See all properties

Cristal Ballena Boutique Hotel & Spa

Property class: 3

Choose dates to view prices

Photo gallery for Cristal Ballena Boutique Hotel & Spa

A poolside area with lounge chairs and umbrellas, overlooking a body of water and a sunset. - Cristal Ballena Boutique Hotel & Spa (Bahía Ballena)
A restaurant with multiple dining tables, a bar area, and a bartender. - Cristal Ballena Boutique Hotel & Spa (Bahía Ballena)
A covered outdoor area with a view of a lush landscape and a distant building. - Cristal Ballena Boutique Hotel & Spa (Bahía Ballena)
A beach with a sandy shore, palm trees, and waves. - Cristal Ballena Boutique Hotel & Spa (Bahía Ballena)
A spacious room with a bed, a desk, and a seating area. - Cristal Ballena Boutique Hotel & Spa (Bahía Ballena)
Take advantage of a free breakfast buffet, a terrace, and a coffee shop/cafe at Cristal Ballena Boutique Hotel & Spa. Treat yourself to a massage, a facial, or a manicure/pedicure at the onsite spa. The on-site international cuisine restaurant, Pura Vida, offers breakfast, lunch, dinner, and ocean views. Stay connected with free in-room WiFi, and guests can find other amenities such as a garden and a hair salon.

Reviews

9.6 out of 10
Exceptional

Popular amenities

  • Spa
  • Parking included
  • Free WiFi

AARP members, discover the perfect stay for every budget with our fantastic hotel deals.

From charming, budget-friendly stays to premium, full-service hotels, find the perfect place to unwind—no matter your travel style or budget

Room options

Available filters for rooms
Showing 3 of 3 rooms

View all photos for Junior Suite

A spacious bedroom with a four-poster bed, a television, and a balcony with a view.

Junior Suite

9.8 out of 10
Exceptional
(7 reviews)
  • Ocean view
  • 50 sq m
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 King Bed OR 2 Queen Beds

View all photos for Master Suite

A spacious room with a bed, a desk, and a seating area.

Master Suite

10.0 out of 10
Exceptional
(2 reviews)
  • Ocean view
  • 90 sq m
  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 King Bed OR 2 Queen Beds

View all photos for Family Suite

A spacious room with a high wooden ceiling, a bed with a canopy, two bedside tables, a sofa, a chair, a television, and a window with a view.

Family Suite

9.4 out of 10
Exceptional
(3 reviews)
  • Ocean view
  • 75 sq m
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 4
  • 1 King Bed and 2 Twin Beds

About the neighborhood

Located in Bahía Ballena, Cristal Ballena Boutique Hotel & Spa is in a national park and near the beach. Marino Ballena National Park and Arco Beach reflect the area's natural beauty and area attractions include Uvita Arts Center and Alturas Wildlife Sanctuary. Kayaking and scuba diving offer great chances to get out on the surrounding water, or you can seek out an adventure with horse riding and ecotours nearby. Visit our Bahía Ballena travel guide
View more Resorts in Bahía Ballena
Map
7 km al Sur de Uvita, Costa Ballena, Bahía Ballena, Puntarenas, 60504

What's nearby

  • A coastal landscape with a sandy beach, turquoise waters, and a green forested area.
    Marino Ballena National Park
    1 min drive - 0.5 miles
  • A sunset over a beach with people walking and horses grazing.
    Uvita Beach
    8 min drive - 4.9 miles
  • Playa Ballena
    1 min drive - 0.9 miles
  • Catarata uvita
    15 min drive - 7.0 miles
  • Playa Dominical
    32 min drive - 19.1 miles

Getting around

  • Drake Bay (DRK)
    178 min drive

Restaurants

  • La Choza de Alejo
    8 min drive
  • Restaurante Marino Ballena
    9 min drive
  • Soda Ojoche
    14 min drive
  • The Bakery
    10 min drive
  • Los Gatos Locos
    15 min drive

