Are you planning to visit Jaco during your time in Costa Rica? You’ve made an excellent choice… and we’re not just saying that because it’s the place we call home! Our beautiful beachside town on Costa Rica’s Pacific Coast offers everything from adrenaline-pumping rainforest adventures to sun-soaked relaxation.
At Costa Rica Waterfall Tours, we specialize in delivering unforgettable, high-octane experiences that take you off the beaten path while immersing you in Costa Rica’s natural beauty. Check out our incredible range of Jaco adventure activities and our canyoning and waterfall experiences from Jaco to find out more!
But for now, let’s dive into the top things to do in Jaco. And if you think of any questions for us while reading, please just get in touch for the answers you need.
Experience the Exhilaration of Canyoning in Jaco, Costa Rica!
If you’re craving a heart-thumping way to experience Costa Rica’s stunning waterfalls, canyoning is your go-to adventure! Here at Costa Rica Waterfall Tours, we offer two incredible options for canyoning enthusiasts. Whether you’re a beginner or a veteran thrill-seeker, our tours provide a perfect mix of adrenaline and nature.
Our standard Costa Rica canyoning in Jaco is perfect for those looking for an exciting yet manageable introduction to the sport. You’ll rappel down multiple waterfalls, hike along rivers, and zipline through the forest canopy. There’s even optional cliff jumping and swimming in pristine natural pools.
For those who want to take it up a notch, look no further than our extreme Jaco canyoning. On this next-level adventure, you’ll leap off cliffs, swim in natural pools, and rappel down waterfalls. And your final rappel is the longest unassisted rappel in Costa Rica! Not only is it 150ft in height, but it finishes with a drop into a pool.
Both of our canyoning tours in Jaco are perfect for those who want to conquer the wild side of Jaco!
Feel the Thrill of a Jaco Waterfall Hike and Adventure Tour
Waterfalls are one of Costa Rica’s signature natural wonders, and the forest-covered mountains overlooking our town and the Pacific Ocean are the perfect place to explore them. Our Explorer Tour from Jaco is ideal for those who want a short nature hike combined with exciting activities. This half-day adventure takes you through lush forests where you’ll encounter a series of beautiful waterfalls and swimming holes. Jump into the fresh mountain spring water or submerge yourself under the falls for a truly unique massage. The more adventurous in the group can even jump into the pools from heights of four to 25 feet!
Looking for something even more intense? Try our Extreme Adventurer Tour. This full-day experience is packed with jaw-dropping waterfalls (five in three locations), gorgeous natural pools to swim in, and hikes through the jungle. The falls we visit have incredible cliff jumping opportunities and one even has a natural water slide!
No matter which tour you choose, these waterfall adventures offer an up-close look at the vibrant wildlife, beautiful landscapes, and stunning waterfalls that make Jaco such a special destination. If these tours sound like your idea of fun, we think you’ll love our blog Top Waterfalls in Costa Rica.
Connect with Costa Rican Wildlife in Jaco
If you’re a nature lover, Jaco is the perfect gateway to Costa Rica’s vibrant ecosystems. Two of our favorite wildlife experiences include the Crocodile Safari and the Monkey Mangrove Tour.
The Crocodile Safari takes you along the Tárcoles River, home to huge crocodiles up to 18 feet long. As you glide through the water, you’ll be able to observe these incredible creatures up close in their natural habitat. Don’t worry — our experienced guides will keep you safe while providing fascinating information about these prehistoric beasts. If they spot the right crocodiles, your guide may even be able to feed them!
For something a bit more lighthearted, the Monkey Mangrove Tour is a favorite for families… and everybody else! This boat ride through serene mangroves offers the chance to spot playful white-faced capuchin monkeys. They’re known for coming right up to the boat, and sometimes even hopping on board! You’ll also get a chance to see various bird species, iguanas, and other wildlife as you float through the peaceful waterways.
