If you are looking for an incredible Costa Rica vacation spot that will keep the whole family happy, Jaco should be on your travel radar. The charming town on the Pacific coast of Costa Rica has a reputation for outstanding beaches, cultural experiences, accommodation, and entertainment. Throw in some epic sunsets, national parks with rainforests and waterfalls, and fantastic food and you will wish you were already there.

Jaco is a beach town with plenty to see and do. Just a few hours drive from the capital of San Jose, Jaco is always buzzing with activity. Start by exploring the local town on foot to get a feel for the place. Along the tourist strip of Pastor Diaz Avenue, you can find restaurants, shops, art galleries, supermarkets, and small shopping malls. After chatting with some locals, you will eventually discover Jaco Beach. The 2.5-mile-long stretch of pristine beach is lined with resorts, bars, casinos, surf shops, and tour operators. For a quieter beach head south about 10 km to the black sands of Playa Hermosa. Translating to beautiful, this sandy spot lives up to its name, although be aware the surf can be powerful.

When it comes to accommodation, Best Western Jaco Beach is a great all-inclusive beachfront resort which is fantastic if you are traveling with kids. Or if you’re looking for something more comfortable there are plenty of vacation rentals available ranging in all sorts of budgets. But not all your days will be spent at the beach. A waterfall tour will take you into the lush rainforest to swim in the cool natural pools and learn about local flora and fauna from your knowledgeable guide. This could be the beginning of your adventures with canyoning tours that include hiking, zip lining and repelling and ATV tours that venture deep into the jungle. For the thrill-seeking family, Jaco is sure to get the adrenalin pumping.

Keeping with the outdoors theme but slightly less adventurous, a hike to Miro Mountain Viewpoint is also free. Your 30-minute hike is rewarded with epic views of the surrounding area and out to the endless blue ocean. Take some photos, check out the artwork on concrete walls, and rest before descending the mountain to the music of the birds and insects.

To spot monkeys and other wildlife, the Carara National Park is the place to go. Hire a local guide to increase your chances of seeing animals and birds that are native to Costa Rica. At Crocodile Bridge, you can look down on croc-infested waters from a safe distance or if you are brave, book a tour that will get you close to these reptiles and other tropical creatures.

All these Costa Rica travel experiences and adventures will be infused with authentic dining, some spa time, water sports and lots of fun in the sun. For a chilled-out vacation that everyone will love, Jaco in Costa Rica has it all!