Similar properties

A bedroom with a large bed, a wooden ceiling, a painting, a TV, and a view of a swimming pool and garden.
Canavida Villas & Resort
Bahía Ballena
  • Pool
  • Kitchen
  • Pet friendly
  • Parking included
9.8 out of 10, Exceptional, 112 reviews
Canavida Villas & Resort
Compare similar properties

Property amenities

Internet

  • Available in all rooms: Free WiFi
  • Available in some public areas: Free WiFi

Parking and transportation

  • 24-hour roundtrip airport shuttle on request for a surcharge
  • Area shuttle (surcharge)
  • Free beach shuttle
  • Free secured, uncovered self parking on site
  • RV/bus/truck parking on site
  • Wheelchair-accessible parking available

Food and drink

  • Free buffet breakfast
  • A bar/lounge
  • A coffee shop/cafe
  • A restaurant
  • Snack bar/deli

Restaurants on site

  • Pura Vida

Things to do

  • Billiards/pool table
  • Books
  • Full-service spa
  • Library
  • Outdoor pool

Family friendly

  • In-room crib
  • Laundry facilities
  • Outdoor pool
  • Snack bar/deli

Conveniences

  • Free newspapers in lobby
  • Gift shop/newsstand
  • Hair salon
  • Laundry facilities
  • Limited-hour front desk
  • Luggage storage
  • Safe at front desk

Guest services

  • Concierge services
  • Dry cleaning/laundry service
  • Housekeeping (daily)
  • Tour and ticket assistance
  • Wedding services

Business services

  • 861 square feet of conference space
  • Business center
  • Meeting room

Outdoors

  • Garden
  • In a national park
  • Picnic area
  • Pool loungers
  • Pool umbrellas
  • Terrace

Full-service spa

  • Facials
  • In-room massages
  • Manicures/pedicures
  • Spa open daily

Accessibility

  • If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
  • No elevator
  • Null
  • Wheelchair accessible (may have limitations)
  • Wheelchair-accessible parking
  • Wheelchair-accessible restaurant

More

  • 2 floors
  • Banquet hall
  • Built in 2004
  • Designated smoking areas
  • Mediterranean architecture

Room amenities

Bedroom

  • Free crib
  • Premium bedding
  • Tempur-Pedic mattress

Bathroom

  • Free toiletries
  • Hair dryer
  • Private bathroom
  • Shower
  • Towels provided

Entertainment

  • Flat-screen TV with satellite channels

Food and drink

  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Limited room service
  • Minibar

More

  • Air conditioning
  • Ceiling fan
  • Desk
  • Iron/ironing board
  • Phone
  • Safe

Policies

Check-in

Check-in start time: 2:00 PM; Check-in end time: 8:00 PM
Early check-in subject to availability
Contactless check-in available
Late check-in subject to availability
Minimum check-in age: 18

Check-out

Check-out before noon
Contactless check-out available
Late check-out subject to availability
A late check-out fee will be charged

Special check-in instructions

This property offers transfers from the airport (surcharges may apply); guests must contact the property with arrival details before travel, using the contact information on the booking confirmation
The front desk is open daily from 6:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Guests must contact the property in advance for check-in instructions; front desk staffed during limited hours
To make arrangements for check-in please contact the property at least 48 hours before arrival using the information on the booking confirmation
If you are planning to arrive after 8:00 PM please contact the property in advance using the information on the booking confirmation
Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools

Access methods

Front desk (limited hours)

Pets

No pets or service animals allowed

Children and extra beds

Children are welcome
Rollaway/extra beds are not available
Free cribs are available on request at the property

Property payment types

  • American Express
  • Diners Club
  • Discover
  • Mastercard
  • Visa

Important information

Fees

You'll be asked to pay the following charges at the property. Fees may include applicable taxes:

  • Christmas Eve (December 24) Gala Dinner per adult: CRC 37000
  • Christmas Eve (December 24) Gala Dinner per child: CRC 37000 (from 4 to 11 years old)

We have included all charges provided to us by the property.

Optional extras

  • Airport shuttle fee: CRC 105000 per vehicle (one-way, maximum occupancy 3)
  • Airport shuttle fee per child: CRC 70000 (one-way), (up to 11 years old)
  • Late check-out is available for a fee (subject to availability)

The above list may not be comprehensive. Fees and deposits may not include tax and are subject to change.

