<h2>Whale Watching in Costa Rica: A Magical Experience</h2>&nbsp;Little did I know about Costa Rica and its wildlife when I was told that I could see whales there; I could not believe it! Not only sloths, pumas, monkeys, and tropical, colorful birds of all kinds, but the marine wildlife is just as stunning and amazing!&nbsp;The portion of the Central and South Pacific Ocean that borders the Costa Rican coast is the preferred "nursery" for humpback whales and their newborns, who come and bless our lives with their visits twice a year. These majestic and beautiful mammals certainly know what's best for their babies: warm tropical waters, abundant food, and free entertainment brought by people watching and admiring them!&nbsp;Their biggest migration season is from August until the beginning of November, when they can be spotted in the ocean right from the coast. This coincides with our Green season. With fewer tourists, you can enjoy a more peaceful and relaxed atmosphere, and cooler temperatures offer a refreshing break from the heat.&nbsp;My first encounter with these majestic whales, off the coast of Manuel Antonio, was a moment I will never forget, even after ten years. As I set out on a small motor boat with my closest friends, I had no idea what was in store for us. I was already in awe of the stunning views around me, with dolphins and sea turtles swimming nearby and the lush greenery of Costa Rican mountains in the distance. But nothing could have prepared me for the breathtaking sight of the Humpback whales jumping out of the water just 10 feet away from us. It was an incredible moment that filled me with wonder and gratitude for this beautiful corner of the world that I now call home.&nbsp;&nbsp;This is our family's favorite time of the year! Living in Manuel Antonio means we're right in the middle of all the excitement when the whales come to visit our little corner of paradise. From Manuel Antonio all the way south to Osa Peninsula, passing by Uvita and Marino Ballena National Park, they can be spotted right from the beach, but certainly the best way is to be in the water with them!&nbsp;&nbsp;Nature is wise, and when it comes to whale watching in Costa Rica, it's a language that speaks volumes. The sounds and vibrations of these magnificent creatures connect us with the rhythm of the ocean and the land. It's a connection that we, as locals, hold dear and seek to protect. Our hope is to share this treasure with our visitors and teach them to appreciate the beauty and wisdom of the natural world.&nbsp;<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/vacationscostarica-com/image/upload/v1646792197/drake_bay_humpback_whale_underwater_shot_408ff5a3bd.jpg" alt="drake-bay-humpback-whale-underwater-shot.jpg" srcset="https://res.cloudinary.com/vacationscostarica-com/image/upload/v1646792197/thumbnail_drake_bay_humpback_whale_underwater_shot_408ff5a3bd.jpg 234w,https://res.cloudinary.com/vacationscostarica-com/image/upload/v1646792198/small_drake_bay_humpback_whale_underwater_shot_408ff5a3bd.jpg 500w,https://res.cloudinary.com/vacationscostarica-com/image/upload/v1646792198/medium_drake_bay_humpback_whale_underwater_shot_408ff5a3bd.jpg 750w,https://res.cloudinary.com/vacationscostarica-com/image/upload/v1646792197/large_drake_bay_humpback_whale_underwater_shot_408ff5a3bd.jpg 1000w," sizes="100vw"><h2>Guanacaste &amp; North Pacific</h2>The northwestern coast of Costa Rica in Guanacaste Province is excellent for dolphins. Take any kind of boat or catamaran trip, and there's a great chance of seeing spinner, spotted, bottlenose and common dolphins jumping and playing around you.During both summer and winter migration seasons, humpbacks are not uncommon sights off the coast of Papagayo, Playa del Coco, Tamarindo, and other beaches.Most whale and dolphin watching in Guanacaste comes from being on some other kind of boat tour rather than a specific, organized whale watching trip. Think sunset sailing, snorkeling, and fishing. Many of these tours will try to get to where the whales will be when humpbacks are around.<h3>Nicoya Peninsula</h3>Like the Guanacaste coastline to the north, the Nicoya Peninsula isn't well known for whale watching tours, although you'll certainly see both whales and dolphins in the ocean here. But, again, it's the humpback whales and bottlenose, spinner, and common dolphins in play off the Nicoya Peninsula. You might well see something if you're on a boat trip out of Santa Teresa, Montezuma, or Tambor.