Convenience and Lots of Activities
Because of its location, less than two hours from San Jose, Jaco might be the most popular beach town in Costa Rica. Locals and tourists use Jaco as a perfect, convenient beach weekend getaway and vacation destination.
For this reason, Jaco has a reputation as Costa Rica's premier party town. And while a reputation like this can be off-putting for some, for many other people it's not! Lots and lots of fun enjoying the beach bars, the clubs, and the plethora of fantastic restaurants that have sprung up in town over the years.
But it's not all about nightlife in Jaco. The town can also accommodate those searching for a more relaxed time, and both the northern and southern ends of Jaco Beach are quiet and family-friendly. If you're looking for a warm beach and an easy-going time, Jaco is great for that too.
Jaco is also an excellent base for surfers, who come to explore this stretch of the Central Pacific coast, and for anglers who love the sportfishing available here. If you're in Jaco, you also have easy access to two national parks and plenty of adventures, from zip lining to rafting and more.
Best Time to Travel to Jaco
Any time is great for traveling to Jaco. Literally. It's a typical hot, Costa Rican, tropical beach community.
Suppose you're looking for the all-out party vibe in Jaco, time your stay over a weekend, although in reality, something's always happening, especially in the high season. On the other hand, those looking for a more tranquil Jaco might want to come in early midweek, say Monday to Wednesday.
During high season (December-April), weekends can get hectic, and the town fills up, so if that's not your scene, stay somewhere a little quieter than Jaco at that time. Conversely, in September and October, you might find some places closed, especially midweek. But, again, that's Jaco's “quiet time.”
Anglers visiting Jaco for sportfishing might want to come during specific times. However, the fishing is consistent all year, with January and February being the best months. Although no month is terrible, the worst months for fishing are September and October, when most big fish are biting further north in Guanacaste.
For surfers, the best time of the year to visit Jaco is during the rainy season. May to November, with June, often proving to be the best month - when those glorious southwestern swells get going. In the dry December to April dry season, there's still good surf, though. Just smaller waves, better for beginners and those who are taking lessons.
Weather in Jaco
Temperatures in Jaco stay consistent all year. Expect temperatures around the early-to-mid 80s F (late 20s/early 30s C) year-round. The big question is whether it's raining or not.
You can expect little rain from December to April, but these soon dry up as January gets underway. From then until April, it's hot and sunny. May is when the rains begin, and you can expect a daily afternoon shower until August. September and October can get very wet, with things easing off in November. As in most other beach communities in Costa Rica, humidity in Jaco remains high all year.
Is Jaco Safe?
Overall, Jaco is safe. But remember, this is a party town, a resort town. Things can get hairy at night if you're not so street smart. Don't wander around on your own late at night, don't be visibly drunk, don't buy drugs, and don't flash the cash. If you act smart, you'll be fine, like most other party towns in the world.
Those of you going out for a quiet evening meal and heading home will find Jaco as safe as houses.
Top Restaurants in Jaco
There a lot of good choices in Jaco. Check out some of our favorites!
Ohana Sushi Tapas Bar
Love sushi? Adore tapas? You'll love this laid-back place with an Asian vibe.
The Beer House
Famous for its solid craft beers, this place also offers excellent bar food.
Ridiculous Burgers
If you love a gourmet burger (and who doesn't?) you'll love the ridiculously delicious food here.
Amara Costa Rica
A veggie-friendly seafood joint in the center of town with great prices.
Jerah Authentic Thai Cuisine
Great Thai food is rare in Costa Rica, so stick to it like glue when you find a good place. This is a good place.
How to Get to Jaco
Juan Santamaria Airport (Airport Code SJO), outside the capital city of San José, is the closest international airport to Jaco.
Distance & Driving Time to Jaco
From SJO Airport: 54 miles (87 kilometers), about 2 hours.
All Costa Rican Vacations packages include an airport "meet and greet" service and private transfers with English-speaking drivers. This means you're all set when you arrive in-country - just sit back, relax, and our driver will get you to your destination.
If you're planning to drive to Jaco from the airport, give yourself about two hours of driving time, plus an hour or so to arrange your car rental. Also, make sure you arrive in Costa Rica early enough in the day to not drive at night - something we don't recommend.
Once you have your car, get onto the InterAmerican Highway and head to El Coyol. Turn off there to get onto Ruta 27, the toll road to the coast. Keep on until the big junction takes you to Jaco and head south over the Rio Tarcoles bridge (you can stop here to check out the crocodiles).
You're now on Ruta 34, the Pacific Coast road. Keep heading south, past Punta Leona, and soon you'll come to a big supermarket on your left called Automercado. You're now in Herradura and real close. Carry on a couple of miles, and you'll see a turnoff to the left that will take you straight into Jacó.
