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Are you looking for the best things to do in Jaco, Costa Rica? We’ve done them all (well, most) and cherry-picked the absolute best to make sure you have the best time!
After ten months of travelling around Southeast Asia and Central America, we ended our journey at Costa Rica’s Jaco Beach. It was an unbelievable trip where we created incredible memories, but to end in Jaco was the cherry on top.
Jaco is perfect for nature lovers and adventure travelers, thanks to activities like ATV riding, jungle ziplining, and canyoning. It’s close to waterfalls, is superb for birdwatching, and it’s even got epic waves for surfing!
It’s known as a party town, but we found it to be the perfect place to unwind, savoring those last few moments of freedom.
Adventure Things To Do In Jaco
Let’s kick this off with the best adventure activities to do in Jaco. I could go on and on with the amount of epic adventures there are to have in Jaco. Instead, I’ve picked the very best for you to make planning that little bit easier!
1. Aerial Tram
The first thing you need to do in Jaco is go on the aerial tram ride. It’s a beautiful and peaceful experience, and each tram car is a good size so that everyone gets a perfect window view.
During the ride, you’ll have the chance to see monkeys in the trees and enjoy the jungle along the way. Thanks to a nature guide that accompanies each tram, you’ll also be taught a thing or two about the forest and wildlife.
On top of the tram ride, you can opt for a guided nature walk through the forest. It’s just right for those who want to experience a taste of the rainforest but who are not up for a serious trek. And, if you’re a fan of butterflies, don’t forget to visit the butterfly enclosure and see the stunning blue morpho butterfly.
Pro tip: Some tickets also include a buffet lunch served in the restaurant after your adventure. Trust me, it’s an experience you won’t forget! Or combine the aerial tram with zip lining!
2. ATV Jungle Rides
ATV adventure rides are like a rite of passage in Costa Rica, and Jaco has some of the best tours on offer. The experience is epic, and will get your heart pumping! You’ll see monkeys, waterfalls, and toucans, and the lush greenery and stunning scenery will leave you in awe.
Most tours also include stops and swims at waterfalls, making it a perfect way to cool off after an exhilarating ride. This was one of the highlights of our trip, and I would definitely go back.
The icing on the cake was that after the tour, we went for drinks with our group and guide, which was a really nice addition. We were taken somewhere inexpensive and delicious!
The staff was informative and friendly throughout, which made the entire experience even better. We had a lot of fun and highly recommend this adventure to anyone visiting Jaco!
3. Jungle Zip Lining
Another adventure experience to do in Jaco is zip lining. It’s a superb way to witness the jungle from above. I actually think it’s a relaxing activity, flying through the air a few hundred feet above the ground while ziplining through the canopy of the Costa Rican rainforest.
The best part is that it’s completely safe, Costa Rica is quite strict on their safety regulations, and you get to witness the amazing beautiful rainforest from a unique perspective.
Pro tip: If you’re looking for an exhilarating and eco-friendly adventure, then you should definitely try the guided canopy tour at the Vista Los Sueños Adventure Park. The course includes 12 platforms over 2.2 miles (3.5 kilometers), and different tours offer views of Herradura Bay and the Nicoya Gulf.
4. Canyoning & Rappelling
Although we didn’t do this in Jaco (I would have loved to), we did look into it while we were there since it’s quite a popular thing to do. I’ve read that the experience offers a scenic and fun drive through the forest, exciting jumps, and the highlight definitely looks to be the rappelling in the waterfalls.
We were also told that the staff are well-trained and know exactly what they’re doing, so safety shouldn’t be a concern. The guides talk about the wildlife and vegetation as well, making the entire experience even more enjoyable. It sounds like a lot of fun, and I would definitely consider doing it if I ever get the chance to visit Jaco again.
5. Paragliding
Paragliding over the jungles in Costa Rica sounds like another amazing experience. Unfortunately, I haven’t done it in Jaco; I went parasailing from the back of a boat in Cypress over the ocean. Does that count? Nevertheless, we met a couple who had, and they said it was unreal.
