Jaco Costa Rica is pronounced ha-ko. Jaco is the quickest ocean side escape for landlocked Costa Ricans. Jaco offers year-round warm water and surf. Jaco has grown from a small beach community that Costa Ricans referred to as paradise to a surfers' and retirees' community and has developed at an exponentially fast rate.

My travel partner and I thought Jaco was a great spot to relax and kick back. This travel destination offers all the services westerners might need but still has a small town feel. There are some issues that come with the development of these types of towns. The issues are related to fast development and who is attracted to this type of development. Many complain of these issues but the issues are not unique to Jaco or, even, to places like Dominical Costa Rica. Other tourist destinations in Central America and Mexico are experiencing the same problem. However, proper precaution and common sense will ensure that you enjoy Jaco. Please take note of the dangers and annoyances section below.

Jaco Costa Rica is a premier tourist town , and as a result, the services and prices of this town are reflected. This town has a relaxed beachside setting and is primarily a surfers destination, as a result of the warm waters and constant year-round breaks. Package tours and ex-pat retirees are among the tourist population the visit Jaco, as well as Ticos from San Jose. The sum total of these visitors is a unique environment.

Jaco Costa Rica — travel activities are as follows:

• Surfing Jaco: There are consistent year-round breaks for surfing in Jaco.
• Surfcasting Jaco: Several shops in town rent fishing gear and sell bait.
• Hiking Jaco: A popular trail leads through Miros Mountain but visitors only need to travel a few kms to reach a view point. Trailhead is at entrance to canopy tour. Ask locals to point it out.
• Horseback riding Jaco: Locals and foreigners offer riding.
• Hang gliding Jaco: Option to fly in a hang glider or three-seat ultra-light plane.
• Kayaking Jaco: Kayaking and canoe trips are offered by local outfitters.
• Relaxing: A full range of spa services are offered in Jaco.
• Learning in Jaco: Language course are offered at several schools in Jaco.
• Sightseeing Jaco: Book a tour to a national park, such as Parque Nacional Carara. Numerous companies offer tours such as canopy, safari, bird watching, kayaking, etc.
• Biking: Rent a bike for about US$2 per hour and explore the area.
• Scootering: Mopeds and small scooters can also be rented for a day.
• Touring nature near Jaco: Neofauna offers educational tours and exhibits and is north of Jaco where visitors will find frogs, caiman and snakes.

Dangers and annoyances in Jaco Costa Rica

Jaco has some problems with the drug and prostitution sector and some minor petty crime. However, Jaco is not a dangerous place. Please take appropriate care of personal items and do not leave visible items in cars.