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Jacó

Costa Rica · Coast · CRC · 9.615000, -84.629800
Family friendly 6.7/10 · Rank 1024 of 2 709
Best season: December-April

Best for

Suitable for surfers of all levels, nightlife enthusiasts, active travellers, families with teenagers and digital nomads.

Best season

December-April

Daily budget
$110.00 (≈ 9 231 ₽ · ≈ 58 300 CRC)
For 7 days
$770.00 (≈ 64 618 ₽ · ≈ 408 100 CRC)
Jacó is the largest and most dynamic resort on the central Pacific coast, located just an hour and a half from the capital. The town is known for its powerful waves, surf schools, and vibrant nightlife with bars and clubs. It is a popular destination among young people and outdoor enthusiasts, where you can combine surfing with walks through scenic surroundings.
Summer
35.0°C
Winter
22.0°C
Sea
30.0°C
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Description and atmosphere

Energy

active

Pace of life

fast

Local character

Locals are friendly and used to tourists. Many expats and digital nomads. Atmosphere is relaxed but energetic.

Pros and cons

Pros

  • Proximity to San José airport (1.5 hours)
  • Excellent year-round surf waves
  • Developed infrastructure: restaurants, bars, hotels
  • Vibrant nightlife
  • Excursion and adventure opportunities

Cons

  • Strong rip currents, unsafe for weak swimmers
  • Black sand gets very hot during the day
  • Noisy and crowded in high season
  • High accommodation prices in season
  • Not the most scenic beach in Costa Rica
Climate
Summer Temperature
Average air temperature in June–August
31.0°C
Summer Daytime Temp
Average daytime temperature in June-August
31.0°C
Summer Max Temp
Maximum daytime temperature in summer months
35.0°C
Winter Temperature
Average air temperature in December–February
30.0°C
Winter Daytime Temp
Average daytime temperature in December-February
30.0°C
Winter Min Temp
Minimum temperature in winter months
22.0°C
Summer Water Temperature
Average sea temperature in the warm season
29.0°C
Water Max Temp
Maximum water temperature in warm season
30.0°C
Rainy Season
Months with the heaviest rainfall
May-October
Sea and beach
Sand Type
Type of beach surface
sand
Sand Color
Colour of the beach sand
black
Water Entry
Type of water entry
moderate
Waves
Level of waves
strong
Water Clarity
Clarity of the water
moderate
Best Beach
Name of the most popular beach
Playa Jacó
Beach
Availability of a beach
Yes
Tides
Whether tides are noticeable
Yes
Rip Currents
Presence of dangerous rip currents
Yes
Sunbeds
Availability of sunbeds
Yes
Beach Cafe
Availability of a cafe or bar
Yes
Toilet / Shower
Availability of toilets and showers
Yes
Lifeguards
Presence of lifeguards
Yes
Safe for Swimming
Whether swimming is safe
Yes
Sea hazards
Sea Urchins
Presence of sea urchins
Present
Corals / Reefs
Presence of corals or reefs
None
Jellyfish
Presence of jellyfish
Present
Sharks
Presence of sharks
Present
Overall Danger
Overall danger rating
moderate
Note

The beach is known for strong rip currents, swimming is recommended in the northern section where waves are gentler. Lifeguards are present on the central beach.

Sea urchins — details

  • Black sea urchins
  • Found on rocky areas and reefs

Corals and reefs — details

  • No coral reefs in the swimming area
  • Mainly sandy bottom

Jellyfish — details

  • Jellyfish appear during the rainy season
  • Stings possible, especially in July-September

Sharks — details

  • Sharks inhabit coastal waters
  • Attacks are extremely rare but caution is advised
Attractions

