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Expat Exchange - Discovering the Best of Playa Jaco 2024
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Jaco Beach, Costa Rica


Discovering the Best of Playa Jaco

By Betsy Burlingame

Cigna Global Health
Cigna Global Health

Summary: Living it Up in Playa Jaco: Your Insider's Guide to Top Attractions, Culinary Hotspots, Nightlife, and More. Discover the Best Recreational Activities, Connect with Friendly Locals, and Experience the Charm of the City.

Welcome to Playa Jaco! If you're planning to move to Playa Jaco, congratulations on taking the first step towards a new adventure. While there are many things to think about before you leave, such as visas, housing, and transportation, it's important to remember that once you arrive, the fun really begins. In this article, we'll introduce you to some of the best sites, restaurants, and nightlife that Playa Jaco has to offer, as well as provide tips on recreational activities and making friends in Playa Jaco.

Playa Jaco is a popular tourist destination for its stunning beaches, lush rainforest, and vibrant culture. The town is located on the central Pacific coast of Costa Rica and is known for its laid-back atmosphere and stunning natural beauty. Tourists and locals alike can enjoy a variety of activities, from surfing and swimming to exploring the nearby rainforest. Here are some of the top sites of interest for tourists and locals in Playa Jaco.

The beach is the main attraction in Playa Jaco, and it is one of the most popular surfing spots in Costa Rica. The waves are perfect for beginners and experienced surfers alike, and the beach is lined with restaurants and bars. There are also plenty of other activities to enjoy, such as swimming, snorkeling, and kayaking. The beach is also a great spot for sunbathing and watching the sunset.

The nearby Carara National Park is a must-see for nature lovers. The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including monkeys, sloths, and toucans. Visitors can explore the park on foot or by boat, and there are plenty of trails to explore. The park is also a great spot for birdwatching, as it is home to over 300 species of birds.

The nearby Manuel Antonio National Park is another popular destination for tourists and locals. The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including monkeys, sloths, and iguanas. Visitors can explore the park on foot or by boat, and there are plenty of trails to explore. The park is also a great spot for swimming, snorkeling, and kayaking.

Playa Jaco is also home to a vibrant nightlife scene. There are plenty of bars and restaurants to choose from, ranging from beachfront bars to upscale restaurants. Some of the most popular restaurants and bars in Playa Jaco include El Avion, a beachfront bar with live music and great views of the ocean; La Casa de la Langosta, a seafood restaurant with a lively atmosphere; and La Bodega, a popular bar with a wide selection of beers and cocktails.

Playa Jaco is also a great spot for recreational activities. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, such as horseback riding, zip-lining, and ATV tours. There are also plenty of hiking trails in the area, as well as a variety of water sports, such as surfing, kayaking, and snorkeling. Visitors can also take a boat tour to explore the nearby islands. Popular places for these activities include Jaco Beach, Carara National Park, and Manuel Antonio National Park.

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Insider Tips from Expats in Playa Jaco: Making the Most of Life and Connections

"The Jaco area has several ladies groups, brunch groups for expats and locals alike. Family surf day in Jaco, painting classes, surf competitions, or relaxing at the beach for sunset all draws expats anxious to meet up with others and speak with locals on a social level," said one expat living in Playa Hermosa de Jaco.

"One of the best ways to meet people in Playa Jaco is to get involved in the activities and social events offered at the local resorts and restaurants. Another way to meet people is to join the local clubs and sports teams. Participating in a class or workshop is also a great way to meet new people. Additionally, events in the community, such as street fairs, festivals, and live music, are great opportunities to socialize and make connections. A final way to meet people in Playa Jaco is to join an expat group or a travel group, as these offer social support and friendship to people from all around the world," wrote a member in Playa Jaco.

"Expats in Playa Jaco can join a variety of clubs and activities, such as yoga classes, surfing lessons, and Spanish language classes. Expats can also join local sports teams, such as soccer or volleyball, or join a book club or a cooking class. Additionally, there are many social events and gatherings hosted by local expat groups, such as beach barbecues, movie nights, and potluck dinners. Expats can also meet people by attending local festivals and events, such as the annual Jaco Beach Festival or the Jaco Arts and Culture Festival. Additionally, many expats find it helpful to join online forums and social media groups to connect with other expats living in the area," commented one expat who made the move to Playa Jaco.

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"It is a beach town. Most people are retired from North America. The beach is beautiful. All people go to the beach for walking, socializing, etc," commented an expat living in Playa Hermosa de Jaco.

"Tourism in the area is very high so work takes a strong priority to keep everyone happy and returning to the area. However, family is a very strong factor. Many Costa Ricans from the Central Valley visit on weekends and holidays. It is not uncommon to see families and friends relaxing at the beach with a picnic and hammock, enjoying the breeze and socializing. Surfing is a major sport in the area so surf lessons are high on the list for a fun activity. Hiking Miro Mountain is a popular activity which includes wildlife spotting, camera opportunities, and general fitness," said an expat in Playa Hermosa de Jaco.

"Playa Jaco is a popular destination for expats and digital nomads due to its stunning beaches, vibrant nightlife, and close proximity to San Jose. Expats and digital nomads in Playa Jaco can enjoy a relaxed lifestyle with plenty of outdoor activities, such as surfing, snorkeling, and hiking. The cost of living is relatively low, making it an attractive option for those looking to stretch their budget. The local community is friendly and welcoming, and there are plenty of opportunities to make friends and explore the culture. With its stunning natural beauty, vibrant culture, and low cost of living, Playa Jaco is an ideal destination for expats and digital nomads," remarked one expat who made the move to Playa Jaco.

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About the Author

Betsy Burlingame Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.

Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.


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Jaco Beach, Costa Rica

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