<h3>Central Pacific</h3>The Manuel Antonio/Quepos area is an excellent place for whale and dolphin watching. Again, this stretch of coastline is fertile ground for migrating humpbacks from both north and south and the three species of dolphin found everywhere.Below Manuel Antonio in the southern Pacific zone is the Dominical and Uvita area, home to Marino Ballena National Park, which was set up to protect migrating whales. You will see both northern and southern humpbacks, pseudo-orcas, and pilot whales. Organized dolphin and whale-watching tours depart daily.Whale watching in Uvita is such a part of life that the community even has a Whale and Dolphin Festival each year - generally in early September - to celebrate the lives of these animals.<h3>The Osa Peninsula &amp; South Pacific</h3>The Osa Peninsula is Costa Rica’s most popular destination for whale watching. These waters give Costa Rica its reputation for having the most extended humpback season globally. Most tours depart from Drake Bay, although you can also catch day excursions from Puerto Jimenez, including the Golfo Dulce.In addition to the humpbacks, you can spot pilot whales, pseudo-orcas whales, bottlenose dolphins, spinner dolphins, spotted dolphins, common dolphins, and rough-toothed dolphins. Organized dolphin and whale-watching tours depart daily.<h3>The Caribbean</h3>The Caribbean side of Costa Rica doesn't see as much whale and dolphin action as the Pacific, but they're there. You'll only see bottlenose dolphins on this side of the country, while Atlantic whales use the waters off Tortuguero after migrating down from Newfoundland and Greenland for the winter. So again, here, it's not so much about specific whale watching tours, but if you're out on the water, you might see something.<h2>FAQ:</h2><ol><li>Is Costa Rica good for whale watching? Costa Rica is excellent for whale watching, with the most extended humpback watching season globally. In addition, other whales come and go, while many species of dolphins live year-round in Costa Rican waters.</li><li>What time of year can you see whales in Costa Rica? The best time is December to April for northern humpbacks (California humpbacks on the Pacific side and Atlantic humpbacks on the Caribbean side) and July to November (Pacific side only) for Southern humpbacks. Both types make their way to Costa Rican waters to breed and feed.</li><li>What is the best month to go whale watching? August and September are probably the best individual months to go whale watching in Costa Rica, especially on the Central and Southern Pacific coast.</li><li>Can you swim with whales in Costa Rica? Unfortunately, no. Costa Rica doesn't permit anyone except for researchers and marine biologists to swim with whales in its waters.</li><li>Are there blue whales in Costa Rica? Blue whales have been spotted off both coasts of Costa Rica, although they're not familiar. These animals prefer colder waters to what Costa Rica has to offer.</li><li>Are there orcas in Costa Rica? Orcas are rare in Costa Rican waters, given that they prefer cold water. They have been spotted off the Guanacaste coast on occasion, though. Pseudo-orcas are common in Costa Rica.</li></ol>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<hr><h2 style="margin-left:0px;">&nbsp;</h2><h2 style="margin-left:0px;">About the Author</h2><h3 style="margin-left:0px;"><a class="text-lightblue hover:text-darkblue underline font-sans" href="https://www.vacationscostarica.com/our-travel-agency/planners/valentina-negri/">Valentina Negri</a></h3><a href="https://www.vacationscostarica.com/our-travel-agency/planners/valentina-negri/"><img class="image_resized" style="width:50%;" src="https://res.cloudinary.com/vacationscostarica-com/image/upload/v1667866771/Valentina_1000x1000_2022_de30042085.jpg" alt="Valentina Negri - Costa Rica Travel Consultant" srcset="https://res.cloudinary.com/vacationscostarica-com/image/upload/v1667866771/thumbnail_Valentina_1000x1000_2022_de30042085.jpg 156w,https://res.cloudinary.com/vacationscostarica-com/image/upload/v1667866771/small_Valentina_1000x1000_2022_de30042085.jpg 500w,https://res.cloudinary.com/vacationscostarica-com/image/upload/v1667866771/medium_Valentina_1000x1000_2022_de30042085.jpg 750w," sizes="100vw"></a>Travel Consultant at Costa Rican Vacations&nbsp;Originally from Milan, Italy, Valentina fell in love with Costa Rica during her first overseas adventure in 2002. She is passionate about creating lifelong memories for her clients and loves rediscovering Costa Rica through her son's eyes.

