Jacó - Discovering Costa Rica

Travelling to Jacó

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Jacó, a pretty good destination in Costa Rica (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Jacó and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Jacó, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Costa Rica, here's everything to know about Jacó for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Jacó

Jacó is a popular resort town located on the Pacific coast of Costa Rica, just a couple of hours from the capital San Jose. It's known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant nightlife, and excellent surfing conditions, making it a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. In addition to surfing, visitors can enjoy a variety of activities such as fishing, whale watching, zip-lining, and exploring the nearby national parks. Jacó also offers a wide range of accommodation options, including luxury resorts, boutique hotels, and vacation rentals, as well as a variety of restaurants serving up traditional Costa Rican cuisine and international dishes.

What to visit in Jacó

Sure, here are some of the tourist attractions in Jacó, Costa Rica, along with some brief information about each: 1. Jacó Beach: This is the main beach in Jacó, spanning about 4 km along the Pacific coast. It's a popular spot for surfing, swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying the nightlife.
2. Carara National Park: Located just a few miles north of Jacó, this park is known for its diverse wildlife, including crocodiles, monkeys, and scarlet macaws. Visitors can take guided walk or boat tours to explore the park.
3. Manuel Antonio National Park: About an hour's drive south of Jacó, this park is one of the most popular in Costa Rica. It's home to beautiful beaches, hiking trails, and a wide variety of animals such as sloths, monkeys, and toucans.
4. Tárcoles River: This river is famous for its large population of crocodiles, which can be spotted from boats during guided tours.
5. El Miro lookout: This is a popular hiking spot that provides stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and Jacó.
6. Playa Hermosa: Located just south of Jacó, this beach is known for its tranquil atmosphere, clear water, and black sand.
7. Jacó Walk: A modern shopping and entertainment center located in the heart of the town that offers a variety of restaurants, shops, and a movie theatre.
8. Surfing lessons: Jacó is known for its waves and is an excellent spot to learn how to surf, and should definitely be tried by visitors.
Overall, Jacó is a great destination for adventure, wildlife, and beach lovers.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Costa Rica, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Jacó.

When to go on holiday to Jacó

The best time to visit Jacó, Costa Rica is during the dry season which runs from December to April. During this time, you can expect sunny and dry weather, making it perfect for outdoor activities and beach holidays. The rainier season usually runs from May to November, but this doesn't mean it's not a good time to visit as the rain typically falls in the afternoons and evenings, leaving plenty of time for outdoor activities in the morning. However, keep in mind that there is usually an increase in humidity and mosquitos during this time.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Jacó

There are several ways to get to Jacó, Costa Rica, depending on your starting point: 1. By Car: The most popular option is to rent a car and drive to Jacó from San José. The drive takes about 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic.
2. By Shuttle: You can also take a shared shuttle service from San José to Jacó, which takes around 2 hours.
3. By Bus: Taking a bus from San José is also an option. You can take a bus from the Coca Cola Bus Station to Jacó, which takes around 2.5 hours.
4. By Taxi: You can hire a taxi from San Jose or the airport to take you directly to Jacó. This is the most expensive option, but it is also the most convenient.
5. By Private Transfer: If you want to avoid the hassle of public transportation or driving, you can book a private transfer from San Jose or the airport to take you directly to Jacó. This can be arranged through your hotel or a local tour operator.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Jacó, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Jacó

Here are some typical foods of Jacó, Costa Rica: 1. Gallo Pinto - a dish of rice and beans, usually mixed with onions, sweet peppers, and cilantro. It is a staple breakfast food in Costa Rica.
2. Casado - a traditional Costa Rican meal that includes rice, beans, salad, plantains, and a choice of chicken, beef, or fish.
3. Ceviche - seafood cooked by marinating in citrus juices, often served with vegetables and tortilla chips.
4. Chifrijo - a delicious combination of rice, beans, pork, and pico de gallo, often accompanied by tortilla chips.
5. Empanadas - small pastry turnovers filled with meats, cheese, and vegetables, often served as a snack or appetizer.
6. Arroz con Pollo - a popular Costa Rican dish that is made with rice and chicken, often flavored with spices, tomatoes, and bell peppers.
7. Tamales - a dish made with masa (dough) and filled with meats, vegetables, and beans, then wrapped in banana leaves and steamed.
Overall, Jacó is known for its fresh seafood, flavorful rice and beans dishes, and unique Costa Rican specialties like chifrijo and tamales, which are must-tries for any food lover visiting the area.
You can find general info about typical foods in Costa Rica here.

