Costa Rica Resources

Here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about visiting or living in Dominical. Also see our links to other organizations and resources.

How do I get to Dominical?

Visitors to Dominical have several options for travel from San Jose, the capital city. Driving requires approximately three and a half hours over either of two routes - along the coastal highway through Jaco and Quepos or over the mountains through San Isidro. Public buses (a great value) are also available. Many people prefer to take a 30-minute flight from San Jose to Quepos, then drive the remainder of the way. The road from Quepos to Dominical is unpaved at this time (2003), however, construction of the paved road is underway. Another option is to fly from San Jose to Palma Sur, south of Dominical. The drive from Palma Sur to Dominical takes only 30 minutes along a good paved road. Discussion is underway with the government to pave the Uvita airport, also south of Dominical, which would make the drive to Dominical only 10 minutes. See NatureAir for flight information.

How is the weather?

Dominical is in the southern Pacific zone of Costa Rica. Located at approximately nine degrees latitude, the weather is tropical. Temperatures do not vary much from month to month (75 to 85 degrees F. year round). As in other countries in the tropics, there are two predominant seasons. June through November is the winter season. Mornings and early afternoons are sunny, with rain showers occurring in the late afternoons and evenings. Temperatures are generally in the cooler range during the winter months. While rains may be heavy, hurricanes are very rare on the Pacific coast of Costa Rica. December through May is considered the summer season. Rain may occur from time to time, but the weather is generally dry and warm. Regardless of the season, exposure to the sun can be intense and sunscreen and protective clothing are highly recommended. See The Weather Channel for reports of weather in the southern zone of Costa Rica.

What about personal safety and security?

Costa Rica is a peace-loving country and violence is uncommon in Dominical and throughout the country. To develop a first-class local police force, local property owners have worked with national security officials to increase the number of police officers, stations, and vehicles in the municipality of Dominical and the surrounding region. The goal is to make Dominical the safest area on the Pacific coast.

Is the water safe to drink?

Water Glass In San Jose and larger cities, the city water is chlorinated and safe to drink. In smaller communities, including Dominical, it is best to drink bottled water. Some private residences have well water, which is safe to drink. Although the annual rainfall in the area is more than ample, the water supply may be limited during the dry season. Conversation of water is always encouraged.

Is medical care available?

A first aid station is located in the village of Dominical for minor emergencies. A clinic staffed by a doctor is available in Uvita. Hospitals and pharmacies are located in San Isidro and Quepos. Overall, Costa Rica has a very good health care system, offering both public and private care. The emergency wards of public hospitals will turn away no emergency, whether the patient is Costa Rican, a tourist, or foreign resident. Private hospitals offer faster, more personalized service than public facilities and are often preferred by foreign residents. Some visitors come to Costa Rica specifically for procedures, especially cosmetic surgery. In fact, some U.S. insurance plans will reimburse for medical care in Costa Rica. Both public and private hospitals can arrange for air evacuation to U.S. hospitals if necessary.

Can I own beachfront property?

Maritime zone law prohibits private ownership of the first 50 meters of land from the high-tide mark. The next 150 meters is known as concession property, and is available for development under concessions agreements with local municipalities.

How is ownership of a property conveyed in Costa Rica?

Title is conveyed to the owner by a deed, which is recorded and guaranteed by a title insurance policy. To purchase titled property, it is not necessary to have a Costa Rican partner as in other Central American countries. For more information, see Stewart Title.

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Costa Rica Real Estate

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