Things to Do in Dominical Beach, Costa Rica

 

This enchanting town nestled at the foothills of the Arenal Volcano offers abundant, exhilarating activities and natural wonders to explore. Whether you seek adventure, relaxation, or a connection with nature, the La Fortuna area has something for everyone.

Surfing

 

Known for its powerful waves, Dominical Beach is a surfer’s paradise. Surfers of all levels can take on challenging breaks, while beginners can take lessons from local surf schools, including Costa Rica Surf Camp, the most renowned school for surf camps and surf lessons.

 

Whale-watching tours

 

Take a boat tour to observe humpback whales as they swim in the ocean off the coast of Dominical. This thrilling whale-watching experience for nature lovers is available from August to October and December to April.

 

Hiking

 

Dominical is surrounded by lush rainforests, and there are many hiking trails that lead to waterfalls, natural pools, and beautiful views. The Nauyaca Waterfalls hike is one of the most popular trails.

 

Canyoning and zip-lining

 

For those seeking an adrenaline rush, canyoning and zip-lining are available in Dominical. Explore the canyons and waterfalls by rappelling or zip-lining through the treetops on a zip-line adventure.

 

Visit Hacienda Baru wildlife refuge

 

This national park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers in Costa Rica. Hacienda Baru is a 330-hectare wildlife reserve that boasts an incredible diversity of wildlife and ecosystems.

Here you can participate in various activities, such as hiking through the rainforest, birdwatching, canopy tours, and wildlife tours. The place also offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and has a beautiful beachfront where you can relax and soak up the sun.

 

Beach relaxation

 

Of course, one of the best things to do in Dominical is simply to relax on the beach. The golden sands and warm waters of the Pacific Ocean provide the perfect backdrop for a day of sunbathing, swimming, and beachcombing.

 

 

 

Things to Do in Uvita, Costa Rica

 

 

 

Visit Marino Ballena National Park

 

Marino Ballena National Park is named after the humpback whales that visit the area between December and April. Besides whale watching, the national park also features a beautiful stretch of beach, snorkeling opportunities, and hiking trails.

 

Snorkeling and scuba diving

 

Uvita is home to the famous Whale’s Tail sandbar, accessible during low tide, and offers excellent snorkeling and scuba diving experiences. The area is also known for its coral reefs and diverse marine life.

 

Visit the Uvita waterfall

 

The Uvita Waterfall, located just outside of town, is a beautiful natural wonder and a popular spot for swimming and picnicking. Over 10 meters of waterfall cascade down rocky cliffs into a large, natural pool at its base.

 

Take a mangrove tour

 

Explore the winding mangrove canals in Costa Rica and spot wildlife such as monkeys, birds, and reptiles on a guided mangrove tour.

 

Explore the jungle on horseback

 

Take a horseback-riding tour through the lush jungle surrounding Uvita. This is a great way to see Uvita’s natural beauty and spot wildlife.

 

Relax on the beach

 

Uvita has several beautiful beaches where you can spend a day relaxing on the sand, swimming in the warm waters of the Pacific, and soaking up the sun.

 

Explore Manuel Antonio National Park

 

Even though this national park is located on the Central Pacific coast of Costa Rica, it’s only about a 2-3 hour drive from Uvita and Dominical. While it’s not right next door to these destinations, it’s still within a reasonable distance for a day trip or overnight visit.

rafting-costa-rica
Hanging bridges Costa Rica
hiking costa rica
Hanging bridges Costa Rica
Playa Blanca, Costa Rica
Playa Blanca, Costa Rica
Playa Blanca, Costa Rica
Playa Blanca, Costa Rica
Playa Blanca, Costa Rica
Playa Blanca, Costa Rica

What Is the Dominical Beach Weather Like?

Due to its coastal location, the weather in Playa Dominical is generally warmer and more humid than in San José, Costa Rica’s capital city. During the rainy season, there are many rain showers and thunderstorms in Dominical. 

This makes the roads and trails muddy and hard to get around. During the dry season, Dominical has warm, sunny weather. The humidity is lower during this time, and the skies are mostly clear.

                 Playa Uvita weather

Compared to San José, Playa Uvita has a warmer and more humid climate. San José is higher in elevation and located in the Central Valley region compared to Uvita, which is on the coast.  

During the dry season, Playa Uvita experiences warm and sunny weather. However, Playa Uvita receives more rainfall during the rainy season than Dominical Beach, with heavier rainfall in September and October.

The Best Time to Visit Dominical Beach & Uvita

The best time to visit Playa Dominical and Playa Uvita in Costa Rica is during the dry season. This is the peak tourist season in Costa Rica, as the weather is warm and sunny with very little rainfall. During this time, visitors can enjoy surfing, swimming, and hiking.

However, remember that the dry season is also the busiest time of the year, and prices for accommodations and activities may be higher than during the rainy season. It’s essential to book well in advance to ensure availability.

Contact us if you’re looking for an unforgettable vacation in Costa Rica! Whether you’re an adrenaline seeker, a nature lover, or simply looking for a national park adventure or a relaxing beach getaway, Dominical and Uvita will surely exceed your expectations. 

Make your dream vacation a reality. Book your trip to Costa Rica today!

FAQS

1. Is Dominical Costa Rica touristy?

Yes, Playa Dominical in Costa Rica is a tourist destination known for its beaches, surfing, and rainforests.

2. What is Dominical Costa Rica known for?

There are stunning beaches, world-class surfing, and lush rainforests in Dominical. Activities such as hiking, birdwatching, and wildlife tours make it a popular destination in Costa Rica for outdoor enthusiasts and wildlife admirers.

3. How far is Dominical from the airport?

Dominical is 193.1 kilometers from Juan Santamaria International Airport in San José, Costa Rica. The drive takes about 3-4 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions. A rental car is available at the airport. Some visitors also take a shuttle or private transfer service to avoid driving.

4. Can you swim in Dominical Costa Rica?

Yes, you can. We recommend that you swim only in front of lifeguards on the main beach in Dominical and watch out for red flag areas indicating riptides.

5. Are there crocodiles in Dominical?

Yes, you can see crocodiles near Río Barú in Costa Rica. During your time in Dominical, be aware of rip currents where crocodiles might appear.

6. Is Uvita expensive?

Uvita can be an expensive destination, especially during the peak tourist season. Prices for accommodation, food, and activities can be higher than in other Costa Rica areas. However, there are still options available for budget-conscious travelers, including hostels, guesthouses, and local eateries. 

With some research and planning, it’s possible to enjoy the beauty and attractions of Uvita without breaking the bank.

7. How far is Uvita from the beach?

Uvita is located right next to the beach, so it’s only a short walk away. Visitors can enjoy na National Park and going whale watching in Costa Rica.swimming, surfing, and sunbathing on the beach, as well as exploring the nearby Marino Balle.

For more details, please get in touch with us at Find My Costa Rica