Jaco Beach
Quick Facts
- Location : Jaco
- Altitude : Sea level
Jaco beach is a two-mile stretch of volcanic rock churned by the waves into fine dark, sand, peppered with smooth pebbles. In-high season (Dec.- April) you're likely to see it fill up on the weekends as locals from San Jose escape to the sandy Pacific shores.
read more closeBoth beginner and seasoned surfers enjoy its year-round breaks and accessibility to nearby surf spots like Escondido, Boca Barranca, Hermosa and Esterillos. Jaco beach's most renowned surf spot is on the south end, just past the point known as Roca Loca (Crazy Rock), just beyond the cliff along the Route 34.
The beach's southern end is more suitable for beginner surfers with smooth spilling waves good for long boards and relaxing rides. The waves get larger and stronger the farther north you move up the beach and at the northern tip, near Clarita's, the wave are fast and hollow at mid-tide.
You can rent boards in town or at one of the tents set up on the beach. Rent a board for $10 to $20 a day, or get lessons for $50 a day.
Jaco has its share of riptides, though not as many as neighboring Hermosa Beach. A handful of lifeguard towers are normally manned during the high season months of December-April.
After a long day in the sun, visitors can unwind with a cocktail in a beachfront cafe or bar.