Costa Rica Feedback

The Reviews!

  • Scott Nguyen & Margaret Robinson’s Jaco Beach Getaway — Trip Report

    We’re Scott Nguyen & Margaret Robinson—55 and 51—and Jaco Beach felt like the right kind of reset. Our home base was a Downtown Jaco Beach Airbnb Apartment—quiet when we needed downtime, close to the water when we wanted surf and sunset. The first thing I noticed was the backdrop: palms, mountains, and that long, gray‑gold arc of sand where the Pacific keeps time.

    I kept days simple and active. I started with Soda Jaco Rustico Restaurant, then fit in Pura Vida Gardens and Waterfalls. Midweek I added Went to Tortuga Island on Cruise and wrapped up with Orange Pub for Dancing. It’s easy to pivot with the weather—mornings for the ocean, afternoons for shade, and the hour before sunset for photos.

    I liked mixing beach time with short rides to nearby spots—Herradura’s marina, Playa Hermosa’s surf, and the shops around Jaco Walk. On another day I pushed farther: Tarcoles for the bridge overlook, Quepos and Manuel Antonio for emerald coves, or Parrita’s quiet backroads. It’s all close enough for relaxed day trips. Transport was easy—taxis and Ubers came fast, buses were straightforward, and drivers were patient about short stops.

    Nights had their own current. I tried a club one evening, a beachfront bar the next, and wandered past casinos just to see the lights. People were warm in that Costa Rican way—easy smiles, quick tips, and a habit of checking that visitors felt welcome and safe. Downtown stayed lively but never restless; I always had a clear, well‑lit route back.

    By the end, I had a rhythm—beach in the morning, an adventure or two, food at a place I hadn’t tried yet, and a slow walk home under warm streetlights. Jaco and the surrounding coast are as beautiful as the photos: jungle‑green ridges, long beaches, and sunsets that look staged. I left with a lighter step and a note in my phone that says, simply, “come back.”

  • Stephen’s San José Trip Report

    My name is Stephen Roberts, I’m 57, and I spent a week in San José, Costa Rica. I booked a Modern Airbnb Apartment in San José that ended up being the perfect home base—comfortable, calm, and an easy walk to everything downtown. Stepping outside felt like changing rhythms—soft, bright mornings; warm, breezy afternoons; and evenings where the city lights stitched together a friendly skyline.

    My first stop was the Utopia Discoteca in San Jose, a perfect entry into the city’s heartbeat—neighbors greeting each other, fresh coffee in the air, and bright fruit stands. I set aside time for the Costa Rica Beer Factory, which layered history and context onto the streets I was walking. By sunset I reached Mexican Restaurant Jaguar Negra in Escazu, where the energy was relaxed but lively, and the food scene rewarded wandering.

    Afternoons were my favorite. I wandered Avenida Central and the plazas around it, watched a street performer, and ducked into a café when quick showers rolled through. Escazú and Santa Ana gave the day a different rhythm—sleek malls, leafy streets, and restaurants perfect for unhurried dinners. Getting around was easy: taxis and Ubers were simple to hail, buses were straightforward, and the whole city felt sensible to navigate. I kept small notes so I wouldn’t forget the details—golden light on historic façades, cinnamon warmth in café con leche, and quiet parks waking up in the morning.

    When the sun went down, San José sprang to life. I tried a downtown dance club, laughed through a few low‑stakes casino games, and felt the city’s friendliness everywhere—bartenders, taxi drivers, and people in late‑night lines. The nightlife felt welcoming instead of intimidating, and I kept noticing how safe the city felt as I moved between venues—well‑lit streets, helpful drivers, and clear routes back. Everyone I met was kind, the sort of warmth that makes you feel invited.

    By the end of the week, I was walking slower, looking up more, and collecting moments I didn’t want to lose. San José offered exactly the balance I needed: culture without complication, social without overwhelm, and grounded in everyday kindness. I’m already planning a return to explore more corners of Costa Rica’s capital and the nearby neighborhoods of Escazú and Santa Ana.

  • James’s San José Trip Report

    I’m James Johnson, 35 years old, and I just spent a week in San José, Costa Rica. I booked a stay at a Central San José Airbnb Apartment that turned out to be the perfect base: clean, quiet when I needed it, and an easy walk to cafés and parks downtown. Stepping outside felt like stepping into a warmer rhythm—sunlit mornings, light breezes in the afternoon, and evenings where the city glowed. The apartment gave me the calm I wanted between explorations, and the location made spontaneous detours effortless.

