Jaco Beach

Famous Beach Destination for World Class Surf, Adventure and Nightlife

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Visiting Jaco Costa Rica

Jaco, Costa Rica has been the focal point of the Central Pacific Coast for a couple of decades; it is a Costa Rica tourism hotspot. The small Costa Rica town and beach lures surfers, beach lovers, party goers and those who seek a swim/surf/shopping/nightlife combination. Playa Jaco is the closest beach to San Jose in the province of Puntarenas. It has an incredible choice of restaurants, hotels, restaurants, lounges and clubs, and some of the greatest waves in the country. Near Jaco you can find other popular Costa Rica beaches including Playa Hermosa and Herradura and you can enjoy tour like ATV, horseback riding and more!

Highlights

Surfing

Surfing at Jaco BeachJaco Beach is a surfer’s beach; its breaks never disappoint avid surfers! It is also close to other famous famous surfing beaches like Playa Hermosa, just 6 miles north of Jaco Beach, renowned for its world-class surfing. Hermosa hosts a yearly surfing convention. South of Jaco Beach is Playa Herradura, home of Los Sueños and also known for its fantastic breaks.

Tárcoles River 

Tarcoles RiverStopping at the Tárcoles Bridge on your way to Jaco is a must! The bridge overlooks the Tarcoles River which is famous for its crocodiles. From the bridge you can look down to see dozens of crocodiles sunbathing and swimming in the river. The more adventurous travelers can take a boat tour and see the crocodiles and other wildlife up close. Make sure to keep your arms and legs inside the boat at all times!

Carara National Park 

Scarlet Macaw in Costa RicaVisit the famous Carara National Park to see incredible wildlife including beautiful Scarlet Macaws and Trogans. You can also see Pre-columbian history up close and learn about the burial sight facing the Tárcoles River.

Nightlife

Jaco Beach travel packageYou won’t want to miss out on Jaco nightlife. With dozens of bars there is something for every one! Ask around for the best drink specials each night and get ready for a great party!

Tips

Visit December-April: December to April is the dry season and one of the best times to visit Jaco Beach.

Don’t miss the sunset: Jaco Beach offers one of the best sunset views in the country. Don’t forget your camera!

Watch for riptides: Be careful to avoid riptides on Jaco Beach. Because there tend to be many riptides, it is a better beach for surfing than swimming.

Go shopping: As one of the most developed beach towns in Costa Rica there is a plethora of great souvenir shopping.

Explore the Central Pacific: Head to beaches like Hermosa and Manuel Antonio, but don’t forget to explore hidden gems like Guacalillo!

Getting There

Closest International Airport: Juan Santamaria, San Jose  (SJO)

Costa Rica shuttleShuttle: Shuttle transfers are an affordable and convenient way to get from San Jose to Jaco. They cost around $85 for two adults. They are not private, however, so plan on the shuttle making multiple stops for other passengers along the way. 

Private Transfer: Private transfer is a great way to travel. The driver will take you door to door and you don’t have to worry about making stops for other passengers. For two passengers traveling from San Jose to Jaco it costs about $150. 

Driving: You can rent a car upon your arrival to Costa Rica. Renting a car allows you to travel at your own pace and schedule.

Where to Stay

Crocs Resort Pool AreaHotels in Jaco are varied and you are bound to find what you are looking for. For a luxurious, all-inclusive vacation, try Crocs Resort and Casino. For a romantic getaway, stay at Hotel Villa Caletas. Finally, if nature and birding is your focus, then we recommend Cerro Lodge.

Dining

six essentials to the costa rican food menu chicken with riceDining in Jaco is as diverse as it is affordable. Find traditional Costa Rican cuisine, delectable sushi, exotic fish tacos and more! For a traditional casado try Soda Rustico for lunch. If you want to eat unique and delicious tacos (with an unlimited salad bar) we recommend the Taco Bar. Finally for fresh sushi try Tsunami Sushi. 

Jaco Beach - Get Info

Jaco Beach Map

Jaco Beach  is located only 1.5 hours from San Jose on the Pacific Coast. It is easily accessible by rental car, shuttle or private transfer! 

Click to Enlarge Jaco Beach Map

Jaco Beach Vacation Packages

Get the best of what Jaco has to offer with any of our vacation packages. Let us help you plan the perfect vacation for you and your family.

Best of Birding in Costa Rica Paradise

Best of Birding in Costa Rica Paradise

SJO
More than $2000 p.p.
Best of Birding

Best of Birding

8
SJO
$1500-$2000 p.p.
Costa Rica’s Top Birding Spots

Costa Rica’s Top Birding Spots

11
SJO
The Southern Highlands & Pacific

The Southern Highlands & Pacific

9
SJO
$1500-$2000 p.p.
Surfin’ Safari – Costa Rica Surf Vacation

Surfin’ Safari – Costa Rica Surf Vacation

7
Less than $1000 p.p.

Jaco Beach Hotels

Find exactly what you need at Jaco hotels. You’ll find family-friendly, all inclusive, adventure hotels and more!

Croc’s Resort & Casino

Croc’s Resort & Casino

5
From: Over $300
Hotel Balcon del Mar

Hotel Balcon del Mar

3
From: Under $125
Cerro Lodge

Cerro Lodge

4
From: $125 - $200
Hotel Punta Leona

Hotel Punta Leona

3
4
From: Under $125
Hotel Villa Caletas

Hotel Villa Caletas

4
5
From: $200 - $300
Club del Mar

Club del Mar

4
2
From: $200 - $300
Alma Del Pacifico

Alma Del Pacifico

4
From: Under $125
Terraza del Pacifico

Terraza del Pacifico

3
3
From: Under $125
Oceano Hotel

Oceano Hotel

5
From: Over $300
Macaw Lodge

Macaw Lodge

4
From: $125 - $200

Jaco Beach Tours

Explore nearby jungles and see Scarlet Macaws, crocodiles and iguanas on a boat ride down the Tárcoles River or a visit to the Carara National Park!  

Aerial Tram with Rainforest Adventure

Aerial Tram with Rainforest Adventure

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