A Travel Price Comparison for Costa Rica Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) vs. Jaco for Nightlife, Scuba Diving & Snorkeling, Beaches, and Families

Should you visit Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) 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 Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) and Jaco can help you decide which place is right for you.

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is a remote, local, and authentic town. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. With stunning beauty, Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking. See Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) travel costs.

Jaco

Jaco is a laid back, popular, and touristy town. It's also known for beaches, shopping, and nightlife. See Jaco travel costs.

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) and Jaco: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers


Is there more to do in Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) or Jaco?

Both Jaco and Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) have plenty of things to do for travelers. Both provide a wide variety of sights and activities for tourists. Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is better known for its scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Jaco is more popular for its nightlife and shopping. Jaco is more touristy than Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) and is popular for its surfing, nightlife, and beaches. Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is well known for its fishing and wildlife.

How is Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) different from Jaco?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Jaco and Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park). Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) or Jaco?

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)
Jaco

Neither Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) or Jaco offer quality museums and landmarks.

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) offers a few options for museum-goers. People visit the town for the nearby national park, so you won't find much in the form of museums.

If you're looking to pass the time, head to a museum or historic sight in Jaco. Most people spend their time outside or partying while they're in town.


Is the Food Better in Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) or Jaco? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)
Jaco

Both Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) and Jaco offer notable local cuisine and restaurants.

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. Many places have local Costa Rican dishes, but you'll also find pizza joints and the occasional cafe as well.

Jaco has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. 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 Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) or Jaco Better for Nightlife?

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)
Jaco

Jaco is very popular for nightlife. However, Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is not a good town for nightlife and partying.

Jaco is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. 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.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park). There are a few bars on the town's main street, but most visitors don't come to town for the nightlife.

Is Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) or Jaco Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)
Jaco

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is a very popular place for snorkeling and scuba diving. Also, Jaco is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling.

Many visitors go to Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) to enjoy scuba diving and snorkeling. You'll find nice snorkeling with calm waters and you might even see dolphins.

It's fun to get in the water and check out the local marine life 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.


Is Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) or Jaco Better for Beaches?

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)
Jaco

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) 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 Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park). Near town you'll find wonderful beaches and long stretches of sand bordered by lush rainforests.

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 Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) or Jaco Better for Hiking?

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)
Jaco

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is a very popular place for its hiking trails. However, Jaco is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park). Corcovado National Park can be challenging to reach, which is part of what makes it such a wonderful place to explore. The rainforest and wildlife still feels untouched by the tourist crowds and you can lose yourself hiking through the forest.

Jaco is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) or Jaco?

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)
Jaco

Jaco is very good for shopping. However, Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is not a good town for its shopping opportunities.

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.

If you're looking to go shopping, Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) has some nice offerings. It's a small local town so you won't find many shopping options that cater to tourists.


Is Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) or Jaco More Beautiful?

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)
Jaco

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is a very popular place for its scenery and beauty. However, Jaco is not a destination known for its beauty.

With stunning beauty, Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) attracts visitors from all around. The beaches, wildlife, and rainforests make this a unique and beautiful place to visit.

Jaco is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) or Jaco Better for Families?

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)
Jaco

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) 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 Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park). Kids will love the beaches, kayaking, surfing, wildlife, hiking, and swimming. There really is something for the whole family to enjoy.

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 Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) or Jaco Better for Couples?

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)
Jaco

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is a very popular place for couples. Also, Jaco is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples will love the stunning nature and wildlife that nearby Corcovado National Park offers. There are also many great beaches where you can take a stroll or go kayaking.

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 Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) or Jaco Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)
Jaco

Both Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) and Jaco are excellent destinations for backpackers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park). It's become a popular backpacker destination because there are a number of hostels nearby.

Many backpackers visit Jaco. 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 Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) or Jaco Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)
Jaco

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) 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.

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) has some public transit options. Many visitors take the colectivo taxi, which is a flatbed truck that is more affordable than private taxis.

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

Is Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) or Jaco a more walkable city?

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)
Jaco

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) and Jaco both are excellent when exploring on foot.

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is very walkable. The town is relatively easy to walk 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.


For even more information, also check out Is Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) Worth Visiting? and Is Jaco Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Jaco or Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)?

How long in Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) or Jaco?

It's fun to spend time in either Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) or Jaco. In our opinion, Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) than Jaco. However, 3-4 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) 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 Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park).


  • How many days in Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) or Jaco? Ideal Length of Stay
    Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) 3-4 
    Jaco 3-4

One day in Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) or Jaco?

Visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and food when visiting the destination of Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park). Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

In Jaco, many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling that this laid back destination offers. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. This town offers something for everyone.

A weekend in Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) or Jaco?

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is a fun place to experience. It's also a great beach destination, too. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

In Jaco, many people enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping that this town offers. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Lots of people come for the nightlife. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

Five days in Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) or Jaco?

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and food around the local destination of Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park). This town offers something for everyone. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Jaco is a popular choice for travelers. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Anyone can find something fun to do here.


A week in Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) or Jaco?

