Jacó is one of the most accessible surf towns in Costa Rica. This guide covers getting there from Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO) and from San José city.

Travel Time

By road it's roughly 1.5 hours from SJO or San José to Jacó via Ruta 27 and Ruta 34, depending on traffic and stops. Allow more time on weekends and holidays.

Transfer Options

Private transfer: door to door; easiest with luggage and surfboards.
Shared shuttle: cheaper, on fixed schedules.
Rental car: flexible for exploring beaches like Playa Hermosa and Esterillos.
Public bus: the budget option from San José.

Travelling With a Surfboard

Check your airline's board policy and fees. Beginners don't need to bring one — equipment is included in lessons.

Planning Your First Lesson After Arrival

Arriving in the morning? An afternoon lesson may be possible, but many travellers prefer to rest and surf the next morning.
Surf early in your trip so you can book a second session.
Lessons run from 7:00 AM to 4:00 PM.

What to Bring

Pack swimwear, rash guards, reef-safe sunscreen and a light rain jacket in the green season. See the surf trip packing list.

Staying Outside Jacó?

Coming from Los Sueños or Herradura? See Los Sueños & Herradura to Jaco surf lessons.

Ready when you are: book a Jaco surf lesson or ask about today's lesson options on WhatsApp.

SJO Airport & San José to Jaco for Surfing