The Whale Marine National Park gets its name from the scores of Humpback Whales that gather here from December to April every year to mate. Located about 120 miles South West of San Jose, it is one of the less visited national parks in Costa Rica and if you want real peace and quiet, then this is the place to be.
To reach the Whale Marine National Park in Costa Rica, you need to drive South on the Interamerican Highway for 81 miles until you reach San Isidro. From San Isidro, you need to turn South West for 16 miles to Dominical. From Dominical, you need to drive 10 miles South East to reach Uvita. Another way to reach is by driving about 35 miles on Highway 34 from Quepos or Manuel Antonio towards Palmar. The nearest airports to the Whale Marine National Park are Quepos on the North and Palmar to the South.
The Whale Marine National Park was established in 1990 and the main attractions are Playas Uvita and Ballena beaches. These beaches are relatively empty and have stretches of white and golden sand. Mangrove habitats can be found between the two beaches. The normal fee for the park is USD 7, but that is rarely collected. Once you reach here, you can stay in one of the many cabins between Uvita and Pinuela on Highway 34. You can also camp on the beaches but there are no amenities available. You can also visit the triangle of islands called Las Tres Hermanas or Three Sisters that form part of the largest coral reef of the Pacific Coast.
The best time to visit the Whale Marine National Park is between November to April when you can see Humpback Whales, Green Marine Iguanas, Dolphins, Hawksbill and Olive Ridley Turtles and many species of birds and fish. You also get to see corals, sponges and other sea animals and plants. You can also explore the mangrove habitats.
Among popular activities are snorkeling and beach combing. There is scope of availing guided tours in the region and sun bathing and dining out in the village of Dominical.
