A 'happening’ beach town and what many would call the original surf capital of Costa Rica, with near-perfect, consistent year-round waves...

100 km from the Juan Santamaria International Airport, Jaco is a ‘happening’ beach town and what many would call the original surf capital of Costa Rica. Its near-perfect, consistent year-round waves continue to attract surfers of all skill levels from around the globe; a profusion of surf stores and schools co-exist with a myriad of lodgings and eateries, bars, discos and nightclubs. Quality and budget hotels, beachfront villas and condos, residence clubs and international resorts such as Wyndham and Sonesta, are all part of the atmospheric town center.

Away from the hustle and bustle, the 3-km long Jaco beach offers plenty of space still for those looking for quiet spots to sunbathe and enjoy some tranquil moments.

Besides surfing, water activities like kayaking, deep sea fishing, sunset cruises and paragliding are popular; Jaco is also a good base for experiencing some of Costa Rica’s land-based attractions, such as wildlife and rainforest tours, horse riding and waterfalls, canopy zip-line, crocodile viewing and a visit to the butterfly farm.

Being the closest beach destination from San Jose and the Central Valley, Jaco is not only popular with international tourists but attracts a horde of Ticos over weekends and holidays; many of whom roam the main streets for handcrafted furniture and decorative arts to take home.