At this holiday home you'll be within just a 10-minute stroll of Playa Ballena and Pinuela Beach. Highlights at this holiday home include a kitchen, a private pool and a washing machine. .You can enjoy Smart televisions with a DVD player, and home features free WiFi, 2 bathrooms and a balcony or patio. In-room dining is easy with a kitchen that comes equipped with a fridge, a microwave and a stovetop. A living room, a fenced private garden and a TV are also available. Housekeeping is available on request. .This business-friendly holiday home offers an outdoor pool, concierge services and limo/town car service. Added amenities include laundry facilities, a garden and barbecues. .With a stay at this Ballena holiday home, you'll be 2.9 km (1.8 mi) from Arco Beach and 3 km (1.8 mi) from Marino Ballena National Park.
You'll have the entire home to yourself and will only share it with other guests in your party.
Amazing Whitewater View Of The Ballena Marine Preserve Islands
Important points below! Pura Vida!
This is the Costa Rican expression for everything that is good. It translates as pure life and is used as a greeting and a salutation. It is always spoken with a smile. Costa Rica is rated as one of the happiest places on earth. You can discover why.
Imagine secluded beaches where the jungle meets the sand, monkeys and toucans greeting you each morning, or swimming under warm waterfalls. All this happens everyday in the unspoiled beauty of Uvita.
Our rental home is situated in an old growth jungle minutes from the beach on the Pacific coast in Marino Ballena National Park, the only national marine park in Costa Rica. Ballena translates to whale. Humpbacks from the southern and northern hemisphere travel thousands of miles to have their babies in this area. Excellent whale watching, snorkeling and diving! We are halfway between Manual Antonio, the most popular park in Costa Rica, and the famous Osa Penninsula. National Geographic named our area one of the most bio-diverse areas on the planet. From the house and pool you can see the ever changing pacific ocean, local islands, incredible wildlife, rainforest, and beautiful sunsets.
The food in the area is the best in Costa Rica and maybe some of the best we have ever had - think Napa in the South Pacific. Expats from around the world have created amazing culinary delights. We can recommend at least 10 restaurants in the area. You can drink the water and eat the food and not worry.
The home has three bedrooms and two bathrooms, a newly-completely remodeled full gourmet kitchen, laundry room, two outside patio areas, a modest infinity pool, and a stone BBQ (boogie boards, beach chairs, beach and pool towels, a cooler, small binoculars and a telescope). Listen to the waves crashing on the shore from bed as you awake to howler monkeys calling in the trees. The jungle is right outside the door. Take a walk and see all the wonders you expect from Costa Rica.
The house is an easy accessible drive from the main road with a wide, short maintained road leading to the house. This should not be underestimated. Most homes in the area take a long drive up a steep, single lane, winding road taking up to 20 minutes from the main road, especially difficult at night. Look next to the map on the listing to where the closest beach is. If it more than .5 miles from the beach you will regret it. We are .3 miles to the beach. There will be no anxiety driving to this house. Rent a 4x4 or all wheel drive to get the most out of your trip in this area.
This is not a resort town. It is an agrarian area with beautiful farms and unspoiled beaches and jungle. It is a place to explore and discover. It will excite your inner adventurer. 5 islands are visible from our home. I don't now of anyone else that can boast that!
We would love to welcome you as our guest to Casa Ballena.
Pura Vida!
Proud of this review. It is what we strive for. Best Vacation Rental We Have Ever Booked! 5/5 Stayed Jan 2023 Janet M. I have rented over 30 vacation homes throughout Costa Rica, Europe and Australia and I owned my own vacation rental which has made me rather picky and critical. It takes a lot to impress me. But this property really impressed me! The attention to detail is outstanding. This is a lovely home is set in a gorgeous setting with outstanding views. The house has everything you could possibly need, is very comfortable, very clean and we felt very safe. The outdoor furniture is very good quality and comfortable. We never wanted to leave the awesome pool. It is very conveniently located to beaches and the towns of Uvita and Ojochal. The kitchen is very well stocked - which is rare! The fact that Mark provides boogie boards, beach chairs and a good supply of beach towels speaks volumes. Communication with Mark was excellent and he provided all kinds of information. He has a full binder of information on the house and recommendations on what to do in the area - perfect! We loved this place and will certainly stay here again when in the area.
