24 Hours In Dominical, What To Do, Where To Go

If you’re traveling down the pacific coast of Costa Rica, you are likely to pass through Dominical. Dominical is, unlike other places you will have encountered further north, still a sleepy, beach town. With only one main road, a few restaurants and a beautiful long lush beach. The secret however, are the many hidden gems in and around Dominical, let us share a few with you!

Photo by Fllipe Sanchez

Since you’re staying at the beautiful Casa Kia properties, you are in the heart of it all, while also enjoying being tucked in the jungle.

Get your groceries at the Dominical Farmers Market 

Every Friday the Dominical Feria, or farmers market, takes place in the middle of town. It’s a small authentic market where you can find fresh local goodies and produce.

The market opens at eight and we recommend coming early before the fresh produce sells out! There is a vendor who sells delicious tofu and kalamata empanadas. You can also get a hot cup of coffee and a locally made cacao treat to try a bit of what the jungle has to offer. 

And of course. The best fruit in the world, sold here, fresh and well priced. Keep in mind, farming is hard, in general, but farming in the jungle really has it’s challenges so I recommend always paying what the farmers ask for their produce and never ever haggling with them. Shopping here is one of the best ways to support the local economy. 

Photo by Hanna Attafi

Beaches 

Dominical’s coastline is a stretch of serene beachy paradise. It’s worth getting up at sunrise to enjoy the beautiful colors shifting and coming over the jungely mountains. And of course, sunset is the town’s ‘big event’ of the day, everyone gathering around bonfires and beers to thank the sun for shining another day. 

Read more: When is the Best Time to Visit Costa Rica?

Dominical is also known for its beach break, but it is typically for intermediate or advanced surfers. If you’re a beginner, book a surf lesson and have a coach take you out and show you the ropes. Depending on the season, the waves can get pretty massive, which make it hard to even swim. Pay attention to the rip currents and know that there are lifeguards on the beach as well. If it’s a day where the ocean is messy, take a dip in the local river and cool off. You can access the river by walking through the town. 

Dominical Beach

Domicalito is just a walk away and will offer a more low-key vibe (both waves and crowd). This wave is great for beginners and you will find many surf schools use it for lessons at high tide. On a calm day, or lower tide, you can easily swim here and enjoy the calmer water… but beware, there are rocks! So best to scope it out at low tide so you get a lay of the land. Visit Jesus, in the pink stand for a fresh agua de pipa! 

The best stops for food and drinks in Dominical

On your way to the river or the beach, there are a few spots to grab a quick bite. Mamma Toucans is a little health-food grocery shop that also has to-go sandwiches, prepared food and smoothies. Next door, you have Cafe Mono Congo, a sweet little resto perfect for breakfast and lunch, located by the river offering beautiful views. 

Cafe Mono Congo

Other restaurants worth checking out are Phat Noodle, for a blend of Asian cuisine, plus they have the coziest atmosphere in the evenings. Fuego is at the center of town and a nice spot to grab lunch or dinner. It’s also a brewery & coffee roastery so you’ll find locally made beer & beans. 

Of course, there are authentic “sodas” or typical Costa Rican restaurants around for a classic gallo pinto or casado. Cafe Ensueno has the best frozen smoothies. What’s that, you ask? It’s like fruity ice cream goodness, that you have to eat with a spoon.

Activities around Dominical 

There are many activities you can book and explore if you want to “get out of town” such as zip-lining, paragliding, waterfall chasing (Poza Azul is walking distance!), wild-life tours, etc. Or keep it simple, rent a board, book a surf lesson or check out a local yoga class. 

Photo by Hanna Attafi

Read more: Top Activities for your Dominical, Costa Rica Vacation

There are three yoga studios in the area, Rockstar, Danyasa and with us at Casa Kia Ora. Check out Hanna’s classes down the hill (if you’re staying up at Royal) or, if you’re at Aracari, classes take place at your doorstep! Visit @reycleyourmind or @casakia instagram for the weekly schedules or ask us about private retreat options!

Yoga deck in our Royal Sabitha property

As far as nightlife, we typically sleep early to wake up to the waves, but there are a few spots worth checking out if you’d like to have a drink, catch some music or maybe dance a bit. Fuego & Tortilla Flats sometimes offer weekend music & dancing but these days, events are few and far between so best to just have a beer on the beach and get some rest so that you can enjoy your days to the fullest. 

Dominical is simple and slow but also full of secrets. So explore, stay curious and enjoy your time in this special place.