Playa Jaco Getting Around

Orientation
Playa de Jacó is a short distance off the southern highway. One main road runs parallel to the beach, with a host of arteries heading toward the water; off these roads you'll find most of the hotels and restaurants.

Jaco: Getting Around

Jaco: Getting Around

Almost everything is within walking distance in Jacó, but you can rent a bicycle or scooter from several shops on the main street or call Jacó Taxi (tel. 643-3030). A bike rental should run you around $8 to $12 per day, and a scooter should cost between $30 and $45 per day. For longer excursions, you can rent a car from Budget (tel. 643-2265), Economy (tel. 643-1098), National (tel. 643-2881), Payless (tel. 643-3224), or Zuma (tel. 643-3207). Expect to pay approximately $50 for a 1-day rental. You might also consider talking to a local taxi driver, who'd probably take you wherever you want to go for the same $50 per day, saving you some hassle and headache.

Alternatively, you can rent a scooter for around $30 to $35 per day. There are several stands renting scooters along the main drag. Rent @ Me (tel. 643-1809) offers free shuttle service to and from your hotel.

Getting To Jaco by Bus 
The local bus lines run through most of the towns across Costa Rica, while the private bus lines mainly serve beach towns and inland tourist destinations. It cost aprox. $3 from San Jose to Jaco, $5 from San Jose to Quepos, and not much more to Guanacaste. I'd recommend if you can, purchase your tickets in advance.
 
Do yourself a favor. Go on the Directo bus. The large, new, Marco Polo buses to Jaco, Quepos and Manuel Antonio are roomy, comfortable, and have A/C. The Manuel Antonio directo usually has a restroom. The regular local buses are not in such good shape and will take an hour or two longer in transit. Unfortunately, if you're headed to Cahuita, Mal Pais, or more remote destinations, you'll likely be traveling in a refurbished yellow school bus.
 
If you are bound for Guanacaste or Arenal, we recommend a private bus lines: the six-hour (or longer) bus ride is not something you'll want experience on a local bus. If traveling with two or more people, a private van is the way to go. It won't cost you too much more and will make your entire vacation a more pleasant and memorable one.

Bus Schedules: San Jose - Jaco - Manuel Antonio - Quepos >>