Carara National Park

Home to scarlet macaws and crocodiles, 20 minutes from town

Crocodile Bridge

Famous bridge where you can observe wild crocodiles in their natural habitat

Bijagual Waterfall

Scenic jungle waterfall, popular excursion spot

El Miro Viewpoint

Abandoned hilltop building with panoramic views of the town and ocean

Herradura Beach

Calm bay with ideal conditions for swimming and family holidays

Best areas

North Jacó

Quiet area with the best swimming conditions and fewer tourists

Town centre

Close to restaurants, bars and nightlife on Avenida Pastor Díaz

South Jacó

Quiet area with beautiful villas and beach

Must-try food

Ceviche

Fresh fish marinated in lime juice with cilantro and chilli

Casado

Traditional lunch of rice, beans, meat and salad

Gallo Pinto

National dish of rice and black beans with egg and sauce

Rondon

Caribbean fish stew with coconut milk

Patacones

Twice-fried plantains, served as a side dish

Where to go next

Manuel Antonio

National park with some of the best beaches and rich wildlife

Esterillos

Scenic black sand beach with a relaxed atmosphere

Jaco Walk

Open-air shopping centre with shops and restaurants

Family Friendly
Suitable for families with children
Yes
Nightlife
Level of nightlife
high
Getting there
Nearest airports
Международный аэропорт Хуан Сантамария (SJO).
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Visa
Visa requirements
not required
Best Season
Months with the most comfortable weather
December-April
Accommodation
Hostel (Dorm Bed)
Average price for a hostel dorm bed
$18.00
≈ 1 511 ₽ · ≈ 9 540 CRC
3-Star Hotel
Average price for a 3-star hotel room
$76.00
≈ 6 378 ₽ · ≈ 40 280 CRC
4-Star Hotel
Average price for a 4-star hotel room
$180.00
≈ 15 106 ₽ · ≈ 95 400 CRC
5-Star Hotel
Average price for a 5-star hotel room
$207.00
≈ 17 371 ₽ · ≈ 109 710 CRC
Villa / House
Average nightly rate for a villa or house
$200.00
≈ 16 784 ₽ · ≈ 106 000 CRC
Apartment
Average nightly rate for an apartment
$55.00
≈ 4 616 ₽ · ≈ 29 150 CRC
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Food and drinks
Lunch at a Cafe
Average price for lunch at a casual cafe
$9.00
≈ 755 ₽ · ≈ 4 770 CRC
Dinner at a Restaurant
Average check for dinner at a nice restaurant
$22.00
≈ 1 846 ₽ · ≈ 11 660 CRC
Coffee (Cappuccino)
Average price for a cappuccino
$3.00
≈ 252 ₽ · ≈ 1 590 CRC
Beer (0.5L)
Average price for a 0.5L beer
$2.00
≈ 168 ₽ · ≈ 1 060 CRC
Water (1.5L)
Average price for a 1.5L bottle of water
$1.00
≈ 84 ₽ · ≈ 530 CRC
Pizza
Average price for a pizza
$10.00
≈ 839 ₽ · ≈ 5 300 CRC
Burger
Average price for a burger
$10.00
≈ 839 ₽ · ≈ 5 300 CRC
Dessert
Average price for a dessert
$4.00
≈ 336 ₽ · ≈ 2 120 CRC
Fast Food Combo
Average price for a fast food combo
$6.00
≈ 504 ₽ · ≈ 3 180 CRC
Transport
Airport Taxi
Average taxi fare from the airport to the city centre
$50.00
≈ 4 196 ₽ · ≈ 26 500 CRC
Public Transport
Average price for a single public transport ticket
$1.00
≈ 84 ₽ · ≈ 530 CRC
Short Taxi Ride
Average fare for a short taxi ride
$12.00
≈ 1 007 ₽ · ≈ 6 360 CRC
Car Rental (per day)
Average daily rate for an economy car rental
$40.00
≈ 3 357 ₽ · ≈ 21 200 CRC
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Activities and rentals
Bike / Scooter Rental
Average daily rate for a bike or scooter
$15.00
≈ 1 259 ₽ · ≈ 7 950 CRC
Motorbike / Scooter Rental
Average daily rate for a motorbike or scooter
$40.00
≈ 3 357 ₽ · ≈ 21 200 CRC
Excursion
Average price for an organised excursion
$45.00
≈ 3 776 ₽ · ≈ 23 850 CRC
Yacht / Boat Cruise
Average price for a boat cruise
$95.00
≈ 7 972 ₽ · ≈ 50 350 CRC
Tiqets — museums & landmarks Jacó Partner
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Shopping
Shopping
Average amount spent on shopping
$40.00
≈ 3 357 ₽ · ≈ 21 200 CRC
Souvenirs
Average amount spent on souvenirs
$12.00
≈ 1 007 ₽ · ≈ 6 360 CRC
Tourist SIM / Internet
Average price for a tourist SIM card
$25.00
≈ 2 098 ₽ · ≈ 13 250 CRC
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Frequently asked questions
Jacó: when is the best time to go?
The best season for a holiday is December-April. At this time of year the weather is the most comfortable: minimal chance of rain, moderate humidity and optimal air temperature. This is also when the tourist infrastructure runs at full capacity — all hotels, restaurants and entertainment are open. If you want to save money, consider the period right after the high season ends: accommodation prices are lower, and the weather is still pleasant. You can check the temperature by month in the match-by-month tool.
Jacó: what is the weather like in summer?
In summer, the air warms up to an average of +35.0°C, during the day — up to +31.0°C. This is a great time for beach holidays and long walks. Sunscreen is recommended during the peak hours from 11:00 to 16:00.
Jacó: what is the weather like in winter?
In winter, the air temperature stays around +22.0°C, during the day — up to +30.0°C. For the winter period these are very comfortable figures that allow swimming and sunbathing. Evenings can be cooler, so a light jacket will not go amiss.
Jacó: what is the sea temperature?
The sea near the resort warms up to an average of +30.0°C in the warm season. This water temperature is considered ideal for long swims — you can stay in the sea for hours without discomfort. The water is comfortable for both adults and children. If you want to know the exact temperature by month, use the match-by-month tool.
