Travel beyond the surf in Jaco

Jaco's momentous, common waves have made the town a popular spot to surf in Costa Rica for several years. Located near a plethora of other natural hot spots, the town's appeal carries far beyond its shores. While surfing rules the beaches during the day, sea turtles own the sands during the night. Restless visitors who embark on a nighttime stroll will often happen upon a female turtle who has come to lay her eggs. Because the turtles are sometimes hard to differentiate from beachside rocks, flashlights are encouraged. Decades of laid-back surfer types have given Jaco a quirky edge, yet newcomers to the area have added a sophisticated vibe. The collaboration of both "vibes" creates a unique dynamic in town, and provides all visitors with a range of accommodations and eateries that cater to many types of tastes. Jaco additionally offers a number of ways to explore the nearby nature preserves and national parks, some of which are a bit more thrilling than others. Canopy walks give trekkers a bird's eye view of Costa Rican rain forest, while hang gliding opportunities actually give visitors the wings.