Cristal Ballena Boutique Hotel & Spa

Beach resort with outdoor pool

VIP Access

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Where to?

Dates

August 2025

September 2025

Outdoor pool, pool umbrellas, sun loungers

Master Suite | 1 bedroom, premium bedding, Tempur-Pedic beds, minibar

Overview
Rooms
Location
Policies

Exceptional

Popular amenities

Spa
Bar
Room service
Breakfast included
Housekeeping

Explore the area

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

Playa Ballena
‪4 min drive‬
Uvita Beach
‪9 min drive‬
Playa Tortuga
‪13 min drive‬
Drake Bay (DRK)
‪160 min drive‬

Curated for quality and service, VIP Access stays consistently receive our highest guest ratings.

Expect exceptional service
Extra savings and perks for Rewards members

Learn more about VIP Access

Room options

Family Suite

Exceptional

807 sq ft
1 bedroom
Ocean view
Sleeps 4
1 King Bed and 2 Twin Beds

Master Suite

Exceptional

969 sq ft
Ocean view
Sleeps 3
1 King Bed OR 2 Queen Beds

Junior Suite

Exceptional

538 sq ft
Ocean view
Sleeps 3
1 King Bed OR 2 Queen Beds

About the neighborhood

Ballena

Within a short walk of Playa Ballena, Cristal Ballena Boutique Hotel & Spa is within 2 miles (3 km) of Arco Beach. This 21-room, 3-star resort has conveniences like a full-service spa, an outdoor pool, and free in-room WiFi.

View more Resorts in Ballena

What's nearby

Playa Ballena - 4 min drive - 1.2 miles
Ventanas Beach - 6 min drive - 3.8 miles
Uvita Beach - 9 min drive - 5.1 miles
Marino Ballena National Park - 9 min drive - 3.1 miles
Playa Tortuga - 13 min drive - 5.5 miles

Restaurants

‪Pizzeria La Fogata - ‬10 min drive
‪Restaurante Heliconia - ‬8 min drive
‪The Bakery - ‬10 min drive
‪Sibu - ‬10 min drive
‪Pizza Time - ‬8 min drive

About this property

Cristal Ballena Boutique Hotel & Spa

Beach resort with outdoor pool

Guests staying at Cristal Ballena Boutique Hotel & Spa enjoy access to a full-service spa, an outdoor pool, and free WiFi in public areas. There's free parking, and an airport shuttle (available 24 hours) for CRC 105000 per vehicle one-way. Front-desk staff can assist with dry cleaning/laundry, securing valuables, and luggage storage. Other amenities at this beach resort include conference space, a business center, and a library.

Guests can expect to find free WiFi and flat-screen TVs with satellite channels. Tempur-Pedic beds sport premium bedding and bathrooms offer hair dryers and free toiletries. Other amenities include furnished balconies, minibars, and coffee makers.

Recreational amenities at the resort include an outdoor pool.

The recreational activities listed below are available either on site or nearby; fees may apply.

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.

Languages

English, German, Spanish

Similar properties

Pool
Breakfast included
Spa
Parking included

$399 nightly

Aug 13 - Aug 14

Total includes taxes and fees

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

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

No elevator

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 cable/satellite channels

Food and drink

Coffee/tea maker
Limited room service
Minibar

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

Access methods

Front desk (limited hours)

Pets

This property doesn't allow pets or service animals

Children and extra beds

Free cribs/infant beds are available

Property payment types

Important information

Fees

You'll be asked to pay these charges at the property:

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)

These are all of the charges provided to us by the property.

Optional extras

These fees and deposits will be charged at check-in, check-out, or the time of service.

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)

This list may not be comprehensive. Fees and deposits might 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

Check-in: 2:00 PM—-8:00 PM
Check-out: noon
Minimum check-in age: 18

The front desk is available during limited hours. For convenient arrivals and departures, you can take advantage of the airport shuttle (available 24 hours), which is offered for a fee. Driving? This property offers free self parking, along with RV, bus, and truck parking.

We should mention

Details about charges, deposits, or other important information:

This property is managed by a professional host. The provision of housing is linked to their trade, business, or profession.
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.
Charges for extra guests may apply and vary depending on the property's policy.
A cash deposit, credit card, or debit card for incidental charges, as well as a government-issued photo ID, may be required at check-in.
Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in and can't be guaranteed. Certain requests may come with additional charges.
This property accepts credit cards, debit cards, and cash.
Onsite safety features include a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, and a first aid kit.

Additional information about polices, regulations, and more:

Reservations need to be made in advance for massage services and spa treatments. Contact the resort at the phone number listed on your booking confirmation.
Registered guests are the only ones allowed in guestrooms.
There are no elevators.
No rollaway or extra beds are available.

Property is 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

Is free cancellation available at Cristal Ballena Boutique Hotel & Spa?

