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Check-in
23Dec2025Select date
Check-out
24Dec2025Select date
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room
Key details

About the Hotel

7 Km Al Sur De Uvita, Costa Ballena, Puntarenas,, Uvita, Costa Rica, 00000
-
Near Marino Ballena National Park
Perfect
9.1
9.4
/10
4.5
4.5
/5

Cristal Ballena Boutique Hotel & Spa is a 4-star hotel offering ocean views near the famous Ballena Marine National Park. This Uvita hotel features amenities such as an extensive swimming pool, gourmet restaurant, and spa services, all set within lush tropical surroundings.

Rooms & Amenities

Cristal Ballena Boutique Hotel & Spa offers air-conditioned suites decorated in Mediterranean style, featuring a private balcony with ocean views. Suites include flat-screen TVs, minibars, and hydromassage showers, catering to relaxation and comfort.

Dining & Options

The hotel's gourmet restaurant serves a range of culinary options. Additionally, there is a pool bar, allowing guests to enjoy drinks while overseeing the large swimming pool.

Leisure & Activities

Guests can engage in various activities, including whale watching, snorkeling, and hiking through trails. The hotel also provides access to the nearby pristine beaches and the rich biodiversity surrounding the area.

Services & Transportation

Cristal Ballena Boutique Hotel & Spa offers reliable services such as a 24-hour reception and free WiFi throughout the property. Transportation options include local bus routes for easier travel around Uvita.

“What strikes me most is the hotel's ability to blend high-end comfort with the raw beauty of its rainforest setting. Its proximity to the Ballena Marine National Park makes it ideal for those seeking close encounters with wildlife, especially whale watching. I particularly appreciate that it cultivates a relaxed atmosphere with diverse activities suitable for families and couples alike, from snorkeling to serene spa treatments. Overall, it's a well-situated base for exploring Uvita's natural wonders while enjoying premium hospitality.”
Hotel logo
Sophia TurnerEditorial Director at Spahotels
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Choose your room type

The hotel offers a variety of rooms including double rooms, family rooms, and suites with breakfast, free cancelations, and special deals
Junior Suite
2 persons
50 m² 
2 King Size Beds
Shower
Bathtub
Master Suite
2 persons
90 m² 
2 King Size Beds
Shower
Bathtub
Family Suite
2 persons
75 m² 
2 Single beds
Shower
Bathtub

Price and Room Availability

Check availability and prices for your dates now!

Facilities

The hotel offers amenities for your comfortable stay and unforgettable experiences

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
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Dining Onsite

At Cristal Ballena Boutique Hotel & Spa, dining at Restaurant Pura Vida combines the beauty of the surrounding natural world with a thoughtfully crafted menu. With a focus on Australian, International, and European dishes, this family-friendly spot offers diverse flavors in a welcoming environment amidst the vibrant sounds of the island's avian residents.
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

Australian, International, European
Ambiance
Family-friendly with a mix of traditional and modern elements, set against a backdrop of lush surroundings and lively nature.
Key Offerings
Enjoy delightful dairy-free options while soaking in the morning serenade of the clay-colored robin and the graceful overflight of parrots. Ideal for both casual family gatherings and intimate dinners.
Reservation
Not needed
Hours vary; check with the hotel for specific meal timings.

Location

7 Km Al Sur De Uvita, Costa Ballena, Puntarenas,, Uvita, Costa Rica, 00000
Map view
7 Km Al Sur De Uvita, Costa Ballena, Puntarenas,, Uvita, Costa Rica, 00000
Restaurants
Pura Vida Bar & Restaurant
40 m
Playa Ballena
Explore Uvita
Nearby Activities & Dining
Top Attractions
Activities
Dining
Entertainment
Arco Beach
5-minute drive
Stunning beach known for its picturesque cliffs and vibrant marine life, perfect for swimming and relaxing.
Playa Ballena
10-minute drive
Expansive beach with calm waters, ideal for families. Look out for seasonal whale sightings in the area.
Isla Ballena
10-minute drive
Beautiful island offering incredible snorkeling and sunset views. Accessible by boat with guided tours available.
Hiking at Ventanas Beach
10-minute drive
Adventure seekers can enjoy scenic hikes leading to stunning caves and breathtaking ocean views along the coast.
Wellness Yoga Retreats
5-minute drive
Relaxation seekers can join various yoga classes with local instructors, promoting mindfulness and tranquility.
Pura Vida Bar & Restaurant
5-minute walk
Casual dining offering a mix of local and international dishes. Known for fresh seafood and inviting atmosphere.
Local Music Nights at Pura Vida
5-minute walk
Family-friendly venue hosting live music every weekend, featuring local bands and traditional Costa Rican performances.

