Welcome to Dominical
Travelers will find Dominical at the mouth of the Baru River, where the rainforest meets the massive waves of the Pacific Ocean. Here, the more developed Central Pacific coast ends, and the lusher, rawer, Southern Zone begins. This surf town feels like you're stepping into another part of Costa Rica.
Best Time to Travel to Dominical
There's no wrong time to travel to Dominical. Since the coast highway was finally completed in 2010, it's easier to reach than ever - plus, there's easy access by air, through either Quepos Airport to the North or the closer Palmar Sur Airport.
If you're coming to Dominical, you're probably coming to surf. Dominical is all about the surf, after all. This means you're in luck, whatever time of year you come - Dominical has some of the most consistent waves in Costa Rica.
But if you're looking for big waves, come in the rainy season (May to November). The dry season is still great surfing, but the waves are smaller from December to April.
Outside of surfing, you'll enjoy this little town year-round. It never gets too crowded (apart from Christmas/Easter), and it's always laid back - even over Christmas and Easter. You might find the months of September and October a little dreary if you're not surfing - rains can get heavy then. But other than that, come anytime!
Surfers and non-surfers alike will enjoy the whale watching season. Dominical lies close to the Marino Ballena Park, famous for hosting migrating humpback whales. September and October are the best months for catching a glimpse of these magnificent animals.
Weather in Dominical
There's no denying that Dominical catches a lot of rain. Most of the Southern Zone of Costa Rica does, so the area is the lushest, greenest, most biodiverse part of the country.
The rainy season runs from May to December in this part of Costa Rica. The months of May, June, July, August, and November will typically see sunny mornings and a powerful shower in the afternoon. Locals say these months are the best months to come, not least because of the surf at that time. However, September and October can be stormy.
The rest of the year is hot, sunny, and perfect for being outside on the beach or exploring. Dominical is humid so expect 75% humidity in the dry season and up to 90% during the wet season.
Is Dominical Safe?
In short, yes. Dominical is a small, sleepy town where crime is low. Like beach towns all over Costa Rica, you need to take care of your belongings and never leave your gear on the beach, but outside of that, you're okay. Avoid getting drunk in the bars and causing trouble, and don't get caught walking around alone at night. These rules apply all over Costa Rica.
The most significant danger is the ocean. The waves are strong and rips and currents. This is a beach for experienced surfers, not for beginners or swimmers. Be extremely cautious here.
Top Restaurants in Dominical
El Pescado Loco
An excellent seafood place with some of the best fish and chips on this side of the Atlantic Ocean and some of the best fish tacos you'll find anywhere.
Cafe Mono Congo
Best breakfast spot in Dominical, a veggie/vegan-friendly restaurant with great views of the Baru River.
Fuego Brew Company
If you're looking for the best craft beer in Costa Rica's Southern Zone, you'll find it at this brewery-come-restaurant in Dominical. Oh - and the food is excellent as well!
Del Mar Taco Shop
A simple Mexican and Latin food by the ocean. Try the homemade tortilla chips with guacamole.
Phat Noodle
Phat Noodle is Dominical's standout Asian/Thai option. You won't find better food from this part of the world for miles and miles around.
How To Get to Dominical
Juan Santamaria Airport (Airport Code SJO), outside the capital city of San José, is the closest international airport to Dominical.
Distance & Driving Time to Dominical
From SJO Airport: 120 miles (193 kilometers), about 3.5 hours
Those planning to drive to Dominical from the airport should allow around 3.5 hours driving time, plus an hour or so to arrange your car rental. Make sure you arrive in Costa Rica early enough in the day to not drive at night - something we don't recommend.
Once you have your car, get onto the InterAmerican Highway and head to El Coyol. Turn off there to get onto Ruta 27, the toll road to the coast. Keep on until the big junction takes you to Jaco and head south over the Rio Tarcoles bridge (you can stop here to check out the crocodiles).
You're now on Ruta 34, the Pacific Coast road. Keep heading south, past Punta Leona, Jacó, Esterillos, and Quepos. After Matapalo, you'll cross the Rio Baru and be in Dominical.