Cristal Ballena Boutique Hotel & Spa provides free cancellation on certain room rates. To learn more, look at the cancellation policy on our site.

What is there to do within easy reach of Cristal Ballena Boutique Hotel & Spa?

This resort is located in Ballena within a short 15-minute walk of Playa Ballena. You'll also find Marino Ballena National Park and Ventanas Beach within a short drive.

Will I be able to park at Cristal Ballena Boutique Hotel & Spa?

Yes, secured self parking is offered for free at the resort. RV/bus/truck parking is also available for guests.

Is there a spa available at Cristal Ballena Boutique Hotel & Spa?

There is a full-service spa available for guests to enjoy and services include massages, mani/pedis, and facials.

Does Cristal Ballena Boutique Hotel & Spa feature a casino?

No, Cristal Ballena Boutique Hotel & Spa doesn't have a casino.

Is there an indoor pool at Cristal Ballena Boutique Hotel & Spa?

No, this resort doesn't have an indoor pool; however, there is an outdoor pool.

What do couples enjoy most about Cristal Ballena Boutique Hotel & Spa?

There are many amenities for couples at this resort, including in-room massages as well as an outdoor pool and a bar.

Does Cristal Ballena Boutique Hotel & Spa have a hot tub?

No, there isn't a spa tub at this resort.

Does Cristal Ballena Boutique Hotel & Spa have a restaurant that serves breakfast?

Yes, Cristal Ballena Boutique Hotel & Spa serves free buffet breakfast at Pura Vida.

Does Cristal Ballena Boutique Hotel & Spa allow pets to stay for free?

No, pets and service animals aren't allowed at Cristal Ballena Boutique Hotel & Spa.

Are there connecting rooms at Cristal Ballena Boutique Hotel & Spa?

No, this resort doesn't feature connecting guestrooms.

How far is the airport from Cristal Ballena Boutique Hotel & Spa?

The closest major airport to Cristal Ballena Boutique Hotel & Spa is Drake Bay (DRK), which is about 28.2 mi away.

Are there rooms with balconies that I can book at Cristal Ballena Boutique Hotel & Spa?

Yes, every guestroom at Cristal Ballena Boutique Hotel & Spa comes with a furnished balcony with some featuring ocean views.

Does Cristal Ballena Boutique Hotel & Spa offer wedding services?

There are wedding services available at Cristal Ballena Boutique Hotel & Spa if that's in your vacation plans.

Cristal Ballena Boutique Hotel & Spa Reviews

9.6

Exceptional

9.8/10

Cleanliness

9.8/10

Staff & service

9.4/10

Amenities

9.4/10

Property conditions & facilities

9.6/10

Eco-friendliness

10/10 Excellent

Sara-Lu

Traveled with family

Apr 17, 2025

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

10/10 Excellent

ERIC

Traveled with family

Mar 27, 2025

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

Séjour de 4 nuits Magnifique et très calme Piscine avec vue mer En pleine nature toucans et autres oiseaux présents . Happy hours très sympas Tout était marfait

Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2025

8/10 Good

Roger

Feb 18, 2025

Stayed 1 night in Feb 2025

10/10 Excellent

Marc

Traveled with family

Feb 18, 2025

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

Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2025

10/10 Excellent

Debbie

Traveled with group

Feb 12, 2025

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

8/10 Good

Marisol, Beavercreek

Traveled with family

Feb 2, 2025

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

10/10 Excellent

Marc

Jan 31, 2025

Stayed 1 night in Jan 2025

10/10 Excellent

KATHY

Traveled with partner

Jan 6, 2025

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities

quiet, peace, beautiful.

Stayed 5 nights in Dec 2024

10/10 Excellent

Kening

Jan 5, 2025

Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2025

10/10 Excellent

Glorianela

Dec 29, 2024

Stayed 1 night in Dec 2024

10/10 Excellent

Annette

Dec 4, 2024

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

10/10 Excellent

Scott

Traveled with partner

Nov 12, 2024

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities

Lots of wildlife great pool

Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2024

10/10 Excellent

Pierre

Sep 22, 2024

Liked: Amenities

Stayed 1 night in Sep 2024

8/10 Good

James

Traveled with group

Aug 29, 2024

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities

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.

Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Alexander

Traveled with family

Aug 13, 2024

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

10/10 Excellent

Wojciech

Traveled with family

Jul 7, 2024

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities

Wspaniały, pięknie ulokowany hotel z miła obsługa super basenem i wieloma atrakcyjnymi w pobliżu.

Stayed 6 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Sofia

Traveled with family

Jun 23, 2024

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities

Great customer service, and attention to deals!

Stayed 1 night in Jun 2024

6/10 Okay

Shirley

Apr 12, 2024

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

10/10 Excellent

Walter

Apr 12, 2024

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities

Stayed 1 night in Apr 2024

10/10 Excellent

Suzanne

Mar 14, 2024

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