Published Feb 7, 2023
Property manager
Mark and Allyson Roberts
Languages
English
Similar properties
Private, pool, A/C, 3 min to beach/town, ocean view, lots of wildlife!
Private, pool, A/C, 3 min to beach/town, ocean view, lots of wildlife!
If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
In-room accessibility
Smoke-free property
Services and conveniences
Concierge services
Housekeeping (on request)
Iron/ironing board
Meal delivery service
Phone
Safe
Location highlights
Near a health/beauty spa
Near the sea
On a river
Things to do
Bodyboard
Golf
Birdwatching nearby
Ecotours nearby
Fishing nearby
Golfing nearby
Hiking/biking trails nearby
Horseback riding nearby
Jet skiing nearby
Kayaking nearby
Motor boating nearby
Mountain biking nearby
Mountain climbing nearby
Parasailing nearby
Rafting nearby
Rock climbing nearby
Sailing nearby
Scuba diving nearby
Snorkelling nearby
Surfing/bodyboarding nearby
Swimming nearby
Whale watching nearby
Wildlife walks nearby
Windsurfing nearby
Safety features
Carbon monoxide detector not reported (host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector)
Smoke detector not reported (host has not indicated whether there is a smoke detector on the property)
First aid kit
Fire extinguisher
Deadbolt lock
General
Garden
Housekeeping (on request)
Unit size: 2,153 square feet
Policies
Check-in
Check-in time starts at 4:00 PM
Contactless check-in and check-out are available
Minimum check-in age - 30
Check-out
Check-out before 10:00 AM
Contactless check-out
Special check-in instructions
You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions
Pets
No pets allowed
Children and extra beds
Children are welcome.
Important information
You need to know
Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector with you on the trip
Host has not indicated whether there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit and a deadlock
This property is managed through our partner, Vrbo. You will receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account, where you can change or cancel your reservation
Charges for extra guests may apply and vary according to property policy.
A cash deposit, credit card or debit card for incidental charges and government-issued photo identification may be required upon check-in.
Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in. Special requests can't be guaranteed and may incur additional charges.
This property is managed by a private host, not a professional engaged in trade or business.
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited. For guests' safety, the property includes a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit and a deadbolt lock in all accommodation.
Property is also known as
Amazing Whitewater View Ballena Marine Preserve Islands House
Are there any beaches close to Amazing Whitewater View Of The Ballena Marine Preserve Islands?
Yep, Amazing Whitewater View Of The Ballena Marine Preserve Islands is a short 9-minute walk from Pinuela Beach.
Fun beach activities include jet skiing, snorkelling and scuba diving. You can also find motor boats.
Does Amazing Whitewater View Of The Ballena Marine Preserve Islands have a pool?
Amazing Whitewater View Of The Ballena Marine Preserve Islands has an infinity pool.
What luxury perks are available at Amazing Whitewater View Of The Ballena Marine Preserve Islands?
This property features an infinity pool, as well as a private pool and a living room.
Is Amazing Whitewater View Of The Ballena Marine Preserve Islands family-friendly?
You bet! With amenities such as laundry facilities and a BBQ, as well as children's dinnerware and children's books, it's no surprise that Amazing Whitewater View Of The Ballena Marine Preserve Islands is a winner with our family travellers.
Is there a private hot tub at Amazing Whitewater View Of The Ballena Marine Preserve Islands?
No, but there is a private pool.
Is there a free airport shuttle available at Amazing Whitewater View Of The Ballena Marine Preserve Islands?
No, Amazing Whitewater View Of The Ballena Marine Preserve Islands does not offer an airport shuttle service.
What time are check-in & check-out at Amazing Whitewater View Of The Ballena Marine Preserve Islands?
