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Issue link: https://digital.miamilivingmagazine.com/i/1319614
DOMINICAL AND UVITA Southeast Pacific Region Driving time from San José: 3 hr 7 min, 127 miles (205 km) The beach towns of Dominical and Uvita are located in the southern Pacific region of the country and have become a popular destination for those in search of pristine nature, tranquility and largely deserted terrains. A smooth 3.5 hour drive from the San Jose airport, this 12 mile stretch of dramatic coastline and nearly virgin beaches is lined by lush, verdant mountainsides and intersected by an abundance of pristine rivers and waterfalls. This jungle-filled mountainous area is a playground for wildlife and hiking enthusiasts alike and the nearly deserted beaches are the perfect escape for those looking to relax and unwind. An impressive first world highway adjoins these towns and, besides the highway, there are truly very few signs of human development activity from anywhere on the road or the beaches; only a local “tico” or an informed tourist would know that luxurious lodging gems - many with jaw-dropping views of the coastline below - are hidden within the dense jungle side. Go hiking to the Nauyaca Waterfalls, a two-tiered waterfall with a 200 foot combined drop and a deep natural pool for swimming. Traverse the 4.3 miles of trails at Hacienda Barú, a hotel and wildlife refuge with an extraordinary diversity of habitats, flora and fauna, including over 330 species of birds identified on-sight. Rent a kayak to go on a mangrove river tour or a snorkeling-included ocean trip around the famous Whale’s Tail in Marino Ballena National Park, reaching some of the area’s most secluded beaches. If visiting within the months of August - November, sign up for a whale watching tour when hundreds of humpback whales migrate to the region’s warm waters every year to breed and rear their young. Visit Diamante Waterfall and Cave, a moderate to difficult day hike that will reward you with a twin waterfall at journey’s end and a secret cave as its backdrop (and for the more adventurous, you can stay overnight in the cave, complete with elevated platforms, a bathroom and a kitchen).