My First Trip to Jaco Beach, Costa Rica

As a 60-year-old single traveler from New York City, I decided it was finally time to check off a long-awaited destination from my bucket list—Costa Rica. I’d heard so many good things about the country’s beaches, people, and laid-back lifestyle, so I booked a flight and headed to Jaco Beach for what turned out to be an unforgettable experience. For my stay, I chose an Airbnb rental called Jaco Beach Airbnb, which turned out to be a fantastic decision. The property was clean, comfortable, and just a short walk from the sand and all the main attractions. It offered the perfect blend of convenience and relaxation, with a host who was friendly and helpful with local recommendations.

Jaco Beach itself exceeded my expectations. The town is vibrant and full of life, with a mix of locals, expats, and travelers from all over the world. The long stretch of beach has dark volcanic sand, warm Pacific waves, and a dramatic view of the surrounding hills and palm trees. It’s a surfer’s paradise, and even though I’m not as young as I used to be, I couldn’t resist giving surfing a try. I took a beginner’s lesson right on the beach, and after a few tries, I was actually catching small waves and standing up. Between surf sessions, I’d walk along the shore, enjoy a cold drink from one of the beachside vendors, and watch the sunset paint the sky in brilliant shades of orange and pink. The energy of Jaco Beach was contagious—everyone seemed to be smiling and enjoying the moment.

Of course, I didn’t spend all my time lounging. Costa Rica is famous for its adventure tours, and Jaco Beach is one of the best spots in the country to experience them. I signed up for an ATV jungle tour that took me through muddy mountain trails and deep into the rainforest, passing rivers, waterfalls, and scenic overlooks. It was thrilling to ride through the wilderness, with monkeys and colorful birds in the trees above. I also went hiking in the nearby hills and even did a bit of mountain climbing with a local guide who showed me secret spots overlooking the coastline. Each day brought something new—surfing in the morning, exploring nature in the afternoon, and relaxing at night. The mix of adrenaline and natural beauty made me fall in love with the region even more.

When the sun went down, Jaco Beach transformed into a completely different kind of adventure. The nightlife here is well known across Costa Rica, and it didn’t disappoint. I went out to several dance clubs and casinos scattered throughout the main strip. Each had its own vibe—some more relaxed with live music, others energetic with DJs and packed dance floors. As a solo traveler, I was pleasantly surprised by how easy it was to meet people. Everyone in Costa Rica seemed incredibly friendly and welcoming. I met some wonderful lady friends while out on the town, and we shared great conversations, laughter, and dancing. It reminded me that travel is not just about the places you see but the connections you make along the way. The locals and fellow travelers alike had a genuine warmth that made every night feel like a celebration.

Looking back, my stay at Jaco Beach Airbnb and my first visit to Costa Rica were nothing short of amazing. The mix of outdoor adventure, lively social scene, and kind-hearted people made it one of the best trips I’ve ever taken. From the thrill of riding ATVs through the jungle to the tranquility of watching the waves roll in, every day brought something new to enjoy. For anyone thinking about visiting Jaco Beach—whether you’re young or just young at heart—I can’t recommend it enough. It’s a place where adventure meets relaxation, and where every sunset feels like a reward. I left Jaco with new memories, new friends, and a strong desire to return someday soon. Costa Rica truly lives up to its famous saying: “Pura Vida.”