I can only imagine the thrill of flying above the canopy and the rush of adrenaline that comes with it. And yet, at the same time, I can also picture it being very relaxing, as the peacefulness of the surroundings takes over.
It must be pure joy to see the forest, the ocean, and the birds from the air. I’m sure it’s an experience that would leave a lasting impression, and if it’s an activity you’ve been thinking of doing, I think Costa Rica would be the best place!
Nature & Wildlife Things To Do In Jaco
Adrenaline seekers aside, it’s time for some of the more calming experiences Jaco has to offer. Costa Rica is known for its ecotourism and really is one of the best places to visit for nature and wildlife.
7. Find The Waterfalls
There are many waterfalls in Costa Rica, and you can visit a handful of them while in Jaco. The best way to do this is to join a waterfall tour, and since there’s nothing better than standing under them, why not visit ten?
One of the best waterfall tours in Jaco is the “10 waterfall tour,” which takes you to Las Monas Rainforest on an epic trekking adventure to visit breathtaking waterfalls. The hike will be beautiful and challenging (in the best way possible), with rock climbing using ropes, swimming, and spectacular views of the rainforest.
I love waterfalls; they always amaze me and are refreshing, beautiful things, and I can’t help but feel invigorated after taking a dip in the pools. This tour is a must-do for anyone visiting Jaco who loves nature, adventure, and a good challenge!
Pro tip: Other popular waterfalls to visit include Catarata Bijagual and Nauyaca Waterfalls. You can visit these yourselves, but keep in mind that they are not in Jaco. Bijagual is a 45-minute drive away, and Nauyaca is an hour and a half south. They make for good day trips if you’re up for an adventure!
8. Visit The Nearby Beaches
There are loads of beaches in and around Jaco if you’re looking to spend the day relaxing. Of course, there’s Jaco Beach, which is the most popular beach to visit and is known for its long sandy shore, great surf breaks, and nightlife; it’s lined with resorts, bars and restaurants. But there are also other beaches slightly out of town, such as Playa Mantas, Playa Blanca, and Playa Herradura. If you fancy leaving Jaco Beach for the day, these are also nice beaches to visit.
Playa Mantas
A beautiful beach known for its clean and calm waters, which make it perfect for swimming. The beach is just a short walk from the parking lot, but I recommend getting there early to grab a good parking spot as it’s small.
One of the highlights of this beach is the beautiful rock formations that you can walk through along the water. You’ll be able to spot cute monkeys, such as white-face and spider monkeys, in the trees, as well as baby rays jumping out of the water!
Playa Blanca
A lovely white sandy beach located in front of the Punta Leona Resort. It’s known for its crystal-clear waters and natural beauty. To get to Playa Blanca from the nearby Playa Mantas, you can walk south along the sand during low tide and follow a rocky path that connects the two beaches.
Alternatively, you can pay for a pass from the Punta Leona Resort to access Playa Blanca directly, although this can be a bit pricey.
Pro tip: It’s worth noting that parking can be a bit tricky. Some travelers reported they had to pay for parking while others didn’t. So be prepared for paid parking if you’re planning to visit these beaches, but hopefully, you won’t have to.
Herradura Beach
It’s located just North of Jaco, in Herradura Bay. The waters are relatively calm and clean, making it another spot perfect for swimming, stand-up paddle boarding, or even sunset sailing. Unlike other nearby beaches, Herradura Beach isn’t a tourist beach, which means it’s usually less crowded, quieter, and more peaceful.
Pro tip: If you’re planning to visit this beach, there is a free parking spot at the end of Calle Herradura, but it tends to fill up early on the weekends. For $6-10 a day, you can rent an umbrella and a chair. Calle Herradura turns into a tiny street along the beach with restaurants and bars, so it’s easy to get something to eat or find some entertainment.
9. Birdwatching
Birders flock to Costa Rica to experience the country’s biodiversity, and if this is something you enjoy, then this is an activity not to be missed while you’re in Jaco. I read somewhere that Costa Rica boasts over 900 bird species, including quetzals, scarlet macaws, toucans, and beautiful little hummingbirds.
