Jaco is located on the central Pacific coast. Its proximity to San Jose makes it a popular beach town with Ticos. This area of Central America is renowned for its surfing. It is also a good base for trips to several of the national parks in the area.

Duration

One Week

GettingThere

Air: There is an airport with service from San Jose.

Normal Bus: There are several buses a day leaving from San Jose.

Tourist Bus: Both major tour bus lines have a daily departure for Jaco from several other destinations.

Taxi/Car: (~2 hours) The road from San Jose is not too bad. Lots of twists. There are some interesting stops on the way. The Río Tárcoles Bridge is a great place to see crocodile. Be careful when stopping there have been some muggings along the bridge. There is a police hut at one end of the bridge. If someone is in there it is safe. There are also a few national parks on the way.

Places To Stay

Jaco offers a wide range of accommodations from over US $300 to $10. Ask around for good deals. Here are some worth noting.

High End:

• Villa Caletas - Is north of Jaco situated on a cliff looking out on the ocean. Its location makes it far from the beach. There is a full spa on site. If you can't afford to stay then go for a lunch or drink, the view is well worth the price.
• Los Suenos Marriott - Located north of Jaco. Has a full golf course. Popular with boaters.

Middle:

• Best Western Jaco - Located on the Playa Jaco at the north end this is a hot spot for Ticos coming from San Jose to party for the weekend. During the week it is much more quite. There is an all inclusive option or you can charge meals to your room. Food in the restaurant is good and the staff is great.

Cheap:

• Chuck's Cabinas - Chuck is the local surf guru. Stop by his shop on the main street to ask about rates.
  

Indoor Attractions To See

Come on this is Costa Rica. Get outside!

Outdoor Attractions To See

There is a lot to do around the Jaco area. On the main street there are several tour operators that offer mostly the same trips. Check to see what the upcoming deals are for the week.

Carara National Park - A short trip north. Lots of trails leave from the park office. Further north, before the Río Tárcoles Bridge, a trail runs parallel to the river. It is less used. The best time is in the morning.

Manual Antonio National Park - About two hours south of Jaco is Costa Rica's smallest and most popular national park. The rainforest runs right up to the beautiful white sand beaches. There are lots of opportunities to see monkeys and sloths. The park can become very congested. There are lots of hotels in the area to stay. The park is closed on Monday to give the animals a break.

Surfing - Several beaches in the area offer great surfing. If you are starting out then the south end of Playa Jaco offers smaller waves. For information, board rentals or lessons go talk to Chuck at Chuck's Surf Shop on the main street in Jaco. He is an honest guy that is willing to help out.

Festivals

There is an annual surf competition.

Places to Eat

There are loads of good restaurants on the main street. Take a stroll and check it out.

El Hicaco - Offers an amazing selection of seafood. They have a lobster feast on Wednesday nights. Restaurant is on the beach.

Night Life

There are several bars along the main street. Ask around to find out. 

Getting Around

Transportation is included in most tours.

Taxis are available, some can carry boards.

Most people walk or bike within Jaco.

Safety

Jaco is a safe area. Drinking water can be a problem in some hotels. Stick to bottled water if you are concerned.

External Links

Information - Go talk to Antonella at Solutions Tourism and Services on the main street in Jaco. She speaks English, Spanish, Italian and French!

http://www.jacotour.com/