    I started by visiting the Central Market, which was the perfect lens into the city’s daily heartbeat—locals shopping shoulder to shoulder with travelers, bright produce, and the smell of fresh coffee drifting through the aisles. Later I set my sights on neighborhoods I’d heard about, getting a feel for how the capital blends energy and ease. I also carved out time for the Barrio Escalante Restaurants, a highlight that made the city’s history feel close and tangible.

    Afternoons became my favorite hours. I’d wander Avenida Central and the plazas around it, watching street performers and families, ducking into cafés when brief showers passed. Escazú and Santa Ana offered a contrast—sleek malls, leafy streets, and restaurants that gave the day a quieter finish. What surprised me most was how easy it was to move around: taxis and Ubers were simple to hail, buses were straightforward, and everything felt sensible and safe even late in the evening. I kept notes in my phone so I wouldn’t lose the small discoveries—like the way the afternoon light lands on the National Theater’s façade, or how the coffee at a tiny café near Parque Central tasted faintly of cocoa. Little things added up to a city I didn’t expect to love this much.

    When the sun went down, the city switched on. I tried a dance club downtown, laughed over a few small casino bets, and found that San José’s nightlife is more about connection than spectacle. People were warm everywhere—bartenders, taxi drivers, folks in line at the late-night bakery—and that friendliness changed how the city felt. It wasn’t just that Costa Ricans are welcoming; it’s that they make room for you in their night, like there’s always one more chair at the table.

    By the end of the trip I realized I was walking slower, looking up more, and collecting little details I didn’t want to forget—the golden light on old façades, the quiet of early morning parks, the comfort of knowing I could get anywhere without stress. San José turned out to be exactly what I needed: culturally rich without being complicated, social without being overwhelming, and grounded in everyday kindness. I’m already planning my return, eager to explore even more corners of the capital and its nearby neighborhoods.

  • Danny’s Great Visit

    My San José, Costa Rica Adventure

    As a 38-year-old single traveler from San Francisco, California, I decided to escape the cold U.S. winter and head back to one of my favorite countries — Costa Rica. This was my second trip to the country, but my first time staying in the capital city of San José. My previous visit to La Fortuna had been filled with nature and relaxation, so this time I wanted something different: the energy of the city, the nightlife, and the chance to experience the cultural side of Costa Rica. I booked a modern apartment at Av6 Residences Rentals, and from the moment I arrived, I knew I had made the right choice. The building was clean, secure, and stylish, with easy access to everything downtown. My host was incredibly accommodating, providing tips on where to eat, what to see, and how to make the most of my stay. After a long flight from San Francisco, it felt great to drop my bags, step out onto the balcony, and take in the view of the bustling city below.

    San José greeted me with warm weather, friendly faces, and a unique mix of modern and historic charm. My first few days were spent exploring the city and getting to know its rhythm. I visited the Central Market, which was one of the highlights of my trip. The market was alive with color, smells, and sounds — local vendors selling everything from tropical fruits and coffee to hand-made crafts and delicious Costa Rican dishes. I had a plate of “casado,” a traditional meal with rice, beans, plantains, salad, and chicken, which was both hearty and flavorful. Later, I visited Parque La Sabana, the city’s largest urban park, often referred to as “the lungs of San José.” It was filled with people jogging, playing soccer, and enjoying the outdoors. The park also houses the Costa Rican Art Museum, and walking through it gave me a sense of the city’s deep cultural roots and appreciation for art. Between the green spaces, mountain views, and the pulse of city life, San José immediately won me over.

    When it came to dining and nightlife, I made my way to Barrio Escalante, one of the city’s most popular neighborhoods for food and drinks. The area has become a hotspot for locals and travelers alike, full of craft breweries, rooftop bars, and restaurants offering everything from Costa Rican comfort food to international fusion cuisine. I spent several evenings there, sampling local beers, tasting ceviche, and chatting with both locals and expats. The atmosphere was lively but laid-back, and it was easy to strike up conversations. One night, I joined a group of friendly Costa Ricans who invited me to share their table, and before long, we were laughing and trading stories about travel, culture, and life. That friendliness is one of the things I’ve always loved about Costa Rica — the people have a warmth and openness that makes you feel at home, no matter where you’re from.

    As night fell, San José came alive in a different way. The city’s nightlife is a mix of modern dance clubs, live music venues, and classic casinos. I spent several nights checking out different spots downtown, where the music ranged from salsa and reggaeton to international pop and electronic beats. The casinos offered a great place to relax, enjoy a few drinks, and try my luck at the tables. I also visited a few fantasy-style bars known for their entertainment and high-energy atmosphere. Everywhere I went, I was met with smiles and hospitality. I met some wonderful people during my nights out — friendly locals, fellow travelers, and a few new lady friends who made my trip even more memorable. One of them, a 31-year-old woman from the San Pedro area of San José, truly stood out. She spoke English almost fluently, and we hit it off right away. Since returning home, we’ve stayed in touch almost daily through WhatsApp. It’s rare to meet someone so genuine while traveling, but Costa Rica seems to have a way of making those connections happen naturally.

