Dominical: A Surfer's Paradise and Eco-Tourism Hub

Experience world-class surfing, stunning waterfalls, and abundant wildlife in Dominical, Costa Rica's eco-friendly beach town.

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Dominical, a laid-back beach town on Costa Rica's southern Pacific coast, is renowned for its consistent surf, lush jungles, and a unique blend of hippie vibes and eco-tourism. It attracts surfers, nature lovers, and those seeking a relaxed 'pura vida' lifestyle.

A brief summary to Dominical

Savegre de Aguirre, Dominical, Puntarenas Province, CR

Local tips

Learn to surf at Playa Dominical or Playa Dominicalito, with rentals around $10 USD for 24 hours.
Visit Nauyaca Waterfalls, one of Costa Rica's most impressive waterfalls, accessible by horseback, truck, or hiking.
Explore Hacienda Baru Wildlife Refuge for hiking and wildlife viewing; entrance is $15 USD.
Check out Playa Dominicalito for calmer waves, ideal for beginner surfers and families.
Be aware of strong riptides at Playa Dominical; swim with caution.

Getting There

Walking

Dominical is a small, walkable town. From the center of town, most restaurants, shops, and the main beach are easily accessible on foot. Be aware that some roads are unpaved.
Public Transport

Buses connect Dominical to San Isidro and Quepos. From Quepos, the bus to Dominical takes about 40 minutes and costs $2-7 USD. Buses to Uvita depart every 4 hours from Dominical. A bus from Dominical to San Jose costs approximately $15 USD.
Taxi

Taxis are available in Dominical, though not formally organized. Negotiate the fare before starting your trip. A taxi from Quepos to Dominical is approximately $75-95 USD. A taxi from Dominical to Uvita will cost around $35-$45 USD.
Driving

Dominical is accessible via Route 34 (Costanera Sur). From San Jose, the drive is approximately 4 hours. Parking is available near the beach, though it may not be guarded. Be aware that a 4x4 vehicle may be recommended, especially during the rainy season, for navigating some roads.

Discover more about Dominical

Dominical, nestled between the rainforest and the Pacific Ocean in the Puntarenas Province, began as a small fishing village in the 1960s. The opening of a road from San Isidro brought families seeking new opportunities, and in the late 1980s, expats arrived, drawn by the consistent surf and relaxed lifestyle. Dominical's main draw is Playa Dominical, known for its powerful waves that attract experienced surfers year-round. While swimming can be risky due to strong riptides, the beach is perfect for lounging and watching skilled surfers. For beginners, nearby Playa Dominicalito offers gentler waves. Beyond surfing, Dominical is a gateway to Costa Rica's natural beauty. Visitors can explore nearby waterfalls like Nauyaca Waterfalls and Cascada Poza Azul, hike in Hacienda Baru Wildlife Refuge, and observe diverse wildlife including monkeys, sloths, and toucans. The town also offers opportunities for kayaking, paddleboarding, and exploring mangrove forests. Dominical's culture is a blend of local Ticos, expats, and digital nomads, creating a unique and eco-conscious community. While the town retains its laid-back charm, it offers a variety of restaurants, shops, and activities for travelers.