There are some famous places in Costa Rica, such as the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve, the Arenal Volcano National Park, and the Corcovado National Park, where spotting them is best, but since Jaco is surrounded by rainforest I think your chances are pretty good here, too!
Pro Tip: If you’re planning a birdwatching trip, consider hiring a reputable tour company like Costa Rica Focus. They are highly rated and offer expert knowledge and guidance to maximize your birdwatching and photography opportunities. A fully guided tour can take you to places off the beaten track and provide a great experience overall.
10. Horseback Riding
Although we didn’t do this activity in Jaco, we watched a lot of others as we sat soaking up the sun. We talked about booking a ride to experience the beauty of Jaco Beach from atop a horse but ended up drinking too many cocktails and never got around to it!
If this is an activity you want to try, it looks like fun. The horses seemed in good health, gentle and well-trained, making it a perfect experience for inexperienced riders. They were taken along the beach and would have had beautiful sea views.
From what we saw, they moved at a slow pace, I guess, so that you can take in your surroundings and see local wildlife. I imagine throughout the tour, your guide will provide interesting information on the area, nature, and local sites.
Note: Ethical animal tourism in Costa Rica involves activities that promote the welfare, conservation, and protection of wildlife. We found that most activities maintained animal practices that prioritised the animal’s welfare. It’s important to avoid activities that exploit animals for entertainment, such as riding elephants, taking photos with sedated tigers, or attending shows featuring performing animals.
Sporting Things To Do In Jaco
If you want to enjoy some activities to knock off those delicious dinners and cocktails you’re bound to have, then why not try some sporting activities to keep you moving? There are plenty of hiking and surfing opportunities, but you can also try golf, kayaking, and SUP boarding!
Surfing
We did a lot of surfing during our trip (my favorite place was Playa Venao in Panama), and towards the end, we started getting better. However, surfing requires daily practice to improve, and I imagine if I got back on a board today, I’d end up in the water more often than not!
Jaco Beach is an excellent place for beginner surfers to learn, especially when we were there, as the waves were perfect for us to practice. Surfing is a fun and thrilling sport, especially when you catch a wave, no matter how big or small it may be. If you haven’t tried surfing before, I highly recommend giving it a go in Jaco!
Pro tip: Head to the Backyard Hotel and Bar at Hermosa Beach on Saturdays to watch the local surf competitions.
Hike To El Miro
To be completely honest with you, by the time we reached Jaco, both Jack and I were completely knackered! We’d climbed volcanoes, dived with manta rays, crossed the Pacific, hitchhiked in Nicaragua, danced in Cartagena, and hiked to countless viewpoints, temples, and islands that we decided to give the hike to El Miro a miss.
But, I have read that the views are beautiful and the hike is one not to be missed…unless you’re us! The hike looks to be about 25 minutes to reach an observation deck that overlooks Jaco Beach and the Pacific. Around the deck, there is a lot of interesting graffiti, and it’s positioned perfectly to witness the sunset over the ocean.
In hindsight, I think we probably should have made the climb. However, if you guys are going, it’s a hidden gem with panoramic views in a tranquil space away from the lively atmosphere in Jaco, perfect for relaxation.
Play Golf
I’m not a fan of Golf, but Jack doesn’t mind having a go. The place to go in Jaco is La Iguana Golf Course, which is about ten minutes away from Jaco. It looks like a beautiful place surrounded by nature and wildlife, although I have read mixed reviews about it. If you’re looking for the best golf course in Costa Rica, this isn’t going to be it.
However, for a fun and challenging layout, with good service, friendly staff, and abundant wildlife, you can try your luck. La Iguana Golf Course is a Marriott golf resort, so it won’t come cheap, either.
SUP / Kayaking
Kayaking and/or SUP boarding is such a fun activity. We love taking the kayaks out for a paddle, and recently, I’ve been having a go on my sister’s SUP board around the canals here in the UK. It’s definitely not as warm as it was in Costa Rica, but the scenery is still stunning.
There are a number of places where kayaking is possible in Jaco. The two beaches I mentioned earlier with calm waters, Herradura Beach and Playa Mantas, are your best shouts. Expect beautiful ocean and jungle views if you’re kayaking around this area.
