Jaco
Just an hour from my home, Manuel Antonio, Jaco shines as one of Costa Rica's most energetic and vibrant destinations. Known for its lively party scene, this bustling beach town regularly hosts big events like surf competitions and music festivals. Jaco is a food lover’s paradise, with an impressive array of restaurants offering everything from fresh seafood to international cuisine and trendy cafes.
Beyond the dining, you’ll find craft breweries, skate parks, paintball arenas, and a variety of adventure tours. It’s also a hotspot for activities Costa Rica is famous for, like sport fishing and zip-lining. For travelers seeking incredible food, nonstop action, and entertainment, Jaco delivers it all in one exciting location.
Nestled on Costa Rica's stunning Pacific coast, Jacó is a town that lives up to its reputation as the country's "coastal Sin City." Once a small fishing village, it blossomed into a popular destination thanks to its surf-friendly beaches, vibrant nightlife, and accessibility from the capital of San Jose (just 1.5 hours away).
Jacó has a little bit of everything for thrill-seekers and social butterflies. Whether you're here for a bachelor party, a surfer's retreat, or simply to revel in the pulsating energy of this well-developed tourist haven, you’ll find your niche. Surfers, in particular, will love its proximity to Playa Hermosa—a premier surf spot hosting competitions that draw wave enthusiasts from all over the globe.
If fishing and luxury are more your style, head to nearby Los Sueños Marina in Herradura Bay. This premier port offers sportfishing charters and an upscale resort vibe, perfect for indulging in a little luxury between beach adventures.It’s important to know that Jacó is not your quiet, tucked-away beach escape.
It’s a town that thrives on excitement, attracting a younger crowd ready to embrace its buzzing nightlife, adrenaline-pumping activities, and myriad dining options.
Jaco
Things to do in Jaco.
#1
Catch a surf competition at Playa Hermosa
GOOD TO KNOW
Social media is a good way to see if there are scheduled surf events:
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Instagram of the Federación de Surf Costa Rica
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Facebook of Playa Hermosa Surf Report
Our favorite spots to catch the action:
#2
Hike El Mirador El Miro Viewpoint
Hiking to El Miró viewpoint is a budget-friendly way to enjoy the best view of Jaco! Located on the southern end of Jaco Beach, the trail starts at the corner of Calle Madrigal and Costanera Sur, across the street from Puddlefish Brewery. The hike is under 1 kilometer and takes about 30 minutes along an abandoned road. Bring water, wear sturdy shoes, and avoid flip-flops.
Along the trail, you'll pass graffiti-covered ruins and reach a lower viewpoint—don’t stop there! Walk 10 more minutes to the top for panoramic views of Jaco Beach, especially stunning at sunset. The viewpoint, set in the remnants of an unfinished hotel, is a peaceful spot to relax and enjoy the scenery.
Our tips:
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Do this hike in the morning before it gets super hot and finish with an ice-cold craft beer at Puddlefish across from the El Miro trailhead.
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Do this hike 1 hour before sunset and enjoy one of the best sunset views in Costa Rica. Leave before dusk to avoid hiking in the dark.
#3
Take surf lessons on Jaco Beach
In Jaco, surf is life. This vibrant beach town offers some of the best surfing opportunities in Costa Rica, catering to all skill levels. Beginners will love the gentle waves at the southern end of Jaco Beach, while intermediate surfers can head to the middle or northern end for more challenging breaks.
When the swell is right, Jaco’s breaks are ideal for mid-level surfers, but if you're after bigger, more powerful waves, Playa Hermosa is the place to be. Just a short drive from Jaco, Hermosa Beach is one of the most famous surf destinations on the Pacific Coast, known for its consistent swells and world-class waves.
GOOD TO KNOW
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For those just starting, Jaco offers plenty of surf schools and surf shops that provide board rentals.
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Beginners should stick to the southern end of Jaco Beach, while advanced surfers can test their skills at Playa Hermosa’s powerful breaks.
#4
Book an organized tour: sport, adventure, or nature activity in Jaco.
Jaco is a playground for adventure lovers, offering a wide range of exciting activities for all ages and interests. Whether you're into adrenaline-pumping thrills or nature-filled excursions, there's something for everyone here. Try everything from rock climbing and paintball to deep-sea fishing and ziplining — Jaco is packed with action!
