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Let’s talk about Jaco in Costa Rica. It’s the kind of place that people either fall in love with or side-eye from a distance — sometimes both in the same afternoon. I’ve been coming here for years, and while it’s not the “hidden gem” type of town, it’s definitely one of the most honest beach towns in the country.
Yes, Jaco is lively. Yes, it’s got its rough edges. And yes — it’s also one of the best jumping-off points for adventure, surf, sunsets, and a little chaos if that’s what you’re into.
What Jaco Is Really Like
First off — Jaco is no sleepy fishing village. It’s the opposite. It’s a fast-paced beach town with loud nights, neon signs, and more bars than you can count without using your toes. It’s also got a strong surf scene, surprisingly good restaurants, and a ton of energy.
That being said, Jaco nightlife comes with a reputation — and not always a flattering one. It’s true: you’ll find drugs, you’ll find prostitution, and you’ll find tourists who clearly didn’t read the safety section of their guidebook. But that’s not the whole story. It’s just one part of what makes Jaco so… well, Jaco.
Is Jaco Safe?
Here’s the real answer: Jaco is safe if you’re smart. Like any tourist-heavy town, petty theft happens, especially late at night. Don’t flash your stuff, don’t walk down dark alleys solo at 2 AM, and maybe don’t accept mystery drinks from strangers in clubs that don’t have windows.
During the day, the town is perfectly fine. Families walk the beach, surfers fill the water, and you’ll see kids buying ice cream on the main strip. It’s a working town, a party town, and yes — a perfectly good base for your Costa Rica adventure.
What to Do in Jaco (Besides Party)
Now that we’ve addressed the elephant in the room, let’s talk about the good stuff — because there’s a lot.
If you’re wondering what to do in Jaco, start with the beach. The surf here is legit, especially for beginners. You’ll find board rentals on every corner, and lessons with friendly instructors who might show up barefoot but know exactly what they’re doing.
And then? Try these:
- Ziplining through the nearby rainforest canopy
- ATV jungle tours (mud guaranteed)
- A day trip to Carara National Park to spot scarlet macaws
- Boat tours through the Tarcoles River — yes, with crocodiles
- Waterfall hikes and horseback rides just outside town
There are so many things to do near Jaco, you could stay a week and not get bored. And if you’re into wildlife, nature, or adrenaline — you’re in the right region.
The Abandoned Hotel with the Best View in Town
Now here’s a local tip: there’s an old, crumbling hotel on the hill above Jaco that locals love to visit for the view. No signs, no entry fee, and no guards — just you, a steep climb, and a jaw-dropping panorama of the Pacific.
It’s known as the abandoned hotel ruins — a remnant of a failed resort dream that now serves as one of the best (and strangest) sunset spots in town. Bring a flashlight, good shoes, and maybe don’t go alone after dark. But trust me — it’s worth the climb.
Jaco Costa Rica: Love It or Hate It, You’ll Remember It
Jaco isn’t for everyone — but that’s kind of the point. It’s loud, raw, a little messy, and totally alive. And if you embrace it for what it is, you’ll find it has more to offer than you expected.
Whether you’re here for surf, nightlife, or just a solid base close to the action, Jaco in Costa Rica delivers. And if you’re looking for a place to stay or a tour to book while you’re in town — you know where to find us.
Planning to Explore More?
If you’re the type of traveler who likes to dig a little deeper, grab our free guide: “10 Hidden Gems in Costa Rica You’ve Never Heard Of.”
It’s packed with places that don’t make the top 10 lists — but probably should.
