Getting to Jaco
You’ll want to fly into San Jose Juan Santamaria International Airport. From there, Jaco Beach is about a 90-minute drive away. For first-time visitors, we highly recommend booking a private transfer. This way, someone will wait to pick you up and take you directly to Jaco. You won’t have to worry about directions or renting a car, allowing you to relax and learn more about the area. Once rested, you can rent a car in Jaco to explore the surrounding region. Buses are also available but aren’t the most comfortable option—we’d suggest those mainly for backpackers.
Jaco Transportation
Request a Private Shuttle
Private Shuttles
An air-conditioned van with a driver will be waiting for you at the airport. The cost is $120 for up to 2 people, $10 extra per person after that. *TIP – Consider using a shuttle instead of renting a car at the airport. Here’s why: Airport car rentals can cost $50–60 when you factor in taxes and insurance. You’ll spend about $20 on gas and $10 on tolls. It’s more convenient to rent a car in Jaco if you need one. Be cautious of low advertised rates for car rentals. Often, mandatory insurance and taxes aren’t included in the initial quote and are only charged when you arrive to pay.
Car Rentals
A rental car offers flexibility to explore beyond Jaco and provides convenience during the rainy season. While online quotes may seem low, insurance charges upon arrival can be substantial. Here are some reputable rental agencies:
Bus
While public transportation is an option, getting from the airport to Jaco by bus is challenging. No direct buses run this route. Instead, you must first take a taxi to the Coca-Cola bus terminal in downtown San Jose—a 25-minute ride costing $15–$25. From there, you’ll need to catch a bus to Jaco, which departs every two hours.
Getting Around While in Jaco
Jaco Beach is a tiny town that is very easy to get around. Most locals walk or use bicycles to get around; taxis are also easily found in all areas and run just $2-4 from one end of town to another. Bikes can also be rented for around $10-20 per day. If it is your first time in Jaco Beach, we recommend staying somewhere close to town so you can easily navigate and explore the town’s great shops and restaurants.
Car Rentals in Jaco
The beauty of visiting Jaco Costa Rica is the ease of exploring the country. Costa Rica has a lot to see, and while Jaco is the perfect spot for your home base, you might want to venture a bit on your own. Most tours will pick you up in Jaco, and you don’t need a car while you are here, but we do recommend renting a car in the middle of your trip for a day or two so you can steer off on your own, discover explore, it’s all part of the Jaco experience! Many car rental companies in Jaco; plan on $40-60 a day.