We love Jaco Beach, Costa Rica because its just so conveniently close to Los Sueños Resort & Marina, which, of course, is only an hour away from San Jose and the Juan Santamaria International Airport. Offering everything a proper city should have to offer, Jaco Beach keeps us close to civilization and yet deep enough in the rainforest to really enjoy Costa Rica as one should. Whether you’re enjoying a sport fishing vacation at Los Sueños Resort, you’re here for some family fun in the sun, or even your dream destination wedding, you may want to get over to Jaco during your stay. Here are our favorite tings to do in, and around, Jaco Beach, Costa Rica
Surfing & Surf Lessons
Even if you have never set foot on a surfboard, you can still have a fantastic surfing experience in Costa Rica. Most commercial surfing spots offer lessons and camps, one of the best being Jaco Beach, right next door to Los Sueños Resort & Marina. In Jaco, you will find a number of qualified surf instructors, many of whom are champion surfers themselves. You will also find tame waves that are perfect for just starting out. For those who are a little more experienced on a board, there are plenty of great surf breaks too. Head just a few miles further south of Jaco Beach, toward Playa Hermosa: the waves are fierce and always stellar.
Zip-line Canopy Tour
Costa Rica is home to some of the world’s lushest and beautiful rain forests, cloud forests and dry forests. Seeing the majesty of these jungle canopies from the ground is a bucket-list worthy adventure in and of itself. However, seeing them up-close and personal, with a birds-eye view of the forest floor, is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure. There really isn’t anything like soaring through the Costa Rican greenery on a zip line, and in Costa Rica, there are plenty of zip line adventures to be had.
Manuel Antonio National Park
Located just an hour down the coast from Jaco Beach, Manuel Antonio National Park encompasses rugged rainforest, white-sand beaches and coral reefs. It’s renowned for its vast diversity of tropical plants and wildlife, from three-toed sloths and endangered white-faced capuchin monkeys to hundreds of bird species. The park’s roughly 680 hectares are crossed with hiking trails, which meander from the coast up into the mountains.
ATV Tours
Imagine exploring Costa Rica’s beaches, rainforests, remote villages, waterfalls, and wildlife while driving an ATV, motorcycle or UTV. Whether you’re a first-timer, or a seasoned veteran looking for something more challenging, there is an off-road adventure for you! ATV tours leave conveniently from Jaco Beach – just five minutes away from Los Sueños Resort.
Horseback Riding
Step off the tourist trail and discover the old Costa Rica! You will find yourself immersed in the abundant flora and fauna. Ride through the jungle trails to the secret mineral spring waterfall and enjoy a natural mineral mud spa treatment that that will leave your skin feeling amazing. Even if it is your first time in the saddle, you’ll feel like an accomplished rider in the saddle of these gentle horses. Riders with experience will have a great time too, as all the horses are happy, fit and responsive.
Dining and Dancing
Jaco nightlife is abundant with terrific options for dining and dancing. Whether you’re looking for an upscale seafood restaurant for al fresco dining right on the beach or a French bistro for elegant, fine dining, there are plenty of options. Fish tacos, burger, vegan and organic fare; the foodies in your group will find Jaco to be a delight to the palate. If dancing and drinking are what you’re after, there are plenty of options for that too. From small pubs to throbbing discos, its easy to find live entertainment, reggae, deep house or reggaeton and the drinks are flowing everywhere.
Casino Gaming
Jacó Beach is home to Croc’s Casino, a small, elegant beachfront venue in resplendent Las Vegas style. The craps, roulette and blackjack dealers are professional and friendly. Also on Playa Jacó, Morgan´s Cove Resort & Casino on Playa Jacó features U.S.-style breakfast and international cuisine at the Black Beard Lounge and Restaurant. The casino also includes a bar.
Souvenir Shopping
Despite the fact that Jaco beach is but a small surf town, there are plenty of wonderful stores and boutiques throughout the area. Some of the local art is utterly amazing. Local woods, custom clothing, jewelry and plenty of Costa Rica souvenirs can be found throughout town. Just like anywhere else, not all stores are created equal, so here are some of our favorites and most recommended.