Getting around
City Centre
Uvita9 min  ·  5.8 km
Airports
Palmar (PMZ)58 min  ·  38.3 km
Quepos (XQP)95 min  ·  63.1 km

Reviews and Ratings

Reviews from guests about their experience.
Guest reviews
5.0/10
based on 5 reviews
9.1
9.1/10 based on 404 reviews
Brian
United States, February  2025
9.0/10

I had an incredible time at this hotel surrounded by breathtaking nature. The rooms are spacious and offer stunning views, and the staff is exceptionally helpful, making every moment enjoyable. However, the dining experience could use some improvement, as I found the breakfast options somewhat lacking. Overall, it's an excellent place to relax and reconnect with nature.

Rooms
9.0
The rooms are spacious, clean, and very comfortable, offering fantastic views of the garden and the sea. I loved the large balcony where I could watch the sunset.
Service
10.0
The staff was incredibly kind and attentive, always eager to help and ensure we had everything we needed.
Location
10.0
Nestled in the hills, the location is amazing, with beautiful beaches and national parks just a short drive away. I really appreciated being close to nature.
Dining
7.0
While the dining was nice, the breakfast experience felt a bit basic, with limited options that didn't quite match the rest of the hotel's quality.
Facilities
9.0
The facilities were fantastic, particularly the swimming pool, which was great for relaxing after a day of exploring. The overall ambiance added to the luxurious feel.
John
United States, December  2024
9.6/10

My stay at Cristal Ballena Boutique Hotel & Spa was absolutely delightful! The breathtaking views and the clean, spacious rooms really made the experience special. The staff was incredibly attentive and friendly, but I wish the dining options had included more variety during breakfast. The serene atmosphere surrounded by nature adds to the charm of this hotel, and it's a great value for a luxurious getaway.

Rooms
10.0
The rooms were large and comfortable, featuring gorgeous balconies with stunning ocean views and birdwatching opportunities. I loved the air conditioning and amenities provided.
Service
10.0
The service was exceptional, with staff being attentive yet not intrusive. They really made an effort to ensure our needs were met.
Location
10.0
The location is fantastic, set atop a mountain and surrounded by rainforest, offering breathtaking views of the ocean. Plus, it's conveniently close to a beautiful beach.
Dining
8.0
The dining experience was enjoyable, though I felt that breakfast could have offered a bit more variety. However, the lunch and dinner options were fantastic.
Facilities
10.0
I was particularly impressed by the huge pool which was always clean and warm, perfect for relaxing after a day of exploring.
Stunning ocean views
Limited breakfast variety
Edward
United States, November  2024
9.4/10

This resort is absolutely fantastic with an ideal location, stunning views, and an amazing pool. The rooms are spacious and well-maintained, making for a comfortable stay. The dining experience is top-notch, with delicious food served by friendly staff. However, there were a few minor issues such as ant presence in the bathroom and some maintenance problems that need addressing. Overall, it's a beautiful spot for relaxation and enjoyment.

Rooms
9.0
The rooms were spacious, clean, and offered breathtaking views of the jungle and ocean. It was comfortable enough for three people, which made our stay even better.
Service
9.0
The staff was incredibly friendly and attentive, always checking in to ensure we had everything we needed. Their hospitality truly enhanced our experience.
Location
10.0
The resort is perched on a hill overlooking the Pacific Ocean, surrounded by lush rainforest, making it an absolute paradise for nature lovers.
Dining
10.0
Dining here was a delightful experience. The food was excellent, and the extensive menu offered something for everyone. Every meal we tried was delicious.
Facilities
9.0
The pool was large and well-maintained, always warm and inviting. The resort also features trails for hiking, which was a fun touch to our stay.
Stunning ocean views
Minor maintenance issues
John
United States, October  2024
9.4/10

I had a lovely end to our vacation at this hotel. The Junior Suite was spacious and offered stunning views of the Pacific, while the food was definitely a highlight-some of the best meals we had all week! The pool area is beautiful and perfect for relaxation, although the bathroom in our room could have used some maintenance. Overall, it's a great place for unwinding but might not be the best fit if you're looking to explore more of the surrounding area.

