Though Jaco Beach, Costa Rica is famed for its surfing and nightlife, it's definitely not just a budget travel destination. Here's a selection of mid-range and high-end Jaco hotels, in the town of Jaco itself, or in the vicinity.
Note: Many mid-range and high-end Jaco beach hotels are all-inclusive. Personally, I recommend opting out, and trying some of the diverse restaurants in Jaco.
Though Jaco's ApartHotel Vista Pacifico isn't located right in town, it's a quick taxi ride away. The condo-style hotel rooms are equipped with everything necessary for a lengthy stay, making the hotel perfect home base for exploring nearby Costa Rica attractions like Monteverde and Manuel Antonio. Not all of the colorful rooms at Vista Pacifico come with air-conditioning, however—make sure to ask for one. From $45 for a budget cabina in low season to $40 for a 2-bedroom in high season.
I'm always a fan of independently-owned hotels over big chains. But if you're looking for standardization and Americanization, you can't go wrong with Best Western. The boxy, beach-view Best Western Jaco Beach Resort houses a beach bar, a swimming pool, decent rooms, and a buffet restaurant—though we don't recommend going all-inclusive, as you'll probably get sick of the cuisine. Around $100 a night.
Hotel Poseidon is located right in the center of Jaco, in walking distance of dining, nightlife, and Jaco beach itself. The hotel includes 14 rooms, a pretty, clover-shaped swimming pool, a swim-up bar, and a tasty restaurant on-site, though dinners can be a little expensive. If you've rented a car, parking is available across from the hotel for $3 per day. From $75 in low season to $135 in peak season.
Located in a lush valley 30 minutes to the south of Jaco Beach, Hotel Villa Lapas isn't for travelers seeking entertainment within walking distance. But the landscape surrounding the large Costa Rica hotel—packed with wildlife!—makes its distance worth it. Uniquely, the hotel includes an on-site village called "Santa Lucia Town" with a cantina, shops and wedding facilities. Around $110 per person, per night; all-inclusive. In this case, opting in might pay off, as dinners are $20 each.
Hotel Club del Mar is the southernmost oceanfront resort in Jaco Beach. Including both hotel- and condominium-style accommodations, the luxury Jaco hotel is perfect for families as well as couples. As with most hotels in Jaco, travelers can book hikes, tours and surf lessons through the front desk. Rates range from $128 for a standard room in low ("green") season to $390 for the penthouse suite during the holidays.
