Adventure
The biggest adventure
is right outside your door
Dominical’s famous surf breaks. However, maybe you have already mastered your carve or boost and want to see what other adventures are out there? Dominical’s incredible location puts you on the perfect jumping off point for this:
Manuel Antonio
Manuel Antonio has a world renown reputation for exploring the animals, insets and birds of Central and South America. Whether you’re wanting to spy a sloth, giggle at the playful monkeys or be astounded by the colorful birds and insects that populate the area Manual Antonio will not disappoint. We recommend talking to concierge Stephen at You Get Here to book a private guide for your group. You will be amazed. manuelantoniopark.net
Parque Reptilandia
Perhaps you’re a little squeamish about the local wildlife? Parque Reptilandia gives you the opportunity to safely observe reptiles and amphibians while at the same time being immersed in their world. Easily accessible, educational and fun! reptilandia.com
Alturas Wildlife Sanctuary
For a slightly different local animal experience there is the Alturas Wildlife Sanctuary which rescues, rehabilitates and releases injured wildlife. Just a ten minute drive from your villa, you can book a private tour or call ahead for operating hours.
alturaswildlifesanctuary.org
You can experience the beauty of this country by land, sea or air!
Land
Try an ATV Adventure with Jungle ATV. Their professional guides will take you off road and up into the cloud forest as well as through local towns and even a local coffee plantation - yes - there will be samples! jungleatv.com
Or perhaps you want to get out on the ocean? Cano (needs tilde over N) Island has snorkeling and in season you can go out whale watching. Once again the concierge team at the Villas can make it happen.
Sea
Our whole family loves the Mangrove Kayak Tour provided by Pineapple Tours. Kids are welcome and everything you need is provided by their knowledgable staff - including snacks!
pineapplekayaktours.com
Another way to enjoy the ocean is ride the waves before they even get there. The Savegre River has some prime white water rafting. Be sure to check the rapid level predictions with your guides before booking so you know how much of an adventure will be in store for you and your group.
Another way to enjoy the ocean is ride the waves before they even get there. The Savegre River has some prime white water rafting. Be sure to check the rapid level predictions with your guides before booking so you know how much of an adventure will be in store for you and your group.
Air
Yes, you can see it by air as well with Titi Canopy Tours. Zipline through the rain forest on a family-friendly adventure. Kids and adults alike will enjoy the many zip lines, swinging bridges and swings. At our last visit lunch was included.
titicanopytour.com
A gentler zip line experience for younger kids can be had at Hacienda Baru National Wildlife Reserve. As the name implies it’s also a great place to spot flora and fauna while flying through the trees. haciendabaru.com
If you prefer your adventures with your feet on the ground
There are even more ways to enjoy the area’s natural beauty and coastal location. In addition to the surf spots mentioned in our Surf Guide, we also suggest visiting beautiful Marino Ballena National Park (known as the Whale’s Tail), Playa Ventana for boogie boarding and renting a rustic cabana. You can hike to the Nauyaca Waterfall with a guide or take it easy and arrive at the waterfall by horseback. In either case once you’re there you’ll want to kick off your shoes and go for a swim at the base of these magnificent falls. (need image for Nauyaca Waterfalls.)
TENNIS AND GOLF
Maybe water isn’t your thing? We won’t question your motives; instead we are happy to direct you to tennis at the Villas Rio Mar hotel - have a drink at the Crocodile Bar after you’ve swept your opponent. Or perhaps golf is your jam? The Osa Golf Course is 45 minutes south of Dominical with gorgeous views and nine holes of championship golf. Clubs and carts can be rented.
One last water recommendation:
the locals have installed a thrilling rope swing at a nearby waterfall/lake. Once you’ve booked a villa, we will be happy to give you the super double secret directions so you too can experience this amazing spot. (Move to bottom of list, presuming it’s “one last recommendation…”)
oh…and surfing?
There are a variety of surf schools, board rentals and lesson options in Dominical. We’ve tried quite a few and are happy to say that all of the teachers were able to get their students up and riding a board. They were great with the kids but adults shouldn’t miss out on the fun. If you’re an advanced surfer, instructors can clue you into the best beaches on the best days and show you how to ride in Costa Rica like a local. Beginners can book a surf camp or lessons and learn the basics in a fun and safe way. We highly recommend Dominical Surf School. The local owner (and ISA certified instructor) runs camps and provides lessons for all ages - she even specializes in all-female surf experiences! dominicalsurfschool.com
This photo shows you what’s possible when you have your wedding at Caballitos del Mar. Timing is everything, because there are only so many hours of low tide, but what a gorgeous place to say your vows, then dance on the grass!
Weddings at Caballitos del Mar
There are destination weddings, and then there’s Caballitos del Mar!
What if you could find a place where your wedding party of up to 21 could be housed in three gorgeous homes, right on the beach? What if you could work with an excellent caterer who’s only located a few km away? We work with a superb wedding planner who can make it all come together! Contact our property manager for more details. The villas book up quickly, so contact us early for the best choice of dates.
The Villas
There are lots of lovely places to stay in Costa Rica, yet very few are on the beach, and have direct access to the ocean. When we found a piece of property nestled in the forest but very close to the beach, we bought it despite the many complications of owning* property in the “Maritime Zone.” Regardless, we’re delighted we did because the proximity to the beach is vital to making full use of the beauty of Costa Rica
