Only an hour and a half from San Jose using the newly repaved highway, Jaco Beach is the closest beach to the capital and as such is a major tourist attraction for Costa Ricans and foreigners alike. It is located on Costa Rica's Pacific coast, about one hour south of Puntarenas, and is best known for its surfing, with numerous surf clothing and equipment shops lining the main street that runs parallel to the beach. There are also plenty of restaurants serving fish and typical Costa Rican food, and many bars, nightclubs and hotels that fill quickly during the holidays and at weekends. The town has grown fast here but retains a laid-back, outdoorsy feel and its 3km of golden beach ensure there's still plenty of room to lay your towel, lie back and listen to the waves crashing.
