A town framed by dramatic plunging cliffs and azure seas is an obvious draw for surfers, but there’s much more to Dominical than great waves. The community has a mellow vibe that attracts expats to live in the mountains above the beach.
It’s a place to get away from it all, whether you like sitting in your beachfront bungalow watching the world go by or hiking through the jungle. For those who want to live the Costa Rican dream, it’s an affordable and accessible opportunity.
As an area that attracts naturists, you can find everything from horseback riding and kayaking to massage and yoga. For those looking to stay active, there are also hiking trails and ziplines that run through the rainforest canopy. And for a truly relaxing experience, head to one of the many local spas for a massage.
If you’re a nature lover, you can’t visit Dominical without checking out Marino Ballena National Park. This pristine marine reserve is home to an abundance of wildlife and is a great spot to take a boat tour or snorkel in the protected coves. The park is just a short drive from the main street in Dominical and is well worth a visit.
One of the best things to do in Dominical is to just sit back and enjoy the views and ocean breezes. The beaches are unique and ever-changing, as the mighty Pacific carves new seascapes out of the coastline. Surfing is the number one attraction in Dominical, but you can also go fishing, hike waterfalls or even play a round of golf.
The mountain towns above the beach are where most of the year-round residents live in Dominical. They offer a cooler freshness and an abundance of lush vegetation, making them ideal spots to retire or raise a family. They have a strong sense of community and an emphasis on organic lifestyles, so you’ll often see people walking their dogs and socializing with neighbors on the street.
Most of the year-round residents are from North America, Europe or South Africa, but they all share a love for Costa Rica and a desire to live their dream lifestyle. The community is very friendly and welcomes newcomers with open arms. Those who come to spend time here quickly feel at home.