Jaco Beach

Dark pebbled beaches, rolling waves, and emerald surroundings make Jaco Beach on Costa Rica's Pacific Coast a top vacation destination. Jaco (pronounced Ha-co) is a prime example of Costa Rica's "pura vida" lifestyle - a phrase that embodies the country's laid-back and happy way of life.

Less than two hours from Costa Rica's capital city of San Jose, Jaco is the closest beach town to the bustling cosmopolitan hub. This makes Jaco a popular spot for Costa Rican getaways for adventurers of all ages. 

Once a small fishing village, Jaco is now a well-developed town popular with local and international travelers alike. It is one of Costa Rica's most popular seaside stops and a great launching point for unforgettable experiences exploring the country's diverse landscapes. 

Jaco Beach stretches for about 2.5 miles and is a surfer's haven with year-round surfable waves. Surfer Factory Surf School is at the beach and offers highly-trained instructors who will have you riding waves in no time. If you're a seasoned surfer, check out their tours to more challenging areas.

You can swim at Jaco Beach when the tides are low and the waves are small. However, stay alert as the undertow and rip tides can get intense. There are also popular swimming beaches nearby, like the tranquil Herradura Bay and Playa Mantas or Playa Blanca, a bit further up the coast.

Whether you come to soak up the sun, learn to surf, or savor the lively nightlife, Jaco Beach will enrich your Costa Rican getaway.

Jaco Beach: Fun Facts & Cool Features

As night falls, Jaco comes to life. The lively town is known for its vibrant nightlife with plentiful bars and clubs. It's a prime fiesta spot to experience live music and dancing spilling onto the sand. 

In addition to being known as a party place, Jaco offers plenty of family-friendly adventures. Accessible hikes allow the entire family to view Jaco from impressive observation spots, while horseback riding is also popular along the city's inviting pebble beach.

When it's time to eat, Jaco is jam-packed with various eateries perched on the beach, including Vida Hermosa Bar & Restaurant. As the name says, what a delicious way to enjoy a "beautiful life" after a day at the beach. You can also sink your toes into the sand to catch a perfect sunset and dinner at Koko Gastro Bar.

The lush jungle surrounding Jaco provides a virtual playground for nature lovers. Its infectious, adventurous, laid-back, and cool vibe is the essence of Costa Rica's pura vida lifestyle.

The lively coastal town of Jaco is legendary among billfish anglers. Los Suenos, located near Herradura, is the billfish capital of the world and home to the Signature Triple Crown. This annual fishing competition attracts anglers of all ages, genders, and nationalities. Even if you don't fish, attending to witness firsthand massive marlins, billfish, and sailfish at the dock is worth it.

Be sure to include time on your Costa Rica vacation for the surf, sun, and sunsets at Jaco Beach.

Getting There

Below are step-by-step driving directions to Jaco Beach from downtown Jaco:

• Head southwest on Avenida Pastor Díaz
• Continue straight to stay on Avenida Pastor Díaz.
• Follow the road for approximately 1.2 miles (2 kilometers).
• Look for the traffic light and turn right onto Calle Morales.
• Continue along Calle Morales as it curves slightly to the left.
• Look for signs directing you toward the beach.
• Follow Calle Morales until you reach the beach area.

Cost

Visiting Jaco Beach is free, but there are some other fees to consider: 

• Beach parking lots: 1000 colones (about $2 US)
• Check parking options at Jaco Walk Open Air Shopping Center for 8, 12, and 24-hour packages

Prices are subject to change.