Cristal Ballena Boutique Hotel & Spa

Beach resort in Bahía Ballena with spa and free beach shuttle

Choose dates to view prices

Mon, Mar 16
Tue, Mar 17
March 2026
2
April 2026
Experience the tranquility of Cristal Ballena Boutique Hotel & Spa, nestled by the ocean. Savor a delicious breakfast buffet on the scenic terrace, unwind with a rejuvenating spa treatment or simply relax in your room with free WiFi and stunning ocean views from Pura Vida restaurant.
VIP Access
Exceptional

Popular amenities

  • Spa
  • Airport transfer
  • Free parking
  • Free WiFi
  • Restaurant

Main amenities (12)

  • Daily housekeeping
  • Near the beach
  • Restaurant and bar/lounge
  • Full-service spa
  • Outdoor pool
  • Free beach shuttle
  • Room service
  • Coffee shop/cafe
  • Business center
  • Airport shuttle
  • Area shuttle
  • Terrace

Feel at home (6)

  • Free cribs/infant beds
  • Private bathroom
  • Cable/satellite TV service
  • Garden
  • Terrace
  • Daily housekeeping
$223 nightly
$252 total
Mar 8 - Mar 9
Total with taxes and fees

Room options

Showing 3 of 3 rooms
Shower, free toiletries, hair dryer, towels
Junior Suite | Premium bedding, Tempur-Pedic beds, minibar, in-room safe
Junior Suite | Premium bedding, Tempur-Pedic beds, minibar, in-room safe
Junior Suite | Premium bedding, Tempur-Pedic beds, minibar, in-room safe

Junior Suite

Exceptional

Highlights

Furnished balcony
Air conditioning
Free cribs/infant beds
Flat-screen TV
Separate bedroom
Premium bedding
Tempur-Pedic bed
Ceiling fan
  • Ocean view
  • 538 sq ft
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 King Bed OR 2 Queen Beds
Master Suite | Balcony view
Master Suite | Premium bedding, Tempur-Pedic beds, minibar, in-room safe
Master Suite | Premium bedding, Tempur-Pedic beds, minibar, in-room safe
Master Suite | Premium bedding, Tempur-Pedic beds, minibar, in-room safe

Master Suite

Exceptional

Highlights

Furnished balcony
Air conditioning
Free cribs/infant beds
Flat-screen TV
Tempur-Pedic bed
Premium bedding
Ceiling fan
Private bathroom
  • Ocean view
  • 969 sq ft
  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 King Bed OR 2 Queen Beds
Shower, free toiletries, hair dryer, towels
Family Suite | Premium bedding, Tempur-Pedic beds, minibar, in-room safe
Family Suite | Premium bedding, Tempur-Pedic beds, minibar, in-room safe
Family Suite | Premium bedding, Tempur-Pedic beds, minibar, in-room safe

Family Suite

Exceptional

Highlights

Furnished balcony
Air conditioning
Free cribs/infant beds
Flat-screen TV
Separate bedroom
Premium bedding
Tempur-Pedic bed
Ceiling fan
  • Ocean view
  • 807 sq ft
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 4
  • 1 King Bed and 2 Twin Beds

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About the neighborhood

Map
7 km al Sur de Uvita, Costa Ballena, Bahía Ballena, Puntarenas, 60504

What's nearby

  • Playa Ballena - 1 min drive - 1.4 km
  • Uvita Beach - 7 min drive - 7.8 km
  • Marino Ballena National Park - 8 min drive - 4.6 km
  • Catarata uvita - 10 min drive - 10.6 km
  • Playa Tortuga - 11 min drive - 8.5 km

Getting around

  • Drake Bay (DRK) - 178 min drive
  • Airport shuttle (surcharge)
  • Area shuttle (surcharge)
  • Free beach shuttle

Restaurants

  • ‪Sibu - ‬10 min drive
  • ‪Restaurante Marino Ballena - ‬9 min drive
  • ‪La Choza de Alejo - ‬8 min drive
  • ‪Ballena Bistro - ‬11 min walk
  • ‪Tagua - ‬17 min drive

About this property

Cristal Ballena Boutique Hotel & Spa

Cristal Ballena Boutique Hotel & Spa is a great choice for your beach stay in Bahía Ballena, putting you near activities like scuba diving, snorkeling, and surfing/body boarding. The outdoor pool provides fun for everyone, while guests in the mood for pampering can visit the spa to indulge in massages, facials, and mani/pedis. Offering ocean views, Pura Vida serves international cuisine and is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. This Mediterranean resort also features a bar/lounge, a snack bar/deli, and a beach shuttle.

