Dominical has an old Costa Rican beach town vibe and is known for its great surfing waves, beautiful landscapes and laid back lifestyle.

Formerly a fishing village and now one of the top surfing beaches in Costa Rica, it attracts mostly surfers and backpackers looking to catch some waves or laze on hammocks. In recent years, more expats businesses have sprout up but there is still a lack of a commercial feeling.

That, and the completion of the Costanera Sur highway, has led to more people discovering Dominical and realizing that there's a lot more to this little beach town than just surf. 

​How To Get To Dominical, Costa Rica

​Dominical is located in the South Pacific in Puntarenas. To get here from San Jose, there​ are buses every day at 6 AM and 3 PM from Calle 5 AV 18-20​. Another bus leaves from San Isidro de General ​at 9 AM and 4 PM.

There are also shuttle services available. EasyrideCR is one such company and it is around $55 per person for a shared shuttle from San Jose.

Visa For Costa Rica

​Not all people who wish to travel to Costa Rica need a tourist visa; this will depend on your nationality, purpose of visit, country of residence and duration of stay.

US nationals do not require an entry visa to Costa Rica. However, they must have a current valid passport and a return ticket to exit Costa Rica within 90 days.

British nationals don't need a visa to enter Costa Rica. You may stay as a visitor for up to 90 days under a tourist visa waiver.

​Where To Stay In Dominical, Costa Rica

We highly recommend checking out Hona Wellness, a wellness based co-living, co-working, event space.

It is the only property of its kind this close to the beach, made with digital nomads in mind, and comes with a modern styling, a pool, high speed internet, an expansive co-working and lounge area, and air conditioned rooms with organic bamboo sheets and hot water.

​They offer a number of monthly and weekly spaces for those looking to live and work in this little paradise town. Hona Wellness also has a gorgeous open air work space for digital nomad and a treatment room for those in the healing arts.

If you are already staying at somewhere else and you're just looking for a coworking space, Hona Wellness offers day passes by the day, week or month. The price includes use of their facilities, high speed WiFi, swimming pool, as well as the ability to book the treatment room for yourself or to work on a client.

​We spoke to the owner Carley Montgomery about why she chose to open Hona Wellness, and she said Hona wellness was a long time dream to create spaces that people could heal themselves from the ailments of the modern world.

Hona Wellness is also home to Sol Yoga, where you can sign up for yoga classes during your stay.

Top Things To Do In Dominical, Costa Rica

You definitely cannot go to Dominical without spending some time on Playa Dominical. The beach has excellent waves and is well-suited for surfers of all levels.

Although not the most beautiful beach in Costa Rica, Playa Dominical has an amazing sunset that you have to catch when you're there.

If you like visiting organic farmer's markets, you'll love the Eco Feria (Eco Fair) which is an all organic and plastic free weekly event. In fact, Dominical is a Mecca for wellness.

Dominical is also famous for two waterfalls that are a short drive outside of town: Nauyaca Falls and Diamante Falls, as well as local waterfalls in nearby towns of Dominicalito and Uvita.

The beginning of the trail to Nauyaca Falls is just 20 minutes from Playa Dominical and is a must for nature and adventure lovers.

​Every last two weeks of February, there is a huge festival called Envision Festival which takes place in Uvita and celebrates music, surfing, dance and yoga. The festival is super popular with thousands visiting, so be sure to book your accommodation early if you are planning on visiting during that period.

Best Places To Eat In Dominical, Costa Rica

For its size, Dominical has a good mix and selection of international and local restaurants. There are restaurants right next to the beach if you are looking for live music and happy hour.

For healthy fresh food and atmosphere, head to Cafe Mono Congo. If you're looking for something different, try Thai restaurant Phat Noodle. Fuego Brew Co. is a brew pub that offers a great selection of craft beers that are brewed right under the dining room.

​Planning on visiting or have been to Dominical, Costa Rica? Let us know your insider tip to Dominical in the comments below!