🌊 Jacó, Costa Rica: Scouting Trip Guide

Jacó is Costa Rica’s most urban beach town, located just 1.5–2 hours from San José and the international airport. For expats, this makes it one of the easiest coastal towns to reach—no long drive, no domestic flight, just a smooth ride from the capital straight to the Pacific. If you’re considering a move, Jacó is where city conveniences meet the beach, with paved roads, high-rise condos, modern supermarkets, and an active nightlife scene. It’s vibrant, walkable, and full of energy—though it may not be the right fit if you’re looking for peace and quiet.

✅ Jacó Scouting Trip Checklist (3–5 Days)

Here’s what to focus on if you’re exploring Jacó as a potential future home:

1. Experience Daily Life

• Walk through town—check out supermarkets, banks, pharmacies, and the central strip.

• Explore housing options: condos with ocean views, gated communities, and smaller apartments inland.

• Visit local gyms, wellness centers, and coworking spots if you plan to stay active or work remotely.

2. Food & Dining

• Try a mix of local sodas and international restaurants—Jacó has everything from casual seafood spots to fine dining.

• Visit the farmers’ market (usually Fridays) to see local produce and how you’d shop weekly.

• Don’t miss beachfront dining at El Hicaco (famous for seafood) or sunset drinks at Graffiti Restro Café & Wine Bar.

3. Activities & Lifestyle

• Take a surf lesson or just watch the steady flow of surfers—Jacó is one of Costa Rica’s surf capitals.

• Explore the nightlife—bars, clubs, and live music are part of the Jacó lifestyle.

• Spend time on the beach morning and evening—it’s wide, sandy, and great for walking.

4. Day Trips Nearby

• Playa Hermosa: just 10 minutes south, known for advanced surfing and a quieter vibe.

• Carara National Park: 25 minutes away, great for birdwatching and spotting scarlet macaws.

• Los Sueños Marina (Herradura Bay): luxury marina with restaurants, golf, and sportfishing.

🏡 Where to Stay in Jacó (Great Picks for Scouting Trips)

• Hotel Club del Mar – Beachfront, peaceful, and close to the action.

• Oceano Boutique Hotel & Gallery – Upscale suites with kitchens, ideal for longer stays.

• Best Western Jacó Beach Resort – All-inclusive, beachfront, and walkable to downtown.

• Modern Ocean View Condos – Available for short-term rental; great if you want to “test drive” condo living.

📝 Local Life to Notice

Jacó is more fast-paced than many Costa Rican beach towns. Traffic, nightlife noise, and tourism are part of the mix—but so are conveniences like reliable internet, international dining, and easy access to San José’s hospitals and shopping. Many expats love Jacó for its balance of beach and accessibility, but you’ll want to see if the energy matches your lifestyle.

🔗 Ready to Explore More?

After Jacó, many expats head south to Quepos and Manuel Antonio for a mix of wildlife, beaches, and a slower pace.

👉 [Continue to Quepos & Manuel Antonio →]

Jacó (Costa Rica): Pantar (CC By 4.0)