Some of the best day trips from Jaco include a full day ATV tour exploring the rainforest mountains that surround Jaco Beach, or a full day of sportfishing out of Los Suenos Marina. Combo tours are also available, including a combo Monkey Mangrove and Manuel Antonio National Park trip for the nature lovers in your group, or a Canopy Zipline and ATV combo tour for those seeking a truly thrilling adventure. Tortuga Island is another great day trip, departing from nearby Los Suenos with local transport included for free.
One of the top attractions in Jaco include its beautiful sandy beaches, which are perfect for surfing, swimming, and sunbathing. Jaco also offers a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking in the rainforest, ziplining, and ATV tours. In addition, visitors can explore the local culture by visiting the main strip in Jaco, which offers a variety of shops where you can find souvenirs and local crafts. The nearby Carara National Park is also a popular attraction, with opportunities for bird watching and hiking. Other noteworthy attractions in Jaco include Rio Tarcoles, Crocodile River, Croc’s Casino, and Los Suenos Marina.
Transportation in Jaco is relatively easy. When getting around, walking and biking are excellent options for short distances. For longer distances, taxis, Uber, or private transportation are options. Official red taxis cruise the main roads in Jaco and can be hailed on the street. Other options for transport include rental cars, with offices for pickup in both SJO and Jaco. If you decide to rent a car, it is important to note that damage deposits, mandatory insurances, and taxes can be rather costly, and conditions may also be challenging for drivers who are inexperienced with the local roads.
Jaco is a popular destination for families, and there are plenty of things to do with kids. Some of the best things to do in Jaco with kids include visiting the beach, taking a surf lesson, exploring the national parks with a family friendly guide, checking out Rio Tarcoles on an exciting crocodile tour, or visiting the curious whiteface monkeys that live in the mangroves about 40 minutes away. Other kid-friendly activities in Jaco include outrigger canoe trips, Rainforest Safari excursions, and ATV tours with a Rhino. Finally, a day trip to Tortuga Island is sure to delight everyone in the family.
The primary language spoken in Jaco is Spanish. However, due to its popularity as a world-class destination, a large percentage of the locals also speak English fluently. Tour guides and transportation drivers are bilingual, making it easy to enjoy Jaco tours and excursions during your stay without worrying about a language barrier.
Jaco offers a variety of unique activities for vacationers. Those seeking a unique adventure can take a catamaran tour to Tortuga Island, go horseback riding, or take an ATV tour through the rainforest. The monkey mangrove tour in Damas offers the chance at a truly unique wildlife encounter and shouldn’t be missed.
The best time to visit Jaco is generally during the dry season, which lasts from December to April. During this time, visitors can enjoy sunny weather and clear skies, making it the perfect time for outdoor activities. However, the high season also means higher prices and more tourists, longer lines, and limited availablity. Those who prefer fewer crowds and lower prices may want to consider visiting Jaco during green season, which occurs from May-November. Despite some afternoon showers, visitors can still enjoy pleasant weather and fewer crowds during this time, with the added bonus of considerable savings.
Jaco offers a wide range of activities and attractions. The town is known for its beautiful beaches, ideal for surfing, swimming, and sunbathing. Visitors can also experience the lush rainforest, where they can hike, birdwatch, and see various wildlife species. Jaco also has a vibrant nightlife scene, with plenty of brew pubs, bars and clubs to choose from. For those seeking a more relaxed atmosphere, there are many spas, yoga studios, and wellness centers in the area. Finally, Jaco boasts a diverse dining scene, offering a variety of cuisine options for travelers with a picky palate or dietary restrictions, including vegan, vegetarian, and Kosher requirements.
The town of Jaco and the ocean itself are safe if you take proper precautions. Out in the water, undercurrents and stronger waves can develop, particularly on the northern end of the beach. Visitors are advised to swim only in designated areas and within sight of a lifeguard and other beachgoers. It's important to pay attention to posted safety signs, know your limits, and keep within ear and eyeshot of other people. No matter where you are, it's never a good idea to swim alone on a deserted section of the beach or swim in the ocean at night. With caution and common sense, visitors can safely enjoy the beautiful Pacific waters at Jaco Beach, and all that this town has to offer.
Jaco is full of hidden gems for visitors to explore. One such gem is the Tarcoles River, which is home to a large population of massive crocodiles and offers boat tours for visitors. Another hidden gem is the nearby Carara National Park, which is home to a variety of wildlife such as macaws, toucans, and many rare birds. For those looking for a stunning sunset view, the amphitheater at Villa Caletas offers a vantage point that can take your breath away. Visitors can also take an ATV tour into the rainforest mountains that surround Jaco, where you’ll get to enjoy parts of the backcountry, quaint mountain towns, and even a hidden waterfall that few outsiders get the chance to see.