If surfing and sunbathing isn't the way you expected to spend your Costa Rica vacation, there are plenty of things to do in Jaco that don't even require a bathing suit. But don't worry--you will still be enjoying the exotic and beautiful outdoors.
Horseback riding is one of the best ways to see the local culture and nature at its best. Prices vary, but average about $60 for half a day. Different lookout points are located all along the coast, and offer various opportunities to spot landmarks and animals.
On the Pacific Coast of Puntarenas, just a few miles south of Jaco, lays the Wildlife Refuge Playa Hermosa. Protecting the Olive Ridley sea turtle, this wildlife refuge plays an important part in keeping the turtle safe as it comes ashore to lay eggs during the months of July through December. You may not see an actual turtle during your visit, but be sure to relish in the ruggedness of this less developed portion of the coast.
For those of you who are opting to skip the obligatory "Disney" vacation back in the States in favor of something more edgy or--dare we say it--greener, taking a day for the canopy tour is a must. Choosing which of the three tours to embark on isn't the hard part--waiting for your turn on the zip line is! Suspended above the lush jungles of Costa Rica perch thirteen wooden platforms attached to nearby trees. Just pausing to take a breath and view the awe-inspiring nature around you is enough to make the $60 per person price tag well worth the splurge. More than postcard beauty, you will catch glimpses of animals and plants that you thought only existed in a Nova special. Each platform offers a different viewing point of the jungle below- and the zip line ride between platforms is mildly addicting. This adventure is for couples and families with older kids, over the age of six. For those of you who need a little reassurance of safety before throwing yourself into midair, each canopy tour is lead by a bilingual guide who is certified with the equipment you will be using. Be forewarned, you may find yourself dedicating more than one of your vacation days to this once in a lifetime thrill.
This guide to Jaco vacationing is brought to you by Mary Beth Buenopatino
Every day has something new to do in Jaco. The one constant is your nightly jaunt back to your lovely vacation home--because we want you to have SOME stability in your whirlwind traveling life!