One of my favorite free things to do in Jaco is to hike up to an abandoned hotel known as El Miro. Le Loft is another great joint for the night owls whose definition of partying features great company, nice music, ever-flowing drinks, and super sexy ladies. I really enjoyed the softer waves and huge beach, which meant I could practice without large crowds. Available on the island are beach chairs as well as coco locos, so be sure to bring some cash along! With dreams of visiting nearly (Do a quick search on the following sites). If youre planning a family trip to Jaco, Costa Rica, some kid-friendly activities range from a relaxed movie-viewing experience at CCM Cinemas to a high-energy ropes course with Jaco Ropes Adventure Tour. Saturday and Sunday afternoons are especially vibrant with resident and guest DJs spinning tunes pool side. Another option I never got to do was theFull Day Jaco Jungle Adventure Pass. the dark . I love the social atmosphere in Jaco, and the best place to stay for that isRoom2Board Hostel. Ave. Pastor Diaz, a few doors south of POPS. We will be back!! As a beginer surfer myself, I jumped at the opportunity to get in the water and learn to surf in Jaco. Mytanfeet LLC Copyright 2013 - 2023 - Thank you for supporting our Travel Blog. We loved the pool, yoga sessions, and the bar is really fun on the weekends. Prices way better than what you'll pay in Vegas. Its not uncommon to see surfing professionals practicing or even competing in one of the many tournaments held at Hermosa. Thanks so much for reading! The latter is great for the whole family, especially if your young ones have always wanted to swing like Tarzan! All you need is a plan on how to get the most out of your visit. Follow it to the end, passing through the resort, to a parking area. Tours are typically a full day on the island, with snorkeling, lunch, and even banana boat rides. Expert chefs are moving into town, and craft beer bars, vegan restaurants, and kosher eateries are springing up. Got stopped by a young girl whilst looking for a place to dine. Irrespective of your preferences, Jaco will always be fun if you love tropical destinations. $6-8 for most plates, includes a drink. Address: Jaco Walk Open Air Shopping Center, Avenida Pastor Diaz, Provincia de Puntarenas, Jac, 61101, Costa Rica, Opening hours: Sun - Thu: 5pm - 10pm; Fri - Sat: 5pm - 11pm. 1. A little over an hour drive from San Jose, Jaco has seen a boom in development in the last decade. Safety was never an issue while we were there. However, the highlight of the tour is to peacefully observe the surrounding from an aerial perspective and appreciate the diversity that exists in the jungle. So, if you havent been before or want to give it another go, Jaco is the perfect place. This is where most foreigners troop to when they want a night full of drinking and making merry. the drinks and food are absurdly good. Ive been to many national parks in Costa Rica, and although Ive enjoyed them all, a few stand out from the rest. Others are looking to do a lot of activities, get out on the town, and of course take in the countrys famous beaches and lush jungle. Oops, this activity is currently unavailable. If you are driving, dont worry about driving after dark, the road here is paved and well maintained. The open-air gondola takes you high above the treetops to enjoy some wonderful jungle views. Money worth! Although I said El Miro was the best place to watch the sunset in Jaco, to many, Villa Caletas will be their top choice. You will likely find us hiking, scuba diving, eating as much food as we possibly can, or just drinking beer at a hostel. The tour includes 25 zip lines, and the views are breathtaking. With lush green mountains, sparkling expanses of fine sand beaches, and a plethora of outdoor activities, this is a destination you head to after leaving your high heels, makeup kit and ironed shirt behind, because they will stop you from having fun. From a canopy and a high ropes course with Jaco Ropes Adventure Tour and exploring the jungle on an aerial tram to meeting new friends at beach parties in Playa Jaco and going on an off-road trip with Howling Monkey Adventure. Take part in the things to do on our list above and enjoy a memorable trip to Jaco. 365. It even has a loop that is handicap accessible. These drop you right at the waterfall and take you back to the parking lot. There may not be so much to see here, but the experience of going up the hill along the tiny paths while immersed in a complete jungle is worth making the trip. Costa Rica Jaco Things to do Jaco | a Paradise with great activities All the items in the store are sourced from the best workshops and studios in Jaco, and this is to ensure that you get the very best. Packed both nights we went. Afterward, we boarded our boat, where the best part of the tour began. Check Availability and Prices Here. By far, my favorite place to enjoy seaside drinks and food in Jaco wasEl Point. Things to do in Puerto Viejo: What to do in the South Caribbean town, 10 Things to do in San