Now, it’s clear that Costa Rica is a good idea to visit year round. The dry season offers the longest days and significantly lower chance of rain to interrupt your adventures. From December through April, long days and steady sunshine create ideal conditions for travel. The air is warm, the roads are in their best shape of the year, and outdoor activities are at their peak.

In Dominical and the southern Pacific coast, this season brings consistent surf, clear hiking trails, and vivid sunsets. At Hotel Villas Río Mar, it’s a time when guests spend more hours outdoors exploring the coast, visiting waterfalls, and relaxing by the pool surrounded by the rainforest.

Things to Do During the Dry Season

The dry season is ideal for exploring Costa Rica’s natural attractions. Around Dominical, visitors often:

• Surf year-round waves at Playa Dominical or Playa Hermosa.
• Visit Nauyaca Waterfalls or Poza Azul while the trails are dry and easy to access.
• Take a guided tour of Marino Ballena National Park for snorkeling or wildlife viewing.
• Hike through rainforest trails to spot birds and monkeys.
• Enjoy open-air dining at Crocodile Grill & Bar, where evenings are cool and clear.

Cultural events and local festivals are also common this time of year, especially in January and February, giving visitors a chance to experience Costa Rican traditions and food.

Travel Tips

The dry season coincides with Costa Rica’s peak tourism months, so it’s best to plan ahead.

• Reserve accommodations and tours in advance, especially around holidays.
• Bring light clothing, sun protection, and a reusable water bottle.
• Plan outdoor activities early in the day to avoid the hottest hours.
• Stay near the coast or rivers for a cooler experience.

For travelers seeking fewer crowds, late April often offers the same sunshine with more space and quieter surroundings.

Why Visit Dominical in the Dry Season

Dominical’s location gives it an advantage over hotter and dustier parts of the Pacific. The rainforest stays green, and the ocean breeze keeps the temperature comfortable. It’s a region that balances warmth with natural shade and access to both beach and mountains.

Visitors can easily combine adventure and relaxation surfing in the morning, exploring waterfalls in the afternoon, and ending the day with dinner by the river.

Dine & Unwind: Local Flavors at the Crocodile Grill & Bar

After a day of jungle adventures or energizing pickleball matches, head to the Crocodile Grill & Bar, the resort’s relaxed and inviting open-air restaurant.

The menu blends fresh, locally sourced ingredients with bold tropical flavors. Enjoy the freshest salads, mainly grown in the on-site greenhouse, along with fresh seafood, and succulent grilled steaks and burgers. Pair your meal with a signature cocktail or a local craft beer, and don’t miss the Rio Mar Burder—a crowd favorite.

Whether you’re sitting down for a full dinner or just grabbing a sunset drink at the bar, the atmosphere is always friendly, casual, and deeply connected to the laid-back spirit of Dominical.

Stay with Us

Hotel Villas Río Mar offers a peaceful setting just outside the heart of Dominical. Our tropical gardens, riverside paths, and comfortable rooms make it easy to enjoy the dry season at your own pace. Whether you’re visiting for a week or a weekend, you’ll have everything you need to experience the best of Costa Rica’s sunniest months.

Book directly through our website or contact us for seasonal offers and local recommendations.

Ready to live your Pura Vida?
Contact Villas Río Mar to plan your perfect Pickleball excursion and discover what it means to relax, explore, and play—all in one tropical escape.