    Looking back, my stay at Av6 Residences Rentals made my trip to San José both comfortable and memorable. It was perfectly located — close to everything I wanted to see and do — and offered a modern retreat after long days of exploration. Between visiting the Central Market, spending time at Parque La Sabana, dining in Barrio Escalante, and enjoying the vibrant nightlife downtown, my trip was the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation. San José exceeded my expectations in every way. It’s a city full of culture, warmth, and life — where you can explore by day, dance by night, and always feel welcomed. My second trip to Costa Rica reminded me once again why this country has such a special place in my heart. I left with new memories, new friendships, and a connection that may just bring me back sooner than expected. There’s a phrase you hear everywhere in Costa Rica — “Pura Vida” — and after this trip, I understand it better than ever. It’s more than just a saying; it’s a way of life that stays with you long after you leave.

  • Anthony Wright & Ruth Young’s Jaco Beach Getaway — Trip Report

    We’re Anthony Wright & Ruth Young—34 and 33—and Jaco Beach felt like the right kind of reset. Our home base was a Contemporary Airbnb Apartment near Jaco Beach—quiet when we needed downtime, close to the water when we wanted surf and sunset. The first thing I noticed was the backdrop: palms, mountains, and that long, gray‑gold arc of sand where the Pacific keeps time.

    I kept days simple and active. I started with Went to Tortuga Island on Cruise, then fit in Visited Nauyaca Waterfalls. Midweek I added Tsunami Sushi Restaurant and wrapped up with The Pizza Shop Jaco Pizza Restaurant. It’s easy to pivot with the weather—mornings for the ocean, afternoons for shade, and the hour before sunset for photos.

    I liked mixing beach time with short rides to nearby spots—Herradura’s marina, Playa Hermosa’s surf, and the shops around Jaco Walk. On another day I pushed farther: Tarcoles for the bridge overlook, Quepos and Manuel Antonio for emerald coves, or Parrita’s quiet backroads. It’s all close enough for relaxed day trips. Transport was easy—taxis and Ubers came fast, buses were straightforward, and drivers were patient about short stops.

    Nights had their own current. I tried a club one evening, a beachfront bar the next, and wandered past casinos just to see the lights. People were warm in that Costa Rican way—easy smiles, quick tips, and a habit of checking that visitors felt welcome and safe. Downtown stayed lively but never restless; I always had a clear, well‑lit route back.

    By the end, I had a rhythm—beach in the morning, an adventure or two, food at a place I hadn’t tried yet, and a slow walk home under warm streetlights. Jaco and the surrounding coast are as beautiful as the photos: jungle‑green ridges, long beaches, and sunsets that look staged. I left with a lighter step and a note in my phone that says, simply, “come back.”

  • Larry’s San José Trip Report

    My name is Larry Gonzalez, I’m 27, and I spent a week in San José, Costa Rica. I booked a Modern Airbnb Apartment in San José that ended up being the perfect home base—comfortable, calm, and an easy walk to everything downtown. Stepping outside felt like changing rhythms—soft, bright mornings; warm, breezy afternoons; and evenings where the city lights stitched together a friendly skyline.

    My first stop was the Natural Science Museum La Salle, a perfect entry into the city’s heartbeat—neighbors greeting each other, fresh coffee in the air, and bright fruit stands. I set aside time for the Plaza de La Cultura, which layered history and context onto the streets I was walking. By sunset I reached Went to 9N Lounge Bar & Hookah in Escazu, where the energy was relaxed but lively, and the food scene rewarded wandering.

    Afternoons were my favorite. I wandered Avenida Central and the plazas around it, watched a street performer, and ducked into a café when quick showers rolled through. Escazú and Santa Ana gave the day a different rhythm—sleek malls, leafy streets, and restaurants perfect for unhurried dinners. Getting around was easy: taxis and Ubers were simple to hail, buses were straightforward, and the whole city felt sensible to navigate. I kept small notes so I wouldn’t forget the details—golden light on historic façades, cinnamon warmth in café con leche, and quiet parks waking up in the morning.

