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Zephyr Palace wedding ceremony in Herradura near Jaco, Costa Rica. Destination wedding location. Travel and tourism. - Photo by Christina Victoria Craft

Explore Jaco, Costa Rica: An Unforgettable Beach-F

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About Jaco, Costa Rica

Jaco, Costa Rica is a popular travel destination known for its beautiful beaches, surfing, and lively nightlife. Located on the country's central Pacific coast, Jaco offers a variety of activities for travelers of all ages, including zip-lining, hiking, and exploring the local rainforest. Book your trip to Jaco today to experience the best of what Costa Rica has to offer.

If you're looking to experience the beauty of Costa Rica, Jaco is one of the top destinations to consider. This small town is located on the Pacific coast, just a short drive from the capital city of San Jose. With its stunning beaches, lush forests, and vibrant nightlife, Jaco offers something for everyone.

One of the biggest draws of Jaco is its surf scene. The town is home to some of the best waves in Costa Rica, and surfers from around the world flock here to catch a ride. If you're new to surfing, there are plenty of schools and instructors in town who can help you get started.

But surfing isn't the only reason to visit Jaco. The town is surrounded by beautiful natural scenery, including the Carara National Park and the Tarcoles River. These areas are home to a wide variety of wildlife, including monkeys, crocodiles, and exotic birds.

In addition to its natural beauty, Jaco also has a lively nightlife scene. The town is home to a number of bars, nightclubs, and restaurants, making it the perfect destination for those who want to party the night away.

If you're looking for a place to stay in Jaco, there are plenty of options to choose from. The town has a wide range of accommodations, from budget-friendly hostels to luxury resorts.

Overall, Jaco is an incredible travel destination that offers something for everyone. Whether you're a surfer looking for the perfect wave, a nature lover hoping to spot some exotic wildlife, or a partygoer looking for a good time, Jaco has it all. So why not book your trip today and experience all that this incredible town has to offer?

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Popular Stays in Jaco, Costa Rica

Explore some of the most affordable vacation packages and accommodation stays in Jaco, Costa Rica

Business hotelsSustainable HotelHotels with spaSport hotels

Punta Leona

Located on the Central Pacific Coast in the province of Puntarenas, just 1 hour from San Jose in a particularly beautiful setting, surrounded by lush tropical forest, beautiful beaches in shade of white sand, lapped by the turquoise sea emerald Pacific Ocean, guests will be touched by the wonderful and natural experience of the resort. The guest can perform various eco-tourism activities, with which they will marvel. Another option will be to enjoy the unspoilt beaches located in the lush vegetation and the spectacular Pacific Ocean. All this will create a relaxed, fun and in tune with nature environment. Ideal for those adventurers who like to get in touch with nature.

Business hotelsSustainable Hotel

Oceano Hotel & Galeria

The hotel is located in the Central Pacific, home to beautiful national parks and wildlife refuge that shelter large numbers of animals and vegetation such as the Carara National Park, known especially for bird watching of species like the Scarlet Macaw that is easily observed in the area. Just 50 minutes away you can also find the Manuel Antonio National Park, famous for its beautiful beaches and number of animals that can be seen such as capuchin monkeys, howler monkeys, coatis and others. The property available a terrace from which you can relax and enjoy wonderful views. The rooms are cozy and comfortable. They are fully equipped with everything needed to make your stay nice customer.

Family hotelsBusiness hotelsHotels with charmHotels with spa

Croc´S Resort & Casino Jaco Beach

Lie back and work on your tan with relaxing beach amenities like umbrellas and sun loungers. Pamper yourself with a treatment at the full-service spa and enjoy amenities at Croc's Resort and Casino like an outdoor pool and a spa tub. Dining is available at one of the resort's 3 restaurants and guests can grab coffee at the coffee shop/café. The property also has a snack bar/deli. Guests can unwind with a drink at one of the resort's bars, which include 2 bars/lounges and a poolside bar. Wireless Internet access is complimentary. This resort also offers a fitness center and a terrace. Onsite parking is available (surcharge). Croc's Resort and Casino is a smoke-free property. Situated ocean-front on the quiet end of Jaco Beach, Costa Rica. We are located just over an hour from Juan Santamaria International airport and offer spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean, surrounding valley, and mountains.

