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Discover Adventures
Jaco
Welcome To Jaco
⦿ Country
Costa Rica
⦿ Destination
Jaco
⦿ Population
19.533
⦿ Currency
Colones (₡)
⦿ Language
Spanish
⦿ Attractions
3
Jaco
Description
Jaco is a small coastal town located in Costa Rica that is known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant nightlife, and lush rainforests. The town attracts tourists from all over the world who come to relax on the pristine beaches, surf the world-class waves, and explore the diverse wildlife that calls the area home.
One of the main highlights is its stunning beaches, which stretch for miles along the Pacific Ocean. The soft sandy beaches are perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and beach volleyball. The warm waters are ideal for surfing, with waves suitable for both beginners and experienced surfers.
For nature lovers, offers plenty of opportunities to explore the surrounding rainforests and wildlife. Visitors can take guided tours through the lush forests, where they may spot exotic animals such as monkeys, sloths, and toucans. The area is also home to several national parks and reserves, where visitors can hike through scenic trails and observe the diverse flora and fauna.
Enjoy the beauty of Jaco
What are the main attractions?
Jaco, Costa Rica offers a range of attractions and activities for visitors to enjoy. Here are some of the top attractions in Jaco:
- Jaco Beach: The main attraction is its beautiful beach. With its long stretch of golden sand and warm Pacific waters is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying water sports like surfing and paddleboarding.
- Canopy Tours and Zip-lining: offers thrilling canopy tours and zip-lining experiences. These tours allow visitors to soar through the treetops and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding rainforest.
- Surfing: Jaco is renowned for its excellent surfing conditions, making it a popular destination for surfers of all levels. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced surfer, you can find suitable waves and surf schools to enhance your skills.
- Sportfishing: Jaco is a great place for sportfishing enthusiasts. The waters off the coast are teeming with marlin, sailfish, dorado, and other game fish. Visitors can charter a fishing boat and enjoy a day of deep-sea fishing.
- Jaco Walk Open-Air Shopping Center: This modern shopping center offers a variety of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options. Visitors can explore local boutiques, dine at international restaurants, and enjoy live music and events.
- Rainforest Adventures: Jaco is surrounded by lush rainforests, offering opportunities for eco-adventures such as hiking, wildlife spotting, and waterfall tours. Visitors can immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the area and experience Costa Rica’s biodiversity up close.
These are just a few of the top attractions in Jaco, Costa Rica. Whether you’re seeking relaxation on the beach, adventure in the rainforest, or a lively shopping and dining experience, Jaco has something to offer for everyone.
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History
Ancient history and settlement.
The Central Pacific Coast of what is now this country was inhabited by the Huetar people is one of the best places to visit in Costa Rica. At the start of the Colonial era, their main chief was called Garabito, giving name to the district Jaco belongs to in modern times. The first European explorer to arrive in the area was the Spaniard Gil Gonzalez Davila, in the year 1522.
The town itself owes its name to Charles Elwood Jaco, an oil magnate who owned a company in Texas. He inherited the land and dreamt of developing it into a resort destination for his family and others to enjoy.
In the last few decades, Jaco has experienced one of the most accelerated demographic growths in recent Costa Rican history. International investments in Herradura beach, next to Jaco, at the end of the last century, such as the Los Sueños Marriott Hotel and its surrounding luxury condominiums and marina, required manpower in all fields.
Geography
Coastal Location, Beautiful Beaches
Jaco is located on the Central Pacific Coast of Costa Rica, specifically in the Puntarenas province. It is situated approximately 80 kilometers (50 miles) southwest of the capital city, San Jose.
The town is nestled between the Pacific Ocean to the west and the lush rainforests of the Central Pacific Conservation Area to the east. This location provides a stunning natural setting with a combination of beautiful beaches and dense tropical vegetation.
Jaco Beach, the main beach in the area, stretches for approximately 4 kilometers (2.5 miles) along the coastline. It features golden sand and is known for its consistent waves, making it a popular spot for surfing.
The terrain surrounding Jaco is characterized by rolling hills covered in dense rainforest. This lush vegetation is home to a diverse range of plant and animal species, including monkeys, sloths, toucans, and various tropical plants.
Adventures Await in Jaco
Range of Adventures for Travelers to Discover
Jaco, Costa Rica is a destination filled with natural wonders and thrilling experiences. Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie or a nature lover, there’s something for everyone. Here are just a few of the unforgettable adventures that await:
- Jacó Beach
- Surfing Lessons
- ATV Jungle Tours
- Zip-lining Adventures
- Nightlife and Local Restaurants
- Horseback Riding to Waterfalls
- Crocodile Safari on the Tarcoles River
- Carara National Park
- Sportfishing from Los Sueños Marina
Whether you’re surfing, sipping coconut water, or just people-watching by the beach — Jacó gives you just enough action to feel alive and just enough breeze to remind you you’re not in a board meeting