Rooms
9.0
Our Junior Suite was spacious with comfy beds and breathtaking sunset views from the huge balcony.
Service
9.0
Staff were attentive and made sure we had everything we needed.
Location
10.0
The hotel is perched on a hill overlooking the Pacific Ocean, surrounded by nature, which made for a serene atmosphere.
Dining
10.0
The meals were excellent across the board; we enjoyed every meal at the restaurant without disappointment.
Facilities
9.0
The pool was large and beautifully maintained, providing a perfect spot to relax.
Bruce
United States, September  2024
8.6/10

We had a great time during our New Year's Eve stay, enjoying a lively atmosphere with a band and beautiful fireworks. The hotel offers stunning grounds perfect for birding and lovely sunset views by the pool. However, the rooms were a bit dated and had some cleanliness issues, which detracted from the overall experience. While the dining was excellent with very attentive service, we did encounter some minor inconveniences that could be improved upon.

Rooms
7.0
The rooms were spacious, but they felt dated and had some maintenance issues such as spots on the sheets.
Service
9.0
The restaurant staff was superb, always friendly and efficient, contributing to a welcoming atmosphere.
Location
10.0
Located in a beautiful area overlooking the Pacific Ocean, the hotel grounds are perfect for bird watching and offer great hiking trails.
Dining
9.0
The food was excellent with a diverse menu, and the restaurant had a great atmosphere with lovely views.
Facilities
8.0
The pool area was lovely, especially at sunset, though we experienced a temporary inconvenience during a training session.
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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
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
FAQs
About Cristal Ballena Boutique Hotel & Spa
What is the check-in and check-out policy for Cristal Ballena Boutique Hotel & Spa?
Check-in is at 14:00 and check-out is by 12:00.
How far is Cristal Ballena Boutique Hotel & Spa from Aeropuerto de Palmar Sur?
Cristal Ballena Boutique Hotel & Spa is 40 km from Aeropuerto de Palmar Sur, approximately a 29-minute drive.
What dining options are available at Cristal Ballena Boutique Hotel & Spa?
The on-site Pura Vida bar-restaurant serves Costa Rican and international dishes, and offers a varied buffet breakfast.
Are there any beaches nearby Cristal Ballena Boutique Hotel & Spa?
Playa Ballena is just a 5-minute walk from the hotel, and Playa Pinuelas is a 10-minute drive away.
What activities can I do at Cristal Ballena Boutique Hotel & Spa?
Guests can enjoy activities such as hiking, snorkeling, diving, fishing, horseback riding, and whale-watching excursions.
What amenities are included in the rooms at Cristal Ballena Boutique Hotel & Spa?
Rooms feature air conditioning, a flat-screen satellite TV, a minibar, a coffee maker, and private bathrooms with toiletries.
Is parking available at Cristal Ballena Boutique Hotel & Spa?
Free private parking is available on-site, and no reservation is needed.
What are the recreational facilities offered at Cristal Ballena Boutique Hotel & Spa?
The hotel features an outdoor swimming pool, billiards, a games room, and access to beach activities.
Are children allowed at Cristal Ballena Boutique Hotel & Spa?
The hotel is family-friendly and provides amenities for children.
What languages are spoken by the staff at Cristal Ballena Boutique Hotel & Spa?
Staff members are proficient in English and Spanish.
What is the distance from Cristal Ballena Boutique Hotel & Spa to the Ballena Marine National Park?
Ballena Marine National Park is a 15-minute walk from the hotel.

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Check-in
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Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room

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Cristal Ballena Boutique Hotel & Spa Uvita Exterior photo

Cristal Ballena Boutique Hotel & Spa

9.1
Perfect404 reviews
5.8 km from center
180 US$
200 US$
per night
Mobile-only price