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Guide
Dominical, Costa Rica π¨π·
#2069
,
Nomad Score:
66%
Essentials
ποΈ City | Dominical is a coastal village located in the southern Pacific region of Costa Rica, known for its scenic beaches and laid-back atmosphere. |
π₯ Population | Approximately 1,500 residents. |
π» Internet Speed | Average speed of about 30-50 Mbps, with some areas reaching up to 100 Mbps. |
πΈ Currency & Banking | Costa Rican ColΓ³n (β‘), with 1 USD β 600 β‘. |
π° Tap Water | Generally safe to drink, but bottled water is widely available. |
π Power | 120V, 60Hz, with NEMA Type A/B sockets. |
πΆ SIM Card | Movistar and Kolbi are popular providers offering good coverage in Dominical. |
π³ Banking for Expats | Local banks such as Banco Nacional and BancrΓ©dito; credit cards accepted widely. |
π Accommodation | A variety of options including hostels, vacation rentals, and beachfront hotels. |
π³ Cashless Friendly | Yes, many places accept cards but cash is still used, especially for food stalls. |
π Short Term Rentals | Airbnb and Vrbo are popular platforms for short-term rentals in the area. |
ποΈ Budget Accommodation | Hostel Pura Vida has dorm beds starting at around $15 per night. |
ποΈ Best Area to Stay for Tourists | The beachfront area offers easy access to restaurants and activities. |
ποΈ Best Area to Stay for Digital Nomads | Living near the main road offers better internet access and proximity to cafes. |
Working and Networking
π’ Best Coworking Space | CafΓ© Cielo offers reliable Wi-Fi and a comfortable work environment. |
β Best Cafe for Work | Cafe Mono, known for its welcoming vibe and fast internet. |
πΌ Networking Events | Occasional meet-ups at local cafes; check Facebook groups for updates. |
π₯ Social Events for Expats | The Dominical Expats Facebook Group organizes regular social events. |
Transportation
π Best Taxi/Ride App | Uber is available in nearby towns, but taxis are common. |
π² Bike/Scooter Rental | Local shops offer bike rentals for about $10 per day. |
ποΈ Best Beach Nearby | Dominical Beach is just a short walk and is known for surfing. |
βοΈ Top Regional Airline | Nature Air and Sansa Airlines provide regional flights. |
βοΈ Top International Airline | American Airlines and Delta offer flights to Juan SantamarΓa International Airport. |
π£οΈ Highway Access | Access to the Costanera Sur highway, connecting to major towns. |
π Main Train/Transit Hub | San Isidro is the main transit hub, 30 minutes away by car. |
π Public Transport Passes | Buses around Dominical are affordable, usually costing around 500 β‘. |
βοΈ Regional Travel | Buses from Dominical connect to San Isidro and other coastal towns. |
Health and Wellness
π₯ Best Hospital | Hospital de Ciudad Cortes is the nearest hospital, approximately 30 minutes away. |
π§ Yoga & Wellness Centers | The Yoga House Dominical offers classes and wellness retreats. |
ποΈ Gyms & Fitness Centers | There are several small gyms offering day passes for about $10. |
π§Ί Laundry Services | Laundromat services available at various local businesses for about 1000 β‘ per kg. |
Food and Drink
π± Best Food Delivery App | Rappi is popular in the area for food delivery. |
π½οΈ Best Local Dish to Try | Gallo pinto (rice and beans) is a must-try Costa Rican dish. |
π± Vegan/Vegetarian Options | Aracari Restaurant offers a good selection of vegetarian dishes. |
π« Best Dessert Spots | La Casa del Dulce for homemade desserts and pastries. |
π Affordable Shopping Spots | Local farmers' markets offer fresh produce at good prices on weekends. |
π E-commerce/Online Store | Local stores provide access to Amazon for online shopping. |
π Grocery Delivery | Rappi also delivers groceries from local markets. |
πΈ Bar/Nightlife Area | The beachfront bars offer a vibrant nightlife scene. |
π» Local Brewery | Brewed Awakenings crafts locally brewed beer. |
