Planning a family trip to Jaco?
You’re in the right place. Jaco is one of Costa Rica’s most family-friendly beach towns, easy to get to, packed with activities for all ages, and home to some of the country’s best nature experiences. Whether you’re traveling with toddlers, teens, or a mix of both, Jaco gives you a safe, convenient home base while still delivering the wild Costa Rica magic everyone comes for.
This guide covers everything you need: what to do, where to go, how to stay safe, and the best family-friendly tours you won’t want to miss.
Why Jaco Is Perfect for Families
Jaco is a rare mix of adventure + convenience. Here’s why families love it:
- Quick to reach — Only 1.5 hours from the San José airport.
- Family-friendly beaches — Gentle areas for younger kids and great waves for teens who want lessons.
- Everything is close — Restaurants, supermarkets, pharmacies, and medical centers.
- Tons of tours in every direction — Wildlife, waterfalls, rainforest, crocodile tours, surf… all within minutes.
- Safe and well-developed — Easy to navigate and ideal for first-time travelers.
It’s the perfect balance: not too crowded, not too remote, and always something to do.
Is Jaco Safe for Families?
Short answer: yes, absolutely. Jaco is one of the most visited towns in Costa Rica, and families walk around comfortably during the day and early evening.
Simple safety tips:
- Don’t leave belongings unattended on the beach.
- Use beach-approved sunscreen and reapply often—sun is strong.
- Choose official tours with certified guides (we’ll link to trusted options below).
- When crossing the street with kids, stay aware—Jaco is walkable but cars move fast.
- If staying near the main strip, keep nighttime outings early and family-focused.
Stick to common-sense travel habits and you’ll be perfectly fine.
Best Areas to Stay in Jaco for Families
For families, the most comfortable parts of Jaco are:
South Jaco Beach (Family-Friendly & Calmer Waves)
Perfect for:
- Younger kids
- Families who want a quieter beachfront
- Learning to surf
Herradura (5 minutes north of Jaco)
Great for:
- Luxury stays
- Calm water
- Beautiful marina
Playa Hermosa (10 minutes south)
Ideal for:
- Older kids/teens
- Families who want peaceful surroundings
Note: waves are strong, better for watching, not swimming.
If you want help choosing, we can recommend options based on your family size and what kind of trip you want.
Top Things to Do in Jaco with Kids
There’s no shortage of family-friendly activities, and everything is close. Here are the top picks depending on your kids’ ages:
Family Activities for All Ages
Manuel Antonio National Park Day Trip
One of Costa Rica’s most famous parks—dense wildlife, easy trails, and postcard-perfect beaches.
Perfect for families with:
- Small kids (the trails are simple)
- Teens (amazing photos + wildlife)
Book a Manuel Antonio Park tour with Costa Rican Adventures for certified guides who know where to find sloths, monkeys, and toucans.
Crocodile Safari on the Tarcoles River
A must-do. Kids are always blown away by the crocodiles, birds, and mangroves.
Great for:
- Younger kids (slow, calm boat)
- Families seeking a low-effort activity
- Wildlife lovers
Costa Rican Adventures Crocodile Tour
Short Adventures Tours (Perfect for Half Days)
These are easy add-ons that families can do without feeling rushed:
- ATV tour with waterfalls (for families with older kids/teens)
- Horseback Riding Mountain Adventure
All can be booked through Costa Rican Adventures, so you don’t have to compare safety, pricing, or providers; everything is vetted.
Best Beaches for Families in Jaco
Jaco Beach – South End
Wide
More gentle
Great for boogie boards and swimming when conditions are calm
Playa Blanca (20 minutes away)
White sand + calm water = one of the prettiest family spots in the area.
Playa Hermosa
Not safe for swimming, but incredible views, shells, and sunsets.
What to Pack for Jaco (Family Edition)
- Reef-safe sunscreen
- Water shoes (for waterfalls and rocky areas)
- Sunglasses + hats
- Lightweight clothing
- Extra swimwear
- Snacks for little ones on tour days
- Waterproof phone pouch
- Travel stroller (if you have small kids)
You don’t need to overpack—Jaco has supermarkets with everything.
FAQs About Visiting Jaco with Kids
Is Jaco good for families?
Yes, safe, convenient, and packed with activities for all ages.
Are the beaches safe for kids?
The south end of Jaco Beach is best for swimming. Always check the lifeguard flag.
Do we need a car in Jaco?
No. Walking + taxis work fine. For tours, we provide transportation.
What’s the best family tour near Jaco?
Manuel Antonio National Park is the top pick for most families.
Is Jaco stroller-friendly?
The main strip is. The beach is not ideal for strollers.
Can kids do ATV tours?
Yes, on specific kid-friendly versions where they ride as passengers. We’ll point you to the right one.
Ready to Plan Your Family Adventure?
If you’re coming to Jaco with your family and want an easy, safe, memorable experience, we can help you plan everything—from transportation to tours customized for your kids’ ages.
Browse our family-friendly tours or message us with your travel dates and group size. We’ll help you build the perfect itinerary.