With so many fun and exciting activities to do in Jaco, it can be difficult to choose just one!
Isla Tortuga full day tour
For an unforgettable day, hop on a full-day tour to Isla Tortuga, a tropical paradise just 40 minutes by boat from Los Sueños Marina.
5 in 1 zipline combo adventure
If you're traveling with kids, the 5-in-1 Combo Adventure at Rainforest Adventures is a top pick — it includes ziplining, an aerial tram to a scenic viewpoint, a rope course with an elevated climbing wall, and even a butterfly garden.
ATV tour in Jaco
For thrill-seekers, don’t miss Jaco’s high-energy ATV tours, where you’ll ride through the jungle and discover stunning hidden waterfalls along the way. Visiting with children or just want to tag along? These tours come with a 4x4 buggy option that is sure to please the whole group.
#5
Visit Carara National Park and the Tarcoles Crocodile Bridge
Just a 20-minute drive from Jacó, Carara National Park is a hidden gem ideal for nature lovers and birdwatchers. Famous for its scarlet macaws and rich biodiversity, the park features flat, well-maintained trails that are suitable for all ages and fitness levels.
You can choose to explore the park independently or hire a local guide to boost your chances of spotting elusive wildlife like monkeys, frogs, and colorful insects. Experienced guides are experts at spotting camouflaged creatures and offer fascinating insights into the local rainforest ecosystem.
Getting there is easy by rental car or local bus from Jacó or San José. While you're in the area, don’t miss the nearby Tarcoles Crocodile Bridge, just 2 kilometers down the highway. This popular stop offers an incredible view of massive crocodiles lounging in the river below the bridge—no tour needed!
GOOD TO KNOW
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Hiring a guide at Carara greatly enhances the experience by helping you spot wildlife you’d likely miss on your own.
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The Tarcoles Bridge is free to visit and makes for an unforgettable quick stop on your way to or from the park.
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Bring water, sunscreen, and bug spray—Carara can be hot and humid, especially midday.
Bests hotels in Jaco : where to stay?
Finding the perfect place to stay is key to making the most of your visit to Jaco. From luxurious resorts with breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean to charming eco-lodges in the heart of the rainforest and budget-friendly hostels ideal for the adventurous traveler, you'll discover the best options for a memorable and comfortable stay in this beautiful region. Check out our blog post > Best Hotels in Jaco - Where to stay? to explore a range of accommodations to suit every taste and budget.
Bests restaurants in Jaco : where to eat?
Jacó is one of the larger towns in Costa Rica, and it boasts a vibrant and diverse food scene. Whether you're craving fresh seafood, international cuisine, or local Costa Rican dishes, you'll find a wide variety of delicious options here. From upscale fine dining and beachfront restaurants to casual eateries and budget-friendly spots, Jacó caters to all tastes and budgets. Check out our full blog post: Best Restaurants in Jacó – Where to Eat? for our top recommendations and local favorites!
How to get to Jaco, Costa Rica?
Best International Airport to Fly Into
The most convenient international airport for reaching Jacó is Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO), located in San José. SJO offers frequent international flights from North America, Europe, and other parts of the world. From the airport, Jacó is just a 1.5 to 2-hour drive—making it one of the most easily accessible beach destinations on Costa Rica’s Pacific Coast.
Alternative Option: Liberia International Airport (LIR)
You can also fly into Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport (LIR) in Liberia. From there, it takes about 3.5 to 4 hours to drive to Jacó. This can be a good option if you plan to explore Guanacaste or the Nicoya Peninsula before heading south.
Best Domestic Airport Nearby
While Jacó does not have its own airport, the closest domestic airport is Tambor Airport (TMU), located on the Nicoya Peninsula. However, getting from Tambor to Jacó still requires a ferry and road transport, so flying domestically isn’t usually the most direct route.
Tip: Since Jacó is so close to San José, most travelers opt to drive, take a shuttle, or use the bus rather than fly domestically.
Main Driving Routes from the Airports
From San José (SJO):
Take Route 27 (Autopista del Sol) west toward Orotina. From there, connect to Route 34 (Costanera Sur), which brings you directly into Jacó. The road is well-paved, scenic, and quick.