Whale Watching in Costa Rica

Whale Watching 

Drake Bay, Osa Peninsula

Drake Bay

Nature & Wildlife

Beach Fun

National Parks

Adrenaline

Rainforest

Beach

We traveled to three locations over 9 days. Our trip exceeded expectations and was so simple with the help of Costa Rican Vacations. We highly recommend Luke Angus to coordinate your travel.

Sharon - Luke Angus

What a seamless experience! I've never used a travel agency to plan my whole vacation, so this was a joy. It was so nice not to worry about any of the arrangements. All of the tours that Daniel chose for us were perfect.&nbsp;

Audrey C - Daniel Fonseca

Puerto Jiménez

Uvita

Culture

National Park

Golfito

Countryside

Manuel Antonio

Waterfalls

Emma! We absolutely loved our vacation. I can't say enough good things about working with you and the trip planned! You listened carefully, offered advice, understood what we were looking for and set us up in great locations we will remember for a lifetime.&nbsp;

Livingston Lewis - Emma Lasiuk

Matthew put together a great itinerary and was very quick to respond to our emails. We developed a relationship with him and were comfortable reaching out to him. Thanks Matthew for your help!

George and Ellen Lipka - Matthew Briscoe

My family and I spent 7 glorious days in Costa Rica. Rachel Peck put together a perfect itinerary. She was absolutely amazing! Very attentive to details and arranged unforgettable experiences for us. Many wonderful memories were made!

Marleen Chiaravalloti - Rachel Peck

Manuel Antonio was the best. We booked through Vanessa. Everything was on time and perfect. Whole experience with CRV was mind blowing. I would recommend everybody to go through this travel company and Vanessa, she was so helpful. Thank you, girl! You are a rockstar.

Ana M - Vanessa Nichols

Perfect first time visit to Costa Rica! Planning with Felipe Martinez at Costa Rican Vacation was a breeze! He was prompt and super informative. When the time arrived, the travel was easy and very organized. All of the excursions that were recommended were top notch. Using Costa Rican Vacations and Felipe made all of the trip planning easy. Highly recommend.

Kerri - Felipe Martinez

Slow Down & Sloth On: La Paz Cloud Forest and Drake Bay, Osa Peninsula

Slow Down & Sloth On

Cloud Forest

All Inclusive Fishing Adventure: Drake Bay, Osa Peninsula and Conchal Beach

All Inclusive Fishing Adventure

Relaxing

Surf and Turf: Drake Bay, Osa Peninsula and Playa Dominical

Surf and Turf

Dawn in the Rainforest: Arenal Volcano and Drake Bay, Osa Peninsula

Dawn in the Rainforest

Volcano

Pacuare and Drake Bay, Osa Peninsula

Pacuare and Drake Bay

Los Sueños Fishing and Jungle Jams: Los Sueños & Drake Bay, Osa Peninsula

Los Sueños Fishing and Jungle Jams

Marina

Rainforest Offshore Fishing Adventure: Drake Bay, Osa Peninsula & Manuel Antonio

Rainforest Offshore Fishing Adventure

Go with the Flow: Isla Chiquita and Drake Bay, Osa Peninsula

Go with the Flow

Island

Jaco and Drake Bay, Osa Peninsula

Jaco and Drake Bay

Wild and Wonderful Costa Rica: Tortuguero, Rio Perdido & Drake Bay, Osa Peninsula

