My Return to Jaco Beach, Costa Rica

As a 44-year-old single traveler from Boston, I recently made my third trip to Costa Rica, a country that never fails to impress me with its beauty, energy, and warmth. This time, I decided to spend my vacation in Jaco Beach, one of the most well-known coastal towns on Costa Rica’s Pacific side. I wanted a destination where I could combine adventure, beach time, and nightlife all in one place, and Jaco delivered in every possible way. For my stay, I booked an Airbnb called Jaco Beach Rental, which was conveniently located just a short walk from both the beach and the heart of downtown. The apartment was clean, modern, and had all the comforts I needed — air conditioning, a great shower, strong Wi-Fi, and a balcony where I could relax after long days exploring. The host was professional and friendly, providing helpful tips about local tours, restaurants, and nightlife spots, which made my stay even more enjoyable.

Jaco Beach has a unique rhythm that’s hard to describe until you experience it for yourself. The town has a laid-back surfer vibe mixed with the liveliness of a coastal city. The beach itself stretches for nearly three kilometers, framed by lush green hills and the sound of consistent waves rolling in. Every morning, I’d grab a coffee from a nearby café and take a long walk along the sand as the sun rose over the mountains. The view of the early surfers paddling out into the waves was something special. Jaco’s waves are famous — they’re powerful enough for experienced surfers but still manageable for beginners, and there are surf schools all along the beach. I decided to take a surfing lesson one afternoon, and though I fell more times than I’d like to admit, the thrill of finally standing up on the board was worth every wipeout. Beyond surfing, I joined several adventure tours, including an ATV ride through the rainforest and up into the surrounding hills, a hike to a nearby waterfall, and even some light mountain climbing. Each activity showed a different side of Costa Rica’s natural beauty — dense jungle, ocean views, and the ever-present soundtrack of tropical wildlife.

After long days of adventure, Jaco’s nightlife offered the perfect way to unwind. The town is known for its wide range of restaurants, bars, and clubs, and I made a point to experience as many as I could. One of my favorite spots was Mynt Lounge, a trendy beachfront bar that perfectly captures the modern spirit of Jaco while keeping that relaxed coastal charm. Mynt had cool swings for bar stools, which added a fun touch, and the atmosphere was vibrant without feeling overwhelming. The food was excellent — I tried their tacos and fresh ceviche — and the beers were always ice-cold. The staff was friendly, and the crowd was a good mix of locals and international visitors. Sitting there with my drink in hand, feeling the ocean breeze and listening to the music, I couldn’t help but think how easy it is to fall in love with places like this. It’s casual, friendly, and just upscale enough to feel special.

I also spent a few evenings at the Cocal Hotel and Casino, which sits right in the center of Jaco Beach and offers a lively beachfront atmosphere. The place has become something of an institution in Jaco — part resort, part casino, and part social hub. I tried my luck at the tables and enjoyed a few cocktails while chatting with travelers from all over the world. The combination of beachfront views, friendly people, and upbeat energy made every night feel like a celebration. I met some wonderful people along the way, including a few friendly locals who showed me around town. Everyone I met in Costa Rica, as always, was incredibly kind, open, and full of good vibes. The people are what make the country so special — there’s a genuine sense of happiness that’s contagious. Whether it was striking up a conversation at a bar, meeting fellow travelers on an ATV tour, or chatting with locals at the beach, I felt welcomed everywhere I went. That easy connection with people is one of the reasons I keep coming back to Costa Rica.

Looking back on this trip, staying at Jaco Beach Rental was the perfect choice for my time in Jaco. The location gave me easy access to both the excitement of the town and the tranquility of the beach. Each day offered something new — from riding ATVs through the jungle to enjoying fresh seafood by the water, to dancing at night with new friends. Jaco Beach truly has something for everyone, and it manages to balance adventure and relaxation in a way that few places can. As I packed my bags to return to Boston, I couldn’t help but feel that familiar sense of gratitude and anticipation — grateful for another unforgettable Costa Rican experience, and already looking forward to the next one. The phrase “Pura Vida” isn’t just a slogan here; it’s a real way of life that you feel in every moment. Jaco reminded me that sometimes the best trips aren’t about escaping life — they’re about finding a new way to live it.