Business hotelsSustainable HotelHotels with spa

Hotel Arenas En Punta Leona

Hotel Arenas is a property located in Punta Leona, in the Central Pacific region, a small community committed to protecting the environment. The hotel is in the middle of the dry rainforest, just 400 meters from Mantas Beach. The establishment offers 135 standard rooms, 16 of which comply with the 7600 law, and 18 superior rooms. All rooms have air conditioning, cable TV and a seating area. Many rooms have a private balcony and views of the gardens. The hotel's facilities are surrounded by tropical gardens. Among them there are 2 restaurants, pizzeria, ice cream parlor, swimming pool with bar, spa, gym, lounge bar and 3 meeting rooms for special events with capacity for 500, 250 and 50 people. Juan Santamaría International Airport in San José is an hour and a half drive away.

Business hotels

Hotel Villa Caletas

Situated on the Pacific Ocean on top of a mountain, at a height 350 metres, guests can enjoy 360-degree panoramic views over the Gulf of Nicoya from the islands up to the Nicoya peninsula and to the beautiful beaches of Jaco and Herradura. The rainforest slopes stretch down to the hotel's private quiet sandy beach. Guests will find links to the public transport network 8 km from the beach hotel, Carara National Park 11 km away and Manuel Antonio National Park 85 km away. This boutique hotel is inspired by tropical architecture with a touch of Victorian neo-classical influence. The hotel shines among its competitors like a jewel, appreciated not only for its location, but also for its design, decoration and service. Guests are also attracted to the unique combination of a mountain and beach resort. Facilities available to guests at the air-conditioned beach hotel include a lobby with 24-hour reception and check-out services, a hotel safe, currency exchange facilities and a bar and restaurant. The beach hotel offers 70 rooms in total. Guests may also make use of the conference facilities, WLAN Internet access, room and laundry services, a car park and a garage. All villas are equipped with 1 queen-size bed, and in some cases, 1 or 2 additional twin beds. Each accommodation unit features a private terrace, most of which have an ocean or garden view. They are spread out across the property and may be situated a number of steps away from each other. Each villa is equipped with an en suite bathroom with a hairdryer, a direct dial telephone, an in-room safe, a minibar and air conditioning.

Hotel Paradise Bay

The total number of units is 19. Visitors may take advantage of the Wi-Fi connection throughout. Guests can enjoy the convenience of 24-hour reception. Unfortunately, there are no rooms where those who stay at this establishment can ask for a cot for the little ones. Guests with reduced mobility can stay at this wheelchair-accessible property, which includes some disability-friendly accomodation units. Visitors may take advantage of the car park. A selection of flavourful delicacies is offered at this charming hotel.

Only adults

Marala Hotel

Marala Hotel is much more than your traditional boutique hotel. This newly renovated 10-room hotel sits on top of 11,000 square meter of picturesque ocean view estate. With the construction of our new restaurant, commercial kitchen, and two-story Mango Monkey Bar, Marala Hotel is the perfect location for weddings, banquets, and other small to medium sized functions. Based on our ideal location, between Jaco and Manuel Antonio, and only 2 hours from San Jose Airport, Marala Hotel offers a luxurious and accessible experience at a more affordable price than the competition. With rooms starting at $150 a night and a gracious menu focusing on local produce, foreigners and Costa Ricans alike can enjoy the Marala Hotel experience.

Jaco Laguna Resort

Our property is located on the south side of Jaco Beach, a quiet and secluded area that is still close to all the action of downtown Jaco. Enjoy our exclusive beachfront location in one of our Jr Suites with an exclusive ocean view or stay in one of our standard rooms, triple rooms or a spacious quadruple room for your family. Every morning, you can enjoy a leisurely breakfast on our restaurant overlooking the ocean. After breakfast, you can take a stroll down the beach, explore the streets of Jaco, or simply relax by the pool. In the afternoon, you can take a surfing lesson, go for a hike in the rainforest, ATV tours or Set off on a catamaran cruise for a day trip to a small piece of paradise the famous Tortuga Island. We offer the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure, and our friendly staff is always happy to help you make the most of your stay.

Things to do in Jaco, Costa Rica

Choose from a range of unique experiences and fun activities in Jaco, Costa Rica

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Full Day Tour to Tortuga Island from Jaco

Discover the magic of a dream Island, Tortuga Island. It is located in the Gulf of Nicoya, 12 nautical miles from Puntarenas, Tortuga Island (called Tolinga by the indigenous people) has an area of 120 hectares and remains a protected forest; which, has enjoyed the Ecological Blue Flag for more than five years. This distinction is given to beaches in our country that have their waters free of contamination. Due to its geographical characteristics, its waters are turquoise in color and are optimal for swimming. Our Catamaran has three different environments for your enjoyment: the main room with air conditioning, bar section and dressing rooms; Another area is the bow with a wonderful view of all the landscapes where we will sail; and, our upper deck, an area equipped for your rest; in which, you can enjoy a large jacuzzi.

