Things to do in Jaco, Costa Rica

Located on Costa Rica’s Central Pacific Coast, Jaco is one of the country’s most well-known beach towns. Just a two-hour drive from San Jose International Airport, Jaco is a hotspot for surfing, nightlife, and adventure activities. Its long stretch of golden sand beach, proximity to two national parks, and easy access from the capital make it a popular destination for both locals and international visitors.

Jaco has a reputation as a party town, with a vibrant nightlife scene that attracts weekend visitors from San José. However, there’s more to Jaco than just bars and clubs. From surfing at Jaco Beach to hiking through Carara National Park, there are plenty of things to do in Jaco for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

Whether you’re here to ride the waves, explore the jungle, or simply relax on the beach, Jaco offers a mix of fun, adventure, and natural beauty. Keep reading for the best things to do in Jaco, Costa Rica!

When is the Best Time to Visit Jaco, Costa Rica? 

Like the rest of Costa Rica’s Pacific Coast, Jaco experiences two main seasons: the dry season and the wet season. While it’s a year-round destination, your experience will vary depending on the time of year you visit.

Dry Season (December – April) – Best for Surfing & Outdoor Activities

The dry season is the most popular time to visit Jaco, with sunny skies, warm temperatures, and minimal rainfall. During this time, you can expect:

• Daytime temperatures: 28-34°C (82-93°F)
• Nighttime temperatures: 24-26°C (75-79°F)
• Pacific Ocean water temperature: 27-29°C (80-84°F)

This season is ideal for surfing, beach lounging, and exploring national parks without worrying about rain. However, since it’s peak tourist season, expect higher hotel prices and bigger crowds. Booking accommodation and tours in advance is highly recommended.

Wet Season (May – November) – Best for Fewer Crowds & Lush Scenery

Also known as the green season, the wet season sees frequent but short rain showers, especially in the afternoons or evenings. Here’s what to expect:

• Temperatures remain warm, averaging 26-32°C (79-89°F)
• Heavier rain from September – October but still plenty of sunshine most mornings
• Lush tropical rainforest scenery, making it a great time to visit Carara National Park
• Lower hotel rates & fewer tourists

If you don’t mind a bit of rain, this can be a great time to visit for budget travelers. Plus, airfare is significantly cheaper during these months.

Surfing Seasons in Jaco

Jaco Beach is a year-round surf destination, but the waves vary depending on the season:

• December – April (Dry Season): Smaller, friendlier waves, great for beginners.
• May – November (Wet Season): Bigger, more powerful waves, ideal for advanced surfers.

If you’re planning a surf trip, the wet season generally offers better swells, while the dry season is best for those learning to surf.

How to Get to Jaco, Costa Rica

Jaco’s close proximity to San Jose International Airport makes it one of the most accessible beach towns in Costa Rica. Whether you’re renting a car, taking a shuttle, or using public transport, getting to Jaco is straightforward.

By Car

The fastest and most convenient way to reach Jaco is by car. From San José, it’s a 1.5 to 2-hour drive along Route 27 (Autopista del Sol) and Route 34 (Costanera Highway). The roads are fully paved and in good condition, making it an easy drive even for first-time visitors to Costa Rica.

If you’re driving from Tamarindo, expect a 4.5-hour journey along the Interamericana Highway and Route 34. From La Fortuna (Arenal Volcano), the drive takes about 3.5 to 4 hours.

While a 4WD vehicle is not required for getting to Jaco, it might be useful if you plan to explore off-the-beaten-path waterfalls or remote jungle trails in the area.

Car Rental Tip: If you’re renting a car, consider booking with Vamos Rent-A-Car. They offer reliable service, transparent pricing, and no hidden fees.

By Bus

Jaco is one of the best-connected beach towns in Costa Rica when it comes to public transportation. If you’re traveling on a budget, direct public buses run daily from San José to Jaco:

• Company: Transportes Jaco
• Departure Location: San José’s Terminal 7-10
• Travel Time: Approximately 2.5 hours
• Cost: Around ₡3,000-₡4,500 ($5-$7 USD)

While the bus is affordable, it does make several stops along the way, which can add to the travel time. Once in Jaco, taxis and local buses can take you to your hotel or activity spots.

