A private full-day boat trip from San José to Marino Ballena National Park that targets humpback whales, dolphins and sea turtles, with an optional low-tide walk on the Whale’s Tail. Expect guided interpretation, crocodile viewing at Tárcoles Bridge, and a conservation-minded approach to wildlife encounters.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Morning light slides across the Pacific as your private skipper cuts through glassy water, and the coastline of Marino Ballena unfurls: black sand, rocky headlands, and the famous Whale’s Tail sandbar that appears only when the tide allows.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
10–12 hours
Fitness Level
Light fitness required; able to sit and stand during a multi-hour boat ride and handle short walks on uneven sand and rocks.
Wildlife
History
Marino Ballena National Park protects the Whale’s Tail sandbar and adjacent marine habitats; it was created to conserve migratory whales, coral and coastal ecosystems along Costa Rica’s southern Pacific.
Conservation
Local operators follow park rules to minimize disturbance—maintain distance from wildlife, avoid feeding or chasing animals, and pack out all trash to protect sensitive marine habitats.
Reserve your spot on the Experience a Private Whale Watching Tour in Uvita from San José today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Expect a long day
Pickup from San José turns this into a 10–12 hour outing—plan transportation, snacks, and a light change of clothes.
Watch tide times for Whale’s Tail
The sandbar is visible only at low tide—confirm local tide charts with the operator if the sandbar walk matters to you.
Prepare for seasickness
Bring motion-sickness medication or acupressure bands if you’re prone; ocean conditions can shift quickly.
Use reef-safe sunscreen
Protect marine life—choose biodegradable sunscreen and avoid single-use plastics on board.
Reef-safe sunscreen
Protects skin in strong tropical sun while minimizing harm to marine ecosystems.
Motion-sickness medication or bands
Useful for choppy seas or if you’re prone to nausea during longer boat rides.
Binoculars and a telephoto lens
Increases your chance of detailed sightings and better photos of distant whales and dolphins.
Light rain jacket
Costa Rica’s weather can shift—bring a lightweight shell for wind or brief showers.