The Pacific coast between Jaco and Herradura packs more into a few miles than most destinations manage in a whole region. You've got surf breaks that work for beginners and pros, sport fishing that draws serious anglers from around the world, zip lines through the jungle canopy, ATV trails, crocodile tours on the Tarcoles River, and a marina at Los Sueños that puts deep-sea charters right at your doorstep. The hard part isn't finding something to do. It's knowing which operators are worth your time and money.
The fastest way to lock in a great trip is to go through people who already know the coast. Our digital concierge connects you with a curated list of trusted local partners across Jaco and Herradura. Whether you want a half-day surf lesson, a full-day fishing charter, or a guided waterfall hike, Luna can help you find and book it before you even land.
Surfing
Jaco Beach is one of the most accessible surf spots in Costa Rica. The waves are consistent year-round, and the town has no shortage of surf schools. Beginners do well here because the beach break is forgiving and instructors are easy to find. If you're more experienced, ask about Playa Hermosa, about five kilometers south. It's a different wave entirely: faster, heavier, and far less crowded.
Lessons typically run two hours and include board rental. Book at least a day ahead during high season (December through April) when spots fill quickly.
Sport fishing out of Herradura
Los Sueños Marina in Herradura is one of the top sport fishing marinas in Central America. Sailfish, marlin, roosterfish, mahi-mahi, and yellowfin tuna are all in the water depending on the season. Half-day inshore trips work well for families or first-timers. Full-day offshore charters are for the serious angler who wants a shot at billfish.
Prices vary by boat size and trip length, but a shared charter is a good way to keep costs down without giving up the experience. Our concierge team can match you with a captain based on what you're after.
Zip lines and canopy tours
Several operators run canopy tours in the hills above Jaco. The better ones combine zip lines with hanging bridges and rappelling, so you get a real look at the rainforest rather than just a fast ride over the treetops. Tours usually run two to three hours and include transport from Jaco. Go in the morning if you can. The light is better and the wildlife is more active before the afternoon heat sets in.
ATV and off-road tours
ATV tours are one of the most popular activities in the area, and for good reason. The trails around Jaco take you through jungle, along ridge lines with views of the coast, and sometimes down to secluded beaches you can't reach by road. Most tours are guided and run two to four hours. No experience needed, though a little confidence on a manual throttle helps.
Crocodile tour on the Tarcoles River
About 25 minutes north of Jaco, the Tarcoles River is home to one of the largest crocodile populations in Costa Rica. Boat tours run daily and get you close enough to see them clearly without any real risk. It's a genuinely wild hour on the water, and the birding along the river is excellent too. The scarlet macaws that nest in the area are hard to miss.
How to plan it all
The easiest approach is to decide on two or three activities before you arrive, book those in advance, and leave a day or two open for whatever catches your eye once you're there. Jaco moves at its own pace and the best discoveries are often unplanned.
For help putting it together, reach out to our digital concierge . The team knows these operators personally and can point you toward the ones worth booking and away from the ones that aren't.
By Pines & Beaches Vacation Rentals · November 4, 2026