A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Auckland vs. Jaco for Nightlife, Food, Beaches, and Families

Should you visit Auckland or Jaco?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Auckland and Jaco can help you decide which place is right for you.

Auckland

Auckland is a adrenaline-filled, thrill-seeking, and cosmopolitan city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food. See Auckland travel costs.

Jaco

Jaco is a popular, touristy, and laid back town. Visitors also love the beaches, shopping, and nightlife. See Jaco travel costs.

Auckland and Jaco: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Auckland or Jaco?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Auckland. Although Auckland and Jaco are both popular with visitors, Auckland has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Auckland is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, beaches, hiking, shopping, and big city activities, while Jaco is known for its nightlife and scuba diving & snorkeling. Jaco is more touristy than Auckland and is known for its surfing, nightlife, and beaches. Auckland is popular for its waterfront setting, diverse beaches, and active and adrenaline-filled environment. It is also home to the Sky Tower.

How is Auckland different from Jaco?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Jaco and Auckland. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Auckland or Jaco?

Auckland is a very popular place for its museums and history. However, Jaco is lacking in good options for its museums and landmarks.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Auckland can be an interesting and educational experience. The waterfront is filled with sights for tourists, and many of the city's attractions are geared towards thrill seekers. The Sky Tower is a popular landmark with its Sky Walk and Sky Jump. There are also many thrilling experiences that you can have along the Harbour Bridge. For museums, head to the New Zealand Maritime Museum, the Auckland Art Gallery, or the Auckland War Memorial Museum.

Jaco offers a few options for museum-goers. Most people spend their time outside or partying while they're in town.

Is the Food Better in Auckland or Jaco? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Auckland is a very popular place for its restaurants. Also, Jaco is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Auckland has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The city has a diverse selection of restaurants, but you'll also find many places that highlight local ingredients such as seafood and lamb. You'll often find the standard dishes such as fish and chips, oysters, and green-lipped mussels on the menus.

Jaco offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. There's a range of restaurants around town that include hamburger joints, pizza shops, and other casual favorites. You'll find a variety of options along the main strip as well.

Is Auckland or Jaco Better for Nightlife?

Jaco is a must-visit destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Auckland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its evening party scene.

Jaco is a world class party destination. What was once a quiet surfing town is now one of the most famous party destinations in Costa Rica. There are a constantly growing number of bars and clubs around town and you'll find tons of young tourists and backpackers looking for a party.

The people in Auckland know how to have a good time. The city has a cosmopolitan atmosphere and there are many bars and clubs that you can explore in the evening. Some of the best nightlife options are found in the vibrant Britomart precinct and around the trendy Ponsonby Road. Other popular areas include Viaduct Harbour and Wynyard Quarter.

Is Auckland or Jaco Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Jaco is very good for its diving and snorkeling. However, Auckland is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's worth going snorkeling or scuba diving in Jaco. You can't really snorkel at Jaco Beach because of the waves and water conditions, but there are a number of snorkeling tours that leave from town and take you to better spots.

Auckland is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Auckland or Jaco Better for Beaches?

Auckland is a very popular place for the beach. Also, Jaco is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its beaches.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Auckland. You don't have to head too far from the city to find some impressive beaches that are diverse and beautiful. There are beaches that are secluded and private as well as more lively beaches with all of the amenities and activities that you might want.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Jaco. Jaco Beach is a great spot for swimming and surfing. It's lost some of its original charm, but there's still golden sand and nearby horseback riding.

Is Auckland or Jaco Better for Hiking?

Auckland is a nice place to visit for its hiking trails. However, Jaco is not a hiking destination.

Auckland has hiking trails worth exploring. Locals love to get outdoors, and you'll find many local hikes in the area. There are easy paths that are family-friendly and perfect for a stroll, as well as longer stretches that present more of a challenge.

Jaco is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Auckland or Jaco?

Auckland is a very popular place for its shopping areas. Also, Jaco is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Auckland. The city centre is cosmopolitan and full of diverse shopping venues that sell international brands as well as local designers. Some of the most popular shopping areas are Britomart, High Street, and Queen Street.

Jaco is a great destination for shopping. Many of the shops are found along the main street. There are a number of souvenir stores and a few art galleries that are worth checking out.

Is Auckland or Jaco Better for Families?

Auckland is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Jaco is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Auckland. There's a big focus on getting kids outside in the city, so you'll find many outdoor parks and play spaces. Popular activities for families include visiting the Huia Lodge Discovery Centre, going to the Museum of Transport and Technology, and wandering through the botanical garden.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Jaco. Nearby you'll find horseback riding, monkey tours, and other fun kid-friendly activities. Kids will enjoy the beaches in the area as well.

Is Auckland or Jaco Better for Couples?

Auckland is a very popular place for couples. Also, Jaco is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Auckland makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There are many romantic restaurants in the city, as well as spas, cocktail bars, and evening venues. Couples will also enjoy one of the many thrill-seeking activities that New Zealand is famous for.

Jaco is a nice destination for couples. It's one of the more touristy parts of Costa Rica, but if you enjoy surfing and beach life, then you'll find a lot to do in the area.

Is Auckland or Jaco Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Auckland and Jaco are both excellent destinations for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Auckland. Auckland is high on many backpackers' wish list, and usually they pass through the city at some point during their trip. You'll find a number of hostels in the city that are perfect for socializing and saving money.