Is Jacó an expensive destination for tourists?

Jacó can be a bit pricey as a tourist destination, but it really depends on your budget and travel preferences. As a popular beach town, you can find a range of accommodations, from luxury resorts to budget-friendly hostels. However, dining and activities can be on the more expensive side compared to other areas in Costa Rica. It's always a good idea to research and plan ahead to make the most of your budget while still enjoying all that Jacó has to offer.

Where to find accomodation in Jacó

The best areas to find accommodation to visit Jacó, Costa Rica would be downtown Jacó, the beachfront, and the surrounding areas such as Herradura, Playa Hermosa, and Esterillos. These areas offer proximity to the main attractions of the town including restaurants, bars, shopping, and nightlife. Additionally, they provide easy access to various outdoor activities such as surfing, snorkeling, and hiking.
You can check hotel prices at Jacó here:
Booking.com

Is Jacó a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Jacó is generally considered a safe place for tourists in Costa Rica. However, as with any tourist destination, it is always important to exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings. It is recommended to avoid walking alone at night or in secluded areas, and to keep your valuables locked in a safe if possible. It is also a good idea to take precautions such as using a reputable taxi service or asking your hotel for recommendations for safe transportation. Overall, by practicing common sense and taking basic safety measures, you can have a safe and enjoyable trip to Jacó.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Costa Rica here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Jacó.

What type of travelers will enjoy Jacó the most?

Jacó, Costa Rica is a destination that offers a little bit of something for everyone. It is a popular spot for families, as the beach is wide and beautiful and there are many activities for children. Jacó is also a great place for young people looking for fun with its vibrant nightlife, surf camps, and outdoor adventure options. Couples can also enjoy the romantic sunset views and beach walks. It is important to note that Jacó can be quite crowded during peak tourist seasons, so it's important to plan accordingly.

How to get around Jacó

To move around Jacó, you can use several forms of transportation, including: 1. Walking - Jacó is a small town, and walking is a great way to explore the town’s attractions, including the beach, restaurants, and shops.
2. Bicycle - Bicycles are available for rent in most hotels and shops, and they are a great way to explore the town and nearby areas.
3. Car - Renting a car is another popular option, and it gives you the freedom to explore the surrounding areas at your own pace.
4. Taxi - Taxis are readily available in Jacó, and they are a convenient option for short trips or when you don’t feel like walking.
5. Bus - Public buses are also available, and they are a cheap way to travel to nearby towns and attractions.

What to see around Jacó

There are several beautiful places you can visit in a day trip from Jacó, Costa Rica. Here are some suggestions for you: 1. Manuel Antonio National Park: This is one of the most popular destinations in Costa Rica with stunning beaches, lush jungle, and amazing wildlife.
2. Carara National Park: It's known for its abundant birdlife and is home to scarlet macaws, toucans, and more.
3. Tarcoles River: You can see American crocodiles in their natural habitat on a crocodile-watching tour.
4. La Paz Waterfall Gardens: This is a popular destination for hiking and seeing several beautiful waterfalls.
5. Poás Volcano National Park: It has an active crater and an interesting visitor center.
6. Punta Leona: This is a private reserve at the edge of a beautiful beach and has a variety of wildlife and lush rainforest.
7. Playa Hermosa: This is a beautiful beach with gorgeous sunsets, great surfing, and plenty of restaurants to choose from.
8. Puntarenas: This town offers a glimpse into the local life of Costa Ricans with its bustling markets, quaint architecture, and picturesque coastline.
For every travel information about Costa Rica you can click here.

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