Things to Do
Surf, explore, discover — adventure is everywhere on the wild coast
Your Adventure Basecamp
Dominical sits where the mountains meet the Pacific — surrounded by national parks, waterfalls, and world-class surf. Whether you're chasing thrills or looking to slow down, there's no shortage of things to explore in this corner of Costa Rica.
Beaches & Surfing
Dominical is world-famous for its consistent surf breaks and beautiful Pacific beaches.
Surfing at Dominical Beach
Right at your doorstep — consistent waves for all levels. Lessons and board rentals available in town.
1 min walkPlaya Hermosa
A quieter, less crowded beach just south of Dominical. Great for swimming and relaxing.
10 min driveUvita Beach (Whale Tail)
The famous whale tail sandbar at Marino Ballena National Park. Stunning for walks and whale watching.
20 min driveNature & Wildlife
Costa Rica is one of the most biodiverse places on Earth — and it shows.
Hacienda Barú Wildlife Refuge
Birding, nature walks, canopy tours, and overnight stays in a 330-hectare reserve of rainforest, mangroves, and beach.
10 min driveAlturas Wildlife Sanctuary
A rescue and rehabilitation center where you can learn about Costa Rica's wildlife conservation efforts.
15 min driveParque Reptilandia
A reptile sanctuary with snakes, lizards, turtles, and crocodiles — educational and fascinating.
15 min driveWhale & Dolphin Watching
Seasonal tours to see humpback whales birthing and mating, plus year-round dolphin pods. Best July–November and January–March.
Boat tours from UvitaTurtle Releases
Seasonal events on the beach directly in front of the hotel — watch baby sea turtles make their way to the ocean.
Right on the beachWaterfalls & Jungle
Several stunning waterfalls surround Dominical — each with its own character.
Nauyaca Waterfalls
The crown jewel — a two-tiered, 65-meter waterfall with a natural swimming pool. Accessible by foot, horseback, or 4x4.
15 min drivePozo Azul
A hidden blue pool in the jungle near Dominicalito, with a rope swing. Keep an eye out for sloths and monkeys on the trail.
5 min driveUvita Waterfalls
Multiple falls on a short, easy trail — great for swimming, with a natural water slide and areas suitable for kids.
25 min driveDiamante Waterfall
A challenging jungle trek to twin 85-foot waterfalls with a boulder cave. Overnight stays and rappelling are available.
35 min driveEl Pavón Waterfall
A swimming hole with several levels of pools and a waterfall you can swim behind. Best visited on weekdays.
35 min drive southAdventures
The wild coast delivers thrills — from the treetops to the rapids.
Zip Lining
4 zip line courses in the area, each at a different adventure level. Soar above the canopy with ocean and mountain views.
Various locationsWhite Water Rafting
Half- and full-day trips on Costa Rica's best rivers. Multiple class levels from beginner to advanced.
Day tripKayaking & Mangroves
Ocean kayaking or peaceful mangrove tours — paddle through incredible ecosystems.
Various locationsParagliding
Tandem flights launching from the hills above Dominical, landing right on the beach.
20 min to launchRiver Tubing
Lazy river float through the jungle — relaxing and scenic with occasional gentle rapids.
Day tripSport Fishing
Half- or full-day chartered deep-sea fishing. Catch marlin, sailfish, tuna, and more.
Boat charterCulture & Wellness
Slow down, learn something new, and soak in the Pura Vida lifestyle.
Yoga & Pilates
Daily classes at local studios — meditation and exercise in the tropical setting.
In townChocolate & Farm Tours
Visit local chocolate farms, vanilla plantations, and spice gardens for hands-on tours.
Day tripsReady to Explore?
These are just a taste of what's on offer around Dominical. Get in touch and we'll point you in the right direction.