Playa dominical is a beautiful, small, coastal town situated in the southern pacific region of Costa Rica. It is a top destination for nature minded travellers from all over the world. This tiny surf village is surrounded by the lush tropical rainforest and has a stunning beach. There are plenty of activities to choose from that will make your visit memorable. Let’s have a closer look at the top 5 things to do in Dominical Costa Rica.
The main draw of this little surfer’s paradise is the stunning beach, Playa Dominical. It offers a great surfing spot for experienced surfers. It has a dark rocky shore and consistent waves. The best time to come is from December-April, as this is the dry season. However, it’s also a great destination year round – it doesn’t get too crowded and is very laid back – even over Christmas and Easter. September and October can be a bit dreary and rainy, though.
Located next to the Baru River, Dominical playa dominical costa rica is home to lots of accommodation options, including simple guesthouses and 3-star hotels. There are also hostels and small cabinas, many of which are set along a relaxed, riverside “Main Street.” The restaurants here are also popular, with lots of vegetarian/vegan options and delicious seafood. There are also a few bars that offer live music and happy hour.
If you want to stay close to the beach, there are also plenty of vacation rentals that are just a short walk from the main street. However, the majority of accommodations are set in the surrounding hills and valleys, offering more space and a chance to enjoy the stunning rainforest views.
For those who prefer a little more action, there are plenty of tours that will satisfy the thrill-seekers. Hiking trails, ziplining and tree climbing are available. There is also a scuba diving school, and horseback riding, ATV and boating are all popular.
One of the more unique activities in Dominical is whale watching. This is possible from Uvita and is a popular tour for locals and tourists alike. You can also go on a tour to Cano Island, a rocky offshore island that is an important nesting site for sea turtles.
Another great activity is visiting the nearby waterfalls. The biggest is the impressive Diamante Verde, which drops 600 feet from the Tinamaste ridge and plunges into magnificent natural pools that are perfect for swimming.
The area is full of wildlife, so you’ll be able to see monkeys, sloths and other exotic creatures. Birdwatching and hiking are also popular. There are several wildlife preserves in the area, as well as botanical gardens that are perfect for families.
This part of Costa Rica is home to a large community of expats who love the laid-back lifestyle that Dominical provides. The cost of living is much lower than in San Jose and there are plenty of dining, shopping and entertainment options. A budget of $1000 a month should cover 2-4 meals out per week, as well as occasional charter fishing trips, whale watching twice a year and visits to cacao farms.