🌴 Costa Ballena, Costa Rica: Scouting Trip Guide

Costa Ballena—stretching across Dominical, Uvita, and Ojochal—is one of Costa Rica’s most stunning coastal regions. Just 3–4 hours from San José by car, this stretch of the southern Pacific is famous for its wild beauty, lush jungle-covered mountains, and quieter lifestyle compared to busier beach towns. For expats, Costa Ballena offers a balance of small-town living, strong expat networks, and world-class natural surroundings.

If you’re looking for tranquility, nature, and a slower pace of life, this may be your spot. Don’t expect high-rise condos or all-night clubs—you’ll find waterfalls, yoga studios, organic markets, and community gatherings instead.

✅ Costa Ballena Scouting Trip Checklist (3–5 Days)

Here’s what to focus on while exploring Dominical, Uvita, and Ojochal as a potential future home:

1. Experience Daily Life

Visit each town:
- Dominical – laid-back surf village with a bohemian vibe.
- Uvita – the main service hub with banks, supermarkets, and medical clinics.
- Ojochal – known for its international dining and residential communities.
Explore housing: hillside jungle villas, ocean-view estates, and smaller rental homes closer to town.
Check out local shops, farmers’ markets, and community spaces.

2. Food & Dining

Uvita farmers’ market (Saturdays) – organic produce, local vendors, and community feel.
Try Ojochal’s fine dining scene, with French, Italian, and fusion restaurants.
Sample casual beachside eateries in Dominical for fresh seafood and local plates.

3. Activities & Lifestyle

Hike to Nauyaca Waterfalls or other jungle trails nearby.
Visit Marino Ballena National Park, famous for its Whale’s Tail sandbar and seasonal whale watching.
Surf or relax on Dominical’s wide beach.
Join yoga, wellness, or community events—this area attracts a health-focused crowd.

4. Day Trips Nearby

Corcovado National Park (Osa Peninsula) – day trips available for wildlife lovers.
Alturas Wildlife Sanctuary – rescue center for sloths, toucans, and monkeys.
Playa Ventanas (near Ojochal) – scenic beach with caves and calmer swimming.

🏡 Where to Stay in Costa Ballena (Great Picks for Scouting Trips)

Villas Alturas (Dominical) – boutique eco-resort with ocean views.
Oxygen Jungle Villas (Uvita) – luxury jungle villas with a wellness focus.
El Castillo (Ojochal) – adults-only boutique hotel overlooking the ocean.
Vacation Rentals – hillside homes or condos to “test drive” expat living.

📝 Local Life to Notice

Costa Ballena is more rural and spread out than other expat hotspots. Having a car is essential—distances between towns, beaches, and shops are longer. Life moves slower, but you gain tranquility, strong community ties, and incredible natural beauty. For many expats, it’s the perfect balance of connection and seclusion.

🔗 Ready to Explore More?

After Costa Ballena, many expats check out other popular relocation spots, including:

Jacó – lively, urban beach town with nightlife and conveniences.
Central Valley – mountain living near San José, with cooler weather and city access.
La Fortuna – rainforest adventure hub near Arenal Volcano, popular for hot springs and eco-living.