Sun, Surf & Soft Life Vibes on the Pacific Coast
If you’re living the nomad lifestyle in Costa Rica, chances are you’ve heard about Jacó — a vibrant beach town known for its surf scene, colorful sunsets, and energetic vibes. Just a 1.5–2 hour drive from San José, Jacó makes the perfect girly getaway for the day. Whether you’re craving ocean views, smoothie bowls, or a little retail therapy, this spot delivers.
Let me take you through my ideal Nomad Girly day trip to Jacó. ☀️💖
🚗 Getting There: The Road to Relaxation
We hit the road from San José around 8 AM with iced coffees in hand and a playlist full of throwbacks and absolute bangers. The drive is easy and scenic — think lush green hills, winding roads, and cute roadside fruit stands.
Pro tip: Stop at Crocodile Bridge in Tarcoles to snap a few photos (from a safe distance 🐊).
🥥 10:30 AM – Beachside Brunch
First stop? Selina Jacó. Whether you’re staying there or not, their cafe is a chill spot for brunch. I recommend an acai bowl topped with tropical fruit and a pina colada. Major ✨main character energy✨ sitting under the palm trees.
Other girly brunch spots to try:
- The Green Room Café (eco-chic & artsy)
- Soda Rustico (budget-friendly & local flavor)
- Koko Gastro Bar (cocktails & reasonably priced meals)
🌊 12:00 PM – Ocean Time
Jacó Beach isn’t the softest white sand you’ll ever see, but it’s got that golden glow and the vibes are vibing. I spent some time walking the shoreline, snapping pics, and watching surfers do their thing.
Not a surfer? No worries:
- Try a surf lesson with a local instructor
- Ride horses along the beach to a nature trail where you’ll see sloths and monkeys
- Lay out with a good book and your cutest bikini
- Walk north toward the Mirador El Miro trail for stunning views
🛍 2:00 PM – Cute Shops + Coconut Water
Jacó has a ton of souvenir stands and boutiques where you can find:
- Handmade jewelry
- Sarongs and crochet tops
- Local skincare and soaps
Don’t forget to grab a fresh pipa (coconut) from a street vendor. They’ll chop it open with a machete right in front of you. So aesthetic. So refreshing. So Nomad Girly.
🎨 3:30 PM – Murals, Gelato & Chill
Jacó’s streets are full of colorful murals and creative street art. It’s the perfect place to do a mini photo shoot in your flowy skirt or tropical co-ord. 📸
Then cool off with a scoop of passion fruit gelato from Amancio Gelateria — cute, cozy, and sooo Instagrammable.
🌅 5:30 PM – Sunset at the Beach
Jacó sunsets are pure magic. Head back to the beach and find a spot to sit with your toes in the sand. Watch the sky turn pink, orange, and lavender as the sun dips below the horizon.
Nomad Girly tip: Bring a pareo, a portable speaker, and a little sparkling water (or wine) to create your own sunset moment.
🌙 7:00 PM – Time to Head Home
After a long, dreamy day of sun, surf, and girly adventures, we packed up and made our way back to San José. The drive is peaceful after dark, and the entire day left me feeling refreshed and inspired.
Final Thoughts: Is Jacó Worth a Day Trip?
Absolutely. Whether you’re a beach babe, a content queen, or just a girly girl chasing sunsets — Jacó is a quick escape with major soft life energy. It’s easy to get to, full of color and character, and totally customizable to your mood.
Nomad Girly 
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