Beach at Dominical in Costa Rica
Dominical is a great place for surfers and swimmers, but certainly not for novices. It is also an ideal getaway for backpackers, explorers, adventurers, or for those who seek to spend their vacation in blissful inactivity on the sunny beaches of Costa Rica. Dominical is indeed one of the most popular surfers’ beaches on the Pacific coast.
The greatest attraction of Dominical is undoubtedly the sun and surf. Tourists are, however, warned that the ocean here is rather rough and is not safe for beginners or novices. There are very few lifeguards available on an average day. The expert surfers are certain to enjoy the beach, though. Learners can join the Green Iguana Surf Camp or the Dominical Surf Camp and learn.
If you plan a visit in early July, do not miss out on the Annual Lifeguard Benefit. Do leave a nice donation as the excellent Lifeguard force here is entirely funded by donations.
Whale watching is another favorite activity in this part of the Pacific. Dominical is at a distance of about five miles from the Marino Ballena National Park and offers visitors a glimpse of the whales almost nine months in a year. There are over six different types of whales that can be spotted here. Dominical has a lot to offer the adventure loving tourists, though. Horse riding, hiking, and eco tours through the nearby reptile preserves are favorite activities. The nearby mountains offer a perfect opportunity to learn rock climbing and rappelling, or to try cliff jumping. Snorkeling and diving experiences are also offered by some tour agencies.
The city is also infamous for its drug problem. Though the nightlife is vibrant, tourists are advised to take adequate caution.
Dominical Beach Map
Facts about Dominical Beach
- Dominical Beach is situated in the province of Puntarenas.
- The tides and currents at Dominical beaches are rather rough. Red flags often mark dangerous areas.
Where is Dominical Beach?
Dominical is a quaint, but beautiful seaside town in the southern cost of Costa Rica. Dominical beach is about 27 miles or 44 kilometers south of the Quepos Township. Other nearby towns are San Isidro de EL General at a distance of 18 miles or 28 kilometers and Manuel Antonio at 62 miles (100 kilometers). The Juan Santamaria International Airport in San Jose, the capital of Costa Rica is the international airport nearest to Dominical. Getting to Dominical by car is likely to take about four hours by car from downtown San Jose, less than an hour from Quepos and less than about two hours from Manuel Antonio. The roads are not very well developed and the buses, though regular, are not preferred by tourists. The Easy Ride Shuttle service from downtown San Jose is a convenient option to get to Dominical from the Costa Rican capital.
Best time to visit Dominical Beach
The best time to visit Dominical is from the months of May through November, when it is the green or rainy season. During this time, the air is much fresher and the waterfalls are in their full bloom. Being the real tropical rainforest, Dominical exhibits lush green foliage and exuberant flowers during this time. During the dry months, it is dusty and unattractive.
More on Dominical Beach
Nearby Attractions: Rancho Tranquilo, Hacienda Baru National Wildlife Refuge, Ballena National Marine Park,Hacienda Baru National Wildlife Refuge,Parque Reptilandia, Oro Verde Nature Reserve, Rancho La Merced Wildlife Refuge, Pozo Azul, Nauyaca Waterfalls and Cano Island.
Photo by : Christian Haugen