Check-in begins at 4:00 PM. Check-out time is 10:00 AM.
Are pets allowed at Amazing Whitewater View Of The Ballena Marine Preserve Islands?
No, pets are not allowed.
Amazing Whitewater View Of The Ballena Marine Preserve Islands Reviews
Reviews
10
Exceptional
All reviews shown are from real guest experiences. Only travellers who have booked a stay with us can submit a review. We verify reviews according to our guidelines and publish all reviews, positive or negative.
Rating 10 - Excellent. 141 out of 143 reviews
10 - Excellent
141
Rating 8 - Good. 2 out of 143 reviews
8 - Good
2
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 143 reviews
6 - Okay
0
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 143 reviews
4 - Poor
0
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 143 reviews
2 - Terrible
0
10/10
Cleanliness
10/10
Staff & service
10/10
Amenities
10/10
Property conditions & facilities
Reviews
10/10 Excellent
Wesley B., Aptos, CA
22 Apr 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
Great Stay!
Our stay at Mark and Allyson’s place was fantastic! Well situated with everything we needed. Pool was very nice to have, and the birds in the yard were incredible. We had a daily toucan visit us. Will definitely be back! Loved it.
Wesley B.
Stayed 6 nights in Apr 2025
10/10 Excellent
Alexandra C.
5 Apr 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
Family Fun in Uvita
Our family of five, all adults, had a lovely stay in this Uvita house. The bedrooms were comfy, the kitchen well stocked, and the living area spacious.The setting was just beautiful. We spent much of our time enjoying the sounds and sights of the birds from the dining patio, gazing at the wide open view of the ocean and nearby islands and cooling off in the refreshing pool. The garden was full of tropical flowers and trees.We appreciated the convenience of the location. The towns of Uvita and Ojochal were just minutes away as well as several beaches, restaurants and adventures.The owner, Mark, was extremely helpful and responsive to any of our needs.Our adventures included a boat trip up the Sierpe River to see wildlife, a tour of Alturas Wildlife Sanctuary and snorkeling at Cano Island. We explored several beaches, a waterfall and ate well at several restaurants. In late March we could just walk into any restaurant and be seated immediately, arrange tours on any day and easily park anywhere. How relaxing and hassle free!This was our first time to Costa Rica and we highly recommend Uvita and this wonderful house. Pura Vida!
Alexandra C.
Stayed 10 nights in Mar 2025
10/10 Excellent
sherrie g.
10 Mar 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
Great convenient stay with a view!
We thoroughly enjoyed our stay! The location could not have been better, easy to get to our favorite beaches, restaurants and groceries. Owners were very responsive and super helpful with booking tours extra. Very well appointed! The pool was a cocktail pool which we weren’t expecting so we didn’t really use much and we didn’t have much hot water. That is not uncommon for the area but if you aren’t used to that just take note. It does take getting used to when everyone is trying to get ready for dinner, etc. For nature, pure beauty and convenience, you can’t go wrong! We had a great time! Pura Vida
sherrie g.
Stayed 5 nights in Feb 2025
10/10 Excellent
Gayle G.
2 Mar 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
Like Sleeping in the Jungle!
Had a stellar vacation at Mark and Allyson’s Jungle house. Woke every day buy 5:30, watched an amazing amount of birds right there! The house is close to everything. The grounds are incredible. Mark was quick to respond. They really do want you to have the best stay ever! We did follow their list of best places to eat as well as things to do in the area. Heads up though, if you are planning to eat in Ojochal, get reservations. Lots of nicks and crannies to discover in the area. The Pacific Ocean was warm and fun. Fishing in the area is excellent. Thank you so much for sharing your home. Would not hesitate to go back. Well done Mark and Allyson!
Gayle G.
Stayed 5 nights in Feb 2025
10/10 Excellent
Peter F.
16 Feb 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
Great place and location
Amazing wildlife- birds, hearing howler monkeys etc…Good location for getting around the Pacific coast. Great host. Was very responsive!
Peter F.
