Top Things to Do in Jacó Beach During Your Stay
Jacó offers a little of everything: beach time, local photo spots, outdoor adventure, fresh local food, nearby nature, and easy day trips. Whether you want to relax by the ocean or explore more of the Central Pacific coast, there is plenty to enjoy during your stay.
Walk Along Jaco Beach
Jacó Beach is one of the town’s main highlights and a great place to begin. It is perfect for morning walks, sunset views, relaxing by the ocean, or simply enjoying the lively atmosphere of this popular beach town. Surfing is also one of Jacó’s best-known activities, with lessons and board rentals easy to find nearby.
Take a Photo at the Jacó Letters
The colorful Jacó letters are one of the best-known spots in town and a favorite place for photos. The area also offers beautiful coastal scenery, and the trees nearby are a wonderful place to look for macaws, which are sometimes seen perched in the branches or flying overhead.
Take a Surf Lesson
Jacó is one of the best-known surf towns on Costa Rica’s Central Pacific coast. Whether you are trying it for the first time or already have experience, surfing is one of the area’s signature activities and a big part of the local beach culture.
Go on an ATV Adventure
ATV tours are a favorite way to explore beyond the beach. Many tours take visitors through jungle roads, mountain trails, and scenic lookouts, making them a fun option for anyone wanting more adventure during their stay.
Try a Zipline Tour
Ziplining is another popular activity near Jacó. It is a great way to enjoy the tropical landscape from above while adding a little excitement to your trip.
Visit the Friday Farmers Market
One of the best local stops is the Jacó Farmers Market, where you can find fresh produce and other local goods. Current listings show regular market hours on Fridays from 6:00 AM to 12:00 PM, with additional Thursday afternoon hours also listed.
Visit Carara National Park
Carara National Park is a great nearby option for nature lovers. It is known for hiking, birdwatching, and wildlife, making it an easy outing for anyone wanting to experience Costa Rica’s natural beauty while staying close to Jacó.
See the Crocodiles at Tárcoles
A memorable nearby stop is the Tárcoles River area, where visitors often go to see the famous crocodiles. It is one of the most well-known wildlife attractions near Jacó and makes a great short excursion.
Visit Croc’s Resort & Casino
For dining, entertainment, and nightlife in one place, Croc’s Resort & Casino is another well-known stop in Jacó. Located right on the beach, it combines oceanfront views with restaurants, bars, pools, and a full casino, making it a popular place to spend an evening or stop by for drinks and dinner. It adds another lively side to Jacó’s atmosphere and is a great option for visitors looking for a more upscale night out while staying in town.
Explore Two of Jacó’s Most Unusual Sights
For a different side of Jacó, visitors often notice El Miro and the unfinished Sonesta Resort. Legend has it that El Miro was being built as a massive mansion, but its owner died before it could be completed, leaving the property abandoned. Today, it is known for its scenic trail, ocean views, and graffiti-covered ruins. Meanwhile, the Sonesta rises at the entrance to town as a huge unfinished structure. The Sonesta project was reportedly more than 80% complete by 2008 before construction stopped. Both places have a haunting, almost surreal feel. They offer a side of the town that is very different from the beach, one shaped by history, unfinished plans, and the quiet beauty of places left behind.
Explore Nearby Beaches
Jacó is also a good base for visiting nearby beaches like Playa Hermosa and Playa Herradura, each offering a different atmosphere and easy access to more ocean views and outdoor activities.
Take a Day Trip to Manuel Antonio National Park
Manuel Antonio National Park is close enough for a very doable day trip from Jacó. Current route listings put the drive at about 1 hour and 21 minutes, depending on your exact starting point and traffic.
Visit Jacó Walk
Jacó Walk is a convenient spot in town for shopping, dining, and entertainment all in one place. It’s a great place to stroll, grab a meal, enjoy a coffee, or browse a few shops while staying close to the beach and the heart of Jacó. Its central location makes it an easy stop during your stay, whether you’re looking for a casual outing, an evening walk, or a place to enjoy a little more of the town’s lively atmosphere.
Enjoy Jacó’s Restaurants and Nightlife
At the end of the day, Jaco has plenty of restaurants, cafés, and nightlife to enjoy. It is one of the reasons the town feels more lively than many quieter beach destinations nearby.