Things To Do
in Jacó
Jacó is a popular beach town located on the Pacific coast of Costa Rica. It is known for its vibrant nightlife and bustling atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy a variety of water activities such as surfing, snorkeling, and sport fishing.
In addition to the beach, Jacó offers a range of restaurants, shops, and accommodations to cater to tourists.
- "Pura vida" - Pure life
- "¿Cómo estás?" - How are you?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¡Adiós!" - Goodbye!
- "¡Hola!" - Hello!
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $50 - $200
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $80
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a refreshing breakfast at a local café. Afterward, head to Jacó Beach for some sun and surf time.
Grab a delicious lunch at a beachfront restaurant. Spend your afternoon relaxing on the sand or trying out the various water sports available.
Enjoy a leisurely dinner with ocean views. Wrap up your day with a stroll along the beach as the sun sets.
Kick off your morning with a hearty breakfast at your hotel. Then embark on a thrilling zip-lining tour through the rainforest.
After lunch, visit the nearby Curi-Cancha Reserve for some birdwatching. Take a guided nature walk to learn about the local flora and fauna.
Have dinner in town at a local sodas, experiencing authentic Costa Rican cuisine. Enjoy live music at a nearby bar for a fun night out.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful beaches ideal for surfing and sunbathing.
- Vibrant nightlife with various bars and restaurants.
- Diverse outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and wildlife watching.
- Warm climate year-round, attracting tourists.
- Easy access to nature reserves and national parks.
- Can be crowded and touristy, especially during peak seasons.
- Higher prices compared to other Costa Rican destinations.
- Infrastructure may be lacking in certain areas.
- Possibility of crime in some neighborhoods, requiring caution.
- Some environmental concerns due to tourism impact.
Best Activities in Jacó
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Jacó is known for its consistent surf breaks, making it a perfect spot for both beginners and experienced surfers. You can rent boards or take lessons from local surf schools.
Experience the thrill of flying through the canopy of the rainforest on a zip-line tour. Several operators in the area offer breathtaking views and an adrenaline rush.
Join a game of beach volleyball on the sandy shores of Jacó Beach. It's a fun way to meet locals and other travelers while enjoying the sun.
Take a short drive from Jacó to explore the stunning trails of Manuel Antonio National Park, where you can enjoy wildlife watching and beautiful ocean views.
Embark on a fishing trip in the Pacific waters; deep-sea fishing and sport fishing charters are available, targeting species like tuna and marlin.
Explore the rugged terrain around Jacó on an ATV tour, navigating dirt paths through tropical forests and rivers.
Rent a kayak and paddle through the calm waters along the coast or in nearby estuaries to enjoy the scenic beauty and spot wildlife.
Discover the underwater world of Costa Rica by going on a snorkeling or scuba diving excursion, exploring coral reefs and marine life.
Tours
Uncover the best of Jacó with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Jacó
Visit one of these nice places.
A scenic lookout that offers panoramic views of Jacó Beach and the Pacific Ocean. It's a great spot for sunset photography and to capture the lush green landscapes.
The main beach in Jacó, known for its stunning sunsets and vibrant atmosphere. Ideal for capturing beach life and the surfers that frequent its waves.
This adventure park features zip lines that provide breathtaking aerial views of the rainforest and the coastline, perfect for adventure photographers.
A picturesque boardwalk along the shore that allows for beautiful sunset shots with surfers in the foreground and vibrant sky colors in the background.
An upscale marina that offers stunning views of luxury yachts and the surrounding mountains, making it a great location for both daytime and sunset photos.
Close to Jacó, this national park has diverse wildlife and beautiful trails that lead to picturesque spots for nature photography and capturing the local flora.
A local art studio featuring colorful murals and sculptures. The vibrant art against the lush backdrop offers endless photo opportunities and a glimpse into local culture.
A prominent mountain near Jacó offering a challenging hike, rewarding those who reach the summit with spectacular views of Jacó and the surrounding coastline.
Food in Jacó
Jacó Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional Costa Rican dish made with rice and beans, often served with eggs, sour cream, and plantains. A staple for breakfast and can be found at most local restaurants and sodas (small local eateries).
Must-Try!
A classic Costa Rican meal consisting of rice, black beans, plantains, salad, and a choice of protein such as chicken, fish, or beef. Look for authentic casados at family-owned sodas and local diners.
