The Basics
City Name: Jaco
Where is it located?: Jaco is located in Costa Rica, slightly south of San Jose, on the Pacific Ocean.
Why do people go there?: Those tired of the hustle and bustle of San Jose usually head to this oceanside town for some relaxation in the sand and sun.
How do travelers get there?: Buses from San Jose are the cheapest, and most common way to get to Jaco.
Currency: Costa Rican colon (CRC)
City Code: None needed
Population: 5,000
Languages: Spanish (official), English
Travel Information
Neighborhoods: Playa Herradura, Playa Hermosa, Tarcoles River, Punta Leona
Attractions: Beach, sun, sand
Accommodations: Jaco Hostels, Jaco Hotels
Tourist Office: http://www.costarica.tourism.co.cr/
Off-the-beaten-path: Manuel Antonio National Park, Punta Leona Wildlife Refuge
Health Issues: Moderate malaria risk
Tips for Visiting
When to go: Shoulder seasons may be slightly wetter, but cheaper and you’ll avoid the summer rush to the beach.
Common Phrases: Good morning: buenos días; Good afternoon: buenas tardes; Good night: buenas noches; Excuse me: Con permiso; How are you?: Como está?; Fine, thanks: bien, gracias; My name is: mi nombre es…; What is your name?: cual es su nombre?; Do you speak English?: usted habla inglés?; I don’t speak Spanish: no hablo español; I don’t understand: no entiendo
How to get around?: Use the bus or taxi
Good to know: Jaco is Costa Rica’s city of surf.
Cheapest airport to fly into: The cheapest airport to fly into Jaco is the San Jose Airport.
Need more information?: Check out the Jaco travel guide for more on what to see, where to stay, and how to get there.