By Shuttle

If you prefer comfort and convenience but don’t want to drive, shuttle services offer a great alternative. Several companies provide door-to-door service from San José and other popular destinations, including:

• Interbus
• Easy Ride
• Costa Rica Shuttle

These shared or private shuttles cost between $45-$60 USD per person for a one-way trip from San José and $60-$80 USD from destinations like La Fortuna or Monteverde.

By Private Transfer

For the most comfortable option, you can book a private driver to take you directly to Jaco. Private transfers can be arranged through hotels, tour operators, or companies like Adobe Transfers or My Day Trip. Expect to pay around $120-$180 USD for a private ride from San José, depending on vehicle size.

Getting Around Jaco

Once in Jaco, getting around is easy:

• Walking: If you’re staying in town, most restaurants, beaches, and surf shops are within walking distance.
• Taxis & Ubers: Taxis are readily available, though they tend to overcharge tourists. Uber is not always reliable in Jaco.
• Car Rentals: If you plan to explore nearby beaches, waterfalls, or national parks, having a rental car is recommended.
• ATV & Bike Rentals: A fun way to explore Jaco’s backroads and trails is by renting an ATV or a bicycle. Several shops in town offer rentals for daily or weekly use.

2. Enjoy the Sandy Beaches 

There are many things to do in Jaco Costa Rica, but in our opinion, nothing beats enjoying the beach. Take a break and work on your tan while in town. 

Jaco Beach

Jaco Beach is the main beach in town, where you’ll find restaurants, surf shops, bars, bicycle rentals, smoothie shops, and more. It’s one of the closest beaches to San Jose, located in the Puntarenas province, and it attracts a lot of surfers with its impressive breaks. Many regard it as having some of the most impressive waves in the country. It also has a lot of riptides, so it’s not the safest beach for swimming.

Playa Hermosa

Try not to get too confused by the name! There are four beaches called ‘Playa Hermosa’ in Costa Rica. It means ‘beautiful beach,’ so each one has earned its name. This Hermosa Beach is well known for surfing and also for partying. If you’re hoping to catch a few waves by day and then see what the nightlife has to offer, Playa Hermosa could be exactly what you’re looking for.

Just be careful. It’s not always safe for beginner surfers or for swimmers.

READ NEXT: Guide to Visiting Playa Hermosa, Guanacaste, Costa Rica

Playa Herradura

Just a few miles north of Jaco, Playa Herradura was once a tiny fishing village, but it’s grown into a well-known tourist destination over the years. Herradura Beach is a black sand beach, making it striking and beautiful to look at, and it’s surrounded by shopping options, galleries, and boutiques thanks to recent construction.

Herradura Beach is also great for water sports. Thanks to the marina nearby, sport fishing, jet skiing, surfing, and parasailing are all popular, with tours offered in the area.

READ NEXT: Guide to Visiting Playa Herradura, Costa Rica

Playa Blanca

As the name–’white beach’–implies, Playa Blanca is a beautiful white sand beach. It’s a peaceful sight to behold, with bright blue water and rocky outcroppings that can be admired and explored. The water is also much calmer than the other beaches near Jaco, so if you’re looking for a beach to do some relaxing, then Playa Blanca is perfect for you. Just make sure to bring everything you’ll need to enjoy the beach with you; you aren’t guaranteed to find any of it after you get there.

READ NEXT: Best Beaches in Costa Rica

3. Surf at Jaco Beach

Jaco is one of the best surf destinations in Costa Rica, drawing surfers of all levels. Jaco Beach (Playa Jaco) has consistent waves, making it a great place to learn how to surf, while nearby Playa Hermosa offers more challenging conditions for advanced surfers.

Best Time to Surf in Jaco

• Beginner-friendly waves: December – April (dry season)
• Bigger, more powerful waves: May – November (wet season)

Where to Take Surf Lessons in Jaco

There are plenty of surf schools in Jaco offering private and group lessons:

• Tico Surf Lessons – Highly rated, experienced instructors
• Jaco Surf School – Offers multi-day surf camps
• Tortuga Surf Camp – Beachfront surf school with personalized coaching
• Surfer Factory – Focuses on surf technique and fitness

If you already know how to surf, you can rent a board at one of the many surf shops along Jaco Beach and hit the waves on your own.

