Jaco / Playa Hermosa
Jaco and Playa Hermosa, Costa Rica, located on the Central Pacific coast, form a dynamic duo of vibrant urban energy and serene surf-centric tranquility, just 8 kilometers apart.
• Natural Environment: Jaco boasts a 4-km sandy beach perfect for beginner surfing, while Playa Hermosa’s 7-km dark sand beach, a 2020 World Surfing Reserve, offers powerful waves for experienced surfers. Both are backed by rainforests and hills, with the Playa Hermosa Wildlife Refuge protecting nesting sea turtles. The tropical climate averages 80–90°F daytime and 70s°F at night, ideal for beach activities and nearby adventures like Carara National Park or Tarcoles River crocodile tours.
• Lifestyle: Embracing the “pura vida” spirit, Jaco attracts partygoers, families, and adventurers with its lively vibe, featuring surfing, shopping, and nightlife. Playa Hermosa draws surfers and nature lovers seeking a quieter escape, with days focused on waves and evenings offering relaxed dining. Together, they cater to diverse preferences, from high-energy fun to laid-back serenity.
• Housing: Jaco offers high-rise condos, beachfront homes, and modern rentals with amenities like pools, appealing to expats and investors. Playa Hermosa features beachfront bungalows, condos, and eco-friendly homes, often with pools, catering to surfers and families seeking proximity to the beach.
• Amenities: Jaco is the hub for dining (from local “sodas” to international cuisine), bars, clubs, supermarkets, and surf schools, plus activities like zip-lining and ATV tours. Playa Hermosa provides beachside restaurants (e.g., Vida Hermosa), surf shops, and board rentals ($20/day), relying on Jaco for additional conveniences. Both share access to nearby adventure and wildlife attractions.
• Community: A diverse, welcoming mix of locals, expats, and visitors creates a vibrant community in Jaco and a tight-knit, low-key one in Playa Hermosa. Shared values of adventure, nature preservation (especially turtle conservation in Hermosa), and coastal living foster strong connections across both areas.
