Discover Playa Punta UVA: A Hidden Beach Paradise

If you’re planning to explore Costa Rica’s Caribbean coast, Playa Punta UVA is one of those hidden gems you won’t want to miss! It’s a beautiful beach with clear waters, soft sand, and surrounded by lush jungle. Whether you’re a nature lover, adventure seeker, or someone just looking for a peaceful retreat, Punta UVA is perfect for all types of travelers. Let me walk you through some details you’ll love about this place!

Playa Punta UVA is part of the Puerto Viejo region, located in the Limón Province of Costa Rica. The area is known for its natural beauty, with crystal-clear waters, coral reefs, and vibrant wildlife. Historically, the region was inhabited by the indigenous Bribri people, and its lush environment has remained mostly untouched, preserving the tranquil and wild beauty that attracts visitors today.

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Playa Punta UVA Map

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Playa Punta UVA is during the dry season, which typically runs from December to April. This is when you’ll experience sunny days and calm waters, perfect for swimming, snorkeling, or just lounging on the beach. The wet season (May to November) brings more rain, but it’s also less crowded, offering a quieter, more serene experience if you don’t mind the occasional shower.

Location

Punta UVA is located about 7 kilometers south of Puerto Viejo, in Costa Rica’s Caribbean region. It’s nestled between the towns of Cocles and Manzanillo, providing a perfect mix of seclusion and accessibility.

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How to Reach

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By car: If you’re renting a car, it’s an easy drive from Puerto Viejo (just about 15 minutes). The roads are well-paved, but be prepared for some curvy paths that add to the adventure.
By air: The nearest airport is in Limón, about 45 minutes away by car. There are also flights into San José, and from there you can either drive or take a domestic flight to Limón and continue on to Punta UVA.
By other: If you’re not into driving, you can take a bus from Puerto Viejo or hire a taxi. Another fun option is to rent a bike and enjoy the scenic ride to the beach.

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Playa Punta UVA Things to do

Snorkeling and Diving: The coral reefs just offshore are home to a variety of marine life, making it a prime spot for snorkeling and diving.
Kayaking and Paddleboarding: Rent a kayak or paddleboard and explore the tranquil waters of the bay. It’s a peaceful way to enjoy the stunning surroundings.
Wildlife Watching: Punta UVA is a paradise for animal lovers. You’ll see monkeys, sloths, and many bird species in the surrounding jungle.
Hiking: The nearby Gandoca-Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge offers plenty of hiking trails through dense rainforests.

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Nearest Tourist Places

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Playa Grande, Punta UVA (5 min): This quiet beach is just a short walk away from Punta UVA, and it’s known for its calm waters and more relaxed vibe.
Ara Manzanillo (5 min): A protected reserve where you can spot the stunning Scarlet Macaws. It’s a beautiful place to visit for birdwatching.
Monkey Point Tours (7 min): This is a great spot for a boat tour where you can see monkeys and other wildlife up close.
The Amazing Treehouse and Nature Observatorio in Manzanillo (7 min): Check out the amazing treehouse for a different view of the jungle and wildlife.
Jaguar Rescue Center (8 min): A must-visit for animal lovers! The center rescues and rehabilitates wildlife, and you can get up close to some adorable animals.
Punta Cocles: Another beautiful beach nearby, offering clear water and perfect conditions for swimming and relaxing.

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Playa Punta UVA Costa Rica Resorts

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Casa Viva (3 min): A small eco-friendly lodge with comfy rooms and a peaceful vibe, just a short walk from the beach.
Walaba Hostel (3 min): For those on a budget, Walaba Hostel offers a friendly atmosphere, private and shared rooms, and easy access to local attractions.
Bungalows Punta UVA (1 min): Just steps away from the beach, these cozy bungalows provide a perfect home base for your adventures.

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Playa Punta UVA restaurants

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Restaurant Eden Beach, Punta UVA (1 min walking): This laid-back restaurant is perfect for enjoying fresh seafood with a view of the beach.
Soda Alanita (3 min): If you’re craving authentic Costa Rican food, Soda Alanita offers delicious, home-style meals at a great price.
Selvin (3 min): Another fantastic option for a casual meal. The seafood here is always fresh, and the atmosphere is super chill.

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3-Day Itinerary for Playa Punta UVA Tour

Day 1: Arrival and Relaxation

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Morning: Arrive at Playa Punta UVA and check into your accommodation. Take a morning stroll on the beach to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
Afternoon: Go for a swim in the calm waters of Playa Punta UVA or try snorkeling near the coral reefs.
Lunch: Head to Restaurant Eden Beach for a fresh seafood lunch with an ocean view.
Evening: Relax on the beach as the sun sets, or enjoy a casual dinner at Soda Alanita to experience local Costa Rican flavors.

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Day 2: Nature and Adventure

Morning: Visit the Jaguar Rescue Center for a guided tour and learn about the wildlife rehabilitation efforts.
Afternoon: Take a short hike through the Gandoca-Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge to spot local wildlife like monkeys and sloths.
Lunch: Enjoy a quick bite at Selvin, known for delicious, fresh meals.
Evening: After the hike, relax by the beach or take a boat tour at Monkey Point for some wildlife viewing at sunset.

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Day 3: Exploring Nearby Attractions

Morning: Visit Ara Manzanillo to see the Scarlet Macaws and enjoy the beautiful coastal views.
Afternoon: Spend some time at Playa Grande or explore the Amazing Treehouse and nature observatory in Manzanillo for more adventure and wildlife sightings.
Lunch: Grab a meal at a nearby local spot, like Soda Alanita.
Evening: Wind down your day by taking a final walk on Playa Punta UVA’s serene beach, soaking in the sunset.

This 3-day itinerary offers a perfect mix of relaxation, wildlife, adventure, and local experiences, ensuring a memorable visit to Playa Punta UVA!

Whether you’re in the mood to explore or simply relax, Playa Punta Uva is the place to be. It’s a tropical paradise that offers the perfect balance of adventure and relaxation. So pack your bags, grab your sunscreen, and get ready for an unforgettable experience in one of Costa Rica’s most beautiful and peaceful destinations!

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FAQs

Q: Where is Playa Punta UVA located?

A: Playa Punta UVA is located in Costa Rica’s Caribbean region, near Puerto Viejo, between the towns of Cocles and Manzanillo.

Q: What is the best time to visit Playa Punta UVA?

A: The best time to visit Playa Punta UVA is during the dry season, from December to April, for sunny days and clear waters.

Q: How can I get to Playa Punta UVA?

A: You can reach Playa Punta UVA by car from Puerto Viejo in about 15 minutes, or by bus or taxi. The nearest airport is in Limón.

Q: What activities can I do at Playa Punta UVA?

A: At Playa Punta UVA, enjoy activities like snorkeling, kayaking, wildlife watching, and hiking in nearby nature reserves.

Q: Are there accommodations near Playa Punta UVA?

A: Yes, there are several accommodations near Playa Punta UVA, including Casa Viva, Walaba Hostel, and Bungalows Punta Uva, all within walking distance.

Q: Can you swim in Playa Punta UVA?

A: Yes, Playa Punta UVA is known for its calm, clear waters, making it a perfect spot for swimming and enjoying the beach.

Q: Is Playa Punta UVA worth visiting?

A: Absolutely! Playa Punta UVA offers stunning natural beauty, serene beaches, and exciting activities like snorkeling and wildlife watching, making it a must-visit destination.

Q: How do I get to Playa Punta UVA?

A: You can easily get to Playa Punta UVA by car from Puerto Viejo (about 15 minutes), or by taxi, bus, or even bike for a more adventurous trip.