Jaco Beach

Jaco Beach is the closest accessible beach to San Jose and still has the reputation of being the “fun and sun” spot on the Pacific coast.  Jacó is one of the two largest party cities on the Central Pacific Coast of Costa Rica.  Playa Jacó is considered the liveliest and most developed beach town on the Pacific coast. Jacó is about 80 miles from San Jose’s airport, a beautiful drive of just over three hours.

From Juan Santamaria International Airport, follow the signs toward San Ramon. After 6 miles, take the exit toward Atenas and at the stop sign, turn left. Follow the winding street until you get to San Mateo. At San Mateo, the road jogs right a block because of one way traffic (towards you). Just follow the road around and you will get back on the main drag. When approaching Orotonia, a sign directs you to the right. Don’t follow it!’ (you’ll get lost in the business district). Stay straight until you see the sign on the right directing you to Jacó. Follow that road to Jacó. From here on in, it is just following signs to Jacó.

Alternatively, drive from San Jose past San Ramon toward Puntarenas, until you get to hwy 27. Go south on 27 and follow the signs to Jaco. It’s further but much faster since it is not a mountain road. Another plus is that you can stop at the bridge over the Tarcoles River along the way – a prime spot to observe wild crocodiles. Note it is not legal to feed the crocodiles. They are protected.