National Parks and Waterfalls
around Dominical
Costa Rica has some of the most spectacular Waterfalls and National Parks in the world, and some of them are withing 15 minutes drive from Dominical.
Nauyaca Waterfall Nature Park
Nauyaca Waterfall Nature Park - is considered by many as Number 1 waterfall experience in Costa Rica. Nauyaca Waterfall Nature Park is a private nature reserve offering prime access to the stunning Nauyaca Waterfalls, featuring well-maintained trails through dense rainforest and natural swimming pools beneath the falls. Visitors can enjoy activities such as hiking, swimming, and optional horseback riding or tram rides, with facilities designed to enhance the experience while preserving the natural environment.
One of the most beautiful waterfalls in Dominical area. It is about one hour from Dominical on a bumpy road... but we think that it worth seeing. You can swim at the bottom of the waterfall, slide down the rocks on one area and there’s a 25’ cliff jump. There are many companies offering tours to the Waterfall, but you can drive yourself there if you can find it. Check it out here.
Manuel Antonio National Park
Manuel Antonio National Park - Manuel Antonio National Park is a highly visited natural area in Costa Rica, renowned for its lush rainforest, rich biodiversity, and stunning beaches. It offers well-marked trails ideal for wildlife viewing, with frequent sightings of monkeys, sloths, iguanas, birds, and other tropical species. The park features several beautiful beaches, including the famous Playa Manuel Antonio, popular for swimming and snorkeling, especially along the rocky sides where marine life and coral can be observed. Guided tours are strongly recommended, as guides significantly enhance the experience by spotting animals and providing expert knowledge. The park operates daily except Tuesdays, with limited daily visitor capacity, so advance online booking is essential. They do sell out! So during the high season book in advance.
Marino Ballena National Park
Marino Ballena National Park - is renowned for its Whale Tail (Tómbolo), a natural sandbar formation shaped like a humpback whale’s tail, visible only during low tide. This iconic feature, combined with rich marine biodiversity, draws visitors for whale watching, snorkeling, and beach exploration. Humpback whales migrate to the park’s warm waters from July to October and again from December to March, using the area for breeding and calving.
Your must try list
for a four day trip
If you in the area for 4 days here is the list of activities we think that you should try while visiting Dominical.
1. Wake up with the sunrise, watch the clouds
2. Check out one of the local Organic Markets and make breakfast with local organic ingredients
3. Take a hike to the river
4. Watch Sunset from Dominical Beach
5. Have a breakfast and coffee at Cafe Mono Congo
6. Visit Nauyaca Waterfall Nature Park and swim in the waterfall
7. Watch the sunset from Dominical Beach
8. Visit Manuel Antonio National Park
9. Visit Eco Chontales Waterfalls
10.Try a surfing lesson
11.Take a a long walk on the beach at a low tide
12. Have a lunch at El Avion in Manuel Antonio