Jose: What to do in the capital city, Things to do in La Fortuna: What to do in the town near Arenal Volcano, Day trips from Dominical: Things to do in Dominical and best day trips, Filed Under: Activities and tours Costa Rica. With its pristine beaches, tropical wildlife, and vibrant culture, it's no wonder that Jaco is one of the most popular destinations in Central America. Surf shops are scattered all around town so it is easy and affordable to rent a board or take a lesson. If you want to have a glimpse of the nightlife in Jaco, then take some time and spend an evening in this cave, either alone or in the company of friends. Check out what I thought about living in Jaco as a foreigner. For more information, read our post A Rainforest Tram Ride in Jaco. Chalkboard dinner specials include lots of choices for surf and turf, and the standard menu has burgers and lighter options like tapas, fish tacos, and a poke bowl. For more adventure, they also offer waterfall rappelling! THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Jaco, Costa Rica Things to Do in Jaco Popular things to do 4WD Tours Half-day Tours Nature and Wildlife Tours Ziplining Horseback Riding Climbing Hiking Tours Sporting Events Airport & Hotel Transfers Top Picks Luxury & Special Occasions Ports of Call Tours Walking & Biking Tours Private Sightseeing Tours Water Sports You cant miss it. Located in Jaco Walk, on the southern end of town past Mas X Menos grocery store. Pura Vida Gardens and Waterfalls. Although Jaco itself doesnt have good fishing, all you have to do is head over to Herradura beach and you can go deep sea fishing. Bottles were a good price when you get 2 or 3. While Jaco does have that party atmosphere, I found it to still be a safe place to visit in Costa Rica. With that said, there are plenty of places you can book tours in Jaco. The restaurant has a blackboard menu that changes daily based on what is being prepared for the day. North of Jaco on a tall ridge overlooking the scenic Gulf of Nicoya and Pacific Ocean is an amazing spot to take in the sunset over a tropical drink. Head to Miro Mountain for an amazing viewpoint of Jaco. One bedroom studios and standard rooms are available. The gallery majors mainly on paintings and other similar artwork from Jaco and the surrounding regions. Everything from ATV and zip-line tours to catamaran cruises, surf lessons, and sport fishing can be booked with one of the areas tour operators. This is a Costa Rica vacation place you'll love, no matter your age. We left pretty disappointed, but laughing at ourselves too. Most of the forecasts you see online are refering to the capital . Located just outside the main area of town, Hotel Perico Azul offers simple, clean rooms for an affordable price. Perfect for swimming, stand up paddle boarding or a sunset sailing tour with Kayak Jaco. Quepos, Costa Rica El Avion Restaurant and Bar. May 07, 2023 Difficulty Beginner Posted by Kamilla Henke Category United States Jaco, Costa Rica is a vibrant beach town located on the central Pacific coast of the country. Starting at $200/night. Youll first reach a lower viewpoint with a small structure. In this post, well cover everything you need to know about this popular central Pacific coast destination, including our picks for activities, beaches, restaurants, and hotels. This is where you come to when you want to indulge in the freshest products, seafood, meats, vegetables, and fruits in Jaco. It is an incredible place if you dont mind getting wet and muddy because there will be no escaping when the fun starts. This bar is small but has nice things, like pool table which is fun, and music kept me active all night. Afterward, youll ride to the beautiful mirador with views as far as Manuel Antonio National Park. The tour will take you to the heart of a mixed rainforest on a tram. They also got a good view on the main street! Check Availability and Prices Here. This is the place to buy a true Costa Rica souvenir and benefit the local economy. Located just over 1 hour from Jaco, Manuel Antonio National Park is a coastal park home to spectacular views, sprawling jungle, and tons of wildlife. You dont have to be a guest to experience this unique setting; just tell the staff youre there for sunset and grab a drink from the bar. If you are a resident of another country or region, please select the appropriate version of Tripadvisor for your country or region in the drop-down menu. This beach is closest to the capital, San Jose, and has its share of crowds. Good for foodies, adventure seekers, surfers, shopping enthusiasts, and those who just want to sit on the beach and relax, Jaco is a place where you can easily spend a week or more. Hot tip:The beach is actually not far from the crocodile bridge, so you can join these two activities together. And one of the best adventure parks is just ten minutes outside of Jaco: Vista Los Sueos. Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing. Nightlife in Jaco. Either way, the club is a very vibrant establishment known for great drinks and cool music. 