π· Wine Bars | Casa de Vino offers a selection of local and imported wines. |
π² Street Food Stalls | Street vendors offer local snacks like empanadas for under $2. |
π Popular International Cuisine | Restaurante Fuego has good Italian and Mediterranean options. |
Culture and Attractions
ποΈ Must-See Landmarks | The Whale's Tail in Uvita National Park is a popular natural landmark. |
ποΈ Museums & Art Venues | The Osa Wildlife Sanctuary is dedicated to wildlife conservation. |
π° Historical Sites | Mayan ruins can be explored in nearby Quepos. |
π Religious Sites | The Dominicalito Church is a local community landmark. |
π Annual Events | The Dominical Festival features local music and dance every March. |
π¨ Cultural Districts | The village itself promotes a laid-back, artistic vibe. |
π Theater Venues | Local events often held in outdoor spaces by the beach. |
ποΈ Local Markets | Weekly farmers markets provide local produce and crafts. |
πΌ Music Scene | Live music at local bars like The Beach Bar on weekends. |
π¨ Street Art | Local artists display their work along community walls. |
π§βπ³ Cooking Classes | Tica Cooking Classes offer insights into Costa Rican cuisine. |
π©βπ¨ Art Galleries | Art galleries featuring local artists pop up around the area. |
π°οΈ Historic Buildings | Visit local houses preserved for their unique architecture. |
π΄ Local Heritage | Cultural events celebrate Costa Rican heritage throughout the year. |
Nature and Outdoor Activities
π Nearby Nature Escapes | Corcovado National Park is a short drive away, perfect for hiking. |
ποΈ National Parks Nearby | Manuel Antonio National Park offers stunning beaches and wildlife. |
π² Cycling/Walking Paths | Numerous trails along the coast and through the nearby rainforest. |
π Scenic Viewpoints | The viewpoint at the river mouth offers stunning sunset views. |
π¦ Birdwatching Locations | Osa Peninsula is renowned for its diverse bird species. |
π₯ Bonfire-Friendly Spots | Public beach areas permit bonfires during certain hours. |
Other Services and Amenities
π¦ Parcel Delivery Service | Local courier services like TCS offer reliable delivery options. |
π οΈ Tech Repair Services | Local shops in nearby towns can handle basic tech repairs. |
π Table Tennis Spots | Local community centers sometimes offer table tennis facilities. |
π§βπ« Language Classes | Spanish language classes available at various local schools. |
π Libraries & Study Spots | Limited resources, but local cafes with Wi-Fi serve as makeshift study spots. |
ποΈ Community Centers | Community events hosted at local parks and recreational areas. |
πΉοΈ Gaming Lounges | Limited; most gaming is done privately at accommodations. |
π° Casino & Gaming Halls | No casinos in Dominical, closest in San Isidro. |
Business
π’ Studio Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. $2,500 per mΒ². |
π’ Studio Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. $1,800 per mΒ². |
π 1-Bedroom Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. $3,000 per mΒ². |
π 1-Bedroom Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. $2,200 per mΒ². |
π‘ 2-Bedroom Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. $3,500 per mΒ². |
π‘ 2-Bedroom Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. $2,800 per mΒ². |
πΌ Corporate Tax | 30% corporate tax rate. |
π΅ Dividend Withholding Tax | 15% on dividend payouts. |
π¦ Tax System | Costa Rica operates on a territorial tax system. |
π Highest Income Tax Bracket | 25% for high earners. |
π§Ύ VAT | Standard VAT rate at 13%. |
π Controlled Foreign Company (CFC) Rules | Yes, CFC rules apply. |
π Property Tax | Annual property tax is approximately 0.25% of the property's value. |
π Property Transaction Tax | Transfer tax of 1.5% when purchasing property. |
π» Attractive Tax System for Digital Nomads | No tax on foreign income for residents. |