The local town of Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) offers food and scuba diving and snorkeling. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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. Lots of people come for the nightlife. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It offers something for everyone.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Luxury Tours to Costa Rica, The Best Budget Tours to Costa Rica, The Best Tours for Seniors to Costa Rica, and The Best G Adventures Tours to Costa Rica.


Which place is cheaper, Jaco or Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

  • Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) Prices
    Costa Rica Prices
    Jaco Prices
    Costa Rica Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) $140
    Jaco $119

The average daily cost (per person) in Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is $140, while the average daily cost in Jaco is $119. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) and Jaco in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) $49
    Jaco $67
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) $98
    Jaco $134
Compare Hotels in Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) and Jaco

Looking for a hotel in Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) or Jaco? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)


Hotels in Jaco


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) Hotel Prices and Jaco Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) -
    Jaco -

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Jaco

Also for Jaco, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Shuttle & transfer rides to SJO Airport Costa Rica: $55
  • Private Transfer from Liberia Airport to Jaco Beach Puntarenas: $63
  • Private Direct SJO ↔ Jaco Beach/Los Sueños Transfer Service: $70
  • Jaco to Juan Santamaria International Airport (SJO) - Departure Private Transfer: $119
  • Jaco or Playa Hermosa: Transfer to San Jose or Alajuela: $173
  • One-Way Private Transfer from Jaco to Juan Santa Maria Airport: $175
  • Jacó Private Transfer to San Jose Airport 1 to 4 People: $205
  • Jacó: Private Transfer to San Jose Airport: $205
  • Private Transfer - San Jose Airport & Los Sueños Resort/Marriot : $215
  • Jaco/Monteverde to Liberia Airport (LIR) - Departure Transfer : $233
  • Transfer to Jaco beach from San José or the airport one way: $245
  • Arrival Transfer Barcelo Tambor to Juan Santamaria Airport SJO : $256

Is it cheaper to fly into Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) or Jaco?

Prices for flights to both Jaco and Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) $60
    Jaco $36
Typical Food Prices in Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)

Some typical examples of dining costs in Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) are as follows:


  • Dinner at Finca Exotica
    $54

Typical Food Prices in Jaco

For Jaco, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Hermosa BeachLlunch
    $3.94
  • Tsunami Sushi Dinner
    $18
  • Taco Bar Dinner
    $9.00
  • Pizza & Smoothie Lunch
    $6.30
  • Ice Cream
    $5.91
  • Breakfast Taco Bar
    $3.34
  • Fruit Plate
    $2.95

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Jaco

For Jaco, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Traveling Spoon Ceviche Private Online Cooking Class: $40
  • Taste of Costa Rica: Traditional Food Tour in Jaco: $87
  • Arenal Volcano, La Fortuna Waterfall, Hot Springs Combo Tour with Lunch & Dinner: $195

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) $119
    Jaco $60

Tours and Activities in Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) are as follows:

  • 30-minute Corcovado National Park Tour by Plane: $256
  • 4 Hour Private Guided Tour in Osa Jungle : $163
  • Bio-Luminescence and Sunset Kayak Tour: $62
  • Corcovado National Park - Day Tour from Drake Bay: $145
  • Corcovado National Park day tour Mermaid and Leona 18km : $220
  • Gold Panning Private Adventure in Puerto Jimenez: $35
  • Kayak experience on Playa Blanca in Puerto Jiménez: $65
  • One Day Tour To Caño Island From Drake Bay: $145
  • One Day Tour to Corcovado (La Leona Station) From Puerto Jiménez: $230
  • Parque Nacional Corcovado- Sirena day tour desde Puerto Jiménez : $190

Typical Entertainment Prices in Jaco

Below are a few sample prices from actual travelers for Jaco's activities, tours, and tickets:


  • Dance Class
    $9.81
  • Surf Lesson
    $49
  • Bike Rental
    $9.81
  • Tortuga Island Tour
    $98
  • Massage
    $44

Tours and Activities in Jaco

For Jaco, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Hiking Tour in Bijagual Waterfall: $25
  • Guided Walking Street Art & Graffiti Tour in Jaco Costa Rica : $27
  • Carara National Park Tour: $31
  • Carara National Park Admission Ticket: $32
  • Cold Plunge Experience in Jaco: $35
  • Jungle Crocodile Safari and Bird Watching Tour: $35
  • Adventure in Los Chocuacos with all inclusive.: $36
  • Jason Crocodile Tours: $40
  • Jaco Beach: 2-Hour Chocolate Experience Tour: $43
  • Chocolate Experience in Jaco Beach and Los Suenos : $45
  • Guided visit to Carara National Park (Ticket included): $48
  • Guided tour in Carara National Park: $50

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) -
    Jaco $32

Typical Alcohol Prices in Jaco

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for alcohol and nightlife costs in Jaco:


  • Wine
    $15
  • Night at the Bar
    $27


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) and Jaco, we can see that Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is more expensive. And not only is Jaco much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. 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 Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) 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 Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) Expensive? and Is Jaco Expensive?.