Hotels in Punta Mala

Some of the best places to stay in Punta Mala are Ballena, Uvita and Drake Bay. Punta Mala is a fantastic base for exploring Costa Rica's stunning coastline, with nearby destinations like Ballena, Uvita, and Drake Bay offering unique experiences. Ballena is known for its marine park and beautiful beaches, Uvita is famous for its whale tail formation and vibrant atmosphere, while Drake Bay provides access to untouched nature and wildlife. Accommodations range from rustic luxury tent bungalows to beachside resorts with outdoor pools. For first-time visitors, Uvita is an excellent choice, balancing adventure and relaxation. Here are some of our travelers' favorite hotels in Punta Mala:

1. BallenaOpens in a new window: Ballena is a stunning destination known for its beautiful beaches and outdoor adventures. With attractions like Playa Tortuga, Uvita Beach, and Playa Ballena, it’s perfect for those seeking sun and surf. The area boasts a selection of hotels catering to various traveler needs. Oxygen Jungle Villas & SpaOpens in a new window, a luxurious 4.5-star resort, offers adventure sports like snorkeling and ziplining, alongside a full spa and outdoor pool. Another option, Rancho PacificoOpens in a new window, features direct beach access and romantic packages, ideal for couples looking for adventure and relaxation. For families and business travelers, Vista CelestialOpens in a new window offers a variety of activities, including kayaking and mountain biking, with amenities for children.
2. UvitaOpens in a new window: Uvita is an outdoor paradise featuring Uvita Beach and Marino Ballena National Park, perfect for adventure seekers and nature lovers. Hotel del SurOpens in a new window is a 3.5-star hotel offering business amenities, making it a great choice for professionals. For those looking for family-friendly or romantic experiences, Hacienda AltaGracia, Auberge Resorts Collection - All InclusiveOpens in a new window is a 4.5-star hotel that features adventure activities and spa services. Lastly, Rio Chirripo Opens in a new window, a romantic lodge, provides wellness and natural experiences for travelers seeking tranquility and relaxation.
3. Drake BayOpens in a new window: Drake Bay is known for its breathtaking beach and proximity to Parque Nacional Corcovado, making it a hotspot for outdoor enthusiasts. The area offers diverse accommodations like The Tranquilo Lodge - All meals includedOpens in a new window, a 4.0-star hotel with direct beach access and business facilities, perfect for both leisure and work travelers. Playa Cativo LodgeOpens in a new window also features beachfront luxury, while Botanika Osa Peninsula, Curio Collection by HiltonOpens in a new window provides adventure activities alongside business amenities, ensuring a well-rounded stay for all types of visitors.

Punta Mala offers a captivating blend of stunning beaches, lush forests, and breathtaking mountain vistas, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers. Over three days, travelers can enjoy hiking trails, relax in safari tents, and soak up the sun along pristine shores, all while immersing themselves in the area's rich biodiversity. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Punta Mala:

• Day 1: Begin your adventure at Playa Tortuga, renowned for its beautiful sands and tranquil waters—perfect for a refreshing swim. Following your beach time, explore the Secret Lau Pool, a hidden gem where you can relax amidst lush greenery and enjoy the natural beauty. End your day with a visit to Ventanas Beach, famous for its unique sea caves and stunning sunset views, making it an idyllic spot to unwind and take in the coastal scenery.
• Day 2: Start your morning at Tortuga Beach, where you can bask in the sun and enjoy water activities like snorkeling or paddleboarding. Next, make your way to Playa Ballena, renowned for its whale-shaped sandbar and rich marine life—perfect for nature lovers. Cap off your day with a trip to Catarata Uvita, a breathtaking waterfall where you can take a refreshing dip and marvel at the surrounding rainforest.
• Day 3: Kick off at Uvita Beach, where the wide sandy expanse invites you to relax and soak up the sun. Afterward, embark on a short trek to Nauyaca Waterfalls, an impressive cascade that offers opportunities for swimming and photography in a picturesque setting. Finally, wrap up your trip at Marino Ballena National Park, where you can explore the stunning coastline and perhaps see some dolphins, making for a perfect finale to your Costa Rican adventure.

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most budget-friendly months to visit Punta Mala are January, February, and November, when hotel prices are more affordable. To make the most of your trip and explore the main attractions, it's best to plan for at least 3-4 days. While you're there, you can enjoy beautiful beaches, stunning national parks, and picturesque lakes, all offering great value for money.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: Discovering last-minute deals to Punta Mala can lead to fantastic savings on your getaway. To explore these offers on Hotels.com, head to the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section, where you could find competitive rates on hotels as your travel date approaches. To maximize your chances of snagging a great deal, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com to stay informed about flash sales and special promotions, helping you save on your next trip.
3. Be flexible with dates: Hotel prices can fluctuate due to factors like the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year. As a result, if you're flexible with your travel dates, you may save on hotel expenses in Punta Mala.
4. Consider your location: When booking on Hotels.com for your vacation, think about your location. Staying near key attractions or city centers can offer convenience but usually tends to come with a higher price tag. For more affordable options, consider hotels in less central areas or neighborhoods, striking a balance between cost and ease of access to the sites you want to visit.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Book your next stay in Punta Mala and join Hotels.com’s One Key programme which allows members to earn and redeem rewards points for hotel bookings. Move through blue, silver, gold and platinum tiers and unlock benefits such as earning free nights, room upgrades, special discounts, and exclusive deals for members. Sign up now.