Dominical Beach
Quick Facts
- Location : Dominical
- Type : Sandy, rocky
- Popularity : Locals, surfers, visitors, most popular beach in the area
A collection of cobblestones, sun-bleached driftwood settled along a steep sandy shore pressed upon by huge Pacific swells, Dominical Beach is a world-renowned surfing destination. With huge swells and strong currents, the surf along this 2.5-mile stretch can be big and rough; luckily Dominical has its own life guard towers operating from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. every day.
read more closeBesides the surf, locals and visitors hang out on the beach and drink in the sun, lay out, read, play volleyball and relax.
Surf
Dominical's a beach known for its consistent year-round waves created by the currents from the Baru River. Swells can reach as high as 15 feet, great for experienced surfers. Beginners should stick to riding in the low tide when the powerful waves back off. Beginner and intermediate riders will find better surfing on the south-end of the beach before the lifeguard tower. If you're looking to rent a board, you won't have to search far. Most hotels offer surf board rentals, but you can also find rentals along the dirt road behind the beach for $20 a day.
In Town
The laid back town of Dominical starts behind the beach within the tree line. You'll find a series of small stores selling colorfully dyed blankets, jewelry and knick-knacks, plus local restaurants and bars full with tanned beachgoers and locals.
Among the hotels, hostels and restaurants in town you'll find Tortilla Flats is the closest and most popular hangout to the beach serving huge plates of food and cold drinks. Surf Shak serves up a cheap and delicious breakfast and a healthy lunch. While Salon Cocal has all the traditional Costa Rican food you could hope for.