Wild and Wonderful Costa Rica

 Surf and Yoga Getaway: Nosara and Drake Bay, Osa Peninsula

 Surf and Yoga Getaway

Costa Rica Hiking Gems: Savegre Valley and Drake Bay, Osa Peninsula

Costa Rica Hiking Gems

Wilderness Waterfalls: Bajos del Toro and Drake Bay, Osa Peninsula

Wilderness Waterfalls

Luxury Diving in Costa Rica: Papagayo and Drake Bay

Luxury Diving in Costa Rica

Arenal Volcano, Monteverde and Drake Bay, Osa Peninsula

Arenal Volcano, Monteverde and Drake Bay

Nature Expedition: Tortuguero, Manuel Antonio & Drake Bay

Nature Expedition

Wildlife Bonanza: Monteverde and Drake Bay, Osa Peninsula

Wildlife Bonanza

Surf and Fishing Getaway: Tamarindo and Drake Bay, Osa Peninsula

Surf and Fishing Getaway

Costa Rica Sideways: Santa Teresa and Drake Bay, Osa Peninsula

Costa Rica Sideways

Scuba, Sea Turtles and Sloths: Tortuguero and Drake Bay, Osa Peninsula

Scuba, Sea Turtles and Sloths

Paradise Mode: Activated | Flamingo Beach and Drake Bay, Osa Peninsula

Paradise Mode: Activated

#ResponsibleLuxury: San Isidro and Drake Bay, Osa Peninsula

#ResponsibleLuxury

Fishing the South Pacific: Drake Bay, Osa Peninsula and Quepos

Fishing the South Pacific 

Costa Rica Hiking Adventure: San Ramón and Drake Bay, Osa Peninsula

Costa Rica Hiking Adventure

Paradise Awaits: Isla Chiquita and Puerto Jiménez

Paradise Awaits

Unique Lodges of Costa Rica: Pacuare and Matapalo, Puerto Jiménez

Unique Lodges of Costa Rica

A Serene Nature-Filled Getaway: Puerto Jiménez and Flamingo Beach

A Serene Nature-Filled Getaway

Unpack and Relax: Puerto Jiménez and Nosara

Unpack and Relax

Remote Surf Spots: Puerto Jiménez and Santa Teresa

Remote Surf Spots

The Mother of All Trips: Arenal Volcano, Monteverde & Puerto Jiménez

The Mother of All Trips

Rugged Costa Rica: Savegre Valley and Puerto Jiménez

Rugged Costa Rica

For Nature Nerds Only: La Paz - Vara Blanca Cloud Forest and Puerto Jiménez

For Nature Nerds Only

Adventure and Sunshine Bound: Puerto Jiménez and Tamarindo

Adventure and Sunshine Bound

Adventure Highlights Tour: Puerto Jiménez and Jaco

Adventure Highlights Tour

Bring the (Jungle) Noise: Monteverde and Puerto Jiménez

Bring the (Jungle) Noise

Deep Sea Fishing Costa Rica: Puerto Jiménez and Quepos

Deep Sea Fishing Costa Rica

Relax, Refresh, and Reconnect: San Isidro and Puerto Jiménez

Relax, Refresh, and Reconnect

Recharge, Renew, Reset: Papagayo and Puerto Jiménez

Recharge, Renew, Reset

Epic Hiking Trails: San Ramón and Puerto Jiménez

Epic Hiking Trails

Puerto Jiménez and Manuel Antonio

Costa Rica Birding Hotspots: San Gerardo de Dota and Puerto Jiménez

Costa Rica Birding Hotspots

Costa Rica Fishing Pros: Puerto Jiménez and Los Sueños

Costa Rica Fishing Pros

Jungle and Surf Adventure: Puerto Jiménez and Playa Dominical

Jungle and Surf Adventure

