Ballena National Marine Park

Ballena National Marine Park, established in 1989, is located on the southern Pacific coast of Costa Rica in Puntarenas Province. This protected marine area spans both coastal and offshore waters, encompassing coral reefs, sandy beaches, rocky coves, and the distinctive whale-tail shaped sandbar that gave the park its name. The park's geography features a combination of submerged reefs, calm bays, and open ocean, fostering diverse habitats that support an abundance of marine wildlife. It is well-known as a critical breeding and feeding ground for humpback whales, manta rays, dolphins, sea turtles, and numerous tropical fish species. The park’s coastal forest and mangroves also support terrestrial and avian wildlife, including howler monkeys, toucans, and a variety of shorebirds. Visitors are drawn to the park for its year-round marine mammal sightings, vibrant snorkeling and scuba diving sites, and its secluded beaches ideal for relaxation and nature observation. Ballena’s underwater ecosystems are recognized for their biodiversity and clear waters, making it one of Costa Rica’s premier locations for marine recreation and research. The park's cultural significance includes local fishing communities who rely on sustainable practices to maintain the marine resources. In addition to ecotourism, the park plays an important role in conservation education and scientific monitoring to protect marine life in this biodiverse region.