Things to Do in Jacó, Costa Rica (2025 Guide)

From world-class surfing and waterfall adventures to nightlife and national parks, here’s your complete guide to discover the best activities in and around Jacó.

Just 1.5 hours from San José’s Juan Santamaría International Airport, Jacó is Costa Rica’s most accessible and vibrant beach destination, where the jungle meets the Pacific ocean.

Known for its world-class surfing, buzzing nightlife, and proximity to national parks and waterfalls, Jacó offers something for everyone: from adventurous families to fun-seeking groups and solo travelers chasing waves and sunsets.

Set along the Central Pacific Coast, Jacó sits at the unique transition between dry and tropical rainforest, creating a habitat rich in wildlife, waterfalls, and lush hills that frame its long, golden beach. Whether you’re a beginner surfer, an adrenaline junkie, or simply seeking a blend of beach time and exploration, Jacó delivers Costa Rica’s Pura Vida spirit, all within easy reach.

Planning Your Jacó Visit

Best Time to Visit Jacó

• Dry Season (Dec–Apr): Sunny skies, calm seas, consistent surf, and lively nightlife.
  
• Green Season (May–Nov): Lush jungle landscapes, fewer tourists, lower prices.
  
• Special Notes:
  
  • Afternoon rains, mornings clear and fresh.
    
  • Warm year-round temperatures (27–35°C).
    
  • Surf is consistent all year long.
    

How Many Days in Jacó

• 🏖️ 2–3 Days: Perfect quick stop for surfing, beach life, and nightlife.
  
• 🌴 4–5 Days: Combine adventure parks, nature tours, and day trips.
  
• 🚗 Base for Exploration: Great location for visiting Manuel Antonio (1.5 hrs) or beaches further down the Pacific coast, such as Dominical and Uvita.
  

Getting to Jacó

• From San José: 1.5–2 hours via Route 27.
  
• Transport Options: Rental car (recommended), shared/private shuttle, or taxi.
  
• Roads are in good condition — no 4×4 needed.
  
• Nearest Airport: Juan Santamaría (SJO).
  

Jacó Beach & Surfing

Surfing Lessons for Beginners

• Jacó Beach: Smaller, consistent waves ideal for learning.
  
• Best area: South end (Madrigales).
  
• Lesson cost: ~$50 USD for 2 hours (includes board & rashguard).
  
• Certified schools with “Get up or your money back” guarantee.
  
• Board rentals: $10–15 USD per day.
  

Advanced Surfing Spots

• North & mid-sections: faster, steeper waves.
  
• Playa Hermosa: 10 minutes south — one of Costa Rica’s best surf breaks.
  
  • Big, powerful waves (intermediate and experienced surfers only).
    
  • Weekly competitions at Backyard (Saturdays).
    
  • Not a beach for swimming; strong currents.
    

Beach Activities Beyond Surfing

• Swimming (safe zones in south Jacó).
  
• Stand-up paddleboarding & boogie boarding.
  
• Beach volleyball, soccer, and yoga.
  
• Beautiful sunsets every evening.
  

Adventure Parks & Extreme Sports

Vista Los Sueños Adventure Park

• 10 minutes from Jacó; one-stop adventure hub.
  
• Activities: zipline, ATV, canyoning, horseback riding, and chocolate tours.
  
• Half-day & full-day combos ideal for groups and families.
  

Rainforest Adventures Jacó

• Features the famous Tranopy Tour (aerial tram + ziplines).
  
• Up to 25 ziplines, canopy bridges, and rope courses 23m high.
  
• Great for all ages, with guides focused on wildlife and safety.
  

Canyoning & Waterfall Rappelling

• Descend 70–90 ft waterfalls with full gear included.
  
• Mix of hiking, climbing, and swimming.
  
• Duration: ~3.5 hours; medium-high difficulty.
  

ATV Jungle Tours

• Explore rivers, viewpoints, and remote villages.
  
• Tours 3–4 hours, with lunch or waterfall stops.
  
• Small groups ensure personalized adventure.
  

Waterfalls & Nature Adventures

Jacó Waterfall Tours (Las Monas Rainforest)

• 10+ waterfalls, 15 minutes from Jacó.
  
• 15-minute hike to first cascade.
  
• Swim in natural pools and cliff jump (optional).
  
• Guided tours ~$65 USD; access best with a guide.
  

Nauyaca Waterfalls Day Trip

• Near Dominical (~1.5 hrs from Jacó).
  
• Twin falls surrounded by jungle; one of Costa Rica’s best.
  
• Hike (4 km), horseback, or 4×4 tractor options.
  
• Ideal full-day trip combined with Dominical/Uvita visit.
  

Bijagual Waterfall

• Hidden gem near Jacó, 590 ft high.
  
• Tours by horseback popular.
  
• Pacific Ocean views and abundant wildlife.
  

Wildlife & Nature Experiences

Carara National Park

• 15 minutes from Jacó.
  
• Transition forest teeming with biodiversity.
  
• Home to the largest scarlet macaw population in Costa Rica.
  
• Two trails: Laguna Meandrica (4.3 km) & Araceae (1 km).
  
• Admission: $10 USD | Best early morning.
  