Jaco is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. It's a touristy town with a bit of a party reputation. There are plenty of hostels and other backpackers around so you shouldn't have trouble meeting people.

Is Auckland or Jaco Better for Students?

Auckland is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Jaco is not popular with students.

Auckland is a great city to visit as a student. Some of the country's best universities are found in the city, many of which are popular with international students.

Jaco is not popular with students.

Is Auckland or Jaco Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Auckland is a nice place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Jaco is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Auckland has some public transit options. There's a mishmash of different public transit options, and trips often include a variety of modes of transport. In the city you'll find ferries, trains, and buses to help you get around.

Public transit is generally limited in Jaco. Most people walk or get around by bicycle.

Is Auckland or Jaco a more walkable city?

Jaco is an excellent place to visit for its high level of walkability. However, Auckland is lacking in options for its ease of walking around.

Jaco is a very walkable town. The town is compact and walkable. You'll find many of the restaurants and shops along the main street, and it's easy to reach the beach on foot.

Auckland is generally not very walkable. It is a very car-centric city and it can be challenging to explore on foot alone.

For even more information, also check out Is Auckland Worth Visiting? and Is Jaco Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Jaco or Auckland?

How long in Auckland or Jaco?

It's fun to spend time in either Auckland or Jaco. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Jaco due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Auckland, and 3-4 days is enough time in Jaco.

Families should spend more time in Auckland than Jaco. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Auckland, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Auckland than Jaco. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Auckland that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Auckland than Jaco if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Auckland.

One day in Auckland or Jaco?

Auckland is a big city destination where you can fill many days. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

The town of Jaco offers food and scuba diving and snorkeling. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Auckland or Jaco?

Auckland is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It's also a great beach destination, too. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Jaco is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Auckland or Jaco?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the cosmopolitan big city of Auckland. This city offers something for everyone. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Jaco is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that nightlife is why people visit. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Auckland or Jaco?

The thrill-seeking city of Auckland offers nightlife and food. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips.

Jaco is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that nightlife is why people visit. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This town offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Wildlife Tours to New Zealand, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in New Zealand, The Best Budget Tours to Costa Rica, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Costa Rica.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Auckland and Jaco, we can see that Auckland is more expensive. And not only is Jaco much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Auckland is in Pacific and Jaco is in Central America, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. So, traveling to Jaco would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Jaco and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Auckland would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Auckland than you might in Jaco.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Auckland Expensive? and Is Jaco Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Auckland or Jaco?

Auckland has a larger population, and is about 100 times larger than the population of Jaco. When comparing the sizes of Auckland and Jaco, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

When is the best time to visit Auckland or Jaco?

Auckland has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, but Jaco experiences a warm climate with fairly sunny weather most of the year.

Should I visit Auckland or Jaco in the Summer?

Both Jaco and Auckland are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The beaches, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Auckland this time of year. Plenty of visitors come to Jaco because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year.

In the summer, Auckland is cooler than Jaco. Typically, the summer temperatures in Auckland in January average around 20°C (68°F), and Jaco averages at about 28°C (82°F)in July.

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Auckland. Auckland usually receives more sunshine than Jaco during summer. Auckland gets 240 hours of sunny skies, while Jaco receives 164 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Jaco. In January, Auckland usually receives less rain than Jacoin July. Auckland gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Jaco receives 164 mm (6.5 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Auckland or Jaco in the Autumn?

Both Jaco and Auckland during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Auckland for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, and the shopping scene. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Jaco year-round.

In April, Auckland is generally much colder than Jacoin October. Daily temperatures in Auckland average around 16°C (61°F), and Jaco fluctuates around 27°C (81°F).

In the autumn, Auckland often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Jacoin October. Auckland gets 162 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Jaco receives 169 hours of full sun.

Jaco gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Auckland usually gets less rain in April than Jacoin October. Auckland gets 95 mm (3.7 in) of rain, while Jaco receives 254 mm (10 in) of rain this time of the year. November to May is the dry season in Jaco. Also, June to October in Jaco is the hurricane season.

Should I visit Auckland or Jaco in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Auckland and Jaco. Many visitors come to Auckland in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Jaco attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate.

Auckland is much colder than Jaco in the winter. The daily temperature in Auckland averages around 11°C (52°F) in July, and Jaco fluctuates around 27°C (81°F)in January.

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Jaco this time of the year. Auckland usually receives less sunshine than Jaco during winter. Auckland gets 141 hours of sunny skies, while Jaco receives 264 hours of full sun in the winter.

Auckland gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Auckland usually receives more rain than Jacoin January. Auckland gets 135 mm (5.3 in) of rain, while Jaco receives 8 mm (0.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Auckland or Jaco in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Auckland as well as Jaco. Most visitors come to Auckland for the beaches and the activities around the city during these months. The warm climate attracts visitors to Jaco throughout the year.

In the spring, Auckland is much colder than Jaco. Typically, the spring temperatures in Auckland in October average around 14°C (58°F), and Jaco averages at about 29°C (85°F)in April.

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Jaco. In the spring, Auckland often gets less sunshine than Jacoin April. Auckland gets 192 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Jaco receives 255 hours of full sun.

Auckland usually gets more rain in October than Jacoin April. Auckland gets 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Jaco receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, November to May in Jaco is the dry season. Also, the hurricane season in Jaco is June to October.

Typical Weather for Jaco and Auckland