Jaco is a dark sand beach in a gentle C-shaped curve on the Pacific coast of Costa Rica. The closest beach town to San Jose, the capital of Costa Rica, Jaco has a vibrant nightlife and offers a wide range of nightclubs and casinos. There is no dearth of luring dining options, souvenir stores, supermarkets, and car rentals.
Along with its neighboring beaches Herradura and Hermosa, Jaco has good surf breaks and is great for beginners. Other popular activities in and around Jaco are horseback riding, zip-lining, paddle boarding, fishing, hiking, ATV tours, and crocodile river tours. Jaco is also a great base for visiting Carara National Park (24 kms/15 miles) and Manuel Antonio National Park (70 kms/43 miles).
So, if you are looking for the best hotels in Jaco, you will be pleased to know that Jaco has something to offer to everyone. A popular choice for expats and tourists alike, Jaco offers a wide selection of hostels, hotels, all-inclusive resorts, and condos.
Our list of a wide selection of hotels in Jaco is perfect for helping you narrow down the options, and pick the one that best suits your needs.
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An Overview of Best Hotels in Jaco, Costa Rica
Here is a snapshot of our pick of best hotels in Jaco for different categories.
- Overall Best (Popular) Hotel – Crocs Resort & Casino
- Best Beachfront Hotel – Club del Mar Oceanfront
- Best Hotel for Wildlife Watching – Hotel DoceLunas
- Best Hotel for Surf lessons – Hotel Perico Azul & Surf Camp
- Best Hostel – Selina Jaco
Factors for deciding where to stay in Jaco
When deciding where to stay in Jaco, there are only two factors to consider. Whether you want to stay in the town center and close to the beach or away from the town center. Of course, each choice has its own set of advantages and disadvantages.
Near the beach and town center
If you plan to take a bus to Jaco, staying in the town center is a convenient option. The beach is within walking distance and there are plenty of options for restaurants, supermarkets, souvenir shops, etc. in this area. If you are a party lover, this is where you should be.
The downside is that it may get crowded and loud during the busy season. Jaco has an active nightlife and parties start after 9 pm. So, if you are traveling with family or wish to prioritize calm over crowd, you should avoid staying in this area.
Away from the town center
If you have a personal car, staying away from the town center is a good option. Many properties here are nestled in lush green tropical forests and are a haven for birds and animals. You will be away from the noise and the hustle and bustle of the town.
The downside is that you may have to walk a lot to go to the beach. You will be far from the bus station. There may not be easy availability of restaurants and supermarkets in the area.
Looking for hotel recommendations in other top destinations of Costa Rica? Check out these guides.
- Best Hotels near San Jose Airport SJO
- Puerto Viejo de Talamanca Best Hotels
- La Fortuna and Arenal Best Hotels
- Santa Teresa Best Hotels
- Monteverde Best Hotels
- Tortuguero Best Hotels
- Tamarindo Best Hotels
- Uvita Best Hotels
- Best Eco-lodges in Costa Rica
Where to stay in Jaco: Luxury Hotels
Club del Mar Oceanfront
- Stay here for: A perfect blend of nature and luxury during your stay.
- Highlights: Beachfront, Wildlife sightings, On-site surf lessons, Condo options.
- Google Maps Location
Perched on the secluded cove of South Jaco, where the rainforest meets the Pacific Ocean, Club del Mar is a beachfront property surrounded by tropical gardens. The resort features condos with 1-bedroom and 2-bedroom options and rooms with 1 or 2 beds options. All units are fitted with an air conditioner, a TV, a work desk, a mini-bar, and a balcony. Additionally, the condos offer a full kitchen, a dining area, a living area, and a balcony with ocean views.
Treat yourself to a spa or unwind at the oceanfront swimming pool with an attached kids’ pool. Book an activity at the tour desk, or sign up for on-site surf lessons. Relax on the beach while the on-site restaurant & bar serves your food and drinks on the beach. If you are passionate about wildlife, you will get an opportunity to observe iguanas, sloths, and scarlet macaws on the property.
Click here to check prices and availability at Club del Mar Oceanfront.
Book Your Stay at Club del Mar OceanfrontMonte Carlo Luxury Condominiums
- Stay here for: Complete luxury on your vacation.
- Highlights: Proximity to town, Private chef & babysitting services, BBQ area, Kids’ pool.
- Google Maps Location
Located centrally in Jaco, Monte Carlo offers rooms and apartments with elegant decor. All units at the property feature a fully equipped kitchen, living room, air conditioner, a washer & dryer, and a balcony or terrace with seating.
Other amenities at the resort include a BBQ area, an outdoor pool, a kids’ pool, and a jacuzzi. You can opt for a private chef service, book a massage in your room, or avail of services like babysitting and private maids. You can book tours and activities at the tour desk and a private airport shuttle is available for a charge.
