Ballena · Costa Rica

Mar y Selva

Where the Sea Meets the Jungle

Explore Our Retreat

A Sanctuary Between Worlds

Perched on the lush hillside of Costa Rica's Pacific coast, Mar y Selva is an intimate ecolodge where primary rainforest descends to meet the sea. Ten thoughtfully designed private villas are nestled into the jungle canopy, each offering a refuge of stillness, natural beauty, and understated luxury.

Here, scarlet macaws soar above the infinity pool, humpback whales breach in the bay below, and the rhythm of the tropics replaces the noise of the everyday. This is not merely a place to stay — it is an invitation to reconnect with the essential.

Aerial view of Mar y Selva Ecolodge nestled in the Costa Rican jungle

Ten private villas, one extraordinary estate

Private Villas in the Canopy

Each villa draws its name and spirit from the natural world that surrounds it — designed for those who seek comfort without compromise, in harmony with the jungle.

Villa Ceiba — private jungle retreat

Ceiba

1 Bedroom · 2 Guests · Jungle View

A grounding retreat inspired by the sacred Ceiba tree, designed for solo travelers or couples seeking stillness in the canopy.

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Villa Quetzal — elevated rainforest lodge

Quetzal

1 Bedroom · 2 Guests · Canopy View

Named for the elusive Resplendent Quetzal, a serene perch where the rainforest canopy becomes your private gallery.

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Villa Tucan — vibrant jungle dwelling

Tucán

1 Bedroom · 3 Guests · Garden View

Vibrant and full of character, like its namesake. A welcoming space surrounded by flowering trees and birdsong.

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Villa Onda — ocean-inspired retreat

Onda

1 Bedroom · 3 Guests · Ocean Glimpse

Inspired by the rhythm of the waves below. A fluid, light-filled space that captures the essence of coastal living.

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Villa Selva — immersive jungle experience

Selva

1 Bedroom · 2 Guests · Deep Jungle

The most immersive of our retreats. Surrounded by ancient trees and the sounds of the wild, Selva is pure nature distilled.

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Villa Brisa — breezy hilltop sanctuary

Brisa

1 Bedroom · 2 Guests · Hillside Breeze

Perched to catch the Pacific breeze, a light and airy sanctuary where open windows frame the jungle and the distant sea.

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Villa Luna — moonlit jungle retreat

Luna

1 Bedroom · 2 Guests · Night Sky View

A contemplative space that comes alive after dark. Luna offers uninterrupted views of the tropical night sky and jungle moonscapes.

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Villa Fuego — warm and spirited villa

Fuego

1 Bedroom · 3 Guests · Sunset Facing

Warm tones and spirited energy. Fuego faces the setting sun, offering golden hour views that paint the jungle in amber and flame.

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Villa Piedra — grounded stone sanctuary

Piedra

1 Bedroom · 2 Guests · Rock Garden

Grounded and elemental. Built around natural stone formations, Piedra is a sanctuary of earth tones and quiet strength.

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Villa Colibrí — delicate garden hideaway

Colibrí

1 Bedroom · 2 Guests · Garden Terrace

Named for the hummingbird that frequents its flowering terrace. A delicate, jewel-like retreat alive with color and light.

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Exclusive Hire

The Full Estate

Book all ten villas for retreats, celebrations, or complete privacy. Up to 30 guests with private chef, infinity pool, and dedicated concierge.

Inquire About the Estate

Immerse Yourself

From the Marino Ballena whale tail to the ancient jungle trails, every moment at Mar y Selva is an invitation to discover.

Infinity pool with ocean views

Infinity Pool

An elevated infinity pool overlooking the Pacific, framed by jungle canopy. Sunrise swims, sunset cocktails.

Jungle hiking trails through primary rainforest

Jungle Trails

Private trails wind through primary rainforest. Encounter toucans, sloths, and ancient trees on guided or self-led walks.

Whale watching in the Marino Ballena Marine Park

Whale Watching

Humpback whales visit Ballena Bay from July to October and December to April. See them from our hillside or by boat.

Yoga and wellness practices in nature

Yoga & Wellness

Morning yoga on the jungle deck, guided meditation, and holistic treatments. Reconnect with body and breath.

Wildlife encounters in the Costa Rican jungle

Wildlife

Scarlet macaws, toucans, monkeys, and tree frogs share our hillside. Nature isn't just near — it's home.

Local Costa Rican cuisine and private chef

Local Cuisine

Farm-to-table dining with a private chef available. Fresh tropical fruits, Pacific seafood, and traditional flavors.

What Our Guests Say

★★★★★
"A hidden paradise. The perfect balance of jungle immersion and quiet luxury. We didn't want to leave."

— Sarah & Michael, California

★★★★★
"Waking up to toucans and monkeys, swimming in the infinity pool at sunset — this place is magical beyond words."

— Jean-Pierre, Paris

★★★★★
"The most serene, beautifully designed ecolodge we've ever experienced. Truly a sanctuary."

— Yuki & Kenji, Tokyo

Begin Your Journey

Reserve your private villa in the jungle canopy. Whether for a few nights or a longer immersion, we'll craft your perfect stay.

Reserve Your Stay

Find Us

Nestled in Ballena, Uvita — on Costa Rica's southern Pacific coast, between the mountains and the Marino Ballena National Park.

Address

Ballena, Uvita
Puntarenas, Costa Rica

Nearest Airport

Juan Santamaría International (SJO), San José
~3.5 hours by car. Domestic flights to Quepos/Palmar Sur available.

Nearby

Marino Ballena National Park — 10 min
Uvita Waterfall — 15 min
Nauyaca Waterfalls — 30 min
Manuel Antonio — 1 hour

Transfers

We arrange private airport transfers and can recommend rental car services. Get in touch for details.

Get in Touch

WhatsApp

+506 0000 0000

Location

Ballena, Uvita
Puntarenas, Costa Rica