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Costa Rican cooking class with cookbook author Melissa Guzman

Unique opportunity for a private, hands-on cooking class with local cookbook author Melissa Guzman. Learn about Costa Rica cuisine and cook some traditional and modern dishes.

Digital Voucher240 minutes

Combo 2 hrs ATV & ZipLine

This is one of the most popular tour combination in Costa Rica, as you get to experience the Rainforest and also go deep in the paths, trails, rivers and lots of muddy roads in a transitional Costa Rica Rainforest, located only 10 minutes from Jaco Beach You will start with or famous Zip Line Tour in the Costa Rica Treetops, this tour includes a 15 minute tractor ride up to the top of the mountain; you will then descend on a series of 12 platforms and 10 cables, including one of the longest in Costa Rica. After the Zip Line it’s time to get your adrenaline pumping on our 2 hour Jungle and River ATV adventure. This tour will give you a different perspective and views of the Jaco Beach area. Here we have it all: trails, mud, jungle, ocean views, rivers and the best bilingual guides to make this an experience of a lifetime

2 hour ATV adventure in the Costa Rican rainforest

Digital Voucher180 minutes

3-Hour ATV Jungle Waterfall Adventure

Exciting trails through Costa Rica rainforest, spectacular views and an exhilarating nature excursion to the Pura Vida waterfall combine for our crowd-pleasing, 3-Hour ATV Tour. Experience 20 kilometers of rainforest views with your guide, and top the trip off with a quintessential Costa Rican experience; a fantastic trip to a gorgeous, mountain-side waterfall hidden within the tropical rainforest. The 3 Hour Tour is where the real fun begins. This epic tour has two stops at waterfalls providing amazing photo opportunities. Explore the Costa Rican jungle on this rural to rugged rainforest experience of a lifetime!

Digital Voucher120 minutes

2 Hour ATV Jungle Adventure Jaco

Enjoy this exhilarating 2-hour ride through the Costa Rican jungle. Offering sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean, Jaco Beach and the Nicoya Peninsula, this tour is great for groups on a limited time frame. After meeting up and getting situated on your ATV, you will be on your way to experiencing 20 kilometers of rain forest and beach views with your bilingual guide. You will see the pacific ocean, Jaco beach, ride to the tops of the Agujitas Mountains, and even see a small waterfall. Food and drinks are not included on this tour.

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ATV + Zipline + Waterfall + Rainforest Lunch COMBO

Our Signature Day Tour! If you are in the Jaco Beach and Los Suenos area looking for the best way to have an amazing day of unique experience and adventure – LOOK NO FURTHER! Our signature Jaco Beach and Los Suenos adventure day trip – The ATV Canopy Waterfall Adventure – combines the thrill of the zip lines, with our 4-hour ATV Tour to the local waterfalls and neighboring rainforest. All the adventure is topped off with a delicious traditional lunch in the Costa Rican rainforest – 2000 feet above sea level! Enjoy the chance to see exotic Costa Rican wildlife. Soar through the canopy like a bird. Get a little off-road, and get a little rainforest on ya. Splash around in one of Costa Rica’s many beautiful waterfalls. Enjoy a delicious and authentic Costa Rican meal in one of the country’s most exotic and serene locations.

Digital Voucher120 minutes

Surf Lessons with Pro Team in Jacó

Learning how Fun surfing can be for all ages. Visiting the best surf spot in all of Costa Rica for learning

Digital Voucher20 minutes

Paragliding Flight Las Terrazas 900 ft minimum guaranteed.

Paragliding aerial tour above Jacó's tropical forest. In this aerial tour, we only use mother earth to climb in the air and feel the silence meanwhile we climb in the thermals flying together with many other birds. The Costa Rican mid-pacific coast, the tropical forests underneath views, and the calm you will feel in the air will make this tour an unforgettable experience all your life. Tour duration depends on the number of passengers. Flight duration, 15 to 20 minutes per pax.

Why People Love Jaco, Costa Rica

See what people have to say about activities and accommodations in Jaco, Costa Rica

S
Susan_D
4
Jun 2023
Full Day Tour to Tortuga Island from Jaco
The transfer bus was nice and comfortable. The boat was crowded and dirty. There were not enough chairs on the beach for my family to sit together. The snorkeling was not worth it.