Enjoy a Surf Lesson (or Relax!) on Jaco Beach
Jaco Beach is famous for its surf, making it the perfect spot for beginners and experienced surfers alike. If you’ve always wanted to catch a wave, why not book a surf lesson during your stay? Local surf schools cater to all levels and there are board rental companies scattered along the beachfront.
Accommodations in town will happily help you out with tips and recommendations, so whether it’s your first time on a board or you’re looking to fine-tune your skills, you’ll be riding the waves in no time.
Not interested in surfing? No problem. Jaco Beach is also a fantastic place to kick back and relax. Spread out your towel, sip on a cold drink, and enjoy the tropical sunshine as you take in the stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. The sunsets here are particularly breathtaking, with the sky painted in hues of pink, orange, and gold. And when you get peckish, just head to one of the many highly-rated beachside restaurants!
Fly Through the Rainforest on a Jaco Canopy Zipline Tour
What better way to explore Costa Rica’s famous rainforests than by soaring through them on a zipline? Our Jaco Canopy Zipline Tour is the perfect way to experience the jungle from a whole new perspective. This thrilling adventure includes 12 platforms, 10 cables, and three hanging bridges! Take the leap and zip high above the ground while marveling at the bird’s-eye view of the dense greenery below.
As you fly through the trees, keep an eye out for wildlife like monkeys, toucans, and sloths. The combination of speed, height, and natural beauty makes this one of the most exhilarating experiences you can have in Jaco.
Take a Boat Trip to Tortuga Island
If you’re looking for a day of relaxation with a dash of adventure, a boat trip to Tortuga Island is a must. Located just off the coast, across the Gulf of Nicoya, Tortuga Island is known for its pristine white-sand beaches, clear turquoise waters, and excellent snorkeling.
Our boat tour to this paradise island includes opportunities to snorkel and swim with exotic marine life, enjoy a delicious BBQ chicken lunch, and lounge on the beach. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also opt to try water activities like banana boat rides and kayaking for a nominal fee. After all the adventures available around Jaco, Tortuga Island is the perfect spot to enjoy a slower pace.
Make a Day of It in Manuel Antonio National Park
If you have a full day to spare, consider venturing out to one of Costa Rica’s most beloved national parks — Manuel Antonio. Just over an hour’s drive from Jaco, Manuel Antonio National Park is famous for its beautiful beaches, rich biodiversity, and hiking trails.
Here, you can encounter animals like sloths, monkeys, and colorful tropical birds while wandering through lush rainforests. Some of the trails worth your consideration include:
- Punta Catedral
- Mirador
- Playa Gemelas
- El Perezoso
- La Catarata
- Congo Trail
You must always research hiking trails carefully before setting out, and we recommend hiring a naturalist tour guide for a safe and interesting experience. Read our blog 3 Hiking Safety Tips in Costa Rica for even more advice.
After a hike, unwind on one of the park’s idyllic beaches, which are often considered some of the best in Costa Rica. Looking for some tips? Consider Playa Manuel Antonio, Playa Espadilla Sur, or Playa Gemelas.
Unwind with a Massage in Jaco
It’s time to unwind and relax! Treat yourself to a rejuvenating massage right here in Jaco. Whether you’ve just tackled a canyoning tour or hiked to hidden waterfalls, a massage is the perfect way to soothe tired muscles and fully unwind.
At Costa Rica Waterfall Tours, we offer a variety of massage services in Jaco to help you feel refreshed and ready for your next adventure. Our therapists can visit you at your accommodation or, for the ultimate luxury, we can even arrange for a beachside massage. If you’re already on the road, you can come to our open-air studio in Herradura!
Book Your Spot on Our Jaco Adventure Tours!
We hope we’ve given plenty of answers to the question “What should I do while in Jaco, Costa Rica?” But if you’re hungry for even more travel inspiration, check out our full range of Jaco adventure activities and canyoning and waterfall experiences from Jaco. You will find even more wild adventures in addition to those covered above!
Do you have any questions for the Costa Rica Waterfall Tours team? Please don’t hesitate to get in touch! We’re here to help however we can.
