Travelers familiar with southern Costa Rica have likely noticed the rapid growth of Uvita, a small coastal town that has transformed dramatically since the early 2010s. Many say Uvita has been the fastest-growing town in the country over the last decades. Tucked along the beautiful Ballena Coast, it’s become a thriving hub for expats, tourists, and businesses catering to the area’s rising popularity.
We pass through Uvita often on our way to Casa Roja, and while we’ve enjoyed watching it grow — and especially enjoy the dining options and having a cold beer at Whale Tail Brewery — we usually don’t recommend it as a stop for our guests. Unlike some of Costa Rica’s more walkable beach towns, Uvita’s layout makes it tough to explore on foot. The town is spread out along the highway, and getting to the beaches or restaurants often requires a car, bike, or ATV. If you’re coming just for a quick stop, you might not get to fully enjoy what the area has to offer.
That said, if you’re interested in visiting Marino Ballena National Park — especially at low tide when the iconic Whale Tail sandbar is visible — it can be worth spending a night or two. With a little more time, you can rent bikes or an ATV and explore the surroundings at your own pace. The park itself is a beautiful stretch of protected coastline, home to abundant marine life and a great place for a long beach walk.
For those looking for something more upscale, the mountains above Uvita are home to a number of five-star resorts, many with panoramic ocean views, spa experiences, and yoga retreats. Quite a few of our Casa Roja guests have extended their stay in Costa Rica by booking a few relaxing days at one of these hilltop escapes. It’s a great way to wind down after your time at the lodge, enjoying cooler mountain breezes and world-class amenities before heading home.
While Uvita has certainly earned its reputation as one of Costa Rica’s fastest-growing destinations, for our Casa Roja guests, it’s usually more of a place to pass through than a planned stop — unless you’re looking for that luxury mountain experience or have time to properly explore the park and the surrounding area.