Stayed 10 nights in Feb 2025
10/10 Excellent
Donna G.
1 Feb 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
Five star rating says it all!
We spent 2 months and loved it here. It was easy to settle in to the natural beauty surrounding the home and area. Hosts were very accommodating and responsive. Lots to do. Location, the home and the view were all spectacular.
Donna G.
Stayed 61 nights in Dec 2024
10/10 Excellent
Albert G.
9 Dec 2024
Liked: Cleanliness
Thanksgiving Relaxation
This location was exactly what our family needed. The house was beautiful. It had a breathtaking ocean view and the natural wonders of the jungle. We saw toucans, Izzy the resident Iguana and a small tapir. We could hear howler monkeys all around in the mornings. Mark was on the spot communicating with us to make our arrival seamless. Rolando was a huge help checking.
The recommendation provided by Mark were very helpful. The beaches are a short drive from the house. We had a relaxing week and look forward to visiting again. Thank you Mark.
Albert G.
Stayed 5 nights in Nov 2024
10/10 Excellent
Alex G.
23 Nov 2024
Liked: Cleanliness
Prefect
Despite the rain (not to self check the rainy season) we had a wonderful time at Mark and Allyson's stunning house - the view is just divine, the main area was very spacious, there was a great BBQ, Mark was super helpful with tips and suggestions and the array of wildlife literally on your front doorstep was out of this world. Thank you very much for having us.
Alex G.
Stayed 15 nights in Nov 2024
10/10 Excellent
Todd A., Minneapolis
22 Oct 2024
Liked: Cleanliness
Pura Vida in Costa Ballena
Our family has stayed at many properties in the area. This location of this house is what sets it apart for us. We've gone a half hour up the mountain to get to houses, this was 1 minute. There's a little highway noise because of it, but not annoying enough to take away from the close proximity to everything and the amazing view. We would definitely stay here again.
Todd A.
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2024
10/10 Excellent
Wendy R.
15 Oct 2024
Liked: Cleanliness
Fantastic!
My husband and I spent 5 wonderful days at this property in Uvita. The house is beautiful and very well appointed. The host provided a treasure trove of information about the area, activities and other information that was especially helpful for us since we had never been to Costa Rica before. In fact, the information was so thorough, we even ended up helping out some locals we met on Ventanas Beach! The access point they normally used to come to the beach was closed for maintenance and they weren't sure how to get back to their car. Mark's "alternate route" saved the day! We also had several lovely meals at host recommended restaurants and tours by local, recommended guides. The property has stunning views of the ocean and you will see (and hear) plenty of local wildlife right from the patio. Truly paradise and a host who goes above and beyond!
Wendy R.
Stayed 5 nights in Oct 2024
10/10 Excellent
Jacob R.
11 Sept 2024
Liked: Cleanliness
Just book it already
We spent the week sitting on the patio or soaking in the pool, watching and listening to wildlife, from monkeys and agoutis to toucans, hummingbirds, and all kinds of other exotic and rare birds (you should seriously consider downloading the Merlin Bird ID app!). We watched humpback whales breaching in the sea, enjoyed the company of geckos and basilisks, and were very happy with the level of comfort and privacy. It was quiet but not far from groceries and anything else you want/need while in the country. We've stayed at 7 or 8 villas/houses in Costa Rica, and this is the one we''ll go back to. Everyone was very responsive and made the entire process seamless. We can't recommend this place enough.
Jacob R.
Stayed 5 nights in Sep 2024
10/10 Excellent
Angela A.
9 Aug 2024
Liked: Cleanliness
Dream Getaway!
Three weeks flew by at this luxury estate. Mark was a responsive and generous host. The views are spectacular and every detail high end. Definitely want to come back.
Angela A.
Stayed 20 nights in Jul 2024
10/10 Excellent
Angela B.
18 Jul 2024
Liked: Cleanliness
Exceptional Stay
We had an exquisite stay in this beautiful home. Our family loved everything about our time in Uvita. The views, the birds, the amenities. Thanks to Mark for taking such good care of us and for being a wonderful and welcoming host. We can’t wait to return. ¡Pura Vida!
