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The Best Waterfalls in Costa Rica to Add to Your Dream Itinerary!
Carolin
9. July 2025
The Best Waterfalls in Costa Rica to Add to Your Dream Itinerary! Table of Contents There’s something magical about standing in front of a waterfall
Whale watching is one of those unforgettable experiences that draws nature lovers from all over the world. But, as with every great adventure, timing really matters.
Costa Rica is lucky to welcome whales from both hemispheres, which means you can see them during several months of the year. In this article, we’ll break down the best time for whale watching in Costa Rica, the best places to go, and what to expect on a tour.
Whether you’re traveling solo, with family, or looking for a romantic escape, let’s make sure your whale-watching trip is what you dream of!
Absolutely! Costa Rica is one of the best whale-watching destinations in the world. The country’s rich biodiversity, warm tropical waters, and privileged location make it a top spot for seeing marine life.
On Costa Rica’s Pacific coast, you can see humpback whales during two separate migration seasons, making it the country with the longest humpback whale watching season in the world.
If you thought whale watching in Costa Rica was just about humpbacks, think again! While humpback whales are definitely the main attraction, they’re not the only ones swimming through these tropical waters. Depending on the season and where you go, you might also spot other species.
Let’s take a closer look!
These are the stars of Costa Rica’s whale watching scene. During your visit, you might spot humpback whales from both the Northern and Southern Hemispheres. They’re most commonly seen between late July and October and between late December and February.
How will you know it’s them? Look for their massive size, long pectoral fins, and those spectacular acrobatic breaches! And don’t worry, if you’re on a tour, your guide will point them out and share fun facts along the way.
Pilot whales are the second-largest species of dolphin. They have stocky, dark-colored bodies, bulbous foreheads, and short, rounded fins, which make them pretty easy to spot once you know what to look for. They usually travel in tight-knit groups, often surfacing together in smooth, coordinated movements.
You’ll most likely see them on the Pacific coast, especially in deeper waters. While they’re not as common as humpbacks, watching them glide through the waves is an incredible sight.
Orcas, also known as killer whales, are striking black-and-white marine mammals that stand out instantly if you’re lucky enough to see one.
These magnificent creatures have a tall, triangular dorsal fin, a shiny black back, and white patches near their eyes and belly. These powerful predators aren’t commonly seen in Costa Rica, but they do occasionally pass through the Pacific waters, especially in more remote areas. While rare, spotting an orca feels like a once-in-a-lifetime surprise, and your guide will definitely make sure you don’t miss it.
As we mentioned at the beginning, timing is everything when planning your whale-spotting adventure. But one of the best reasons to come to Costa Rica to watch whales is that it is the country with the longest humpback whale season in the world. Costa Rica welcomes majestic whales from both the Northern and Southern Hemispheres, migrating at different times of the year.
Don’t let the word “rainy” scare you off; this season is actually the best time to spot whales, as the Southern Hemisphere humpbacks visit us, which is the biggest group in terms of population (and size). The landscapes are lush and green, wildlife is active, and you’ll find fewer crowds compared to the dry season. While rain is common, especially in the afternoons, most whale-watching tours take place in the early mornings, when conditions are calmer and the weather is more predictable.
This is also the best time to witness mother whales with their calves, as many come to Costa Rica’s coastal areas to give birth to their baby whales.
Insider tip: Southern humpbacks can be seen from late July to October, with August and September being peak months where daily sightings in Uvita are almost guaranteed.
The dry season is also a great time to go whale watching. This is when Northern Hemisphere humpback whales make their way to Costa Rica’s warm waters. Tours tend to be more comfortable during this time, with less rain, better visibility, and easier travel conditions overall.
Keep in mind, though, that the population of Northern humpbacks is smaller, so there aren’t as many sightings as in rainy season. It is also the high season for tourism, so tours can be more expensive, and spots fill up quickly. So, it’s best to book early.
Insider tip: Northern humpbacks are usually seen from late December through February/March.
Costa Rica offers plenty of amazing spots for whale watching, including popular national parks and quieter beach towns.
Here’s a closer look at the best places to plan your tour:
Located on the Southern Pacific coast, Uvita is home to Marino Ballena National Park, named after the famous Whale Tail sandbar formation, and known as the best place for whale watching in Costa Rica.
This protected area welcomes Southern humpback whales, especially from mid-July to October when they come to Costa Rican waters to mate and give birth. However, you can also see them from late December to the end of February when they migrate from the Northern Hemisphere.
