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Cristal Ballena Boutique Hotel & Spa

3.0 star property
VIP Access

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Photo gallery for Cristal Ballena Boutique Hotel & Spa

Outdoor pool, pool umbrellas, sun loungers
Master Suite | Premium bedding, Tempur-Pedic beds, minibar, in-room safe
Master Suite | Balcony view
Beach nearby, free beach shuttle
Shower, free toiletries, hair dryer, towels

Reviews

9.6 out of 10
Exceptional

Popular amenities

  • Breakfast included
  • Spa
  • Parking included
  • Free WiFi
  • Restaurant

Explore the area

View in a map
7 km al Sur de Uvita, Costa Ballena, Bahía Ballena, Puntarenas, 60504
  • Place, Playa Ballena
    ‪1 min drive‬
  • Place, Marino Ballena National Park
    ‪9 min drive‬
  • Place, Hacienda Baru
    ‪30 min drive‬
VIP Access
Curated for quality and service, VIP Access stays consistently receive our highest guest ratings.
  • Expect exceptional service
  • Extra savings and perks for Rewards members
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Room options

View all photos for Junior Suite

Junior Suite | Premium bedding, Tempur-Pedic beds, minibar, in-room safe

Junior Suite

9.8 out of 10
Exceptional
(7 reviews)
  • Ocean view
  • 538 sq ft
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 King Bed OR 2 Queen Beds
  • Free WiFi

View all photos for Master Suite

Master Suite | Premium bedding, Tempur-Pedic beds, minibar, in-room safe

Master Suite

10.0 out of 10
Exceptional
(2 reviews)
  • Ocean view
  • 969 sq ft
  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 King Bed OR 2 Queen Beds
  • Free WiFi

View all photos for Family Suite

Family Suite | Premium bedding, Tempur-Pedic beds, minibar, in-room safe

Family Suite

9.4 out of 10
Exceptional
(3 reviews)
  • Ocean view
  • 807 sq ft
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 4
  • 1 King Bed and 2 Twin Beds
  • Free WiFi

View all photos for Junior Suite

Premium bedding, Tempur-Pedic beds, minibar, in-room safe

Junior Suite

  • Sleeps 3
  • Free WiFi

Master Suite

  • Sleeps 3
  • Free WiFi

Family Suite

  • Sleeps 4
  • Free WiFi

About the neighborhood

Bahía Ballena

Cristal Ballena Boutique Hotel & Spa places you within 2 miles (3 km) of Playa Ballena and Arco Beach. This 21-room, 3-star resort has conveniences like a full-service spa, an outdoor pool, and free in-room WiFi.
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What's nearby

  • Playa Ballena - 1 min drive - 0.9 miles
  • Uvita Beach - 8 min drive - 4.9 miles
  • Marino Ballena National Park - 9 min drive - 2.9 miles
  • Hacienda Baru - 30 min drive - 18.0 miles
  • Nauyaca Waterfalls - 44 min drive - 27.2 miles

Getting around

  • Drake Bay (DRK) - 178 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪La Choza de Alejo - ‬8 min drive
  • ‪Kinsu - ‬11 min drive
  • ‪Sibu - ‬10 min drive
  • ‪Restaurante Nativo - ‬11 min drive
  • ‪Fernando’s Restaurante - ‬12 min drive

About this property

Cristal Ballena Boutique Hotel & Spa

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 securing valuables, dry cleaning/laundry, and tours or tickets. 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.

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9.8 out of 10, Exceptional, 96 reviews
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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.
  • 1 accessible parking space
  • No elevator
  • 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 cable/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

  • 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.

How much does it cost to stay at Cristal Ballena Boutique Hotel & Spa?

As of Jun 3, 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Cristal Ballena Boutique Hotel & Spa on Jun 4, 2026 start from $198, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.

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

This resort is located in Bahía Ballena, close to Marino Ballena National Park, Uvita Beach, and Playa Tortuga. You'll also find Tortuga Beach and Arco Beach within a short drive.

Is there parking available at Cristal Ballena Boutique Hotel & Spa?

Yes, secured self parking is offered for free at the resort. Wheelchair-accessible parking and RV/bus/truck parking are 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, facials, and mani/pedis.

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 amenities will couples enjoy at Cristal Ballena Boutique Hotel & Spa?

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

Are there hot tubs at Cristal Ballena Boutique Hotel & Spa?

No, this resort doesn't have a spa tub.

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 at Cristal Ballena Boutique Hotel & Spa?

Yes, every guestroom at Cristal Ballena Boutique Hotel & Spa comes with a furnished balcony and some offer 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

Reviews

9.6

Exceptional

Rating 10 - Excellent. 184 out of 228 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 34 out of 228 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 6 out of 228 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 1 out of 228 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 3 out of 228 reviews

9.8/10

Cleanliness

9.8/10

Staff & service

9.4/10

Amenities

9.4/10

Property conditions & facilities

Reviews

Verified

10/10 Excellent

Walter

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

10/10 Excellent

Angie

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

10/10 Excellent

Adolf

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

10/10 Excellent

Debbie

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

10/10 Excellent

Frederic

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
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.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Dale

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

10/10 Excellent

Andrew

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

10/10 Excellent

Scott

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

10/10 Excellent

JEREL

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

Wonderland

Amazing and magical place to stay.
Stayed 1 night in Nov 2023
Verified

8/10 Good

PABLO

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Nice place.
Stayed 1 night in Feb 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Annette

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

10/10 Excellent

KATHY

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

10/10 Excellent

Marcia

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
We had a wonderful weekend! Definetevely a place to go back!
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Philipp

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Unique location. Stunning and well maintained gardens and area surrounding the resort. Great food. Beautiful pool. Nice, friendly staff.
Stayed 7 nights in Apr 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Sofia

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

8/10 Good

Marisol

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

10/10 Excellent

Bill

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

10/10 Excellent

Sara-Lu

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

10/10 Excellent

Gerard

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

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.
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Regina

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
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.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Suzanne

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

6/10 Okay

Verified traveler

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service
Disliked: Room comfort
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.
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Maribelle

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
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.
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Alexander

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

10/10 Excellent

James

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

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.
Stayed 5 nights in Dec 2022

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