Cristal Ballena Boutique Hotel & Spa Uvita Exterior photoCristal Ballena Boutique Hotel & Spa Uvita Exterior photoCristal Ballena Boutique Hotel & Spa Uvita Exterior photo
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Check rooms and rates
From200US$ /night
Check-in
19May2026Select date
Check-out
20May2026Select date
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room
Key details

About the Hotel

Uvita, Costa Ballena, Uvita, Costa Rica, 00000
-
Close to Playa Ballena
Perfect
9.1
9.3
/10
4.2
4.5
/5

Cristal Ballena Boutique Hotel & Spa - A Mediterranean-style four-star hotel with rainforest and ocean views, near Ballena Marine National Park

Perched on a rainforest-covered hill overlooking Ballena Marine National Park, Cristal Ballena Boutique Hotel & Spa features air-conditioned Mediterranean-style suites with balconies, ocean views, satellite TV, minibars, and hydromassage showers. The onsite Pura Vida restaurant serves breakfast amidst the sounds of local wildlife like clay-colored robins and parrots. Guests can explore the Jungle Trail to observe howler monkeys, coatis, and tropical birds, or walk to the nearby Whale's Tail-a sandy isthmus forming a natural whale-tail-shaped bay at low tide. Whale-watching tours, snorkeling, kayaking, and horseback riding are available through Cristal Ballena, which is 40 km from Palmar Sur Airport.

Pros

- The hotel offers direct access to Ballena Marine National Park, a key humpback whale breeding site.

- Spacious rooms include balconies with ocean views and hydromassage showers.

- Bird-watching and wildlife spotting opportunities abound on the Jungle Trail.

- Whale-watching and snorkeling tours depart from nearby Uvita Beach.

Cons

- The remote hilltop location may require transportation for exploring beyond the hotel.

- No direct beachfront access; Playa Ballena is a short drive or walk away.

Must-do experiences

  • Take a guided whale watching tour from Uvita beach-truly unforgettable.
  • Visit the Marino Ballena National Park at sunset for stunning views.
  • Try a traditional casado at Sabor Tico for an authentic local meal.
  • Explore the waterfalls at Nauyaca-perfect for a refreshing swim.
  • Don't miss the Uvita local market on Saturdays for fresh produce.
View all

Select your room type

Find detailed information on rooms, amenities, and exclusive deals for your ideal beach holiday
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

Prices and availability

View real-time room availability and secure the best rate for your travel dates

Facilities

Enjoy modern comforts, from ocean-view suites to family-friendly options with breakfast included
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

At Cristal Ballena Boutique Hotel & Spa, dining takes on a unique flair at Restaurant Pura Vida. Set against the backdrop of the island's stunning landscapes, it offers a delightful blend of Australian, international, and European cuisines, all served with a touch of authenticity. This family-friendly venue invites guests to indulge in meals that celebrate both tradition and modern tastes.
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

A fusion of Australian, international, and European dishes.
Ambiance
A warm and inviting atmosphere with options for family gatherings, romantic dinners, or casual get-togethers, complemented by the soothing sounds of nature.
Key Offerings
The restaurant dishes up delightful meals that cater to various dietary preferences, including dairy-free options. Enjoy dining to the melodious songs of clay-colored robins while being entertained by the whimsical flight of parrots overhead.
Reservation
Not needed.
Hours vary.

Cristal Ballena Boutique Hotel & Spa Location

Uvita, Costa Ballena, Uvita, Costa Rica, 00000
Map view
Uvita, Costa Ballena, Uvita, Costa Rica, 00000
Restaurants
Pura Vida Bar & Restaurant
200 ft
Playa Ballena
Explore Uvita
Explore Uvita
Top Attractions
Activities
Dining
Entertainment
Arco Beach
25 minutes walking
Arco Beach features stunning rock formations and clear waters, ideal for swimming and relaxing amid breathtaking scenery.
Playa Ballena
30 minutes walking
Playa Ballena offers pristine sands and gentle waves, a perfect spot for enjoying sunbathing and beachcombing.
Pinuela Beach
30 minutes walking
Pinuela Beach is a quiet escape popular for enjoying peaceful strolls and snorkeling in its unique marine biodiversity.
Paddle Boarding
10 minutes driving
Paddle boarding at Paddle 9 offers stunning ocean views, rentals available, suitable for all skill levels.
Yoga Classes
5 minutes driving
Yoga classes nearby provide a serene environment to unwind and recharge, promoting relaxation and wellness.
Pura Vida Bar & Restaurant
5 minutes walking
Pura Vida offers a vibrant atmosphere with a menu rich in local seafood and tropical cocktails. Vegetarian options available.
Vista Ballena
10 minutes driving
Vista Ballena provides fine dining with ocean views, specializing in gourmet international dishes and fresh local ingredients.
Mango's Nightclub
10 minutes driving
Mango's Nightclub features vibrant nightlife with DJs and dancing, offering a lively place for fun and socializing.
Uvita Market
10 minutes driving
Uvita Market is a family-friendly event with local crafts, produce, and live music, making it a perfect outing on weekends.
How to get around?
City Centre
Uvita9 min  ·  3.6 mi
Airports
Aeropuerto de Palmar Sur (PMZ)59 min  ·  24.1 mi
Aeropuerto La Managua (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

Feedback about Cristal Ballena Boutique Hotel & Spa from previous guests about their experience.
Review score
Based on 195 verified reviews
9.1/10
Perfect
94%
Recommend
Breakfast
9.9/10
Cleanliness
9.4/10
Comfort
9.4/10
Facilities
9.1/10
Free Wi-Fi
7.5/10
Location
9.3/10
Paid Wi-Fi
8.7/10
Staff
9.5/10
Value for money
8.6/10
Pros
Spacious rooms
Heated pool
Helpful staff
Cons
Noisy air conditioning
Expensive drinks
Guest reviews
based on 376 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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