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Jaco: Surfs Up. Party Down.
This town revolves around two things: High tide and Ladies’ night. Surfers and socialites from far and wide come to Jaco for fantastic year-round weather, consistent waves and party-like atmosphere.
In all honesty, Jaco is not the place to go to experience typical Costa Rican culture. But definitely come here if you are looking for phenomenal waves; all the comforts of home; and what many consider the biggest and baddest nightlife scene in Costa Rica. The party "hotspot du jour" depends on the day of the week. Some offer different nightly specials, so ask a local for recommendations before hitting the bars or discos.
Jaco’s most admired waves are located toward the middle and northern ends of the shoreline. The southernmost part features smaller waves and a sandy bottom that is perfect for beginner surfers. Playa Hermosa, Jaco’s quieter neighbor, is home to professional level breaks. The waves are so good that the annual Billabong World Surfing Games competition is held here each year – among other international contests.
Scuba diving and snorkeling opportunities just north of Jaco are legendary. Local excursions depart from Herradura Bay and take passengers to the white sands of Isla Tortuga – an isolated paradise home to tropical fish, giant manta rays, sea turtles and more.
For wildlife above the surface, check out Carara National Park just outside of Jaco. This protected area is a unique transitional area where the dry tropical forest merges with wet rainforest. The result is an abundance of wildlife. Crocodile safari tours running up and down the Tarcoles River are perfect opportunities for wildlife lovers to observe Costa Rican birds and reptiles in their natural habitat. Mammals like coatimundis, kinkajous and sloths also populate the treetops.
Jaco is a shopper’s paradise with a potpourri of chic, colorful shops selling both imported items and merchandise designed and produced right here in Costa Rica. Dessi, a swimsuit seamstress at the Wishes of Venus boutique just outside of town, creates eye-catching bikinis that are custom designed for active women surfers.