Click here to check prices and availability at Monte Carlo Luxury Condominiums.
Book Your Stay at Monte Carlo Luxury Condominiums
Where to stay in Jaco: Mid-range Hotels
Crocs Resort & Casino
- Stay here for: High-rise hotel with ocean views.
- Highlights: Beachfront, On-site casino, On-site restaurants & bars.
- Google Maps Location
A beachfront resort, Crocs Resort & Casino is a 5-star property surrounded by lush greenery. You can choose from numerous room types ranging from rooms with garden views to suites with ocean views and a private balcony. The rooms are air-conditioned and include a flat-screen TV, a safe, a wardrobe, and a coffee machine.
The resort features a convention center, a spa center, a fitness center, a casino, a sportsbook, an outdoor swimming pool, and a jacuzzi. Among the delightful dining options offered by the hotel are three restaurants, one bar, one sports bar, a nightclub, and a cafe.
Treat yourself to a spa treatment, try your luck at the world-class casino, or watch your favorite sport at the sports bar. And if you are up for some adventure, the concierge team can help you book ATV tours, zip lining, or surf lessons. Bike rental and a paid airport shuttle service are available at the property.
Click here to check prices and availability at Crocs Resort & Casino.
Book Your Stay at Crocs Resort & CasinoHotel Los Ranchos
- Stay here for: A nice hotel without breaking the bank.
- Highlights: Proximity to town, Proximity to beach, BBQ facility.
- Google Maps Location
A stone’s throw from the beach, Hotel Los Ranchos is surrounded by tropical rainforest and yet is close to the town. The property features air-conditioned rooms, apartments, and bungalows with a flat-screen TV, a safe, and a patio. Additionally, the apartments and bungalows are well-appointed with a private kitchen.
Other features of the property include a swimming pool with sun loungers, a BBQ facility, and free coffee. You can observe a wide variety of flora and fauna in the surrounding areas. Surfboard rentals, surf classes, and trips to Manuel Antonio National Park can be arranged by the hotel on request.
Click here to check prices and availability at Hotel Los Ranchos.
Book Your Stay at Hotel Los RanchosHotel Mar de Luz
- Stay here for: Location in the town center, close to all amenities.
- Highlights: Pool for kids, Jacuzzi, Iguana sightings, Rooms with private kitchen.
- Google Maps Location
Ideally positioned in the heart of Jaco town, Hotel Mar de Luz is a family-friendly hotel surrounded by lush greenery. The hotel features air-conditioned rooms and apartments that are furnished with a TV, a coffee machine, and a safety deposit box. Some rooms boast a kitchen along with a dining area.
At the property, you will find 2 pools for adults, 1 pool for kids, and 1 jacuzzi with lounge chairs. Additionally, there is a kids’ play area and a reading & games room for your entertainment. The tour desk at the hotel can help you in booking tours and activities in and around Jaco.
Click here to check prices and availability at Hotel Mar de Luz.
Book Your Stay at Hotel Mar de LuzBoutique Hotel IBIZA
- Stay here for: Comfort and convenience during your stay.
- Highlights: Shared kitchen, Ocean views, Proximity to beach, Proximity to town.
- Google Maps Location
Hotel Ibiza is a boutique hotel just off the beach. The rooms at the hotel come with air conditioning, a terrace, a TV, a safe, and a wardrobe. Additionally, the suite and deluxe room offer a minibar and coffee maker.
There are 2 swimming pools, a restaurant & bar, a shared kitchen, common areas, and a garden with sun loungers offering ocean views. Car rental and bike rental services are available at the hotel. You can book water sports and other outdoor activities with the hotel.
Click here to check prices and availability at Boutique Hotel IBIZA.
Book Your Stay at Boutique Hotel IBIZAHotel DoceLunas
- Stay here for: Observing wildlife from the comfort of your room.
- Highlights: Wildlife sightings, Bird watching, Eco-friendly, Accessible property.
- Google Maps Location
Enveloped by 5 acres of tropical jungle, Hotel DoceLunas sits at the base of a mountain. You will be treated to sightings of reptiles, butterflies, monkeys, and more than 100 species of birds. The rooms boast a traditional Costa Rican decor with sustainably harvested teak furniture and are fitted with an air-conditioner, a coffee maker, a TV, and a mini-bar.
The on-site restaurant serves fresh food prepared from locally produced ingredients. Other amenities at the hotel include a wellness center, an outdoor pool, and a heated pool. No wonder this is one of the best hotels in Jaco!
Click here to check prices and availability at Hotel DoceLunas.
Book Your Stay at Hotel DoceLunasEl Encanto Condominiums
- Stay here for: A home away from home.
- Highlights: Fully furnished apartments, BBQ facility, Vibrant decor.
