Jacó

A lively Pacific beach town known for surfing, nightlife and easy access from San José. Its long grey-sand beach and buzzing restaurant and bar scene make it a popular weekend escape.

Things to do

• Surf Jacó Beach — Take a lesson or rent a board on the long grey-sand beach, ideal for beginners with consistent beach breaks.
• Playa Hermosa — Head just south to this powerful surf beach famous for its bigger waves and annual surfing competitions.
• Miro Mountain Trail — Hike the hillside trail above town for panoramic views over Jacó and the Pacific coastline.
• Manuel Antonio day trip — Drive south to the national park for rainforest wildlife, monkeys and postcard beaches.
• Sunset at Playa Herradura — Visit this calm horseshoe-shaped bay just north, home to the Los Sueños marina and catamaran tours.
• ATV or waterfall tour — Book a guided quad or canyoning excursion into the surrounding jungle hills and hidden cascades.
• Nightlife on the main strip — Bar-hop along Avenida Pastor Díaz, the buzzing central street packed with clubs and beach bars.
• Crocodile-watching on the Tárcoles River — Stop at the bridge north of town to spot enormous wild crocodiles below.

Food to try

• Casado — The classic Costa Rican plate of rice, black beans, plantains, salad and your choice of grilled fish, chicken or beef.
• Fresh ceviche — Seek out lime-cured local fish or shrimp ceviche served at beachfront sodas and bars.
• Gallo pinto — The national breakfast of stir-fried rice and beans with Salsa Lizano, often served with eggs and fried plantains.
• Whole fried red snapper — Order pescado entero at a seafood restaurant, freshly caught from the Pacific and served with patacones.
• Batidos and coconut water — Cool off with tropical fruit smoothies made from mango, pineapple or guanábana, or drink straight from a fresh pipa.
• Imperial beer at a beach bar — Enjoy Costa Rica's iconic lager as you watch the sunset over the water.

Local customs & good to know

• Embrace pura vida — This national phrase means take it easy and go with the flow, so don't rush service or plans.
• Watch the rip currents — Jacó's beach has strong currents, so swim near others and heed lifeguard or local warnings.
• Colones and cash — Many places accept US dollars, but carry colones for sodas and small vendors, and tip is often included as a 10 percent service charge.
• Stay aware at night — The nightlife is lively but keep valuables secure and use official taxis or arranged rides after dark.

Nearby

• Carara National Park — 19 km
• Puntarenas City — 46 km
• Montezuma (Guanacaste) — 49 km
• Manuel Antonio National Park — 59 km