Jacó.

The breaks

Recognised, publicly known surf spots around Jacó. Suitability depends on the day's swell, wind and tide, so treat the level as a guide, not a guarantee.

Costa Rica's city-side surf town

Jacó sits on the Central Pacific coast in the province of Puntarenas, where a long, dark-sand beach curves between forested headlands. Because it is the closest major surf town to San José, it has long been the weekend escape for the capital's surfers and families, and it grew quickly into a busy resort town with high-rise apartments, hotels, restaurants and nightlife.

That growth gives Jacó a different feel from the quieter surf villages of Guanacaste and the Nicoya Peninsula. It is lively, built-up and has a reputation for nightlife, but it also has a strong local surf community, dozens of surf schools and easy access to some of the Central Pacific's best waves.

Jacó beach: a place to learn

Jacó's main beach is a long beach break with peaks along its length. On small to medium swells, the waves are forgiving and consistent, which makes it one of Costa Rica's most popular places to learn. Surf schools and board rental stands line the beachfront, and the central and northern sections are usually the most suitable for lessons.

On bigger swells, Jacó can close out and become powerful, with strong rip currents, particularly near the river mouths at either end of the beach. Lifeguard coverage is limited, so beginners should learn with a school.

Playa Hermosa: power to the south

About five kilometres south of Jacó, Playa Hermosa is a long, steep beach break known for powerful, hollow waves and a consistent swell exposure. It is one of the best-known competition beaches in Costa Rica, having hosted national and international events. The waves can be heavy, with strong currents and a hard shore break, so it is best for experienced surfers.

Playa Hermosa is quieter than Jacó, with a handful of surf hotels, guesthouses and restaurants along the beach road. Do not confuse it with the Playa Hermosa near Santa Teresa or the one in Guanacaste; Costa Rica has several beaches with the same name.

Boca Barranca and its long left

North of Jacó, near the port city of Puntarenas, Boca Barranca is a river-mouth wave famous for producing very long left-hand rides on a solid south swell. The wave peels along a sandbar at the mouth of the Barranca River, and on the right day it can offer one of the longest rides in Central America.

The water at Boca Barranca has had a reputation for poor quality, especially after heavy rain, because of runoff from the river. Crocodiles also live in the river and estuary. Check local advice, avoid surfing after heavy rain and never surf near the river mouth at dawn or dusk.

Esterillos, Playa Escondida and the coast

South of Playa Hermosa, the Esterillos beaches stretch for kilometres with fewer people and more relaxed, rural surroundings. Playa Escondida, a hidden cove north of Jacó reached mainly by boat, has a reef break that can be excellent for experienced surfers. Playa Herradura, just north of Jacó, is a sheltered bay that rarely has surf and is better for swimming.

With a car, you can check several beaches in a morning and choose the best option for the day's swell and wind.

Seasons and swell

Jacó and Playa Hermosa have surf all year, thanks to their exposure to south and south-west swells. The most consistent and powerful swells arrive in the green season, from roughly April to October, when afternoon rain is common. Mornings are usually the best time to surf, before onshore winds pick up.

The dry season, from roughly December to April, brings sunnier weather, smaller and cleaner swells and more tourists, especially from San José on weekends and holidays. It is a good time for beginners in Jacó.

Crocodiles and safety

Crocodiles are a real presence on Costa Rica's Central Pacific coast. The Tárcoles River, north of Jacó, is famous for its large crocodiles, which can be seen from the bridge on the main highway, and crocodiles occasionally appear in river mouths and on beaches in the region. Avoid surfing near river mouths, especially at dawn, dusk and after heavy rain, and follow local warnings.

Rip currents are the more common hazard, particularly at Jacó and Playa Hermosa. Petty theft can occur, so do not leave valuables on the beach or in cars. Take normal precautions at night.

Getting there from San José

Jacó is roughly an hour and a half to two hours from San José and Juan Santamaría International Airport by road, via the Ruta 27 highway and the coastal road. Shuttles, buses and rental cars are all available, and many hotels arrange airport transfers.

In Jacó, the town is walkable, and taxis are available for trips to Playa Hermosa and other beaches. A car is useful for exploring further along the coast.

Where to stay in Jacó

Jacó has a wide range of accommodation, from hostels and surf camps to apartments and resort hotels. Staying in the centre puts you close to restaurants, nightlife and the beach, while the quieter northern end of town and Playa Hermosa suit those who prefer a calmer stay. Playa Hermosa is the best base for experienced surfers who want to be right by the waves.

Carara, macaws and flat days

Carara National Park, about twenty minutes north of Jacó, protects a transition zone between dry and wet forest and is one of the best places in Costa Rica to see scarlet macaws, along with monkeys, sloths and many bird species. The crocodile bridge over the Tárcoles River is a popular stop on the way. Manuel Antonio National Park, about an hour south, has beaches, rainforest trails and abundant wildlife.

In Jacó, adventure tours include zip-lining, waterfall hikes and horseback riding.

Jacó or Santa Teresa?

Jacó is closer to San José, livelier and more developed, with consistent waves for beginners and powerful Playa Hermosa nearby. Santa Teresa, on the Nicoya Peninsula, is more remote and bohemian, with a jungle backdrop and a slower pace. Jacó suits short trips and those wanting nightlife and convenience; Santa Teresa suits those wanting a more natural setting.

Jacó surf season month by month

A broad planning picture, not a forecast. Swell, wind and water temperature vary from year to year.

Learning to surf in Jacó

Jacó is one of Costa Rica's busiest learning beaches, with dozens of surf schools offering lessons, packages and board rental. The central and northern parts of the beach are usually used for lessons, and the dry season brings smaller, cleaner waves that suit beginners.

Ask about instructor qualifications, group sizes and how schools deal with rip currents. Playa Hermosa and Boca Barranca are for more experienced surfers.

Comparing options across the country? Read our guide to surfing in Costa Rica.