Jacó: when is the rainy season?
The rainy season falls on May-October. During this period rainfall is more frequent, but usually short — the rain lasts 1-2 hours, after which the sun comes out again. Humidity is higher, so being outside may be less comfortable. At the same time, accommodation and flight prices during the rainy season are significantly lower — an excellent option for a budget holiday.
Jacó: what are the beaches like?
The beaches here are with a "sand" surface, black sand, moderate water. The most popular beaches: Playa Jacó. The beaches have sunbeds and cafes and bars.
Jacó: is it safe to swim in the sea?
Swimming is allowed here, but standard precautions should be taken. The overall danger level in the sea is rated as high — swimming is only recommended in specially designated areas. Lifeguards are on duty on the beaches.
Jacó: what are the sea hazards?
The sea contains: sea urchins, jellyfish, sharks. The beach is known for strong rip currents, swimming is recommended in the northern section where waves are gentler. Lifeguards are present on the central beach.. It is recommended to swim in special shoes and avoid contact with marine life.
Jacó: how much does a holiday cost?
A holiday for one person will cost around $110.00 (≈ 9 231 ₽ · ≈ 58 300 CRC) per day. The daily budget includes: a 3-star hotel, lunch at a cafe, dinner at a restaurant, drinking water, two public transport trips. Flights are not included in the calculation. You can calculate the cost of your holiday in more detail in the trip planning calculator across all 70 parameters.
Jacó: how much does accommodation cost?
Accommodation is available for every budget: a hostel dorm bed — $18.00 per night, a 3-star hotel room — $76.00 per night, a 4-star hotel — $180.00 per night, a five-star hotel — $207.00 per night, an apartment — $55.00 per night, a villa — $200.00 per night. In high season prices can be 20-30% higher, and in low season — lower.
Jacó: how much does food cost?
Food is one of the main expense items: lunch at an affordable cafe — $9.00, dinner at a restaurant — $22.00, a cup of cappuccino — $3.00, a 0.5L beer — $2.00, a 1.5L bottle of water — $1.00. You can eat significantly cheaper at markets and street cafes.
Jacó: how much does transport cost?
a taxi from the airport — $50.00, a single public transport ticket — $1.00, a short taxi ride — $12.00, car rental — $40.00 per day. Public transport is the most budget-friendly way to get around.
Jacó: what is there to see?
Among the main attractions are: Carara National Park — Home to scarlet macaws and crocodiles, 20 minutes from town; Crocodile Bridge — Famous bridge where you can observe wild crocodiles in their natural habitat; Bijagual Waterfall — Scenic jungle waterfall, popular excursion spot; El Miro Viewpoint — Abandoned hilltop building with panoramic views of the town and ocean; Herradura Beach — Calm bay with ideal conditions for swimming and family holidays. These places are worth visiting first to get a full impression of the destination.
Jacó: what local food should I try?
Be sure to try the local cuisine: Ceviche — Fresh fish marinated in lime juice with cilantro and chilli; Casado — Traditional lunch of rice, beans, meat and salad; Gallo Pinto — National dish of rice and black beans with egg and sauce; Rondon — Caribbean fish stew with coconut milk; Patacones — Twice-fried plantains, served as a side dish. Local dishes are an important part of the travel experience.
Jacó: what are the best areas to stay?
For accommodation you can consider the following areas: North Jacó — Quiet area with the best swimming conditions and fewer tourists; Town centre — Close to restaurants, bars and nightlife on Avenida Pastor Díaz; South Jacó — Quiet area with beautiful villas and beach. The choice of area depends on your preferences: active or relaxing holiday.
Jacó: is a visa required?
Visa: not required. Before your trip, be sure to check the current requirements with official sources, as the rules may change.
Jacó: how do I get from the airport?
The nearest airport — Международный аэропорт Хуан Сантамария (code SJO). You can get from the airport to the centre by taxi, the average cost is $50.00. Public transport is also available — a more budget-friendly option.
Jacó: what is the currency and how much money should I take?
Currency — CRC. It is recommended to have cash for small expenses and a bank card for larger purchases. The approximate daily budget is $110.00 (≈ 9 231 ₽ · ≈ 58 300 CRC). Check the current exchange rate before your trip.
Jacó: is it suitable for a holiday with children?
Yes, the destination is excellent for a family holiday with children. It has all the necessary infrastructure: well-maintained beaches, cafes and restaurants with children's menus, and entertainment for all ages.
Jacó: what is the nightlife like?
Nightlife is rated as high. There are plenty of bars, clubs and restaurants that stay open until morning.
Jacó: where can I go nearby?
Nearby you can visit: Manuel Antonio — National park with some of the best beaches and rich wildlife; Esterillos — Scenic black sand beach with a relaxed atmosphere; Jaco Walk — Open-air shopping centre with shops and restaurants. These places are convenient to visit on a day trip.

Putivator rating

6.7/10
Overall rank: 1024 of 2 709
Rank among coastal: 708

Best season

December-April

Useful information

Currency: CRC
Coordinates: 9.615000, -84.629800