Jaco Costa Rica
Jaco is a beautiful coastal town located on the Pacific Ocean in the Puntarenas Province. It is the closest major beachside destination to the capital city of San Jose. With rolling green hills of jungle and farm pasture in the distance, Jaco City sits in a wide cove with rocky points on each end. The beach is a long gray arc with palm trees, surfside hotels, souvenir and boutique shops, a huge selection of restaurants and bars, and the occasional mid-to-high-rise condo complex.
Jaco is the most advanced beach town, and the main strip, which runs adjacent to the sand, is bustling day and night. The city has become famous over the years for parties and nightlife, but in recent years has put a lot of effort into making it an attractive place to visit for everyone, including families. This includes parks, children’s play and activity centers, and many restaurants with kid-friendly menus. Many people visit Jaco town on weekends, vacations, and holidays injecting a nice mixture of local culture into the otherwise touristy town.
Places to visit in Jaco Costa Rica
Jaco has some of the most beautiful places in Costa Rica. Its mountainous shoreline includes strips of sandy beaches overlooking a sparkling expanse of blue characteristic of the Central Pacific coast. The region is home to the popular surf town of Jaco, Carara Biological Reserve, and the beloved Manuel Antonio National Park.
Jaco Beach
Jaco Beach (Playa Jaco) is a beautiful coastal beach in Costa Rica. It is known for its vibrant atmosphere, beautiful beaches, and exciting outdoor activities. Jaco Beach is near the capital city of San Jose, just a short 1.5 to 2 hours drive. This beach offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. The beach stretches 2.5 miles long. Jaco Beach is characterized by its gray volcanic sand and warm waters, framed by lush green hills. It is a renowned surfing hotspot, particularly for beginners and intermediate surfers, thanks to its consistent waves and accessible surf schools.
Besides surfing there are other options for watersports like paddleboarding, snorkeling, and diving. You also do fishing and exciting land-based activities such as hiking, zip-lining, ATV tours, and horseback riding. Playa Jaco is also a gateway to Costa Rica’s most breathtaking natural wonders, including the Bijagual Waterfall and other scenic rainforest hikes. A wide range of accommodations is available from budget-friendly hostels to upscale beachfront resorts, ensuring a comfortable stay for every type of traveler.
El Miro
El Miro is an abandoned mansion located on a hillside overlooking Jacó, Costa Rica. It was originally intended as a mansion or hotel, but construction ceased before completion, leaving behind a skeletal framework that has since become a popular hiking destination. The ruins include white arches, pillars, and expensive balconies, now adorned with vibrant graffiti and murals, creating a unique blend of decay and art. Along the trail to El Miro, multiple viewpoints are available, each offering unique and mesmerizing views of Jaco Beach and the coastline below.
The trail is rich in biodiversity. Hikers might encounter local wildlife, including monkeys, sloths, and a variety of bird species, such as scarlet macaws. The path is also lined with murals depicting Costa Rica’s endemic flora and fauna, adding an artistic touch to the natural beauty. The best time to visit is early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid mid-day heat. If planning a sunset visit bring a flashlight for the descent, as the trail can become quite dark after sundown.
Access
You can get to El Miro by hike which begins near the Delta gas station along National Route 34. You have to search a bit for an entrance because it’s concealed behind overgrown vegetation so keep an eye out for a steep pathway leading up the mountain.
Playa Mantas
Playa Mantas is a serene beach near Jaco Costa Rica. It is known for its clear turquoise waters and soft, light-brown sand, it’s an ideal spot for families and those seeking a tranquil beach experience. The gentle waves at Playa Mantas make it suitable for families and those seeking a tranquil beach experience. The beach is surrounded by lush vegetation and rocky outcrops the beach offers picturesque views and a sense of seclusion. The surrounding jungle enhances its natural charm, attracting visitors seeking a peaceful retreat.
The area is home to diverse wildlife, including scarlet macaws and iguanas. While observing these creatures is a delight, it’s crucial to avoid feeding them to maintain their natural behaviors and health. Adjacent to Playa Mantas is Playa Blanca, another beautiful beach known for its white sands and clear waters. Access to Playa Blanca is possible via a short walk from Playa Mantas, especially during low tide. Exploring both beaches can make for a fulfilling day of beach-hopping.
Best Time to Visit
If you want to relax and seek a quieter place then you should visit on the weekdays because there are fewer tourists on the weekdays. Also, if you want to swim and do other water activities then you should visit from June to September. Otherwise, the dry season, from December to April, offers the most favorable weather, with clear skies and minimal rainfall.
Mirador de Jaco
Mirador in Spanish means “viewpoint”, and this is a must-visit viewpoint. From Mirador de Jaco you can have a great view of Jaco Beach, the Pacific Coastline, and the verdant rainforest. It is located along the Costanera Sur Highway, a short drive from the town of Jacó in the Puntarenas Province, Costa Rica. It’s a great spot for sightseeing and photography.
On clear days the view from the Mirador is quite breathtaking. Whisps of white clouds cast shadows on the hills and the deep blue ocean below. White sands and surf lined with tropical greenery are like a tonic to the eyes. However, if you expect this to be pleasant because of the beach, you are in for a surprise. In the absence of the breeze, it is usually quite hot and humid throughout the day.
The best time to visit Mirador de Jaco is late afternoon for sunset or early morning for a quieter experience and soft lighting for photos. As for essentials, I recommend you bring sunscreen and a hat because the weather can get warm, water to stay hydrated, and a camera or smartphone to capture stunning photos with your friends or family or to capture the scenery. This beach is very famous on Instagram.
How to get to Jaco?
Getting to Jaco is easy, you can reach Jaco from San Jose by different means.
By Car:
You can get to Jaco from San Jose by car. It’s 100km away from Jaco and it takes approximately 2 hours to reach San Jose by car. Take Route 27 (Autopista del Sol) from San José towards Caldera. Exit onto Route 34 (Costanera Sur) towards Jacó. The road is paved and in excellent condition. There are tolls along Route 27, so carry cash (Colones or USD). Look out for scenic spots to stop for photos.
By Bus:
You can also get to Jaco from San Jose by bus. It takes around 2 to 3 hours. Buses run from terminals 7-10 in downtown San Jose. It costs almost 5-10$. Buses run frequently in a day. The best is to book your tickets earlier online and if not then you should arrive early to ensure a seat.
By Shuttle:
You can also get to Jaco from San Jose by shuttle. It costs 30-50$ per person. Shared or private shuttles are available from San José hotels or the airport (Juan Santamaría International Airport, SJO). Its a great option for convenience and comfort, especially for groups.