4. Visit Carara National Park

Just 30 minutes from Jaco, Carara National Park is a biodiversity hotspot, home to scarlet macaws, monkeys, toucans, and more.

Why Visit Carara National Park?

• Best place to see scarlet macaws in Costa Rica
• Great hiking trails through the tropical rainforest
• Less crowded than Manuel Antonio National Park

Entrance Fee: $10 USD per person

Pro Tip: Visit in the morning for the best chance to see wildlife before the heat of the day.

5. Take a Day Trip to Tortuga Island

A day trip to Tortuga Island is one of the most popular excursions from Jaco. Known for its pristine white sand beaches and turquoise waters, Tortuga Island offers:

• Snorkeling & scuba diving with tropical fish
• Kayaking & stand-up paddleboarding
• Hiking trails leading to panoramic views
• Glass-bottom boat rides for marine life spotting

Most tours depart from Los Sueños Marina and include boat transportation, lunch, and activities.

6. Go Horseback Riding on the Beach or in the Jungle

A horseback riding tour allows you to explore hidden trails and waterfalls in a unique way.

Best Horseback Riding Tours in Jaco

• Horseback Riding & Waterfalls Tour – Ride through the jungle to a secluded waterfall
• Beach Horseback Riding at Sunset – Perfect for couples or photographers

Tip: Morning or sunset rides are the best times to avoid the midday heat.

7. Go Ziplining or Take an Aerial Tram Tour

For adventure lovers, ziplining in Jaco is an unforgettable experience.

Best Zipline Tours in Jaco

• Vista Los Sueños Adventure Park – One of the longest canopy tours in Costa Rica
• Rainforest Aerial Tram Tour – A gentler option for those who want amazing views without the adrenaline rush

Tip: Book a combo tour that includes ziplining, ATV rides, or horseback riding for a full day of adventure.

8. Hike to El Miro Viewpoint

If you’re looking for a short but rewarding hike, head to the El Miro Ruins.

Why Visit El Miro?

• Incredible panoramic views of Jaco Beach
• Abandoned ruins covered in murals and graffiti art
• Easy-to-moderate hike (about 30-45 minutes one way)

Tip: Go around sunset for the best lighting and views!

9. Visit the Royal Butterflies

If you want a great way to relax, then a trip to the Royal Butterflies is a must. As you look around, you’ll be surrounded by the natural beauty of the butterflies and over 70 varieties of fruit trees that are planted on the property. You’ll get to learn all about the life cycle of the different types of butterflies while walking along a river path at your own leisure. It will most likely take you less than an hour. Children under 6 get in for free, and it’s $10 for everyone els. So, it’s a great option if you need to fill time between family outings.

According to TripAdvisor, it’s the top rated activity to do in Jaco.

10. Go Bird Watching

The number of different types of birds you can spot in Jaco is impressive all on its own, and all of them are beautiful in their own way. Carara National Park is a great place to try it. You could very easily see between 20 and 40 different types of birds on one walk. From macaws and toucans to manakins, motmot, hummingbirds, and more.

For photography lovers, it’s a great opportunity. With just a couple of hours of walking, you can get some of the most vibrant photography, with birds you’ll only be able to see in Costa Rica. Relax, enjoy the hike, and enjoy your colorful photo subjects.

11. Go Sailing at Sunset

Seeing Jaco from the water at sunset is a magical experience. Sealounge Catamaran Costa Rica offers a 4-hour sunset cruise, stopping at Playa Fantasia, an exclusive beach only accessible by boat.

What’s Included?
– Snorkeling, paddleboarding, boogie boarding
– Beach picnic with fresh seafood
– Stunning sunset views over the Pacific

12. Try Out Scuba Diving or Deep-Sea Fishing

For marine life enthusiasts, Jaco offers excellent diving and fishing opportunities.