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
This property accepts credit cards, debit cards, and cash
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, and a first aid kit
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios, terraces which may not be suitable for children; if you have concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm they can accommodate you in a suitable room

We should mention

This property does not have elevators
Reservations are required for massage services and spa treatments; reservations can be made by contacting the property prior to arrival, using the contact information on the booking confirmation
Only registered guests are allowed in the guestrooms
No pets and no service animals are allowed at this property

Frequently asked questions

Does Cristal Ballena Boutique Hotel & Spa have a pool?

Yes, this property has an outdoor pool.

Is Cristal Ballena Boutique Hotel & Spa pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

How much is parking?

Self parking is free at this property.

What time is check-in at Cristal Ballena Boutique Hotel & Spa?

Check-in start time: 2:00 PM; Check-in end time: 8:00 PM. Late check-in is available during limited hours.

What time is check-out at Cristal Ballena Boutique Hotel & Spa?

Check-out is at noon. Late check-out is available for a fee (subject to availability).

Does Cristal Ballena Boutique Hotel & Spa provide a shuttle to the airport?

Yes, there's an airport shuttle that runs on request. A fee of CRC 105000 per vehicle applies.

Where is Cristal Ballena Boutique Hotel & Spa located?

Situated by the ocean, this spa resort is within 2 mi (3 km) of Marino Ballena National Park, Playa Ballena, and Arco Beach. Pinuela Beach is 3.1 mi (5 km) away.

Can I cancel my reservation for free and receive a full refund?

Yes, this property offers free cancellation on select room rates, because flexibility matters! Please refer to the property cancellation policy on our site for more details about any exclusions or requirements.

Have a question?

AI iconBeta

Get instant answers with AI powered search of property information and reviews.

Reviews

Cristal Ballena Boutique Hotel & Spa Reviews

9.6

Exceptional

9.8

Cleanliness

9.4

Location

9.8

Staff & service

9.4

Property conditions & facilities
Rating 10 - Excellent. 190 out of 234 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 34 out of 234 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 6 out of 234 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 1 out of 234 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 3 out of 234 reviews

Reviews

Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
The place is beautiful and the staff is super friendly
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Amazing location and the food is amazing too
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
We stayed for 5 nights at the hotel. The hotel has the most beautiful view of the ocean. The restaurant was great for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The swimming pool was beautiful. We saw all kinds of birds and animals in the ground of the hotel. Highly recommend for anyone staying around the Uvita area with a car.
Stayed 5 nights in Aug 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
The view from this hotel is beautiful! The pool is the perfect temperature and huge! Finally the restaurant staff are so friendly and lovely!
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
The room was spotless, the reception disk polite, the food excellent, the staff attentive and the pool marvelous.
Stayed 1 night in Jan 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities
The family room was very clean and had an outside patio that was excellent for listening for and watching numerous birds, including toucans! The breakfast buffet was delish as well as supper. This hotel has a wonderful pool and area to watch sunsets. Staff was extra courteous, we will be back!
Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Staff was incredible, view from the room was wonderful. Dining at the restaurant was delicious. I will be staying here again.
Stayed 1 night in Nov 2023
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Lovely grounds, large swimming pool, nice room and room balcony, good views of forest and ocean.
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2023
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
We loved the grounds, so peaceful and lush. Huge variety of birds, howler monkeys in the distance each morning, incredibly kind, helpful and friendly staff. Delicious food, beverages and the best swimming pool ever!
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Lots of wildlife great pool
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Beautiful

Great stay. Staff was very helpful and friendly. We even met the owner. Beautiful views and property
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
quiet, peace, beautiful.
Stayed 5 nights in Dec 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Great customer service, and attention to deals!
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
The property is hill side and has amazing views of the mountain and of the Pacific Ocean. The staff is warm and friendly.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2023
Verified review

