Dominical
An astoundingly beautiful area, Dominical is known as the place where the mountains crash into the sea. Lush rainforest lined hills surround this small pueblo and frame the volcanic rock and white sand beaches. Many describe this laid back area as the Manuel Antonio of 20 years ago. The town itself is small with a few connecting dirt roads which are lined with shops, restaurants and small bars making it reminiscent of the old Costa Rica.
Recently the Costanera Highway was completed giving paved access down the coast allowing for a shorter and easier drive to San Jose. Only time will tell if this is positive for the area. These days, the lost paradise feel is nice. The beaches are lined with palm trees and you won't find any fast food restaurants or high-rises.
Though the beaches are beautiful, they are not for swimming. This is a surfer's paradise with big waves that usually provide consistent breaks. The surfing is so good here that the Billabong company sponsors annual competitions. Swimmers can venture further down the coast to Playa Dominicalito for better swimming conditions; though please do use caution as larger waves can come in quickly. If you must swim on the main Dominical Beach, only do so in front of lifeguards and look out for red flag areas, which indicate riptides.
If you have wildlife observation in your plans, there are few better places! Hacienda Baru National Wildlife Refuge is located just north of Dominical. This is an eco-tourist paradise where several hundred species of birds have been identified. They also offer canopy zipline tours, tree climbing and many other activities. Not to be overlooked, the Osa Peninsula is within driving distance and tour operators offer day trips to Corcovado National Park.
The South Pacific is a region of vast contrasts in weather. Temperatures remain the same nearly year round with average day time highs in the upper 80s to low 90s and night time lows in the upper 70s. Precipitation varies by month with the months of December through April being the driest.
Visitors should pack a bathing suit, towel, shorts, tee shirts, appropriate shoes, rain gear, sun block, and insect repellent.
Fun Fact: Just 30 years ago, Hacienda Baru was a cow pasture. Thanks to Jack Ewing's effort and vision, there are trees that soar well over a hundred feet and the rainforest has re-claimed the land.
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