- Google Maps Location
El Encanto Condominiums features apartments and suites in a courtyard-type setting. All units boast a colorful & vibrant decor and are unique from each other. The units are equipped with an air conditioner, a smart TV with Netflix, a living area, and a fully equipped private kitchen. The suite comes with 1 full bed, while the apartment offers 2 full beds and 1 sofa bed. Outside, there is a patio with seating.
The property offers an outdoor pool, sun loungers, and barbeque facilities. Free bikes are available for the guests upon prior reservation.
Click here to check prices and availability at El Encanto Condominiums.
Book Your Stay at El Encanto CondominiumsOceano Boutique Hotel & Gallery
- Stay here for: A complete package of amenities in one place.
- Highlights: On-site art gallery, Rooms with private pool, On-site mini market, Gym.
- Google Maps Location
Oceano Boutique Hotel is a family-friendly property that features rooms and suites with a fully equipped private kitchen and private plunge pool options. The units offer air conditioning, a flat-screen TV, a safe, and a sofa bed. Most of the rooms come with a terrace or a balcony with seating.
You will find a lot of amenities at the property including a wellness center, a gym, a conference & events space, a mini market & a souvenir shop, and a shared lounge. The art gallery at the property showcases more than 500 original artworks. The restaurant & bar provides complimentary room service. There is an outdoor pool with a small heated pool on the side, lounge chairs, gazebos, and table seating.
You can book tours and activities at the tour desk should you be interested in signing up for some adventure.
Click here to check prices and availability at Oceano Boutique Hotel & Gallery.
Book Your Stay at Oceano Boutique Hotel & GalleryHotel & Villas Tangerí
- Stay here for: Proximity to the beach and good amenities.
- Highlights: Beachfront, On-site restaurant and bar, Proximity to town, Entertainment facilities.
- Google Maps Location
One of the top hotels in Jaco, Hotel & Villas Tangerí is a beachfront property with a rustic vibe. The hotel offers rooms and villas with air conditioning, a TV, a coffee machine, a refrigerator, a seating area, and a terrace with garden or ocean views. The villa comes with a private kitchen.
At the property, you will find a kids’ play area, a fitness center, a meeting room, and a games room. The 2 outdoor pools are surrounded by sun beds and invite you for a relaxing swim. The beachfront restaurant & bar are great for relishing food and indulging in exotic cocktails during sunset.
Click here to check prices and availability at Hotel & Villas Tangerí.
Book Your Stay at Hotel & Villas Tangerí
Where to Stay in Jaco: Budget Hotels
Selina Jaco
- Stay here for: A beachfront property with a hostel vibe.
- Highlights: Beachfront, Coworking space, Variety of accommodation options, On-site restaurant & bar.
- Google Maps Location
Set right next to the beach, Selina Jaco is an eco-friendly hotel by the popular global chain Selina. The hotel features a range of accommodation options including dormitories, cylinder rooms, rooms with a shared bathroom, family rooms, and deluxe rooms. All rooms are beautifully decorated and are equipped with air conditioning.
The on-site features of the hotel include a shared kitchen, a beachfront restaurant & bar, a wellness area, a coworking space, and a movie room. There is a year-round outdoor pool and terrace with views of the beach. Perfect for sipping a cocktail while watching the sun go down! Sign up for surf lessons by the surf instructors at the hotel, or take a stroll down the main street of Jaco.
Click here to check prices and availability at Selina Jaco.
Book Your Stay at Selina JacoHotel Perico Azul & Surf Camp
- Stay here for: A hotel with a surf vibe.
- Highlights: Proximity to beach, BBQ area, Surfing lessons, Adults only.
- Google Maps Location
Located close to Jaco Beach, Hotel Perico Azul offers 7 private rooms and apartments with a simple Costa Rican decor. The rooms are complete with air conditioning, a flat-screen TV, a coffee machine, and a work desk. Additionally, the apartment comes with a fully equipped private kitchen, a living room, and a balcony offering garden views.
The property features a shared kitchen, a dining area, a BBQ area, and a lounge. There is an outdoor pool with chairs, loungers, and sunshades. During your stay, you can sign up for surf lessons offered by the hotel, or rent a surfboard and go surfing in the nearby beaches. Several water activities and adventure activities like hiking and ziplining, can be enjoyed in the area.
Click here to check prices and availability at Hotel Perico Azul & Surf Camp.
Book Your Stay at Hotel Perico Azul & Surf Camp
This article has been written by Astha Garg, a freelance writer who lives in Costa Rica and loves traveling.
Plan your Costa Rica trip:
- Things to do in Costa Rica
- Best Time to Visit Costa Rica – with Infographics
- Costa Rica Packing List – with FREE checklist
- 10 Days in Costa Rica – Itinerary from Liberia Airport
- 2 Weeks in Costa Rica – Itinerary from San Jose Airport
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