8/10 Good

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Excelente. A lil costly but good. I wish they had more menu options with local food variety. The pool was amazing. Staff was great.
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
The location of the property is beautiful, set back from the road and elevated for a great view of the Pacific. We particularly enjoyed the Happy Hour each day at 5:00 to enjoy the fabulous sunsets. The pool, the colorful plants, the toucans, tanagers, orapendulas and numerous other birds added so much to our visit. The staff was so accommodating and friendly. Our 5 days spent at Cristal Ballena were top notch!
Stayed 5 nights in Mar 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
What a gem. It’s a stunning property outmatched only by incredible, kind and helpful staff. From a special laundry request, to making sure I got to see the Tucáns, to remembering my drink of choice, they made me feel safe, special and well taken care of. Don’t hesitate to book this!
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Toucans galore

This is definitely a 4 star not a 3 star hotel. Pool is really big and great lounging areas and garden around. Toucans are plenty here and easy to spot. Feels like a hidden gem and a truly special place. It is expensive though… particularly drinks and food is definitely a lot higher than in other places. You get what you pay for though and the quality is good. Highly recommend the family suite
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2024
Verified review

6/10 Okay

Liked: Staff & service
We had the villa and the AC was weak. The bedding just made us sweat and pillows were hard. We are not used to sleep in the humid hot room so had a hard time for two nights. I understand it’s next to the jungle but I’m not sure about seeing ants everywhere inside the room. Great birding location. Lots of yellow throated toucans. Unsure about the raving reviews of the restaurant. Basic choices and very high prices. The pool has no shade. Lots of lounge chairs.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2024
Verified review

6/10 Okay

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service
Disliked: Property conditions & facilities
The staff were nice and the bed was comfortable. The view and sunsets are great and you are woken by the sound of the surrounding wildlife. However, you can also hear the traffic from the mai road. Towels in the bathroom were limited. Dining was expensive andcrestaurantvrequired booking after a certain time. We were unfortunately on the ground floor and th noises from the room above was very irritating and the hotel were unable to o anything about it. In my opinion this is not a 4 star hotel, it is not a boutique hotel an does not have the facilities to be called a spa hotel. A small massage room that was never occupie! No gym, no steam room. I was disapointed with the high price I paid for our stay. This hotel does not deserve the high rating that it has. Although our stay was ok and we did appreciate the games room when the rains came...
Stayed 6 nights in Aug 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
My gf and I booked a last minute stay at Cristal Ballena while visiting Costa Rica and could not be happier with our entire experience. We had decided to extend our stay in Costa Rica an additional 7 days to enjoy the costal area, choosing this boutique hotel from the reviews, which turned out to be an excellent choice. Everything from the location, the property, the Staff, the food and the overall amenities were absolutely excellent. The Staff and owners made us feel very comfortable and were very personable the entire time. The bartenders and wait staff were amazing and always very attentive, even remembered our names, which is always a nice touch. We had the privilege of meeting and getting to know the owners, enjoyed hearing the stories of their long time ownership and pride in the experience they were providing for people from all over the world for so many years. The room was very clean and had an excellent view from the balcony of the pool, the jungles below and all the way to the ocean. My gf was actually able to see a whale from our balcony! The Food was absolutely 5 star meals every night, such amazing flavors and professional presentation. The location was perfect for visiting the beach/ocean, waterfalls and several small towns within driving distance. We had a rental car, which I highly recommend. Needless to say, we will definitely be returning some day to revisit Cristal Ballena!!!
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
I love this hotel so much it was comfortable and beautiful and the swimming pool is a dream come true. The service was excellent. The room was gorgeous. I slept like a baby. A wonderful wonderful property with gorgeous gardens and the most beautiful birds I’ve ever seen flying.
Stayed 5 nights in Jun 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Unique property, well maintained , excellent staff and great view !
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Excellent hotel, beautiful surroundings and friendly staff
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Nestled into the nature preserve. We were there at the start of the offseason. The staff was friendly and very helpful. The room was clean and the view was epic. The pool area and restaurant were amazing. We plan on coming back someday to Costa Rica and if on the Pacific side we will spend more days here. Can’t recommend this place enough.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2026