Nestled on Costa Rica’s Central Pacific coast, Jaco has evolved from a sleepy fishing village into a vibrant surf town that draws wave-chasers from around the globe. With consistent year-round swells, a variety of breaks for all skill levels, and a notoriously lively nightlife scene, this coastal gem offers the perfect blend of daytime adventure and after-dark excitement for the traveling surfer.

When to visit for the best surf

Timing your trip to Jaco depends on your skill level and what kind of waves you’re seeking. The surf season generally follows two distinct patterns:

Dry season (December to April)

This period brings offshore morning winds with moderate, clean waves that typically reach three to five feet. The consistent conditions and smaller swells make this an ideal time for beginners and intermediate surfers. The weather is sunny and hot, with minimal rainfall, creating perfect beach days when you’re not in the water.

Wet season (May to November)

When the rains come, so do the bigger swells. Advanced surfers should target these months, particularly June through August, when waves can consistently reach six to eight feet. Morning sessions remain relatively clean, while afternoon conditions often bring onshore winds. Despite the “wet” designation, rain typically occurs in short, heavy bursts, leaving plenty of dry hours for surfing.

Water temperatures hover around a comfortable 80°F (27°C) year-round, so you can leave the wetsuit at home and surf in board shorts or a bikini during your entire stay.

Jaco’s best surf breaks

The town’s central location provides easy access to numerous quality breaks within a short drive, offering options for every skill level:

Jaco Beach

The main beach break right in town provides a convenient option for surfers staying nearby. The expansive beach offers peaks up and down its length, making it suitable for beginners during smaller swells, while still providing fun rides for intermediates when conditions pick up. The southern end tends to offer more consistent waves.

Playa Hermosa

Just a ten-minute drive south of town, Hermosa deserves its reputation as one of Costa Rica’s most consistent and powerful beach breaks. This black-sand beach produces hollow, fast waves that break over a sandy bottom. Best suited for intermediate to advanced surfers, Hermosa hosts several international competitions annually. Morning sessions typically provide the cleanest conditions before onshore winds arrive.

Roca Loca

For experienced surfers seeking a challenge, this reef break north of Jaco delivers powerful, hollow waves breaking over a rocky bottom. As the name suggests (“Crazy Rock”), it’s not for the faint-hearted, but it offers some of the area’s most rewarding rides when conditions align.

Playa Esterillos

This stretch of coast about 20 minutes south of Jaco comprises three distinct beaches (Este, Centro, and Oeste), each offering unique wave characteristics. Esterillos Este provides friendlier waves for beginners, while Centro and Oeste deliver more powerful breaks for experienced surfers.

The vibrant nightlife scene

After a day catching waves, Jaco transforms into one of Costa Rica’s most energetic nightlife destinations. The compact downtown area packs in an impressive variety of bars, clubs and restaurants within walking distance of most accommodations.

Sunset spots and early evening vibes

As the sun dips behind the Pacific, surfers gather to share stories of the day’s sessions at several beachfront establishments:

Backyard Bar

Backyard Bar is an open-air venue directly on the beach and provides the perfect setting for watching sunset colors while sipping a cold Imperial beer. Live music often starts early, with local musicians playing everything from acoustic covers to reggae.

El Point

Popular with both locals and tourists, El Point casual spot offers wallet-friendly drink specials and a sociable atmosphere where you can connect with fellow surfers.

Late night energy

When the evening progresses, the town’s energy shifts to several notable hotspots:

Jaco Bl

Jack BI is a multi-level nightclub featuring different music styles on each floor, from electronic dance music to reggaeton and Latin rhythms. The open-air rooftop provides a breather from the packed dance floors below.

Le Loft

With its sophisticated design and quality sound system, Le Loft attracts a stylish crowd and international DJs. The club often hosts special themed nights throughout the week.

Orange Pub

This longstanding favorite combines sports bar elements early in the evening with more club-like energy as the night progresses. Their craft beer selection stands out in a town dominated by national lagers.

Where to fuel up between sessions

Surfing builds an appetite, and Jaco offers plenty of options to refuel:

Taco Bar

A surfer-owned establishment serves authentic Mexican fare at reasonable prices. Taco Bar’s fish tacos, made with the day’s fresh catch, pair perfectly with a cold cerveza after a morning session.

Soda Garabito

For an authentic Costa Rican experience, this local “soda” serves traditional casados (mixed plates) featuring rice, beans, plantains, and your choice of protein. The hearty portions and budget-friendly prices make this a favorite among visiting surfers.

Bohio Beach Café

Located right on the beach, Bohio Beach Café is perfect for grabbing a smoothie or acai bowl between surf sessions without having to venture far from the waves.

Green Room Café

Connected to the aforementioned surf shop, Green Room Café is a health-focused eatery serving nutritious options designed to fuel surf sessions, including protein-rich bowls and fresh fruit smoothies.

Beyond surfing

While waves might be your primary focus, Jaco offers plenty to fill your time when you’re taking a day off from surfing:

Where to stay for easy wave access

Accommodation options in Jaco cater to all budgets:

Budget-friendly: Hostels like Selina Jaco offer affordable dorm beds and social atmospheres perfect for meeting fellow traveling surfers.

Mid-range: Hotels such as Hotel Mor and Oceano Boutique Hotel provide comfortable rooms within walking distance of the beach and nightlife.

Upscale: If you’re seeking more luxury, Los Sueños Resort and Hotel Club Del Mar offer upscale amenities and stunning ocean views.

Many accommodations offer surf packages that include board rentals and lessons, which can be a convenient option for first-time visitors.

Ride on

From the consistent waves breaking along its volcanic sand beaches to the energetic nightlife that keeps the good vibes flowing after dark, Jaco embodies what makes Costa Rica special for surfers. Whether you’re dropping into your first green wave or hunting tubes at Hermosa, this Pacific coast town delivers an authentic surf experience wrapped in pura vida spirit. As locals say when parting ways in the lineup, “buenas olas”. In English, may good waves find you in Jaco.

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