Dominical - Surfers Paradise
Dominical has steadily grown over the last 3 decades, transforming from a sleepy fishing village into a happening tourist center and surf mecca that draws visitors from all over the world to its palm lined shore and powerful waves. Dominical is located in the South Pacific Region roughly 35 kilometers south of Manuel Antonio, and 20 kilometers north of Uvita. The town is situated between the Baru River to the north, the Pacific Ocean to the west, and a chain of jungle covered mountains to the east. The idyllic setting of Dominical is the perfect place to experience the natural beauty of Costa Rica's South Pacific Region. There are some fantastic adventure tours offered in the area. See gorgeous waterfalls, enjoy a day of mountain or beach horseback riding, get wild on a ATV tour that winds up the jungle covered mountains ,or enjoy the excitement of whitewater rafting. There are endless options.
Attractions
Surfing has long been the main attraction to Dominical because of the powerful and consistent waves that break with perfect shape. While sitting in a beach front bar enjoying a cold Pilsen and dazzling sunset, you often hear surfers talk about how incredible the waves are, and how enjoyable the town is while complaining that their visit wasn't long enough and plans for a return visit begin. If surfing is not your thing, there is still much to do in Dominical such as kayaking, scuba-diving, zip-line tours, nature tours, yoga, pilates, or sitting on the beach and enjoying doing nothing.
Dominical is a perfect place to use as a home base while visiting some of the main attractions in the area including, Manuel Antonio National Park, Corcovado National Park, Marino Ballena National Park, Nauyaca Waterfall, and Hacienda Baru Wildlife Refuge.
Services
Dominical is full of great restaurants , hotels offering clean rooms, tasty treats, cold beverages and live entertainment. There is nothing better than topping off a beach day with a delicious ceviche and ice cold beer at one of the local eateries. Accommodations range from surf cabins to private rental homes. There is somewhere to stay for every traveler on any budget.
Getting to Dominical
Travel to Dominical used to be easier via the mountain route known as the Cerro de Muerte that passes through Cartago and San Isidro. This route is full of twist and turns but rises to the highest section of the Intercontinental Highway in Costa Rica where you find spectacular ocean and valley views. 2010 brought about the completion of the "Coastal Route" which is much faster and more relaxing to drive. The addition of the Caldera Road that connects San Jose to Caldera, and the completion of the Costanera (HWY-34) between Quepos and Dominical has cut this once grueling 5 hour commute to just 2.5 hours of easy driving on nicely paved and well marked roads.
More Information
Dominical is larger than just the downtown area. Hotels, Restaurants, Tour Companies and Rental Homes are scattered throughout the mountains that overlook Dominical and the Pacific Ocean.
There are 3 mid-sized grocery stores in Dominical that carry most necessities, but if you are looking for a special item, you may need to drive south to a larger grocery store in Uvita.
There is a bank located in Dominical. Banco de Costa Rica (BCR) is located at Plaza Pacifica on the Costanera, 20 meters south of the entrance to Dominical.
