My Return Costa Rica Escape at Jaco Beach

As a 36-year-old single traveler from New Jersey, I recently returned from what might be my favorite trip yet — my third visit to Costa Rica, and this time I spent my stay in the lively coastal town of Jaco Beach. I’ve always been drawn to Costa Rica for its warm weather, friendly people, and endless things to do, and Jaco turned out to be the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation. I stayed at a great Airbnb called Jaco Beach Apartments, located close to everything — the beach, restaurants, and the main downtown strip. The apartment was clean, comfortable, and had all the modern amenities I needed. The host was welcoming and helpful, offering recommendations on where to go for nightlife and adventure tours. From the moment I checked in, I knew I was in for an unforgettable week in one of Costa Rica’s most energetic and scenic destinations.

Jaco Beach has a rhythm that’s hard to describe — a combination of ocean waves, music from beach bars, and the hum of travelers and locals enjoying life. The beach itself is stunning: a long stretch of dark volcanic sand framed by green hills, with waves that are perfect for surfing. I spent my mornings walking along the shore, watching the surfers ride the early sets as the sun rose over the mountains. I couldn’t resist trying it myself and took a surfing lesson with one of the local instructors. It was tough at first, but once I got the hang of it, I was hooked. Beyond surfing, I joined a few adventure tours that took me deeper into the Costa Rican landscape. One of the highlights was an ATV tour through the jungle and up into the hills surrounding Jaco. The views from the top were incredible — a full panorama of the coastline, jungle, and Pacific Ocean all in one frame. I also did some hiking, mountain climbing, and even explored a nearby waterfall where I could take a refreshing dip. Each day was packed with outdoor adventure and natural beauty, which is what I love most about Costa Rica.

When it came to nightlife, Jaco Beach did not disappoint. The town is famous for its lively evening scene, and I made sure to experience it firsthand. One of my favorite spots was Mynt Lounge, a beachfront bar with a stylish, laid-back vibe. The place had swings for bar stools, tropical decor, great food, and cold beers that hit the spot after a long day of adventure. The staff was friendly, and the music created the perfect atmosphere for meeting people and unwinding. Mynt Lounge quickly became my go-to place to start the night before heading to other bars and clubs around downtown Jaco. Another highlight was Orange Pub, one of the biggest dance clubs in Jaco. The energy inside was electric — flashing lights, a live DJ, and a mix of locals and travelers all dancing together until the early morning hours. The combination of beachside bars, music, and great company made every night in Jaco feel like a celebration.

During the days when I wasn’t out exploring or surfing, I took some time to visit nearby attractions. One afternoon I went over to Los Sueños Resort and Marina in Playa Herradura, just a short drive north of Jaco. It’s a beautiful upscale area with luxury boats, restaurants, and a relaxing beachfront setting. I grabbed lunch there and enjoyed the calm contrast to Jaco’s more energetic vibe. Back in town, I spent time at the beachfront casinos in the center of Jaco, where I played a few rounds and chatted with other travelers. I met several friendly locals and tourists throughout my stay, including some lovely lady friends who made the experience even more memorable. Everyone I met in Costa Rica — whether locals or visitors — was kind, easygoing, and welcoming. That’s part of what keeps drawing me back to this country; it’s not just the scenery but the genuine warmth of the people that makes every visit feel special.

Looking back, my stay at Jaco Beach Apartments was exactly what I needed for this trip — a comfortable and convenient base to enjoy all the best that Jaco has to offer. The combination of adventure, beach life, and nightlife made for the perfect balance of excitement and relaxation. Whether it was riding ATVs through the jungle, watching the sunset over the Pacific, dancing at Orange Pub, or grabbing a drink at Mynt Lounge, every day in Jaco brought something new. It’s easy to see why Jaco Beach remains one of Costa Rica’s most popular destinations — it’s a place where adventure and fun never stop, and where it’s impossible not to make great memories. This trip reminded me why I keep coming back to Costa Rica: the people, the energy, and that unmistakable “Pura Vida” spirit. I left Jaco feeling refreshed, happy, and already planning my next visit. If you’re looking for a destination that truly captures the essence of Costa Rica — beautiful beaches, friendly people, and endless excitement — Jaco Beach is the place to be.