Dominical - Costa Rica's Hidden Gem, all Natural Beauty and Local Flavor!

Nestled along Costa Rica's rugged Pacific coastline, the laid-back town of Dominical is an irresistible destination for travelers seeking a perfect blend of surf, sun, and serenity. Tucked away between the lush rainforests of Marino Ballena National Park and the rolling waves of the Pacific Ocean, Dominical is a coastal haven that captures the essence of Pura Vida living.

Getting There:

Reaching Dominical is an adventure in itself. The town is approximately three hours from Costa Rica's capital, San Jose. Travelers can opt for a scenic route along the Pacific Coast Highway, providing breathtaking views of dense jungles and glimpses of wildlife. Alternatively, local airlines offer domestic flights to the nearby Quepos La Managua Airport, followed by a picturesque drive southward.

For the more adventurous, buses and shuttles from major cities like San Jose and Quepos are available. These options provide a cost-effective means of transportation and an opportunity to soak in the stunning landscapes.

Language and Hospitality:

Dominical is known for its warm hospitality, one of its main attractions. Although Spanish is the official language, many locals are proficient in English, which makes it easy for international visitors to communicate with the community. However, it is always appreciated when visitors try to speak a few basic phrases in Spanish to connect with the locals.

Dominical's hospitality is genuine and reflects the Pura Vida lifestyle, which emphasizes a laid-back and easygoing attitude. Whether you need recommendations for the best surf spots, information about local cuisine, or want to start a conversation, the people of Dominical are friendly and eager to share their love for their town.

Safety in Paradise:

Safety is paramount to tourists, and Dominical is a welcoming and secure destination. The town's small size contributes to a close-knit community, fostering a sense of vigilance and support. The local authorities are committed to ensuring the safety of both residents and visitors.

The beaches, renowned for their pristine beauty, are generally safe for swimming and sunbathing. However, it is vital to be mindful of the strong currents, especially during certain times of the year. Lifeguards are stationed at popular surf spots, providing an additional layer of security.

As with any travel destination, it is advisable to take basic precautions. Travelers should monitor their belongings, be cautious, and follow local guidelines. Dominical's friendly atmosphere extends to its commitment to providing a secure environment for all who come to experience its charms.

Exploring Nature and Culture:

Dominical offers a wide range of activities that cater to diverse interests. The Marino Ballena National Park is just a short drive away and is a haven for nature enthusiasts. Hiking trails lead to breathtaking viewpoints, providing a chance to marvel at the vastness of the Pacific and witness the diverse flora and fauna inhabiting the rainforest.

For an enchanting natural experience, visitors can venture into the region's heart to discover the awe-inspiring Nauyaca Waterfalls. Surrounded by lush tropical vegetation, these cascading falls create a serene oasis where visitors can swim in crystal-clear pools beneath the refreshing embrace of the water. The journey to Nauyaca Waterfalls involves horseback riding through verdant landscapes, providing a unique perspective on the region's beauty.

Local markets and cultural events in Dominical provide opportunities to engage with the vibrant community. The town's artisans showcase their craftsmanship, and the friendly locals are always eager to share stories and insights about their way of life.

Ballena Tales is an essential free digital magazine in Costa Rica, valid for travelers, residents, and investors covering Costa Ballena in the Canton of Osa in the South Pacific of Costa Rica. It is a fully bilingual, bi-monthly, and full-color digital magazine.

The magazine introduces the reader to the life of the local community, with interviews of pioneers, writers, and artists, as well as extensive information on restaurants, hotels, experiences, natural attractions, and wildlife of the South Pacific of Costa Rica.

How to Maintain the Health of your Hair?

f hard water scale quickly damages household fixtures, imagine the havoc it wreaks on our delicate hair!

Homage to Doña Elba Montero Marín

~ by Dagmar ReinhardLess than 50 years ago, Bahía Uvita was an isolated area difficult to access. Its history is linked to Mr. Cai Cruz and the aluminum producer Alcoa. In 1962, Cai Cruz owned Hacienda Bahía […]

YABASUJKRA

~ by Kurandenk (Huella del Jaguar / The Jaguar’s footprint)People from Boruca have many beliefs, and the stories, legends, and myths are part of our lives. Among such beliefs, there is the respect for nature. We know […]

Blue Flag – Marine Ballena National Park

~ by Stephanie Mory Villaseñor – Sub-admistradora Área de Conservación OsaThis year in March, the Marino Ballena National Park was awarded 4 Ecological Blue Flags, thanks to the joint efforts of volunteers and local organizations that make up […]

Love of Whales in the South Pacific of Costa Rica, Stay one more night ~ a Whale of a Deal - Osa, Uvita - Ballena Tales

Stay one more night ~ a Whale of a Deal, Whales and Dolphins Festival

~ by Perry Gladstone Dear associate and companies of Costa Ballena. During the month of September, the annual Whales and Dolphins Festival attracts more than 6000 people to our region. This is an incredible business opportunity and we want to […]

Continuation of the 8 Limbs of Ashtanga – Asana

~ by Pila SalazarAsanas (yoga postures) comprised the third limb of Ashtanga Yoga. Although it is only a branch, it is what most of the western world conceived as “Yoga”. I started practicing in my early twenties. […]

480 Horse Riders

~ by Dagmar Reinhard The Horse Riding Commission of San Josecito deserves special recognition for the recent equestrian event held under the umbrella of the 2017 Summer Festival in Bahía – Uvita. Already last year, the commission began […]

Great coffee and warm, welcoming people

~ by Pam CapistaGreat coffee and warm, welcoming people – two of Costa Rica’s amazing resources. I had the great pleasure of visiting don Emilio’s coffee farm in San Luis and touring the farm with him and his […]

Slow down! Animals Crossing The Road

~ by Loyal ClarkeAt Alturas Wildlife Sanctuary, our number one goal is to get the animals back to their native habitats. Sadly, that is not always possible due to injuries from which the animals cannot fully recover. The […]

Pre-Columbian times in Boruca

~ by Susie AtkinsonThe Diquís delta, just south of Costa Ballena, is one of the most important deltas of Central America from the biological and cultural perspective. We will discuss the cultural aspect. “Diquís” in the native dialect of the Teribe […]

CACOBA Update

~ by Perry GladstoneIt’s been a busy high-season at the Costa Ballena Chamber of Tourism and Commerce. While we continue to advance many initiatives, three areas have been our main focus: SECURITY – Concerns over rising crime […]

Were you there?

~ by Tony Johnson”Three Days of Peace and Music”: An event some actually attended, and that many claimed to have been at, while most only saw the movie. Why all the nostalgia? Because Woodstock was THE music festival […]

Dominical - Costa Rica's Hidden Gem, all Natural Beauty and Local Flavor!

Getting There:

Language and Hospitality:

Safety in Paradise:

Exploring Nature and Culture:

LODGING

DINING

ADVENTURE

SERVICES

What to do, Where to eat and Where to stay…

South Pacific Costa Rica Beaches,

Looking for business directories, maps or other printouts? We’ve got that too!

Dare to Discover and Enjoy…

Check out…

Need help planning your next trip? Let us help you with your Costa Rica vacations!