Surfing Guide to Jaco, Costa Rica

 

Summary

If you are looking for a good mix of sun, party and surfing, then Jaco might very well be a great place for your next surf trip!

 

Jaco is located in Puntarenas, just under two hours away from San Jose and is one of the most popular surf towns in Costa Rica. This popularity is obviously due to its great waves, but also the abundance of accommodation, restaurants and bars, while keeping the Costa Rican feel. (Although, to be honest, Jaco is pretty Americanized)

 

Find a Surf Camp in Jaco, Starting at US$415

 

Surrounded by several surfing beaches like Playa Hermosa and Playa Jaco, crowds are well spread across the different surf spots, making surfing manageable for surfers of all skill levels.

 

There are also many surf shops and surf schools which makes surfing in Jaco really convenient even if you are not traveling with all the required equipment.

 

 

When to go

The best time to surf Jaco, Costa Rica is from April to October for bigger and more consistent surfing conditions. However, waves are great at any time of the year in Costa Rica making it one of the most consistent surfing destinations in the world.

 

You may also be interested in our Surfing Guide to Santa Teresa, Costa Rica!

 

 

Surf Camps in Jaco

6-day Surf Lessons Package in Jaco, Costa Rica
US$489, including:

• For surfers of all levels
• 4 surf lessons (2 hours duration)
• Surf equipment, board rental is included 
• Daily breakfasts, 4 lunches, 2 dinners
• One natural drink or soda per meal
• 5 nights accommodation

 

 

All-Inclusive 7 Night Immersive Surf Camp in Jaco, Costa Rica
$US 3,450, including:

• Daily yoga
• 2 massage treatments and 2 breathing technique sessions
• 5 days of surfing (Wednesday is day off) including all equipment and video analysis
• 2 off-site Costa Rican excursions (Zipline, ATV, Jet Ski, etc. on Wednesday)
• Videography services, and daily video analysis
• 6 breakfast, 5 lunch, and 5 dinner and daily snacks
• Transfers to/from the airport
• 7 nights accommodation

 

 

Where to stay in Jaco

Browse our interactive map to find the best accommodation deals in Jaco!

 

 

Surf Spots in Jaco

Playa Jaco

Wave direction : Right and left
Bottom : Sand
Best tide : Any
Skill level : Any
Optimal swell direction : SSW
Optimal wind direction : E

 

Playa Hermosa

Wave direction : Right and left
Bottom : Sand
Best tide : Any
Skill level : Any
Optimal swell direction : SSW
Optimal wind direction : E

 

 

Getting there

Jaco is easily accessible either by public transportation or by car. It is located just about an hour and a half drive from the Costa Rican capital city, San Jose.