From Liberia (LIR):
Head south on Route 21, then connect to Route 18, which merges with Route 1. After reaching the intersection with Route 27, follow it to Route 34 south toward Jacó. The route is longer but offers a scenic look at Costa Rica’s central and coastal regions.
Is a 4x4 Vehicle Needed?
No, a 4x4 is not required to get to Jacó. All main roads to town are well-paved and accessible year-round. However, if you plan to explore off-the-beaten-path spots near Jacó—like remote waterfalls or mountain trails—a 4x4 may be useful, especially in the rainy season (May–November).
Private Shuttles Available
Private shuttle services from San José or Liberia are a popular, stress-free way to reach Jacó. These shuttles offer door-to-door service and can be booked for individuals, couples, or groups. Travel in comfort with AC, bilingual drivers, and luggage assistance.
Rental Cars Available (Discounts Offered!)
Prefer the freedom of driving? We offer discounted rental cars through trusted local agencies. Whether you want a compact car or an SUV, we’ve got you covered—with pick-up at SJO or LIR for your convenience.Discounted car rental
How to get around in Jaco?
Jaco is one of the most accessible beach towns in Costa Rica, with a walkable downtown and a wide range of transportation options. Whether you're staying in the center or venturing to nearby beaches and waterfalls, how you get around depends on your travel style and itinerary. While you can walk to most places in town, renting a bike, scooter, or car gives you more flexibility to explore Jaco’s surroundings like Playa Hermosa, waterfalls, and adventure parks. Here’s a breakdown of the most common transportation options available in Jaco:
Public Transportation
Public buses are available in Jaco and can take you to nearby towns like Herradura, Playa Hermosa, Quepos, or even all the way to San José. These buses are a great budget option but may not reach more remote destinations or attractions in the hills around Jaco.
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Cost: Very affordable, typically ₡500 to ₡3000 CRC ($1–$6 USD) depending on the route.
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Note: Buses run regularly on the Costanera Highway (Route 34) and through the town center, but service slows down at night.
Bike, Scooter, or ATV
If you’re planning to stay local or explore nearby spots, bikes, scooters, or ATVs are ideal. They’re perfect for cruising around town, heading to the beach, or zipping over to surf spots. Scooters are particularly handy for reaching places like Playa Hermosa or the El Miro viewpoint.
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Cost: Bikes rent for around $10–$15 USD per day, while scooters and ATVs go for $50–$100 USD per day.
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Note: Jaco is mostly flat and easy to navigate, but if you're heading out of town or uphill, scooters or ATVs are a better choice.
Taxi
Taxis are easy to find in Jaco, especially in the central area. They are useful for short rides or if you're going out at night. Taxis are typically not metered, so make sure to agree on a fare before you hop in.
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Cost: Short rides within town usually cost ₡3000 to ₡6000 CRC ($5–$10 USD).
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Note: Carry cash, as most taxis don’t accept credit or debit cards.
Rental Car
If you're looking to explore outside of Jaco — like Carara National Park, waterfalls, or secluded beaches — renting a car is a great option. You can rent a vehicle from San José (SJO) Airport or locally in Jaco. We recommend booking through Adobe Rent a Car, which offers reliable service and includes insurance and benefits like free delivery in town.
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Cost: Daily rates typically range from $40 to $80 USD, depending on the vehicle type and insurance.
Where to go after Jaco ?
Manuel Antonio
After visiting Jaco, a great destination to head to next is Manuel Antonio, located about 1.5 hours south of Jaco. This picturesque area is known for its national park, pristine beaches, and diverse wildlife.
Montezuma
Montezuma is another popular destination after Jaco because getting there can be a breeze when you travel by boat taxi. Boat taxis give you a fast and direct way of getting to the quaint and vibrant beach town of Montezuma, known for its spectacular waterfalls and unpopulated beaches.
Santa Teresa
Santa Teresa is a great place to visit after Jaco. It too can be accessed by a direct boat taxi quickly and will give you a different surfer beach experience than offered by Jaco. Santa Teresa’s Bohemian vibe is intoxicating, and their beaches are some of the best for surf and sunshine.