At a glance

Hotel size

    • 21 units
    • Arranged over 2 floors

Arriving/Leaving

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

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

Required at check-in

    • Credit card, debit card, or cash deposit required for incidental charges
    • Government-issued photo ID may be required
    • Minimum check-in age is 18

Pets

    • No pets or service animals allowed

Internet

    • Free WiFi in public areas
    • Free WiFi in rooms

Parking

    • Free secured, uncovered onsite self parking
    • Onsite RV/bus/truck parking (fees apply)

Transfers

    • Airport shuttle on request (available 24 hours)*

Offsite

    • Area shuttle*
    • Free beach shuttle

Other information

    • Designated smoking areas

Property amenities

Food and drink

  • Free buffet breakfast
  • Restaurant
  • Bar/lounge
  • Coffee shop
  • Room service (limited hours)
  • Snack bar/deli

Traveling with children

  • Children's menu

What to do

  • Free beach shuttle
  • Pool table
  • Beach nearby
  • Ecotours nearby
  • Golfing nearby
  • Hiking/biking trails nearby
  • Horse riding nearby
  • Kayaking nearby
  • Scuba diving nearby

Working away

  • Business center
  • Meeting room
  • Conference space (861 square feet)

Services

  • Front desk (limited hours)
  • Concierge services
  • Tour/ticket assistance
  • Dry cleaning/laundry services
  • Hair salon
  • Free newspapers in lobby
  • Luggage storage
  • Wedding services
  • Free beach shuttle
  • Pool loungers
  • Pool umbrellas

Facilities

  • Built in 2004
  • Safe-deposit box at front desk
  • Garden
  • Picnic area
  • Terrace
  • Library
  • An outdoor pool
  • Full-service spa
  • Banquet hall
  • Mediterranean architecture

Room amenities

Be entertained

  • Flat-screen television
  • Satellite TV channels

Home comfort

  • Air conditioning
  • Ceiling fan
  • Minibar
  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Iron/ironing board

Sleep well

  • Alarm clock
  • Premium bedding
  • Tempur-Pedic mattress
  • Free crib/infant bed

What to enjoy

  • In-room massage
  • Furnished balcony

Freshen up

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

Stay connected

  • Desk
  • Free WiFi
  • Phone

More

  • Daily housekeeping
  • In-room safe

Special features

Spa

Guests can indulge in a pampering treatment at the resort's full-service spa. Services include facials and manicures and pedicures. The spa is open daily.

Dining

Pura Vida - This poolside restaurant specializes in international cuisine and serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. A children's menu is available.

Fees & policies

Mandatory fees

You'll be asked to pay the following charges by the property at check-in or check-out. 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)

Optional extras

  • Airport shuttle service is offered for an extra charge of CRC 105000 per vehicle (one-way, maximum occupancy 3)
  • Area shuttle service is offered for an extra charge
  • Late check-out can be arranged for an extra charge (subject to availability)

Children & extra beds

  • Airport shuttle service for children up to age 11 costs CRC 70000 (one-way)

Pool, spa, & gym (if applicable)

  • Reservations are required for massage services and spa treatments and can be made by contacting the property before arrival at the number on the booking confirmation

Policies

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.
Only registered guests are allowed in the guestrooms.
This property does not have elevators.
Guests can rest easy knowing there's a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, and a first aid kit on site.
This property accepts credit cards, debit cards and cash.
Credit cards accepted: Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Discover, Diners Club

Also known as

Cristal Ballena
Hotel Resort Cristal Ballena
Cristal Ballena Boutique Hotel
Cristal Boutique Hotel
Cristal Ballena Boutique
Hotel Cristal Ballena Osa Peninsula
Cristal Ballena Boutique Hotel & Spa Costa Rica/Uvita
Cristal Ballena Boutique Hotel Spa
Hotel Resort Spa Cristal Ballena
Cristal Ballena & Spa Ballena
Cristal Ballena Boutique Hotel Spa
Cristal Ballena Boutique Hotel & Spa Resort
Cristal Ballena Boutique Hotel & Spa Ballena
Cristal Ballena Boutique Hotel & Spa Resort Ballena

Frequently asked questions

Does Cristal Ballena Boutique Hotel & Spa offer free cancellation for a full refund?

Yes, Cristal Ballena Boutique Hotel & Spa does have fully refundable room rates available to book on our site. If you’ve booked a fully refundable room rate, this can be cancelled up to a few days before check-in depending on the property's cancellation policy. Just make sure to check this property's cancellation policy for the exact terms and conditions.

Is there a pool at Cristal Ballena Boutique Hotel & Spa?

Yes, there's an outdoor pool.

Are pets allowed at Cristal Ballena Boutique Hotel & Spa?

Sorry, pets and service animals aren't allowed.

Is parking offered on site at Cristal Ballena Boutique Hotel & Spa?

Yes, there's free self parking. RV/bus/truck parking is available.

Is airport shuttle service offered by Cristal Ballena Boutique Hotel & Spa?

Yes, an airport shuttle is available. The charge is CRC 105000 per vehicle one-way.

What are the check-in and check-out times at Cristal Ballena Boutique Hotel & Spa?

Check-in start time: 2:00 PM; Check-in end time: 8:00 PM. Check-out time is noon. Late check-out is available for a charge (subject to availability). Contactless check-in and check-out are available.