Wilderness Explorers: Tortuguero and Puerto Jiménez

Wilderness Explorers

Serene Jungle Retreat: Bajos del Toro and Puerto Jiménez

Serene Jungle Retreat

Bucket List Costa Rica: Arenal Volcano and Puerto Jiménez

Bucket List Costa Rica

Where Wild Things Roam: Puerto Jiménez and Uvita

Where Wild Things Roam

Uvita and Tamarindo

Some Like It 'Pura Vida'

Jungle, Waterfalls & Whales: La Paz - Vara Blanca Cloud Forest and Uvita

Jungle, Waterfalls & Whales

Bajos del Toro and Uvita

Commotion in the Ocean

Into the Green: Savegre Valley and Uvita

Into the Green

San Gerardo de Dota and Uvita

 Splish Splash in the Jungle

Adventure Honeymoon: Pacuare and Uvita

Adventure Honeymoon

Island Dreams: Isla Chiquita and Uvita

Island Dreams

Tropical Breeze: Uvita and Manuel Antonio

Tropical Breeze

Barefoot Luxury: Uvita and Nosara

Barefoot Luxury

Essential Costa Rica: Arenal Volcano and Uvita

Essential Costa Rica

Down in Jungleland: Monteverde and Uvita

Down in Jungleland

Monkeys, Sloths and Whales: Tortuguero and Uvita

Monkeys, Sloths and Whales

A Path Through the Jungle: San Ramón and Uvita

A Path Through the Jungle

Jungle. Yoga. Surf. Uvita and Santa Teresa

Jungle. Yoga. Surf.

Arenal Volcano, Monteverde and Uvita

classic Nature Getaway: San Isidro and Uvita

Classic Nature Getaway

Sunshine Dew: Uvita and Esterillos Beach

Sunshine Dew

Take a Hike: San Gerardo de Dota and Manuel Antonio

Take a Hike

Playa Conchal and Manuel Antonio

Tarpon and Marlin Adventure: Tortuguero and Manuel Antonio

Tarpon and Marlin Adventure

Isla Chiquita and Manuel Antonio

Manuel Antonio and Tamarindo

Arenal Volcano and Manuel Antonio

Coast to Coast Adventure: Puerto Viejo and Manuel Antonio

Coast to Coast Adventure

Costa Rica Food Trail: San José and Manuel Antonio

Costa Rica Food Trail

Coco Beach and Manuel Antonio

'Pura Vida' Beach Vibe: Manuel Antonio and Playa Panamá

'Pura Vida' Beach Vibe

Jungle and Beach Expedition: Arenal Volcano, Monteverde and Manuel Antonio

Jungle and Beach Expedition

Flamingo Beach and Manuel Antonio

Relax and Unwind: Manuel Antonio and Nosara

Relax and Unwind

San Ramón and Manuel Antonio

Central Pacific Fishing Adventure: Manuel Antonio and Los Sueños

Central Pacific Fishing Adventure

Tenorio Volcano & Rio Celeste and Manuel Antonio

Rio Celeste and Manuel Antonio

Manuel Antonio and Santa Teresa

Pacuare and Manuel Antonio

Las Catalinas and Manuel Antonio

Waterfall Valley: Bajos del Toro and Manuel Antonio

Waterfall Valley and Manuel Antonio

Untamed Adventure: Tortuguero, Manuel Antonio & Corcovado National Park

Untamed Adventure

San Isidro and Manuel Antonio

Hermosa Beach and Manuel Antonio

Costa Rica Dreamin': Manuel Antonio and Papagayo

Costa Rica Dreamin'

Jungle Ride: Rio Perdido and Manuel Antonio

Jungle Ride