4. Everything at. Stand up paddle boarding is a great exercise, making you feel connected to the ocean. Good pizza is surprisingly hard to find in Costa Rica, but the Pizza Shop knows how to make a great pie. $110-400/night, depending on the unit size and amenities. Surfers flock here from around the world, but families, and honeymooners also find much to love . Bailey and I prefer the early parties that start just before sunset and finish early. Parking is available right off the sand for a small fee and there are also a few local restaurants where you can grab a simple meal. The style of this property carries a contemporary feeling with nice finishes. Known for its year-round conditions, practicing your surf skills in Jaco, Costa Rica, is one of the best ways to kickstart the experience at some of the top surf spots in Costa Rica. You can check online to know what is scheduled so that you know what you will be watching and the time it will be airing. Surrounded by lush rainforest, the property is secluded and private. Destinationless Travelis a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon. There are two national parks near Jaco: Carara and Manuel Antonio, both excellent for hiking and wildlife watching. The garden exists with the main aim of conserving, reproducing, and protecting local butterfly species through education, research, and production. Enjoy an adventure canopy and high ropes course (from USD 65.0), 13. What are the most popular things to do in Jaco with kids? Although the tour does cost $195 USD, doing all these activities separately would cost a lot more. Estreno noviembre 2021. Nice, cozy spot with a sweet, humble owner. Sometimes theyll be live music there which is really nice and a lot of Costa Rican families like to go there with their kids. Surfing is one of the most popular activities in Jaco, as are fishing, snorkeling, scuba diving, stand-up paddleboarding, and kayaking. San Jose City Tour. Visit Manuel Antonio National Park. Use common sense always and don't venture to isolated areas at night or leave valuables in your car or on the beach unattended. The tour also includes lunch and lasts for 3.5 hours. If you can, start the trail at 7 am. Without a doubt, the best view of Jaco is from El Miro Viewpoint on the outskirts of the city. You can take the bus from Jaco to Manuel Antonio or book tours to both parks. Each unit has a full kitchen and living area, making it a good option for families. Homemade items like sausage, ricotta, and a balsamic reduction are just a few of the choices. Out of the many things to do, here are some of our picks. Though not as big as Costa Rica's capital city of San Jos, there are still plenty of things to do in Jac, Costa Rica. This is actually the Las Vegas of Costa Rica! Expect to pay around $120 USD for a half-day tour. $160-400/night. A short drive north of Jaco will eventually bring you to one of the best free activities in Costa Rica. On top of that, the area is surrounded by coral reefs, perfect for snorkeling. Both are beautiful national parks but each one has their own special characteristics. This hip spot has live music every night; check out their. While I was there, they had a happy hour from 4 pm to 6 pm, which included delicious cocktails. In this blog, Ill share the 15best things to do in Jacoto help plan your upcoming trip! Jaco: Costa Rica's Booming Beach Town Imagine stunning beaches, palm trees, luxury hotels, and, of course, mountains covered in lush rainforest. Visit the Arenal Volcano National Park, Costa Rica . My favorite part was seeing the sloths! Northern end of Ave. Pastor Diaz in the Palm Plaza. This top-rated restaurant is located right on the beach, and they even have tables on the sand. This sprawling complex has several restaurants and lounges, easy access to the beach, a grand pool, an 18-hole golf course, a marina, a small grocer, and even some shops. For more information about visiting, read our post, Tortuga Island Catamaran: Beach & Snorkel Tour from Jaco. Opening hours: Wed: 9pm - 12:30am; Thu - Sun: 4pm - 12:30am (closed on Mon & Tue). El Hicaco is one of the few restaurants in Jaco right on the beach. I would love to recommend my tour. Unsubscribe in one click. . Although I am not condoning breaking the rules, there are underground parties that are well known. In this area, you can see toucans, birds of prey and one special bird in particular, the Scarlet Macaw. About. On this tour from Jaco, youll be guided around the park walking trails such as the sloth walk. Fishing is an endeavor you must strive for when you visit Jaco, Costa Rica. The truth is most dont know what canyoning is, so they tend to shy away from booking tours. This blog may contain affiliate links. If you do want toexplore,another great thing about Jaco is how close it is to other destinations. the owners definitely brought their knowledge of washington DC nightlife to jaco costa rica in the best way. Unfortunately, to enjoy Playa Mantas, you need to drive 25 minutes north from Jacoto this parking lot. If youre looking for a day trip to see a beautiful white sand beach and more nice scenery, take the Tortuga one day tour! the music is always perfect. You can play tennis, basketball or indoor soccer (football) on their . They have fine dining restaurants and a bar so you can enjoy happy hour cocktails while watching the sunset. With coastal views and tall mountains covered in rainforest, its arguably one of the most beautiful places to zipline in Costa Rica. The 60-room property offers boutique-style modern condos with high-end finishes. 