A
Andrew_P
5
Aug 2023
Full Day Tour to Tortuga Island from Jaco
This was a superb boat trip to a most beautiful location . On board we were well looked after with regular snacks and drinks as well as an onboard dj playing a great mix. We were well informed throughout and made welcome throughout the day. Brilliant trip

H
Heidi_P
5
Aug 2023
Full Day Tour to Tortuga Island from Jaco
Wunderschöner Ausflug!!! Die Mitarbeiter waren super nett und immer hilfsbereit. Top Tag. Kann ich nur empfehlen!!!.

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Frequently Asked Questions about Jaco

What are some must-see attractions in Jaco, Costa Rica?

Some of the must-see attractions in Jaco include Tortuga Island Tour, Manuel Antonio National Park, and Carara National Park. Tortuga Island Tour is perfect for those who love to relax on the beach while enjoying the stunning scenery, while Manuel Antonio National Park is ideal for those who are interested in hiking, wildlife viewing, and swimming. Carara National Park is a great place to explore the jungle and see exotic birds, monkeys, and other wildlife.

What are some popular activities to do in Jaco?

Jaco is known for its great surfing and offers plenty of opportunities to catch a wave. In addition to surfing, other popular activities include zip-lining, ATV tours, and horseback riding. You can also take a boat tour to see dolphins and whales, or try your hand at sport fishing. For those who prefer a more relaxed pace, there are plenty of spas and yoga studios in the area.

What are some family-friendly activities to do in Jaco?

Jaco offers plenty of family-friendly activities, such as visiting the Rainforest Adventures Costa Rica Pacific Park, which features zip-lining, aerial tram tours, and hiking. The Neo Fauna Butterfly Farm is also a great place to take kids to see butterflies, snakes, and frogs. Another option is to take a boat tour to see dolphins and whales. Kids will also love the Eco-Learning Experience, which offers interactive exhibits and tours of the surrounding rainforest.

What are some of the best beaches to visit in Jaco?

Jaco Beach is the most popular beach in Jaco and offers plenty of opportunities for surfing, swimming, and sunbathing. Other great beaches to visit include Playa Herradura, Playa Hermosa, and Playa Blanca. Playa Herradura is a great place to go snorkeling or scuba diving, while Playa Hermosa is known for its stunning sunsets. Playa Blanca is a more secluded beach that offers a quieter and more peaceful atmosphere.

What are some of the best restaurants in Jaco?

Jaco has a great food scene and offers plenty of options for dining out. Some of the best restaurants in Jaco include Graffiti Restro Cafe & Wine Bar, which serves up delicious fusion cuisine, and Lemon Zest Restaurant, which offers fresh seafood and a great view of the ocean. Other popular restaurants include Side Street Bistro, Green Room Cafe, and Tsunami Sushi.

What are some of the best luxury accommodations in Jaco?

Jaco offers plenty of options for luxury accommodations, such as the Croc's Resort & Casino, which features a pool, spa, and casino, as well as stunning ocean views. The Los Suenos Marriott Ocean & Golf Resort is another great option, which features a golf course, spa, and several pools. Other luxury accommodations include the Villa Caletas Hotel, the Hotel Punta Leona, and the Hotel Villa Lapas Rainforest Eco-Resort.

What are some of the best budget accommodations in Jaco?

Jaco offers plenty of options for budget accommodations, such as the Selina Jaco, which offers a fun and social atmosphere, as well as private and shared rooms. The Room2Board Hostel and Surf School is another great option, which offers surf lessons, yoga classes, and a pool. Other budget accommodations include the Jaco Inn, the Buddha House Boutique Hostel, and the Hostel Pura Vida.

What is the best time of year to visit Jaco?

The best time of year to visit Jaco is during the dry season, which runs from December to April. This is when you can expect the most sunshine and the least amount of rain. The wet season, which runs from May to November, can be quite rainy and humid, but also offers lush green scenery and fewer crowds. Keep in mind that the dry season is also peak tourist season, so prices may be higher and crowds may be larger.

What is the currency used in Costa Rica?

The official currency of Costa Rica is the Costa Rican coln. However, US dollars are widely accepted in tourist areas, and many businesses will also accept credit cards. Be sure to check the exchange rate before traveling to ensure you have enough local currency on hand.

What should I pack for a trip to Jaco?

When packing for a trip to Jaco, be sure to bring sunscreen, insect repellent, comfortable shoes for hiking, and a swimsuit. You may also want to bring a light rain jacket or umbrella if visiting during the rainy season. If you plan on surfing, be sure to bring or rent a board. And don't forget to pack a camera to capture all the amazing scenery!

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