I’ve spent enough time in Jaco to know it’s not your typical sleepy beach town. This Pacific coast gem has a pulse—whether you’re here to surf, explore, or just soak up that pura vida lifestyle. Let me walk you through my favorite spots that’ll help you experience Jaco like someone who actually lives here.
1. Surf Jaco Beach at Dawn
Here’s the thing about Jaco Beach: if you show up at noon, you’ll wonder what all the fuss is about. But roll up around 6 AM, and you’ll get it. The waves are cleaner before the wind picks up, the sand isn’t scorching yet, and you’ll share the break with local surfers instead of tour groups. Rent a board from any of the shops along Avenida Pastor Díaz—I like the guys at Jaco Surf School who’ll give you honest advice about conditions.
2. Hike to the Waterfalls at Carara National Park
Twenty minutes north of Jaco, Carara National Park is where the dry forest meets the rainforest, which means insane biodiversity. The trails open at 8 AM, and I always recommend getting there right when they unlock the gates. You’ll spot scarlet macaws—those brilliant red birds you see on every Costa Rica postcard—plus crocodiles in the Tárcoles River if you stop at the bridge on your way. Bring serious bug spray. The mosquitoes here don’t mess around.
3. Eat Fresh Ceviche at Clarita’s Beach Bar & Grill
Forget the fancy tourist restaurants on the main strip. Clarita’s sits right on the sand at the north end of the beach, and their ceviche is legitimacy—lime-soaked, fresh-caught, with just enough cilantro and chili. Grab a table under the palms around 2 PM when the lunch rush dies down. Order an Imperial beer and the mixed ceviche. You’re welcome.
4. Take the Sunset Sail from Herradura
The bay at Herradura, just south of Jaco, is protected and gorgeous. Several operators run sunset catamaran tours, but I’m partial to the smaller sailboats that don’t pack 50 people onboard. You’ll likely see dolphins, definitely see pelicans dive-bombing for fish, and if you’re lucky between July and October, humpback whales. Book for a Wednesday or Thursday when it’s less crowded.
5. Explore the Saturday Morning Farmers Market
Every Saturday from about 7 AM to noon, locals set up a proper farmers market near the center of town. This is where I stock up on mangoes, papaya, fresh coconut water, and those little bananas that actually taste like something. Chat with the vendors, practice your Spanish, and grab some empanadas from the corner stall. It’s real Jaco, not resort Jaco.
6. Get Your Adrenaline Fix at Rainforest Adventures
If you’re craving canopy tours and zip lines, Rainforest Adventures delivers without the cattle-herding vibe of some other operations. Their aerial tram through the rainforest canopy is genuinely peaceful, and the guides know their stuff about the ecosystem. Book the morning slot before it gets too hot, and you’ll see more wildlife when the animals are active.
7. Watch the Sunset from Mirador Jaco Matapalo
This viewpoint on the southern road toward Playa Hermosa offers the best sunset view in the area, hands down. It’s free, there’s parking, and you’re looking out over the entire coastline as the sun melts into the Pacific. Bring a cooler with drinks and arrive about 30 minutes before sunset to claim your spot. The photo opportunities here are unreal.
After all that exploring, you’ll need a comfortable home base in Jaco. Como En Casa Rentals offers exactly what the name promises—a place that feels like home, right in the heart of this vibrant beach town. Whether you’re here for the surf, the sunsets, or the pure adventure of it all, you’ll have everything you need within reach. Book direct at www.comoencasarentals.com and skip the OTA fees.