• Scuba Diving: Expect to see sea turtles, reef sharks, manta rays, and octopus
• Deep-Sea Fishing: Catch sailfish, marlin, tuna, and dorado in the waters off Jaco

Best dive centers: Herradura Divers, Jaco Scuba

13. Visit the Tarcoles River Crocodile Bridge

Just 20 minutes from Jaco, the Tarcoles Bridge (Crocodile Bridge) is the best place to see massive crocodiles in the wild. Dozens of American crocodiles, some over 15 feet long, can be seen from the bridge.

Tip: For a closer look, book a Tarcoles River Safari Tour.

14. Go on a Day Trip

There are tons of incredible options for day trips from Jaco, but a couple we would like to recommend are Manuel Antonio National Park and the Tarcoles Bridge.

For less than $20, you can get into one of the most well-known national parks in Costa Rica. Manuel Antonio National Park is home to sloths, coatimundis, various birds, a number of reptiles, many varieties of insects and arachnids, and 3 out of the 4 monkeys native to Costa Rica. It covers 1,950 hectares of and 55,000 marine hectares, offering vital protection to the plant life and wildlife living within the park. If you hike along the trails, you will spot countless incredible sights. Also, there are even wheelchair-accessible trails.

The Tarcoles Bridge, or the Crocodile Bridge, is a bridge across the Tarcoles River, where spotting crocodiles is an everyday occurrence. Even when just driving by, it’s common to look down and spot a dozen crocodiles. If you’re taking your time, you might even spot the giants that have reached over 4 metres long.

Best Hotels in Jaco, Costa Rica

Jaco offers a variety of accommodations, from eco-lodges to boutique hotels. Here are some of the best sustainable stays in the area:

Selina Jaco Hostel

A beachfront hostel-hotel hybrid, Selina Jaco is ideal for budget travelers, surfers, and digital nomads. It features private rooms, dorms, a co-working space, and yoga classes, all in a lively social setting.

Macaw Eco-Lodge

Located inside Carara National Park, this eco-lodge supports Scarlet Macaw conservation efforts. With comfortable jungle cabins, yoga sessions, and guided nature hikes, it’s perfect for nature lovers.

Hotel DoceLunas

Tucked away in a lush tropical garden, Hotel DoceLunas provides a peaceful escape just outside of town. It offers spacious rooms, a swimming pool, and an on-site restaurant, making it great for couples and families.

Oceans Two Resort

This boutique eco-resort sits on a hillside overlooking the Pacific Ocean, offering breathtaking sunset views. Guests can enjoy infinity pools, wellness programs, and sustainable dining options in a serene setting.

Best Restaurants in Jaco, Costa Rica

Jaco has a diverse food scene, offering everything from traditional Costa Rican cuisine to plant-based options. Here are some of the best sustainable and locally sourced dining spots: 

Costa Juice

A great stop for healthy smoothies, fresh juices, and light meals, Costa Juice focuses on organic and locally sourced ingredients. Their cacao açai bowl is a must-try.

Jerah

This family-run restaurant specializes in organic, sustainable cuisine with a mix of international and local flavors. Their seafood dishes and vegetarian options are highly recommended.

Casa Vegan

A fully vegan restaurant near Playa Jaco, Casa Vegan offers a diverse plant-based menu featuring locally grown ingredients. They also provide delivery services for added convenience.

Green Room Cafe

A laid-back farm-to-table eatery, Green Room Café serves up creative, organic dishes alongside live music and craft cocktails. Their menu features fresh seafood, vegetarian, and gluten-free options.

Final Thoughts

Jaco, Costa Rica, is a vibrant coastal town that offers something for every traveler. Whether you’re here to surf at Jaco Beach, explore waterfalls, visit national parks, or simply relax on a scenic beach, this destination is packed with adventure and natural beauty. With its easy accessibility, diverse activities, and lively atmosphere, Jaco makes for an exciting stop on any Costa Rica itinerary.

If you’re looking for a mix of thrill and relaxation, Jaco delivers. Stay in an eco-lodge, dine at farm-to-table restaurants, and immerse yourself in the best that Costa Rica’s Central Pacific Coast has to offer.

 

Have you ever been to Jaco? What are your favourite things to do in Jaco?