Jacó is a very popular tourism town in Costa Rica. Located on the Pacific Coast, it’s a few hours drive from the San José International Airport. Jacó is well known for its downtown nightlife, along with surfing and proximity to nature.
If you’re heading to Costa Rica for a vacation, I suggest bringing a locking backpack to carry the stuff you pick up along the way. I like this anti theft crossbody sling bag, as I don’t have to remove it in order to access the contents. Just spin it around to the front!
Let’s Walk!
The walk starts at the intersection of Calle Bohio and Pastor Diaz Ave. We’ll be heading south along Pastor Diaz Ave. This road is usually very busy during the day, with both pedestrian and vehicle traffic. Pastor Diaz Ave is the main strip of Jacó which runs along the beach.
Along this walk there are lots of tourist shops with souvenirs, food and various local themed items. Restaurants are everywhere – with pizza shops, taco joints, ice cream and cafes.
We’ll pass by Calle Lapa Verde, which is one of the roads which connects the downtown area to Highway #1(Costanera Sur). You’ll find more shops and stores in this area, as well as a few more hotels and long term rental condos. You can find bike shops on this road as well. Check out Ciclo Xscape at the corner of Calle Lapa Verda/Costanera Sur for some cheap used bikes and parts.
Jaco Walk – Upscale Shopping
At the south end of the main strip, you’ll find Jaco Walk. It’s a walkable shopping center that features many unique shops and restaurants. It also has an electronics store and a playground for the kids.
A very popular spot is Moyo, which serves frozen yogurt treats. This delicious food is a great way to cool off after a day of relaxing or surfing at the beach. Other great treats include a Sushi shop and a Crepe shop.
If you’re planning on spending a day in the sun, I highly recommend using sunscreen. Nothing ruins a trip better than a sunburn! Sunscreen can be very expensive in Costa Rica, so I suggest bringing your own with you for your vacation. Try this Sunstick, which is a roll on sunscreen. It’s great for packing in your luggage!
More Great Options On The Main Strip
It’s a good idea to carry a bit of local currency in Costa Rica(called “Colones”), as some street vendors don’t accept card. When I need to take out cash with my credit card, I always use the ATM’s at Banco Nacional. They’ve always been reliable and have the lowest fees. Look for the blue sign and a ‘BN’ to find it. The one in Jacó is about 100 meters north of Jacó Walk.
In this same area, there’s a grocery store called ‘Mas x Menos’, which is spoken as “mas para menos“. It means more for less, and it’s a Walmart brand supermarket. Here you’ll find cheap prices for many of the food essentials. It’s conveniently located and likely to be the best/biggest supermarket near your accommodations.
Bonus Video: Check Out El Miro
If you’re wondering what there is to do in Jacó, definitely visit the hiking trail that goes to El Miro. This hike is at the south end of Jacó, and the best part is that it’s completely free. There’s often a vendor at the bottom of the hill serving fresh juice, perfect for after the hike.
The trail is well marked, and you can often see a variety of animals along the path. I’ve completed the trek a few times, and I’ve seen monkeys, toucans, scarlet macaws, and even a turquoise lizard.
Jaco is a fantastic town that’s definitely worth visiting during your time in Costa Rica. With great restaurants, surfing and nightlife – you’re sure to find some entertaining experiences.
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Jaco Downtown FAQ: Beach Town Guide
Q: Where is downtown Jaco located?
A: Main street runs parallel to beach, stretches 2.5 km. Central area between beach and highway. Walking distance to everything. Runs north-south along entire beach.
Q: What facilities exist?
A: Full services: Large supermarkets, Medical clinics, Banks with ATMs, Pharmacy chains. Bus terminal central location. Modern shopping centers. International restaurants throughout.
Q: How’s getting around?
A: Walking works for most needs. Local taxis readily available ($2-5 rides). Public buses to nearby beaches. Main roads well paved. Rental cars, scooters, bikes available.
Q: What’s nearby?
A: Beach one block west of main street. South end quieter, north end livelier. Shopping centers east side. Bus terminal north end. Medical facilities central area.
Q: When’s best time to visit?
A: Shops open 8 AM – 8 PM. Restaurants until 10 PM. Bars until 2 AM. Morning coolest for walking. Afternoon rain common May-November. Evening social scene active.
Q: What about safety?
A: Well-lit main street. Police presence central area. Use marked taxis at night. Watch belongings at beach. ATMs inside stores safer. Main areas active day and night.
Q: Where to find local food?
A: Local sodas off main street ($5-10 meals). Food courts in shopping centers. Beach restaurants pricier. Small markets for fresh fruit. Evening food vendors near bus terminal.