Pro tip: Alternatively, you can join a kayaking tour such as this mangrove tour to Damas Island. You’ll get to see a ton of wildlife and enjoy a local guide sharing insights. Playa Agujas is another good place to try kayaking. It’s not far from Playa Mantas and Playa Blanca, so you can spend a day kayaking between the beaches!
Day Tours From Jaco
For more exciting things to do in Jaco, you might want to consider these full-day tours to visit other popular attractions, they take a little longer to get to but are totally worth it!
Carara National Park
If you’re planning to explore the rainforest in Costa Rica, you should definitely visit Carara National Park. It’s the closest national park to the area and offers a great opportunity to explore the wilderness.
While you can visit the park on your own and follow the trails, I would highly recommend taking a guided tour to fully enjoy the experience. The guides not only provide priceless insights but also help you spot wildlife you might miss on your own. They offer a detailed tour of both the north and south sides of the park, which is truly worth experiencing.
If you decide to go alone, you can purchase tickets for $10 USD each. The trails are easy to walk on, with some paved and well-marked, generally on the south side, while the north side has an unpaved and slightly muddy trail.
The park is home to loads of wildlife, including poison dart frogs, sloths, leaf-cutter ants, lizards, iguanas, capuchin monkeys, and many, many birds. The huge trees and beautiful landscapes make this park a must-visit attraction.
Tortuga Island Cruise
A popular day trip from Jaco is to jump on a catamaran and visit the Tortuga Islands. Alcatraz and Tolinga are the two tiny islands that make up Tortuga Island. During the tour, you can spot dolphins, snorkel in turquoise waters, and relax on Isla Tortuga’s white-sand beaches. If you’re lucky, you may even spot whales and leatherback turtles on the boat trip!
Manuel Antonio National Park
Manuel Antonio National Park is Costa Rica’s crowning glory. It’s known around the world as being one of the most beautiful national parks in the world, and since it’s only an hour and twenty away from Jaco, it only makes sense to schedule a visit!
Again, I highly recommend taking a guide when visiting National Parks. It’s simply because they know where to find the wildlife and have keen eyes, picking up animals well camouflaged within the foliage. There’s also a daily limit for the number of people allowed to enter.
It’s an easy park to hike around as most of the paths are paved or graveled. The best part of the park is the beaches, which are pristine and clean; there’s a calm side and a slightly more active side, so choose your area well.
Keep in mind it is a popular attraction attracting big crowds.
Pro tip: No food is allowed inside the National Park, but there is a small cafe selling sandwiches, snacks, and drinks. Most people go early in the morning to enjoy the cooler temps and leave before the midday sun.
Our Favourite Places To Eat In Jaco
- Ridiculous Burger: Delicious American-style burgers and fries.
- PuddleFish Brewery: Local boutique brewery + tasting room
- Soda Jacó Rústico: The best soda in town!
- Samudio´s Sunset Restobar: Serving a brilliant seafood menu
- El Novillo Alegre Jacó: For a nice setting with dinner
Final Thoughts on Things To Do In Jaco
As always, I’m leaving you with my final thoughts about visiting Jaco and the best things to do. Although Jaco isn’t the laid-back beach town that it once was, it’s still an incredibly fun place to visit and is a great location to base yourself for adventure and nature activities.
There are so many activities to fill your days. My favorites were the Aerial Tram, ATV, spotting the birds flying overhead, and the surf. If you’re traveling as a couple, with friends or as a family, I recommend visiting Jaco, there are enough things to do for everyone.
About the Author
Abigail is the owner and creator behind I’m Going On An Adventure. She focuses on world travel and outdoor adventure, giving first-hand experiences to help her readers plan their perfect travel and make the best memories.
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Raised as a third culture kid living in South America and Europe, Annick caught the travel bug early. As an empty-nester, Annick enjoys sharing her tips for traveling for those with champagne taste and beer budgets.
This guide is fantastic! Jaco sounds like an adventure lover’s paradise with so many exciting activities to choose from. The blend of adventure, nature, and tours is perfect for a well-rounded trip. Thanks for sharing these insights—I can’t wait to explore Jaco on my next vacation!