• Guided tours: $30–99 USD.
  

Crocodile Bridge (Tárcoles River)

• 25 minutes north of Jacó.
  
• 15+ crocodiles visible below the bridge — free and safe viewpoint.
  
• Boat tours available for closer wildlife encounters.
  

Birdwatching Tours

• Scarlet macaws, toucans, and hawks.
  
• Top spots: Carara, Macaw Lodge, Villas Lapas.
  
• Morning tours recommended for sightings.
  

Nearby Beaches & Coastal Experiences

Playa Blanca (Punta Leona)

• 20 minutes away, calm turquoise bay and one of Costa Rica’s best white-sand beaches on the Pacific.
  
• Access at low tide between beaches.
  
• Parking ~₡1000/hr (~$1.50 USD).
  
• Frequent monkey sightings.
  

Playa Hermosa

• 5 minutes south of Jacó.
  
• International surf competitions, laid-back vibe.
  
• Perfect for watching surfers, not swimming.

Herradura Beach

• 10 minutes north of Jacó.
  
• Calmer waters, great for families and SUP.
  
• Los Sueños Marina: sportfishing base, upscale restaurants, and shops.
  

Day Trips from Jacó

Manuel Antonio National Park

• 1 hour south — pristine beaches & rich wildlife.
  
• Sloths, monkeys, and tropical birds.
  
• Reservation required; guided tours recommended.
  

Tortuga Island Cruise

• From Herradura Marina — full-day catamaran.
  
• Snorkeling, dolphin watching, and lunch included.
  
• Cost: ~$95–120 USD.
  

Unique Jacó Experiences

El Miro Viewpoint

• 25-minute hike to an abandoned hillside building.
  
• Murals, jungle views, and sweeping ocean panoramas.
  
• Free entry; go in groups at sunset.
  

Stand-Up Paddleboard Adventures

• Calm tours from Playa Agujas or Herradura.
  
• Paddle to Playa Blanca with manta ray sightings.
  

Sportfishing Charters

• Depart from Los Sueños Marina.
  
• Fish species: marlin, sailfish, mahi-mahi, tuna.
  
• Half- and full-day charters available (from $600 USD).
  

Jacó Nightlife & Entertainment

Bars & Clubs

• Orange Club, Republik, Croc’s Casino Hotel, Jacó Poker (Texas Hold’em).
  
• Weekend bar crawls popular with backpackers.
  
• Fun, festive vibe — basic precautions apply.
  

Craft Beer & Breweries

• PuddleFish Brewery: local microbrewery with IPA tastings.
  
• Beer House: pub-style with surf vibes.
  

Jacó Walk

• Open-air shopping center with dining, shops, and live music.
  
• Family-friendly evening spot.
  

Dining in Jacó

Top Restaurants

• Graffiti – contemporary fusion.
  
• Koko Gastro Pub – modern & lively.
  
• Tsunami Sushi, Lemon Zest, Arigato, Amancio’s.
  

Budget-Friendly Eats

• Soda Rustico, El Chicano, Tacobar, Pachi’s Pan.
  
• Local sodas: $5–8 USD per meal.
  

Upscale Dining

• Villa Caletas – cliffside dining with sunset views.
  
• Los Sueños Marina – elegant seaside restaurants.
  

Practical Jacó Guide

Where to Stay

• Beachfront: best views, higher rates.
  
• Downtown: walkable & near nightlife.
  
• South Jacó: quieter, close to nature.
  
• Price Ranges:
  
  • Hostels: $20–40 USD
    
  • Mid-range: $60–150 USD
    
  • Luxury: $200+ USD
    

Getting Around

• Compact, walkable town.
  
• Car rentals for day trips.
  
• Scooters: $25–45 USD for half/full day.
  
• Taxis and limited Uber available.
  

Safety in Jacó

• Generally safe, but always watch your belongings, especially when going out at night.
  
• Avoid isolated areas late at night.
  
• Watch belongings on the beach.

Budget Guide for Jacó

• Free: Beach, El Miro, Crocodile Bridge, sunset.
  
• Budget tours: $30–65 USD.
  
• Mid-range: $65–120 USD.
  
• Premium: $120–200 USD.
  
• Food: sodas $5–8 • restaurants $15–30 • upscale $40–50.
  
• Stay: budget $20–40 • mid $60–120 • luxury $150–300+.
  

What to Pack for Jacó

• Swimsuits, rash guards, flip-flops.
  
• SPF 50+ sunscreen, hat, sunglasses.
  
• Water shoes, hiking sneakers.
  
• Light rain jacket (green season).
  
• Insect repellent & waterproof bag.

Plan Your Jacó Adventure with CR Nomads

At CR Nomads, we help you craft custom Costa Rica itineraries that balance surf, adventure, and nature. Whether you’re a surfer chasing waves, a couple seeking sunsets, or a family exploring national parks, we’ll help you plan smarter and travel deeper across Jacó and the Central Pacific.

🌿 Let local experts craft your perfect Costa Rica experience.
👉 Explore more: https://crnomads.com/lodging/the-7-best-hotels-in-jaco-costa-rica/ | Nauyaca and Manuel Antonio Day Tours from San José