    When the sun went down, San José sprang to life. I tried a downtown dance club, laughed through a few low‑stakes casino games, and felt the city’s friendliness everywhere—bartenders, taxi drivers, and people in late‑night lines. The nightlife felt welcoming instead of intimidating, and I kept noticing how safe the city felt as I moved between venues—well‑lit streets, helpful drivers, and clear routes back. Everyone I met was kind, the sort of warmth that makes you feel invited.

    By the end of the week, I was walking slower, looking up more, and collecting moments I didn’t want to lose. San José offered exactly the balance I needed: culture without complication, social without overwhelm, and grounded in everyday kindness. I’m already planning a return to explore more corners of Costa Rica’s capital and the nearby neighborhoods of Escazú and Santa Ana.

  • Jessica’s San José Trip Report

    My name is Jessica Miller, I’m 29, and I finally gave myself a week in San José, Costa Rica. I booked a stay at a Central San José Airbnb Apartment that turned out to be the perfect base: clean, quiet when I needed it, and an easy walk to cafés and parks downtown. Stepping outside felt like stepping into a warmer rhythm—sunlit mornings, light breezes in the afternoon, and evenings where the city glowed. The apartment gave me the calm I wanted between explorations, and the location made spontaneous detours effortless.

    I started by visiting the Central Market, which was the perfect lens into the city’s daily heartbeat—locals shopping shoulder to shoulder with travelers, bright produce, and the smell of fresh coffee drifting through the aisles. Later I set my sights on neighborhoods I’d heard about, getting a feel for how the capital blends energy and ease. I also carved out time for the Pre-Columbian Gold Museum in San Jose, a highlight that made the city’s history feel close and tangible. To round it out, I spent an evening exploring Barrio Escalante Restaurants, where the restaurants are lively and creative.

    Afternoons became my favorite hours. I’d wander Avenida Central and the plazas around it, watching street performers and families, ducking into cafés when brief showers passed. Escazú and Santa Ana offered a contrast—sleek malls, leafy streets, and restaurants that gave the day a quieter finish. What surprised me most was how easy it was to move around: taxis and Ubers were simple to hail, buses were straightforward, and everything felt sensible and safe even late in the evening. I kept notes in my phone so I wouldn’t lose the small discoveries—like the way the afternoon light lands on the National Theater’s façade, or how the coffee at a tiny café near Parque Central tasted faintly of cocoa. Little things added up to a city I didn’t expect to love this much.

    When the sun went down, the city switched on. I tried a dance club downtown, laughed over a few small casino bets, and found that San José’s nightlife is more about connection than spectacle. People were warm everywhere—bartenders, taxi drivers, folks in line at the late-night bakery—and that friendliness changed how the city felt. It wasn’t just that Costa Ricans are welcoming; it’s that they make room for you in their night, like there’s always one more chair at the table.

    By the end of the trip I realized I was walking slower, looking up more, and collecting little details I didn’t want to forget—the golden light on old façades, the quiet of early morning parks, the comfort of knowing I could get anywhere without stress. San José turned out to be exactly what I needed: culturally rich without being complicated, social without being overwhelming, and grounded in everyday kindness. I’m already planning my return, eager to explore even more corners of the capital and its nearby neighborhoods.

  • Henry’s Costa Rica Adventure

    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.

  • First-Time Solo Trip Report: Jaco Beach, Costa Rica (33M from Maine)

    Trading snow boots for flip‑flops was the best decision I’ve made in a long time. I’m a 33‑year‑old male from Maine, and this was my first time in Costa Rica—specifically Jacó Beach on the Central Pacific coast—and it instantly felt like the reset I needed. Back home, the air was biting and the sidewalks glazed in ice; here, the first thing I felt was the warm ocean breeze and the low hush of the Pacific rolling in. I checked into an Airbnb at Jaco Beach Apartments, a convenient base right in town that let me walk to the sand, grab coffee without a plan, and wander until I found a plate of fresh fish with lime. The transition from cold, gray mornings in Maine to sun‑lit afternoons in Jacó hit me in a single exhale—suddenly I was moving at beach speed, where each day opens with possibilities instead of errands.

    Jacó rewards curiosity, so I started stacking active days to shake off the last of winter. An ATV tour took me from dusty back streets into the hills above town, splashing through shallow streams and carving into red clay curves that opened to ridge‑top views. From up high, the ocean looked like a long sheet of hammered silver, and I could trace the arc of the beach as the town hugged the shore. I mixed in surfing on the main beach—patient, forgiving waves that let a newcomer like me get the rhythm without needing heroics. After a few honest wipeouts I finally found my balance and rode a clean little right, coasting toward the shoreline with my heart pounding in the good way. On hiking days I followed trails beneath broad leaves and bright birds, the air turning rich and earthy after quick showers. I came for warmth and found motion: ATV riding, hiking, surfing, and a little mountain climbing on steeper viewpoints—days that left my legs pleasantly heavy and my mind blissfully quiet.

