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Cristal Ballena Boutique Hotel & Spa

3.0 star property
Beach resort in Ballena with spa and free beach shuttle

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Photo gallery for Cristal Ballena Boutique Hotel & Spa

Outdoor pool, pool umbrellas, sun loungers
Master Suite | Balcony view
Master Suite | 1 bedroom, premium bedding, Tempur-Pedic beds, minibar
Beach nearby, free beach shuttle
Lobby sitting area
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

Reviews

9.6 out of 10
Exceptional

Popular amenities

  • Airport transfer
  • Bar
  • Spa
  • Pool
  • Laundry facilities
  • Air conditioning

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
$169 nightly
The total price is $191
Sep 5 - Sep 6
Total with taxes and fees

Room options

Check availability for these dates

Tonight

Sep 4 - Sep 5
Check availability for tonight Sep 4 - Sep 5

Tomorrow

Sep 5 - Sep 6
Check availability for tomorrow Sep 5 - Sep 6
Available filters for rooms
Showing 3 of 3 rooms

View all photos for Family Suite

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

Family Suite

10.0 out of 10
Exceptional
(1 review)

Highlights

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

View all photos for Master Suite

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

Master Suite

10.0 out of 10
Exceptional
(2 reviews)

Highlights

Furnished balcony
Air conditioning
Free cribs/infant beds
Flat-screen TV
Tempur-Pedic bed
Ceiling fan
Premium bedding
Separate bedroom
  • 969 sq ft
  • Ocean view
  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 King Bed OR 2 Queen Beds

View all photos for Junior Suite

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

Junior Suite

9.8 out of 10
Exceptional
(6 reviews)

Highlights

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

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Total with taxes and fees
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About the neighborhood

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

What's nearby

  • Arco Beach - 3 min drive - 3.2 km
  • Playa Ballena - 4 min drive - 1.8 km
  • Uvita Beach - 9 min drive - 8.1 km
  • Marino Ballena National Park - 9 min drive - 5.0 km
  • Playa Tortuga - 13 min drive - 8.9 km

Getting around

  • Drake Bay (DRK) - 28.2 miles/45.4 km
  • Airport shuttle (surcharge)
  • Area shuttle (surcharge)
  • Free beach shuttle

Restaurants

  • ‪Restaurante Marino Ballena - ‬9 min drive
  • ‪La Choza de Alejo - ‬8 min drive
  • ‪Kinsu - ‬11 min drive
  • ‪Que Tuanis Café - ‬11 min drive
  • ‪Mirador Don Roger - ‬7 min drive

About this property

Cristal Ballena Boutique Hotel & Spa

Cristal Ballena Boutique Hotel & Spa is a great choice for your beach stay in 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

DONE

Hotel size

    • 21 units
    • Arranged over 2 floors
DONE

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
DONE

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
DONE

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
DONE

Pets

    • No pets or service animals allowed
WIFI

Internet

    • Free WiFi in public areas
    • Free WiFi in rooms
LOCAL_PARKING

Parking

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

Transfers

    • Airport shuttle on request (available 24 hours)*
DONE

Offsite

    • Area shuttle*
    • Free beach shuttle
DONE

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.

Here's the breakdown, no surprises

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.

What's the area around Cristal Ballena Boutique Hotel & Spa like?

Cristal Ballena Boutique Hotel & Spa is located a short 15-minute walk from Playa Ballena.

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Cristal Ballena Boutique Hotel & Spa Reviews

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

Popular mentions

Service staff
Room
View
Food
Restaurant
Balcony
Ocean
Birds
Location
Family friendly

Reviews

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

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

10/10 Exceptional

Lots of wildlife great pool
Scott, 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

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

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

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

10/10 Exceptional

Wonderland

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

10/10 Exceptional

Great customer service, and attention to deals!
Sofia, 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

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

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

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

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

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

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

6/10 Good

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.
Shirley, 2-night trip

10/10 Exceptional

My gf and I booked a last minute stay at Cristal Ballena while visiting Costa Rica and could not be happier with our entire experience. We had decided to extend our stay in Costa Rica an additional 7 days to enjoy the costal area, choosing this boutique hotel from the reviews, which turned out to be an excellent choice. Everything from the location, the property, the Staff, the food and the overall amenities were absolutely excellent. The Staff and owners made us feel very comfortable and were very personable the entire time. The bartenders and wait staff were amazing and always very attentive, even remembered our names, which is always a nice touch. We had the privilege of meeting and getting to know the owners, enjoyed hearing the stories of their long time ownership and pride in the experience they were providing for people from all over the world for so many years. The room was very clean and had an excellent view from the balcony of the pool, the jungles below and all the way to the ocean. My gf was actually able to see a whale from our balcony! The Food was absolutely 5 star meals every night, such amazing flavors and professional presentation. The location was perfect for visiting the beach/ocean, waterfalls and several small towns within driving distance. We had a rental car, which I highly recommend. Needless to say, we will definitely be returning some day to revisit Cristal Ballena!!!

10/10 Exceptional

Tar gjerne et opphold til.

Vi hadde seks supre døgn på hotellet. Flott bassengområde og veldig hyggelige, og behjelpelige, ansatte. God mat i restauranten, vi fikk prøvd både frokost, lunsj og middag. Hotellet ligger perfekt til for å få med seg mange fuglearter i området. Vi reiser veldig gjerne tilbake.
7-night trip

10/10 Exceptional

Wir hatten eine wunderbare Zeit! Die Lage hat für uns gepasst und die Aussicht war traumhaft. Wir würden jederzeit wiederkommen – und das sagt wohl alles. Wir können das Hotel wirklich aus Überzeugung weiterempfehlen. Wir nehmen uns nur für Hotels Zeit für eine Bewertung, die es auch wirklich verdient haben.
Fabrizio, 2-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

10/10 Exceptional

Un lugar muy tranquilo y bonito. La pasamos muy bien.
RODRIGO, 1-night trip

10/10 Exceptional

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
ERIC, 4-night trip