Angela B.
Stayed 9 nights in Jul 2024
10/10 Excellent
Nicholas T.
15 Jun 2024
Liked: Cleanliness
Can’t wait to go back!
I can’t begin to describe our vacation at Mark and Allison’s place. The house was perfect, beautiful, welcoming and warm, like being in your own home. It had everything we needed and more. We had more than a few hiccups during our stay that included a couple of urgent care visits but Mark was there to help us every step of the way. We loved the location and ease the home provided us in doing all the things we planned and still was an oasis to stay in and relax while taking in all the beauty the home provided. My daughter is a zookeeper and was up early every morning to go see what birds or wildlife she could see on the property. It was so tranquil in a way that you couldn’t help but get caught up in the sounds, sights and smells that Costa Rica has to offer. As I said in the subject line, we can’t wait to go back and will definitely be staying here again.
Nicholas T.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2024
10/10 Excellent
Becky S., Charlotte, NC
25 May 2024
Liked: Cleanliness
Paradise!
We had the best time in Costa Rica! This house is exactly as described, however, the view! The View is way better in person. Everything about our stay was smooth and so easy. Mark gives a very robust document of tips, directions, information, recommended excursions and so much more. I planned everything based on Mark’s rec. We did snorkeling at cano island, a Jungle ATV tour which included a stop at a coffee farm and the horseback riding to Nauyaca falls. These were fantastic trips with guides that not only did their job but talked to you and got to know you! The Costa Ricans are so proud of their beautiful country and want to share it with you! We hiked at La Cosinga Lodge and saw monkeys. We managed to hit Playa Arco and the Whale tail at low tide- highly recommend both! Last but not least we stopped in to see Playa Ballena, Playa Pinuelas, and Playa Ventana - all at high tide but got to see three different and beautiful beaches!
Becky S.
Stayed 7 nights in May 2024
10/10 Excellent
Jennifer R., Nanaimo
6 May 2024
Liked: Cleanliness
Love Marks House- 2nd Time Stay
This is our second time staying at Mark's house. We had a great time. The house is beautiful, the view is unbelievable. This was the first time we brought our kids to Costa Rica and they loved it. The area was great and everyone loved the pool. But highly recommend the house ❤️❤️❤️🌴🦜
Jennifer R.
Stayed 4 nights in Apr 2024
10/10 Excellent
Laura P.
21 Apr 2024
Liked: Cleanliness
Uvita Paradise
I'm not sure I can describe how much my husband and I enjoyed our stay! The house is wonderful, all you could possibly need, well stocked kitchen, grill, beach towels and chairs, comfy bed, lush gardens, and an amazing pool. It's the perfect home base for so many activities but you may not want to leave the pool and porch. We loved listening to the birds each morning with coffee and in the evening with a drink. We were amazed by the birds, especially loved seeing the yellow-throated toucan. Mark provides wonderful information on excursions and restaurants. We hope to visit again!
Laura P.
Stayed 6 nights in Apr 2024
10/10 Excellent
Barbara G.
8 Apr 2024
Liked: Cleanliness
Beautiful place to chill and appreciate nature and friendly locals!
Outstanding property with astonishingly responsive hosts! Mark and Allyson go above and beyond. The road/driveway are unusually easy to navigate, this makes a big difference. Delicious restaurants nearby. Great home base, whether you want a perfect place to relax in, or someplace to sleep in between tour activities. HIGHLY recommend!
Barbara G.
Stayed 13 nights in Mar 2024
10/10 Excellent
Sandy K.
25 Mar 2024
Liked: Cleanliness
Another wonderful vacation at this property.
This is our second year staying here. We love the property, the owner and the property manager. Everything was wonderful…no issues… and we hope to be able to come back soon! It has become our home away from home 😃
Sandy K.
Stayed 14 nights in Mar 2024
10/10 Excellent
Patricia R.