Fresh seafood marinated in lime juice and mixed with onions, peppers, and cilantro. Enjoy delicious ceviche at beachfront eateries and seafood restaurants.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Jacó better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Visit Feria Jacó, the local farmers' market, to discover an assortment of fresh fruits, vegetables, and local snacks. Enjoy homemade empanadas, tamales, and tropical fruits from the market stalls.
Explore Calle Bohío, the bustling street known for its vibrant street food scene. Indulge in savory chifrijo (a popular Costa Rican dish of rice, beans, pork, and pico de gallo) and delicious skewers of grilled meats.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Jacó, Costa Rica, there is a strong cultural emphasis on environmental conservation. Visitors are encouraged to respect local wildlife and natural resources. This includes not littering, following designated trails, and being mindful of marine life when engaging in water activities.
The pace of life in Jacó is generally more laid-back compared to urban centers. It's important to be patient and embrace a slower rhythm when interacting with locals, whether in shops, restaurants, or during activities. Rushing is often seen as disrespectful.
Using polite greetings such as 'Buenos días' (Good morning) or 'Hola' (Hello) when meeting locals is appreciated. Maintaining a friendly demeanor and showing genuine interest in conversations promotes mutual respect and connection with the community.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Jacó with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Jacó
Ensure a smooth experience
In Jacó, Costa Rica, tipping is customary but not mandatory. Typically, a tip of 10-15% of the bill is appreciated in restaurants, especially if service is not included. For taxis, rounding up to the nearest dollar or adding an extra dollar is common. In hotels, a few dollars for bellhops and maids is also welcomed.
Most establishments in Jacó accept credit and debit cards, particularly in tourist areas. However, it's advisable to carry some cash in colones, as smaller vendors, local markets, and some restaurants may not accept cards. ATMs are available, but users should be cautious of fees.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Jacó.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
This is the peak tourist season, characterized by sunny days and minimal rainfall. Ideal for beach activities, surfing, and exploring nearby national parks. Expect warm temperatures and vibrant nightlife.
Also known as the rainy season, this period sees more frequent rain showers, usually in the afternoons. The landscape becomes lush and vibrant, perfect for eco-tourism activities like hiking and wildlife watching. Crowds are smaller, and prices may be lower.
Jacó at Night
Hiking in Jacó
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
An iconic hike that takes you to the summit of a dormant volcano with stunning views and a beautiful lagoon at the top.
A diverse ecological park with well-marked trails, offering views of waterfalls, rich wildlife, and lush rainforests.
A scenic coastal hike that provides breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and opportunities to see local wildlife.
A family-friendly outdoor space with various trails, perfect for hiking and exploring nature with unique flora and fauna.
A moderately challenging hike leading to a stunning waterfall where you can relax and enjoy the natural beauty of the area.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Jacó through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Jacó by plane.
Main international airport serving San José, located approximately 80 km from Jacó.
International airport serving Liberia, situated roughly 140 km from Jacó.
A smaller international airport located in San José, about 90 km from Jacó.
An airport catering to domestic flights and some international connections, located approximately 120 km from Jacó.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A significant portion of the population consists of both international and domestic tourists visiting Jacó for its beaches, surf, and recreational activities.
Many expatriates, primarily from North America and Europe, have settled in Jacó, attracted by its climate and lifestyle.
The local population includes Ticos (Costa Ricans), many of whom are engaged in tourism-related activities, agriculture, and fishing.
There are some indigenous individuals and families in the broader area around Jacó, though they comprise a small part of the demographic.
The Soul of Jacó
Discover the essence of Jacó through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Jacó is renowned for its consistent waves, making it a popular destination for surfers of all levels. The beaches offer various surf schools and rental shops.
With its sandy beaches, beach volleyball is a common sport in Jacó, attracting both locals and tourists who enjoy casual or competitive matches.
The waters off the coast of Jacó are rich in marine life, making sport fishing a popular activity among both locals and visitors.
Biking is a popular way to explore the scenic coastal areas and inland trails around Jacó, with many rentals available for tourists.
The surrounding area of Jacó offers numerous hiking opportunities through lush forests and mountainous terrain, appealing to nature enthusiasts.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Jacó.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most restaurants in Jacó offer vegetarian and vegan-friendly dishes, such as fresh salads, veggie tacos, and plant-based bowls. Look for spots like Green Room Cafe & Beer Garden for a variety of vegetarian and vegan options.
Travelers with gluten intolerance can find gluten-free offerings at select restaurants in Jacó. Restaurants like Tsunami Sushi are known for their gluten-free sushi options, and many eateries offer gluten-free pasta and bread alternatives.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Jacó with these cultural adventures.
