for swimming and beachcombing.
Whale Watching
10-minute drive
Whale watching tours are available from Uvita, showcasing gentle giants during migration season.
Snorkeling Tours
10-minute drive
Snorkeling tours at Isla Ballena offer exciting underwater adventures with colorful marine life.
Bike Rentals
10-minute drive
Bike rentals are accessible nearby, allowing guests to explore scenic routes along the coast.
Yoga Sessions
10-minute drive
Local wellness centers provide yoga classes, offering relaxation amidst nature's beauty.
Pura Vida Bar & Restaurant
5-minute walk
Pura Vida specializes in local and international dishes, with a relaxed vibe and ocean views.
La Costa del Pacífico
10-minute drive
La Costa offers fresh seafood in a casual setting, with an emphasis on local ingredients.
Café y Macadamia
10-minute drive
Café y Macadamia is famous for its locally sourced coffee and homey atmosphere, perfect for breakfast.
Soda De Balls
10-minute drive
Soda De Balls offers traditional Costa Rican cuisine in a charming setting, great for families.
Bar La Diligencia
10-minute drive
Bar La Diligencia features live music performances, offering a lively atmosphere perfect for a night out.
Karaoke Nights at Pura Vida
5-minute walk
Family-friendly karaoke nights at Pura Vida create a fun environment for all ages to enjoy.
Local Craft Markets
10-minute drive
Local craft markets feature handmade goods and cultural crafts, ideal for unique souvenirs.
Movie Nights
10-minute drive
Occasional outdoor movie nights provide enjoyable family-friendly entertainment under the stars.
Getting around
City Centre
Uvita9 min  ·  3.6 mi
Airports
Palmar (PMZ)59 min  ·  24.1 mi
Quepos (XQP)96 min  ·  39.5 mi
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Property information and rules
Check-in
from 14:00-20:00
Check-out
from 07:00-12:00
Guest Parking
Private parking is possible on site for free.
Internet
Wireless internet is available in public areas for free.
Breakfast
At the hotel Cristal Ballena Boutique & Spa guests are invited to a full breakfast served for free. 
Pets
Pets are not allowed.
Languages
German, Spanish
Year renovated:
2012
Number of rooms:
19
Former name
Hotel Resort Cristal Ballena

Reviews and Ratings

Real comments from travelers who have already stayed
Review score
Based on 180 verified reviews
9.0/10
Perfect
94%
Recommend
Breakfast
9.9/10
Cleanliness
9.2/10
Comfort
9.2/10
Facilities
9.1/10
Free Wi-Fi
7.3/10
Location
9.2/10
Paid Wi-Fi
8.7/10
Staff
9.4/10
Value for money
8.5/10
Pros
Ocean views
Spacious rooms
Clean pool
Excellent service
Cons
Noisy air con
Guest reviews
based on 379 reviews
9.1/10
No reviews yet on our siteUnfortunately, our guests have not yet left any reviews for this hotel, but you can read reviews from Booking.com.
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FAQs
About Cristal Ballena Boutique Hotel & Spa
What is the distance from Cristal Ballena Boutique Hotel & Spa to Aeropuerto de Palmar Sur?
Cristal Ballena Boutique Hotel & Spa is located 40 km from Aeropuerto de Palmar Sur, which is approximately a 29-minute drive.
What are the check-in and check-out times at Cristal Ballena Boutique Hotel & Spa?
The check-in time is at 14:00 and check-out is by 12:00.
Is parking available at Cristal Ballena Boutique Hotel & Spa?
Free private parking is available on-site without the need for a reservation.
What type of onsite dining does Cristal Ballena Boutique Hotel & Spa offer?
The Pura Vida bar-restaurant serves Costa Rican and international dishes and offers ocean views.
What amenities are included in the rooms at Cristal Ballena Boutique Hotel & Spa?
Each room features air conditioning, a minibar, a coffee maker, satellite TV, and a balcony.
What recreational activities does Cristal Ballena Boutique Hotel & Spa offer?
Guests can enjoy activities such as diving, hiking, fishing, and water sports.
What services are available at the on-site spa of Cristal Ballena Boutique Hotel & Spa?
The spa offers a variety of treatments including massages, facials, manicures, and pedicures.
Is there a swimming pool at Cristal Ballena Boutique Hotel & Spa?
Yes, there is an outdoor swimming pool with ocean views that is open all year.
What dining options are available for breakfast at Cristal Ballena Boutique Hotel & Spa?
A varied buffet breakfast, which includes fresh-baked bread and fruits, is available for an additional charge of 8 USD.
Which nearby attractions are accessible from Cristal Ballena Boutique Hotel & Spa?
Nearby attractions include Marino Ballena National Park and Uvita Beach, both within a short walk from the hotel.
What languages are spoken by the staff at Cristal Ballena Boutique Hotel & Spa?
The staff is bilingual, speaking both English and Spanish.
Does Cristal Ballena Boutique Hotel & Spa offer any special experiences for nature lovers?
The hotel features a private rainforest hiking trail that allows guests to observe local wildlife.
What are the additional costs associated with airport transfers at Cristal Ballena Boutique Hotel & Spa?
Airport shuttle services, including pick-up and drop-off, are available for a paid fee.

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Check-in
11Mar2026Select date
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Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room