28 Feb 2024
Liked: Cleanliness
Beautiful house with beautiful views
This was our second time staying at this fabulous house. It has great views and an infinity pool from which to enjoy them after a day at the beach or exploring the area.
The house is a short drive to a few beaches and great restaurants, supermarkets, etc.
The property manager is nearby. Our flight to CR was delayed by over 24 hours and we got to the house late. The property manager met us at the house and made sure everything was ok.
We had one small problems with the house and he came by to fix it withing a couple of hours.
We hated for this vacation to end!
Patricia R.
Stayed 7 nights in Feb 2024
10/10 Excellent
Beth L.
30 Jan 2024
Liked: Cleanliness
Beautiful Home, very pleased
Beautiful home with a spectacular view. Beautiful view from the pool. Saw all kinds of Toucans and birds. Heard the howler monkeys, but they never came to the house. The owner was very helpful in scheduling excursions, etc. I would definitely stay here again.
Beth L.
Stayed 6 nights in Jan 2024
10/10 Excellent
gina s., USA
27 Jan 2024
Liked: Cleanliness
Uvita
A beautiful place ! What a view and a wonderfully laid out setting . Everything u need . And Mark even though in CA he was always quick to message . We loved it ! Make sure u read the binder provided . They spent a lot of time explaining the area and made excellent suggestions . Citrus restaurant was our favorite local restaurant but we also found a cool place for an afternoon snack called cafe Vivo and near that was a bakery . My girls also tried the French Cafe and spoke highly of there as well ;). Thank u Mark and Allyson !
gina s.
Stayed 7 nights in Jan 2024
10/10 Excellent
Shannon B.
16 Jan 2024
Liked: Cleanliness
Best Family Vacation Ever
You will not be disappointed! Everything you see listed is exactly as it is and more. The home is wonderful with everything you'll need for cooking, relaxing, swimming, etc. The views are amazing! The location is extremely close to amazing beaches as well as outdoor/nature experiences, sometimes only a few min away. We hired a driver for the week which made it even more relaxing as to not have to worry about directions and he also gave us a lot of history, plus help in the language in getting things like chairs/umbrellas at the beaches for the right price. Even last minute restaurants, that were great, after the beach since it was New Years and not everything was open. The food in Costa Rica is also amazing! We've stayed in central Costa Rica before but were looking for a more family/outdoor/relaxing experience for the whole family (two young children and two adult children came with us so there were 6 of us comfortably staying for 9 days). We have 2 boys (11yr and 12yr). One with special needs that requires more flat land while the other seeks adventure. The house, grounds, location, and beaches met both of their needs. It was great waking up to the sounds of nature and coming back after a long day to get in the pool for cool relaxation. When we come back we will look to stay at Mark's place again! Thank you Mark for sharing your home & for all of the attention and help you provided us preparing for our vacation. Everything Mark recommends for food and fun is spot on!
Shannon B.
Stayed 7 nights in Dec 2023
10/10 Excellent
Heidi K.
27 Dec 2023
Liked: Cleanliness
Lovely house with an amazing view
We love this house and location so much!!!! This was our second stay at Mark's house. The first trip it was just my husband and I with our teenage daughter. This trip we included our other college age daughter and both of our mom's. Considering the grandma's are a little less mobile, we spent more time around the house this trip and it was just as nice. The birds and wildlife combined with the iguanas in the tree made every morning magical. We especially enjoyed the sunsets with the amazing view of the Pacific. We will be back!
Heidi K.
Stayed 6 nights in Dec 2023
10/10 Excellent
Jonathan Y., North Andover
15 Dec 2023
Liked: Cleanliness
Fabulous 5 Days
This was my parents first time to Costa Rica and we wanted them to have a wonderful experience. Ballena did not disappoint. The house was well appointed, clean and spacious... and the views - just amazing. But it was the morning and sunset experiences that made this a great experience. The sounds and sightings from the birds, iguanas, howler monkeys and agotis made it extra special. The sunset views are the best too! We hope to visit again Ballena.