3 Reasons Why Dominical is One of The Best Surf Spots in Costa Rica

From waves for all levels to the laid-back locals and absolutely breathtaking jungle surroundings, the area of Dominical has to be on your surf bucket list, let us tell you why!

1. Perfect surf waves all year around

Yep, you read that right - Dominical has consistent waves all year around and is rather renowned for it in the rest of Costa Rica! Playa Dominical stretches over 2.5 miles (4 km!!) and is split by the Baru River. Due to the river, Playa Dominical has sandbars that cause fantastic beach breaks allowing for consistent fun waves and even barrels. The biggest waves will generally be in the middle of “green season” or more commonly understood by none Ticans as “rainy season”, this lasts from May to November, and right from June to September you are likely to encounter the biggest waves.

Aerial view of Dominical Beach

2. Dominical is suited for all surfers, no matter your level!

Intermediate and advanced surfers will enjoy Playa Dominical in all conditions, from smaller waves that are fun for tricks to beautiful blue, warm watered, barrels. Caution must however always be kept, as the loved sandbars can also cause decent rip currents. If you are a solid paddler, you should have no problems, but stay alert.

What about the beginners, I hear you ask? On most days beginners will also enjoy Playa Dominical as waves break early and have great whitewash to practice. If, however too big, sets are too close, or you just want to try a different more low key vibe, just head a mile down the road to Playa Dominicalito.

Due to its small entrance keep an eye out for the big orange Kia Ora sign on the left, as just across the Casa Kia Ora entrance road, you will find the entrance of Playa Dominicalito. The small cove tends to have calmer waves that are absolutely perfect for all levels (writing from experience here, as a total surf newbie with a lot of none-newbie friends).

3. Location, location, location (& vibe)!

Maybe good waves alone are enough to convince you that Dominical should be your next surf destination, but if you are more like me and cannot yet surf for hours on end, you might also care about what else Dominical has to offer.

Nauyaca waterfalls near Dominical, Costa Rica

It’s easy to get here

First location perk, Dominical, depending on traffic, is only around a 3 hour drive from San Jose, or a 45 minute drive from Quepos airport. Costa Rica Green Air flies here from San Jose within 20 minutes, twice a day.

Gorgeous surroundings

Second location perk, the absolute gorgeous surroundings of Dominical. Whilst you are sitting on the waves looking at the beach, you will be treated to a view of lush jungle mountain meets beach. Walk along the beach and buy coconuts from a local vendor or just pick them up yourself right there from the beach. You are quick to find someone who can help you open it.

Playa Hermosa, Costa Rica

So much to offer

Third location perk, the area of Dominical has so much more to offer. You can take a 20 minute drive down south to Uvita and visit the famous Marino Ballena National Park, make sure to go during low tide so that you can walk Whale’s Tail beach (a must!!).

On your way there visit Playa Hermosa, or be adventurous and pull into one of the countless other small beach entrances and explore! Visit the Nauyaca waterfalls, snorkel at Cano Island, or go whale watching! The location perks are endless!

Marino Ballena National Park in Uvita, Costa Rica

Perfect vibes

Last but not least, vibe perks. The town of Dominical is known for its laid back vibes that are loved by surfers, yogis and nature lovers. It is very small and you will have seen all of Dominical in a 30 minute leisure walk, but it has everything you need. Delicious restaurants, good coffee places, a tourist office, small supermarket, ATM, weekly eco-feria for fresh local produce (Fridays), yoga studio and local beach vendors.

To make the most of location and vibe perks, check out Casa Kia Ora. We are located walking distance from Playa Dominicalito whilst being emerged in the jungle.

Pool area at Sabitha