What is there to do at Cristal Ballena Boutique Hotel & Spa and nearby?

Have fun with activities like boat tours, fishing, and hiking, and practice your swing at the nearby golf course. Additional recreation nearby includes ecotours. Indulge in a treatment at the spa and enjoy a swim in the outdoor pool. Cristal Ballena Boutique Hotel & Spa also has a picnic area and a garden.

Are there restaurants at or near Cristal Ballena Boutique Hotel & Spa?

Yes, Pura Vida offers international cuisine, garden views, and poolside dining.

Does Cristal Ballena Boutique Hotel & Spa have any outdoor private spaces?

Yes, every room features a furnished balcony.

Have a question?

Get instant answers with AI powered search of property information and 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

What guests liked

  • The pool was consistently described as beautiful, great, amazing, and the best, with many reviewers praising its size and lounging areas. (11 reviews)
AI Sparkle IconFrom real guest reviews summarized by AI.

Popular mentions

Service staffRoomViewFoodRestaurantBalconyOceanBirdsFamily friendlyLocation

10/10 Exceptional

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!
Angie, 3-night trip

10/10 Exceptional

Excellent hotel, beautiful surroundings and friendly staff

10/10 Exceptional

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!
Debbie, 3-night trip

10/10 Exceptional

Lots of wildlife great pool
Scott, 2-night trip

10/10 Exceptional

Memorable stay for our family. The surroundings provide countless opportunities to explore the rain forest and the hotel provides a great place to unwind and relax. Great pool and restaurant.
Frederic, 3-night trip

10/10 Exceptional

Staff was incredible, view from the room was wonderful. Dining at the restaurant was delicious. I will be staying here again.
Dale, 1-night trip

10/10 Exceptional

Lovely grounds, large swimming pool, nice room and room balcony, good views of forest and ocean.
Andrew, 2-night trip

10/10 Exceptional

Beautiful

Great stay. Staff was very helpful and friendly. We even met the owner. Beautiful views and property
Annette, 3-night trip

10/10 Exceptional

quiet, peace, beautiful.
KATHY, 5-night trip

10/10 Exceptional

Wonderland

Amazing and magical place to stay.
JEREL, 1-night trip

8/10 Very good

Nice place.
PABLO, 1-night trip

10/10 Exceptional

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!
Sara-Lu, 5-night trip

8/10 Very good

Excelente. A lil costly but good. I wish they had more menu options with local food variety. The pool was amazing. Staff was great.
Marisol, 2-night trip

10/10 Exceptional

We had a wonderful weekend! Definetevely a place to go back!
Marcia, 1-night trip

10/10 Exceptional

Unique location. Stunning and well maintained gardens and area surrounding the resort. Great food. Beautiful pool. Nice, friendly staff.
Philipp, 7-night trip

10/10 Exceptional

Great customer service, and attention to deals!
Sofia, 1-night trip

10/10 Exceptional

The property is hill side and has amazing views of the mountain and of the Pacific Ocean. The staff is warm and friendly.
Bill, 3-night trip

10/10 Exceptional

Great experience

The property is quite lovely with beautiful vegetation and great views. Staff was very responsive and resolved any issue quickly. Food was very good and we would stay there again.
Gerard, 2-night trip

10/10 Exceptional

The room was spacious with a beautiful view. The staff was very friendly and professional. The pool was also beautiful and pleasing. Very close to the beach.
Regina, 2-night trip

10/10 Exceptional

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!
Suzanne, 3-night trip

6/10 Good

Very cool setting. Got to see a couple of Toucans near the pool. The room had issues with the shower and the mattress was very hard and uncomfortable.
1-night trip

10/10 Exceptional

We arrived late and the security guard gave us our key to the room. Too bad we only went to stay for the night and continue our road trip in the morning. Will definitely plan to stay a couple of days next time to be able to enjoy all facilities and upgrades. Wonderful service. Excellent breakfast.
Maribelle, 1-night trip

10/10 Exceptional

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
Alexander, 1-night trip

8/10 Very good

The room was spotlessly clean and the bed was very comfortable. Housekeepers did a great job daily. The porch had a beautiful view where we drank our first cup of coffee daily. The property had many many steps making it very challenging to get to the pool or restaurant. We had to take our car each day for breakfast or dinner. The grounds were very well kept and beautiful. We ate twice in the evening. The food was expensive and mediocre. I recommend the hotel but find another place for meals.
James, 2-night trip

10/10 Exceptional

Best place i have ever encountered

Truely an all inclusive top rated 5 star resort. The staff, the food, the room, the property layout, the vistas, the rain forest paths and walks were all that anyone could ever hope for when experiancing CR. Art work, stone sculptures, flowers, birds and forest rivers made you feel that you were in a adult wonderland. A special thanks to Herbert for his engraciating personality, and to the owner Andreis who was so sweet and and so down to earth. Our lives have changed from this experiance. We are already planing our next stay there and will be bringing family.
James, 5-night trip