    Mid‑trip I took a short ride north to Playa Herradura and visited Los Sueños, where the marina rests in a calm bay framed by jungle‑green slopes. Sleek sportfishing boats and travel‑worn yachts swayed in their slips while people drifted between late lunches and the boardwalk. It’s an easy detour from Jacó and a fascinating contrast: the energy of a surf town on one hand and the polished calm of a marina village on the other. Back in Jacó I kept my afternoons simple—swimming, stretching on the sand, and nursing smoothies cold enough to make me laugh at how far I’d come from Maine’s winter. The town is an easy first step into Costa Rica: tour kiosks if you want structure, open beach if you don’t, and a rhythm that lets you tailor each day to your mood. Even when I did nothing more than sit and watch the waves fold and release, it felt like progress—a kind of recalibration I’d been missing for years.

    When the sun dropped, the town lit up. I kicked off a few nights at Mynt Lounge, a sleek spot with a DJ‑forward soundtrack and a steady flow of locals and travelers. Later I pushed into the thick of downtown, where Orange Pub thumped with bass and laughter and the dance floor turned total strangers into fast friends. I also wandered into a beachfront casino in the center of Jacó, where the clack of chips mixed with the sound of the ocean whenever the doors opened. The beauty of Jacó’s nightlife is how approachable it is for a solo traveler: everything is walkable, the crowd is mixed and friendly, and there’s always another venue a block away if you want to change the vibe. I met a few friendly women while I was out—fun conversations, easy smiles, and the kind of warm, open energy that makes a place feel welcoming. People in Costa Rica have a way of making you feel like you’ve been invited rather than merely allowed.

    By the end of the week I realized how thoroughly Jacó had reset me. Mornings began with sunlight through the curtains, afternoons tasted like salt and citrus, and nights drifted between music and the ocean’s hush. What I loved most was the balance: adventure without pressure, nightlife without pretense, and enough calm to actually hear myself think. It’s a perfect first‑time landing spot for Costa Rica—easy to navigate, full of tours if you want them, and close to places like Los Sueños when you’re in the mood for a change of scenery. As a 33‑year‑old solo traveler from Maine, I arrived cold and curious and left sun‑tired and grateful, already plotting the next trip. Costa Rica didn’t just warm me up; it reminded me that winter doesn’t have to live in my head. Jacó Beach is officially my new vacation spot, and I’m already counting the days until I’m back on that sand, watching another orange‑pink sunset slide into the Pacific.

  • Melissa’s Adventure in Jaco, Costa Rica

    My name is Melissa Hill, I’m 26, and I planned a week in Jaco Beach to trade my routine for ocean mornings and warm nights. I stayed in a Modern Airbnb Vacation Apartment in Jaco Beach, an easy stroll from the beach and the restaurants that light up after dark. The first thing I noticed was the backdrop: palms, mountains, and that long, gray‑gold arc of sand where the Pacific keeps time.

    I kept days simple and active. I started with Arigatos Sushi Restaurant, then fit in El Novillo Alegre Jaco Restaurant. Midweek I added Went Deep Sea Fishing and wrapped up with Catamaran Day Tour. It’s easy to pivot with the weather—mornings for the ocean, afternoons for shade, and the hour before sunset for photos.

    Between outings I walked Jaco’s beachfront path and ducked into cafés for smoothies or gallo pinto. The vibe shifts a bit by neighborhood—Herradura for marina calm, Playa Hermosa for waves and surfers, and the Jaco Walk area for shops and families. Day trips open up the coast: Tarcoles for crocodiles, Quepos and Manuel Antonio for beaches and wildlife, Esterillos and Bejuco when you want open sand and space. Transport was easy—taxis and Ubers came fast, buses were straightforward, and drivers were patient about short stops.

    Evenings were mellow when I wanted and loud when I looked for it. A casual cerveza by the beach, live music in a corner bar, or a quick spin through a casino for the fun of it—the city felt welcoming and simple to navigate. It was the kind of place where you say goodnight to strangers you just met.

    By the end, I had a rhythm—beach in the morning, an adventure or two, food at a place I hadn’t tried yet, and a slow walk home under warm streetlights. Jaco and the surrounding coast are as beautiful as the photos: jungle‑green ridges, long beaches, and sunsets that look staged. I left with a lighter step and a note in my phone that says, simply, “come back.”