Things to Do
Rafting And Kayaking
The Savegre River in the mountains northwest of Dominical provides class II/III/IV rapids and a chance to enjoy great swimming holes within dense primary jungle surrounding the river.
The Naranjo River is a class III and IV river for physically fit, excitement-seeking rafters. The river drops steeply from the mountains through a beautiful jungle gorge, taking participants on a wild ride to sea level, passing nearby farmlands and palm plantations. Ocean kayaking is also popular along the coast south of Dominical, where kayakers can travel through shoreline caves (depending on tidal conditions) and view pre-Columbian inscriptions on the walls.
Bird Watching
Few countries in the world offer as many different species of birds in such a small area as Costa Rica.
Toucans are commonly seen and heard around Punta Dominical.
To the south, in Corcovado National Park, visitors can see the beautiful and rare Scarlet Macaws.
An experienced field guide who knows the area and also the bird calls is essential for anyone who is seriously interested in seeing birds.
A Guide to the Birds of Costa Rica by F. Gary Stiles and Alexander F. Skutch, is a great resource for visiting birders.
Horseback Riding
One of the best ways to enjoy the natural beauty of Dominical is on horseback.
Guided horseback riding tours may be scheduled from several Dominical locations.
You can choose tours that take you along beaches and jungle trails and through river crossings to experience waterfalls, mineral pools, and spectacular mountain views.
Waterfalls
Ride a horse or hike to a waterfall.
Swim, float, or snorkel in the refreshing waters.
There are multiple waterfalls located in the Dominical area, and there are literally hundreds more, both on and off the beaten path, that are located in the surrounding areas.
Snorkeling And Diving
Pristine coral reefs, together with an abundance of spectacular tropical sea life make for some of the best scuba diving in Costa Rica. About an hour from Dominical, Cano Island offers some of the most exciting diving within reach of the mainland.
Porpoises, schools of manta rays, and white-tip reef sharks are commonly seen on most dives. Water temperatures in the Pacific are typically in the upper 70s to low 80s throughout the year.
Sportfishing
The Dominical area is world famous for its sportfishing.
Billfishing is very popular, especially from December to June, with world records broken nearly every year.
Numerous outfitters offer well-equipped boats and experienced, bilingual captains to provide both the rookie and the experienced angler excellent offshore fishing for marlin, sailfish, tuna, wahoo, and dorado.
The Dominical area also includes the second largest mangrove system on the Pacific coast of Central America, providing some of the best flyfishing in the world. Inshore action includes roosterfish, snook, snapper, and sea bass.
Canopy Tours
Adventurous participants may enter the forest canopy and see jungle life from a unique and different perspective.
One of the best canopy or “tree-top” tours in the country is available at Hacienda Baru, about 10 minutes by car from Punta Dominical.
You can go with a professional canopy guide to a tree platform high above the floor of the forest.
You can also zip from platform to platform – the adrenaline rush is an unforgettable experience.