18 Cool and Unusual Things to Do in Costa Rica - Atlas Obscura As always the restaurant is slammed! Dinner only. Check out their, A pie with pepperoni and house-made sausage at Pizza Shop, The Green Room focuses on local and organic ingredients and has delicious locally made craft beer. If you dont have a car, there is a local bus that passes the bridge. The view is ideal and you don't feel the heat of central america with the great breeze. BTW - our dinners pretty much sucked. Villas Caletas is located north of Playa Herradura and about a 10-minute drive off the highway. If its not busy here, tryAloha Beach Front Bar and Restaurant Jac. Service was ok, more on the good side. If youre looking for a more in-depth ziplining expereince, I highly recommend thisAmazing Mega Zipline Tour over 11 Waterfalls. In our opinion, Playa Blanca is the most beautiful beach in the area with clear water, fluffy sand, and lots of trees for shade. Dinner only. Dont stop here though, keep walking another 10 minutes until you turn a sharp corner to the left. For an even better expereince, visit an hour before dusk and relax at the top to watch the sunset. You will find a healthy population of various species, and also get to learn more about their life cycles, food, and threats to their existence. 1. Hike up to El Miro Jaco beach as seen from the El Miro Viewpoint! The cheapest option is thisZipline Canopy Tour. For a more robust list of options, check out our Jaco Restaurant Guide. But at 7pm we were the only 2 people in the entire place. What are the best places for nightlife in Jaco? The Marriott Los Sueos is located in the beach community of Playa Herradura, just north of Jaco. The temperature is typically around 75F to 90F (24C to 32C) during the day no matter when you come. Jaco Beach isnt the best for swimming, but luckily there are plenty more beautiful beaches in the area to explore. There are water breaks as well as photo breaks to let you freshen up and make some memories through your camera lenses. We did a stand up paddle boarding tour with Kayak Jaco from Playa Agujas, a 20 minute drive from Jaco. If youre hungry, stay for dinner and enjoy the views from your table. POPS is an ice-cream shop near the center of the strip. Overall, Tortuga Island is a highlight of my travels through Costa Rica. We got to trek through the pristine rainforest, jump off waterfalls and swim in the pools! This was without a doubt one of my favorite things to do in Jaco! is made fresh, from scratch and a lot of love. Its dark pebbled beach is fringed with palm trees, with warm rolling waves that attract surfers from all over Costa Rica. The rooms arent super modern, but the location and pool are excellent. Afterward, everyone heads out to the clubs such as Jaco Blu, Republik Lounge, and XTC. Once youre done relaxing at Playa Mantas, you can walk over to Playa Blanco. Nauyaca Waterfalls is made up of two huge waterfalls. There arent many white sand beaches or snorkeling spots in the Jaco area so if thats what youre looking for, then you have to go to Tortuga Island! If you have a preference for the species you want to catch, be sure to ask the guide for the best advice. You can see many different bird species, monkeys, and sloths. Manuel Antonio National Park has several gorgeous beaches and is more touristic with dozens of hotels strewn around the national park. The best part is that there are great parties for everyone. Below are some of our recommendations in the different price ranges. Villas Caletas is located north of Playa Herradura and about a 10-minute drive off the highway. I went out at the crack of dawn on a 3-hour tour and managed to leave with 12 tuna between our boat and plenty of fillets for the next few days. Jaco offers countless adventures for outdoor lovers. Things You Should Never Do While Visiting Costa Rica - Culture Trip Shops, galleries, hotels and restaurants that line the streets well marked in this complex. To add some culture to your day, they also offer a chocolate tour. Second, Costa Rica is located in Central America. Rainforest Adventures also has a big butterfly garden filled with many types of butterflies that live in the tropics. Carara National Park has the largest breeding area of Scarlet Macaws, whose population was decimated years ago from deforestation and hunting. So if youve already traveled a lot here before, you may be thinking, really, another waterfall., I get it, but Nauyaca Waterfalls is, without a doubt, one of the most spectacular in Costa Rica.