Sloths aren’t commonly found in Jaco itself, as the area is dominated by beaches and dry forest rather than the dense rainforest they prefer. However, taking a rainforest tour from Jaco significantly increases your chances of spotting one. For the best sloth sightings, consider a guided tour of Manuel Antonio National Park, located about an hour south of Jaco, or Carara National Park, just 30 minutes north. Both parks provide the lush habitat sloths thrive in, making them ideal spots to see these slow-moving creatures in the wild.
Jaco has a tropical climate with two main seasons: dry season (December–April) and green season (May–November).
Jaco is warm year-round, with ocean breezes making the heat more comfortable.
Yes, unrefrigerated eggs are safe to eat in Costa Rica as long as they are fresh and properly handled. In Costa Rica, eggs are often sold and stored at room temperature because they are not washed after being laid. This leaves the natural protective cuticle (bloom) intact, preventing bacteria from entering the shell. However, once eggs have been refrigerated, they should stay cold to avoid condensation that could promote bacterial growth. If buying unrefrigerated eggs, store them in a cool, dry place and use them within a few weeks for best quality.
Jaco has excellent options for plant-based dining. Karma Café & Restaurant is a top choice, serving fresh, flavorful vegan and vegetarian dishes in a relaxed setting. Sabress Kosher Restaurant offers delicious Middle Eastern and Israeli-inspired meals, with plenty of vegetarian-friendly options. SER Restaurante specializes in healthy, organic cuisine, perfect for those seeking plant-based and gluten-free meals. For those craving bold flavors, Hola India Restaurant Jaco serves authentic Indian dishes with a variety of vegetarian and vegan curries, dals, and breads. Whether you’re fully plant-based or just looking for a meat-free meal, Jaco has great choices.
A great choice is Flor de Caña rum, known for its smoothness and rich flavor—the older the vintage, the smoother taste. Aged varieties like 12-year or 18-year are perfect for sipping. While Flor de Caña originates from Nicaragua, it’s widely enjoyed in Costa Rica. For something local, consider Cacique Guaro, Costa Rica’s national sugarcane liquor, great for cocktails like Chiliguaro. If you prefer craft spirits, some local Costa Rican rums and artisanal liquors are also worth exploring. Whatever you choose, these make for excellent souvenirs or gifts.
The most commonly eaten food in Costa Rica is gallo pinto, a flavorful mix of rice and black beans, typically served for breakfast with eggs, tortillas, and natilla (sour cream). For lunch and dinner, casados are a staple, featuring rice, beans, plantains, salad, and a choice of protein like chicken, beef, or fish. These simple yet nutritious dishes are a daily part of Costa Rican life, reflecting the country's fresh ingredients and traditional flavors.
The most popular alcoholic drink in Costa Rica is Guaro, a clear sugarcane liquor often mixed into cocktails like the Chiliguaro, a spicy shot with tomato juice, lime, and hot sauce. Costa Ricans also enjoy Imperial and Pilsen, the country’s most well-known beers. For something tropical, rum-based drinks like piña coladas and mojitos are common, especially at beach bars. Whether sipping a Chiliguaro with friends or enjoying an ice-cold Imperial by the ocean, Costa Rica’s drinks reflect its laid-back, tropical vibe.
In Costa Rica, lunch (almuerzo) is the biggest and most important meal of the day. A typical lunch includes a casado, a balanced plate with rice, black beans, plantains, salad, and a choice of protein like chicken, beef, fish, or pork. It’s often served with fresh fruit juice and sometimes tortillas. Meals are homemade, hearty, and designed to provide energy for the rest of the day. While dinner is also enjoyed, it’s usually lighter than lunch, with options like soup, gallo pinto, or sandwiches.
As you walk down to Jaco Beach and gaze across the Pacific ocean to the shimmering outline of the Nicoya Peninsula, (one of the world's "Blue Zones" - a geographic location where people live longer, healthier lives), you may be inspired to try a healthier breakfast. Start with gallo pinto (a mix of rice and black beans), and add some fresh fruit like papaya, mangos, or guanabana on the side. Serve with homemade corn tortillas and you'll be well on your way to a Costa Rican style, blue zone breakfast. To drink, enjoy agua dulce (hot sugarcane water) or freshly brewed coffee. The focus of your breakfast should be on whole, unprocessed foods, rich in fiber and antioxidants, supporting a long and active life.
Costa Ricans typically start their day with coffee, often brewed using a chorreador, a traditional drip method that enhances the rich flavor of locally grown beans. Another common choice is agua dulce, a warm drink made by dissolving raw sugarcane (tapa de dulce) in hot water or milk. Fresh fruit juices, like orange, papaya, or guanabana, are also popular, especially in warmer regions, such as Jaco.