Are you considering relocating to Costa Rica for a peaceful life surrounded by natural beauty?
Maybe you’re a digital nomad, looking for your next place to settle, or an ecotourist desiring an extended stay in this beautiful country. Whatever your situation, these are things you need to know about staying in Uvita.
About Uvita
Uvita is located in the southern region of Costa Rica, four hours from the capital, San Jose. Uvita is not as urbanized and developed as other areas in the country. But there’s so much to see and do here, you’ll never get bored.
If you enjoy living a healthy life, you’ll be pleased to know that Uvita offers a wide variety of activities like hiking, biking, surfing, freediving, snorkeling, scuba diving, and kayaking. There are also several yoga studios and wellness centers for the less adventurous.
Before you go on your trip, you should also know a bit more about the tropical Uvita climate. There are only really two seasons, wet or dry.
Along the coast, the dry season (late November – April) brings hot and humid days. If you’re unused to this, ensure there is an air conditioner where you’re staying (there usually is).
The wet season (May – October), on the other hand, can be very rainy. It sometimes rains for days on end, although it might be sunny in the mornings. The rainiest months are September and October.
Best Places To Stay In Uvita
Where you choose to stay will depend on how long you plan to stay in Uvita.
For an extended stay, there are modern home rentals and even furnished apartments throughout Uvita. Research this online before your visit. You’re sure to find something to meet your budget.
For shorter trips, you may prefer a stay in a hotel. There are several near the beach, to suit the tastes of all types of travelers.
If glamping is your thing, you’ll find that here too. Or, stay in a bungalow at the cozy accommodations near Marino Ballena National Park.
Getting Around Uvita
Uvita is not a very large town, but it’s split up into three distinct areas. There’s the main town, Uvita Beach (Playa Uvita), and the hilltops and jungle that look down from above.
Because Uvita is one of the more remote areas of Costa Rica, you’ll need transport to get around. There is a bus system in place for getting around, but catching several buses may be necessary depending on where you need to go.
Of course, you can take a taxi or use a lift share service to most places. But a rental car is a worthwhile investment while you are here. The higher up into the jungle areas of Costa Rica you go, the more essential this will become.
Things To Do Around Uvita
Uvita offers the chance to live in harmony with nature and is the closest you will get to paradise on earth. Locals call this way of life ‘Pura Vida, which translates to ‘simple life’.
Trips to the local farmers’ markets are part of the Uvita way of life, as are outdoor activities in the water and the jungle. With fresh local produce in abundance, Costa Ricans can eat well and eat healthily.
There are numerous local restaurants (sodas) where you can feast on typical Costa Rican cuisine. Several restaurants cater to more international tastes as well.
People usually come to Uvita for the beach and the surrounding natural wonders. From the mountains to the shore, you will find a wealth of outdoor adventures. Off-shore activities like boating, fishing, diving, and snorkeling are especially popular here.
Marina Ballena National Park near Playa Uvita is a highlight for whale watchers. Twice a year, humpback whales arrive here to give birth to their calves. If you’re a true whale and dolphin fan, you’ll love the Whale and Dolphin Festival each September.
Key Takeaways
For a taste of ‘Pura Vida’, you need to go no further than Uvita in Costa Rica.
Many people come here for a break from city life, and end up staying for the good life. Once you see this Central American coastal gem, you just might want to stay, too.