Friends, ready to trade routine for roaring Pacific waves, tropical canopies, and epic sunsets? Jaco, nestled just 90 minutes southwest of San José’s airport, packs rainforest peaks, white-sand beaches, and vibrant nightlife into one compact surf town.

Below, must-do experiences—from rooftop viewpoints at sunset to adrenaline-pumping waterfall zips—are mapped out with times, prices, and insider tips to turn your Costa Rican getaway into pure Pura Vida magic.

El Miro Sunset

Scale the abandoned El Miro Hotel ruins for jaw-dropping sunset panoramas. The uphill trail begins at the highway’s southern edge of town—follow a dirt road for 5 minutes by foot or take a local taxi ($5–$7 each way). A moderate 30-minute hike (wear sturdy shoes) brings you first to a lower lookout, then a sharp left turn reveals the main viewpoint.

Arrive by 5 p.m. to stake out the 6 p.m. sunset. Lifeguards recommend heading down before darkness; group hikes or guided tours (approx. $25 pp) add safety and local lore.

Surf Lessons

Jaco’s main beach churns reliable waves year-round, making it perfect for beginners. Board rentals run $10 for 24 hours, while a two-hour group lesson—including board, wetsuit, and instructor—costs $50 per person. Lessons start daily at 8 a.m. and 3 p.m. at Jaco Surf School, located in front of the primary surf break.

Novices should stick to the southern stretch near Calle 1, where gentle rollers ease you in. Advanced surfers can taxi ($8) to Playa Hermosa’s heavier swells—only for seasoned riders, as strong currents ban swimming.

Tortuga Island

Escape to pristine White Beach on Tortuga Island with a full-day speedboat tour. Departure is at 8 a.m. from Punta Leona Marina, including a 30-minute drive from Jaco (shuttle $15 pp). The $95 excursion covers boat transport, snorkeling gear and buffet lunch. En route you’ll pause at Tarcoles River for 15-foot crocodile sightings, then skim across the Gulf of Nicoya toward Isla Tortuga.

Onshore, rent a beach chair for $5, sip fresh coconut water for $1 - $3, or take a kayak ride ($10). Return to Jaco by 4 p.m.

Crocodile Bridge

For free wildlife thrills, head 20 km north on the coastal highway to Río Tarcoles Bridge. Park at the roadside lot (no fee), then walk the pedestrian lane to spot 10–15 crocs lounging below. Arrive between 9 a.m. and 11 a.m. for the best sunning action. No guide needed, though a $20 pp river cruise offers up-close views and narration. Scooter rentals in Jaco start at $25 for four hours, making the round trip both budget-friendly and scenic.

Canopy Zipline

Soar over rainforest valleys on one of three zipline courses. The basic four-line Canopy Tour runs $65 pp and lasts 1.5 hours, with safety gear and shuttle from Jaco included. For thrill-seekers, the Mega Tour features 12 lines across 11 waterfalls—including a 1,200 m “Superman” descent—for $120 pp over 3 hours, lunch included. Book morning slots (8 a.m. or 10 a.m.) to avoid afternoon rains. Wear socks and athletic shoes; waterproof camera cases available for $5.

Manuel Antonio

Venture south for a half-day trip to Manuel Antonio National Park—home to sloths, capuchin monkeys, and jade beaches. Tours depart Jaco at 7 a.m. ($85 pp) with round-trip transport, guide, and park entrance (US$16). Hike the 2 km Cathedral Trail past mangroves to Playa Espadilla for a 2-hour jungle trek. Time for a swim on Manuel Antonio Beach follows before lunch at a local sodita ($12 for casado plate). Return by 4 p.m., leaving evening free in town.

Villa Caletas

Crown your Jaco visit at Villa Caletas’ Greek-style amphitheater. Taxis from central Jaco run $10–14 each way; driving yourself takes 15 minutes on well-paved roads. Settle into a cushioned seat at 5:30 p.m. to watch coast and rainforest hills glow in golden light. Dinner service follows, with gourmet entrées from $25—ideal for a special evening.

Whether you’re chasing the last light from El Miro’s crumbling heights, learning to ride your first wave, or toasting a tropical evening at Villa Caletas, Jaco delivers nonstop thrills. Pack your sense of wonder, choose your favorite escape, and get ready to write your own Costa Rican adventure—because here, every sunset brings a new story. Which experience will you dive into first?