Surfing in Dominical
A World-Class Surfing Destination
Dominical offers a variety of surf breaks suitable for all skill levels, with several excellent spots just a short walk north towards town from the villas. Before heading out, ALWAYS check local conditions at a surf shop and be aware of the significant tidal variations—sometimes up to 10 feet in a single day. Surfing here requires strong swimming skills and an understanding of how to navigate potential riptides. The waves can range from small to massive, making local knowledge essential for a safe and enjoyable experience.
For beginners, taking a lesson from one of the local surf schools is highly recommended. Dominical Surf School is our personal favorite, but Costa Rica Surf Camp and several other schools, all located within a short walking distance of each other near the main beach, offer excellent options. Many first-time surfers have had great experiences with these schools. The instructors select break locations and lesson times based on local conditions and tides, so it's crucial to reference a tide table (such as those on surfline.com), as mid to high tide is generally the best window for surfing.
If you're surfing at low tide, don't forget to do the stingray shuffle—dragging your feet while walking to avoid accidental stings. Generally, two consecutive days of lessons will help beginners build the skills and confidence needed to catch waves and stand up. Renting your own board after lessons is a great way to continue practicing and build muscle memory throughout your stay.
I (Bruce, one of the owners) personally started surfing here in my mid-50s and became completely hooked—now seeking out surf breaks on every vacation near the water. I even bought a wetsuit for surfing the chilly California waters and hit the waves several times a month.
Here’s a list of the best local surf breaks, ranging from beginner to advanced:
Dominical Main Beach: 1.5km/5 minutes by car. This is the most popular spot and is a 5 minute drive north to town. All of the surf schools and board rentals are here. Mid to high tide. Nice place to sunbathe and people watch. A few more rocks than Playa Hermosa. Has lifeguard and lots of restaurants within walking distance. Waves can get HUGE.
Caballitos del Mar Beach: 100m/5 minutes by foot. This is the most accessible beach, just a five-minute walk north from your villa. It’s best enjoyed at low to mid tide, though it’s still accessible at higher tides if you enter in the water by walking an additional ten minutes further north well past the cliffs and you're willing to walk the highway back to the villas once your finished. While the waves here aren't as well-formed as other spots, it’s still a fantastic place to refine your skills—perfect for a second session of the day. Expect some foam-riding, which is ideal for beginners looking to practice their pop-ups, balance, and simply enjoy a refreshing swim. Keep an eye on your position, as the tide will gradually pull you away from your entry point. If you'd rather avoid a highway walk back, be sure to leave before the tide rises too much, ensuring there's enough beach left for your return walk back to the villas. As always, when venturing into the ocean, be prepared to swim out of a riptide by moving parallel to the shore. Remember, the tropical sun sets quickly, so make your way back to the villas well before sunset. Don't fall into the temptation of "just one more wave"—darkness sets in within minutes.
Dominicalito Beach: 1.5km/5 min by car. This is the best beginner break and is only a five minute drive south from the villas (Look for Dominicalito Beach sign on highway). Mid to high tide is best as on low tide the rocky surface will be difficult and painful to walk on. There is a parking area and a snack shack where one can grab a cold beer after surfing.
Playa Hermosa: 12km/12 minutes by car. The second driveway south brings you to a sandy bottom beach with ample parking, snack bar and a lifeguard. Mid to high tide. Waves are a little bigger and more powerful than Dominicalito. Better beach for sunbathing and non-surf swimming.
Whale Tail/Uvita Beach:20 km/23 minutes by car. 20 plus minute drive south from the villas is this beautiful spot where you will have to pay to park. Crescent-shaped and nice sandy bottom. Beautiful views of the mountains from your board. Never crowded and no lifeguard. Not on Surfline so little intel on local conditions.