Uvita is also known for the Whale and Dolphin Festival in September, for offering the chance to see dolphins and sea turtles along the way and for its beautiful coastline and rock formations. Don’t miss our whale and dolphin watching tour in Uvita!
For a wilder, more remote whale watching experience, Drake Bay on the Osa Peninsula is the place to go. It’s part of a region known for its untouched nature and rich marine life. Tours here often head into deeper waters, which means you may spot not just humpbacks but also pilot whales and mega pods of dolphins.
Located on the Nicoya Peninsula, Sámara and nearby Puerto Carrillo offer calmer waters and fewer crowds, making them a great choice for families or first-time whale watchers. Here, you can see bottlenose dolphins and spotted dolphins almost all year round. But that’s not all; the waters in the area also serve as a migration route for humpback whales between August and November. Don’t miss the chance to watch whales in Samara in early January.
Golfo Dulce is a peaceful location for Southern Humpback whales, especially mothers and their calves. The gulf’s calm, protected waters make it an ideal nursery, offering a rare chance to observe whales gently surfacing and swimming close to shore. It’s a perfect spot if you’re looking for a more intimate, nature-immersed experience far from the bigger tourist hubs.
While Tamarindo is better known for surfing and sunsets, it’s still possible to see humpback whales and dolphins during the right season, especially if you’re visiting between August and September.
There are no specific whale watching tours, but you can take a snorkeling or catamaran tour, giving you a mix of wildlife, fun, and great views of the coastline. And, with a little bit of luck, the chance to see a humpback whale.
In the northwest Pacific, Papagayo Gulf offers scenic boat tours with occasional whale sightings, especially during the Southern migration season (July to October). You’re also likely to see spinner dolphins and sometimes even pilot whales.
While sightings may be less frequent than on the South Pacific coast, the calm waters and luxury resorts nearby make it an accessible and comfortable option for travelers.
Whale watching at Manuel Antonio is best during August and September when Southern humpbacks are active along the coast. Tours are often part of a larger marine experience, with chances to see dolphins, sea turtles, and even snorkeling spots around the park’s coastline. For better chances to see the humpbacks you can go from here to Uvita (a one hour drive) and take the tour in the Marino Ballena National Park. Some providers also offer transportation from Manuel Antonio.
Whale watching tours in Costa Rica are exciting. Most of the time, they last around 2 to 3 hours, depending on the location and weather. Tours typically leave in the morning, especially during the rainy season, since conditions tend to be calmer and visibility is better early in the day.
You’ll usually meet at a local dock or beach, and transportation is sometimes included from nearby hotels or town centers. Boats vary in size, from small group vessels to larger catamarans, but all are equipped with safety gear, life vests, and usually a bilingual guide who knows exactly what to look for.
While humpback whales are the main highlight, you’re likely to see other marine life, like dolphins, sea turtles, seabirds, or even rays gliding beneath the surface.
Being prepared can make a big difference in how much you enjoy your whale and dolphin watching tour. Since tours often take place early in the morning and involve boat rides, it’s best to dress comfortably and pack a few essentials to stay dry, safe, and ready for wildlife sightings.
Here’s what to bring:
Watching a whale breach just a few meters from your boat is something you’ll never forget, and Costa Rica is one of the best places in the world to experience it. Whether you’re visiting during the dry or rainy season, traveling as a couple, with family, or on your own, we’re here to help you make the most of your trip.
Contact our team today and let us help you choose the best time for whale watching in Costa Rica to make your adventure remarkable!
Normally not all year round, but thanks to migrations from both hemispheres, you can spot whales in Costa Rica during most months of the year, especially between July–October and December–April.
No, swimming with whales is not allowed in Costa Rica. It’s important to protect the animals and follow responsible wildlife tourism practices.
The Pacific coast is the best for whale watching in Costa Rica, especially areas like Uvita, Drake Bay, and Golfo Dulce, where humpbacks are regularly seen.
It’s highly recommended, especially during peak months. Booking ahead ensures your spot and gives you more options for reputable, small-group tours.
Yes! Whale watching tours are very family-friendly. Boats are equipped with safety gear, and guides are trained to ensure a safe, comfortable experience for all ages.
Many questions such as “What do I need to enter the country” arise during the travel planning. We answer these questions for you.
Which places and regions are worth visiting? We have compiled the “places to be” for you. Visit beaches, volcanoes and towns.
In Costa Rica there are a variety of national parks – both on land and in the sea with a unique underwater world. Inform yourself.
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