Jacó Beach is the most popular beach town on Costa Rica's Central Pacific coast, and for good reason — in one easy-to-reach spot you get surf, jungle, nightlife, world-class sportfishing, and some of the best sunsets on the planet. Whether you're here for a bachelor party, a family vacation, a group getaway, or a destination wedding, there's never a shortage of things to do in Jacó Beach. Here's our list of the top 10, and when you want a private chef to cook for your group between adventures, www.jacobeachchef.com has you covered.
1. Surf the waves
Jacó is one of the easiest places in Costa Rica to learn to surf, with gentle beach breaks right in town and more advanced waves at nearby Playa Hermosa. Board rentals and lessons are everywhere, so even first-timers can be standing up by the end of the day.
2. Go to Cocal Casino
Right next to Jacó Center, Cocal Casino is the spot for a night of table games, slots, and drinks without leaving town. It's a fun, air-conditioned break and an easy walk or short Uber from most villas.
3. Relax on Jacó Beach
The main event is the beach itself — a long, dark-sand stretch perfect for swimming, beach walks, and sunset strolls. Grab a cold drink, find a palm, and settle in.
4. Snorkel & explore marine life
Just north of town, the clear water around Playa Mantas and the nearby islands is full of tropical fish, rays, and sea turtles. A guided snorkel tour is one of the best half-day trips in the area and great for all ages.
5. Hike to the waterfalls
The jungle around Jacó hides gorgeous waterfalls with cool, swimmable pools. Bijagual and the Pura Vida Gardens falls are favorites — bring water shoes and a swimsuit.
6. Eat at Rustico
Rustico Restaurante is a Jacó institution for wood-fired, farm-to-table Costa Rican cooking in a beautiful open-air setting. It's a perfect dinner out — and when you'd rather eat in, our team at www.jacobeachchef.com brings restaurant-quality dining straight to your villa.
7. Hike Miro Mountain
The Miro Mountain trail climbs out of town to a lookout with sweeping views over Jacó Beach and the Pacific. Go early for cooler temperatures and the best light.
8. Visit Los Sueños Sportfishing Marina
A short drive north in Herradura, Los Sueños is one of the premier sportfishing marinas in the world. Book a charter for marlin, sailfish, and dorado, or just enjoy a catamaran cruise and lunch at the marina village.
9. Go on an ATV tour
Few things beat ripping through the jungle and along backcountry trails on a guided ATV tour. It's a bucket-list adventure that gets you to viewpoints, rivers, and waterfalls you'd never reach otherwise.
10. Watch the sunset
Jacó faces due west, so every clear evening delivers a spectacular sunset over the Pacific. Whether you're on the sand, at a beach bar, or on your villa's rooftop, it's the perfect way to end the day.
Make the most of your Jacó trip
The best part of a Jacó vacation is filling your days with adventure and your evenings with great food — without the hassle. When you book a villa and a private chef through www.jacobeachchef.com, we handle the meals, the bartending, and the concierge so your group can focus on the fun. Ready to plan? Send us a WhatsApp message and we'll help you build the perfect Jacó Beach getaway.