I Spend 48 Hours in Jaco | 10 Things To Do in Jaco, Costa Rica
Jacó is one of the top surfing beach towns in the South Pacific and is the closest (nice) beach to San José. Here you can find a more modern town with plenty of shopping, places to eat, and many hotels! If you’re not a beach lover or a surfer, you might be more interested in renting a bicycle and cruising the town, or hiking up to the nearby lookout point!
Best Things to do in Jaco, Costa Rica
If you’re looking for the best things to do in Jaco, Costa Rica, this guide covers the top activities, tours, and experiences in one of the most popular beach towns on the Central Pacific coast.
Jaco is known for surfing, easy access from San José, and a mix of adventure and nightlife.
Surfing in Jaco
Jaco is one of the most popular surf spots in Costa Rica, especially for beginners.
You’ll find:
surf schools
board rentals
consistent waves
If you’ve ever wanted to try surfing, this is one of the easiest places to start.
Waterfall and jungle tours
There are several waterfall and nature tours just outside of Jaco.
These often include:
short hikes
swimming spots
jungle views
A great option if you want a mix of beach and nature.
Boat tours from Los Sueños Marina
Just outside Jaco, Los Sueños Marina is where many boat tours depart from.
Options include:
sunset cruises
snorkeling trips
island tours
This is one of the best ways to experience the coastline.
Book Now: Day Trip to Isla Tortuga
Book Now: Cruise and Snorkel at Playa Mantas
Sportfishing in Jaco
Jaco is also known for sportfishing, with many charters operating out of Los Sueños Marina.
You can catch:
mahi mahi
tuna
sailfish (seasonal)
Fishing trips here are usually booked directly with operators rather than through tour platforms, since availability, pricing, and conditions can vary.
If you’re interested in booking a fishing trip, feel free to reach out I can connect you with a trusted operator based on what you’re looking for.
Beach time and sunsets
Jaco Beach is wide, lively, and great for:
long walks
watching surfers
sunset views
It’s not the calmest beach for swimming, but it’s one of the most accessible and active.
What to know about visiting Jaco
Jaco is one of the easiest beach towns to reach from San José
It has more nightlife and a busier vibe than other destinations
It’s a good base for tours and short stays
Getting around Costa Rica
Jaco is about 1.5–2 hours from San José, making it one of the most accessible beach destinations.
If you’re planning to explore beyond Jaco or visit multiple places, renting a car can make things much easier.
I put together a simple guide (with a discount and what to expect with pricing and insurance):
See my car rental guide + check prices → Car Rental Discount in Costa Rica
FAQ
Is Jaco worth visiting?
Yes, especially if you’re looking for easy access, surfing, and a more lively atmosphere.
How many days should you spend in Jaco?
2–3 days is usually enough for most travelers.
Do you need a car in Jaco?
Not necessarily in town, but it’s useful if you want to explore nearby areas or take day trips.
Planning your trip?
If you’re visiting other areas in Costa Rica, these guides might help:
