Jaco Travel Facts

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.