A Travel Price Comparison for Costa Rica Quepos vs. Jaco for Nightlife, Couples, Backpackers, and Families

Should you visit Quepos 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 Quepos and Jaco can help you decide which place is right for you.

Quepos

Quepos is a relaxed, local, and laid-back town. It's also popular because of the food, beaches, and shopping. See Quepos travel costs.

Jaco

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

Quepos and Jaco: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples


Is there more to do in Quepos or Jaco?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Jaco. Although Quepos and Jaco are popular destinations, Jaco has more sights and attractions for tourists. Jaco is very popular for its nightlife and scuba diving & snorkeling, while Quepos attracts visitors for its resorts. Jaco is more touristy than Quepos and is known for its surfing, nightlife, and beaches. It is also well known for Carara National Park. Quepos is famous for its big game sport fishing.

How is Quepos different from Jaco?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Quepos
Jaco

Neither Quepos or Jaco offer quality museums and landmarks.

If you're looking to pass the time, head to a museum or historic sight in Quepos. You won't find much as far as museums go around town.

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 Quepos or Jaco? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Quepos
Jaco

Foodies will find both Quepos and Jaco both to be nice destinations.

Quepos is becoming an appealing option for foodies. You'll find a mix of cafes, fine dining, and seafood restaurants in the area. You can get traditional Costa Rican dishes as well as a more international flavor depending on your preference.

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 Quepos or Jaco Better for Nightlife?

Quepos
Jaco

Jaco is a world-class destination for its evening party scene. Also, Quepos is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife.

People head to Jaco just to party. 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.

Quepos has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. You'll find a few bars and clubs around town, but it is a small town and the selection can be limited.

Is Quepos or Jaco Better for Resorts?

Quepos
Jaco

Quepos is a decent place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Jaco is not a resort destination.

You might not think of Quepos as a resort destination, but it has a few places. It's a fishing town with a local vibe, so you'll likely want to stay outside of town if you're looking for an upscale resort.

Jaco is not a resort destination.


Is Quepos or Jaco Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Quepos
Jaco

Jaco is very good for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Quepos 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.

Quepos is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Quepos or Jaco Better for Beaches?

Quepos
Jaco

Quepos and Jaco are nice choices for a beach vacation.

Many people head to Quepos to enjoy the beach. If you want to be close to the beach, you'll do better to stay at nearby Manuel Antonio. Quepos does have a waterfront and access to deep sea fishing.

Jaco has a beach worth visiting. 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 the Shopping Better in Quepos or Jaco?

Quepos
Jaco

Shoppers can find a variety of nice stores in both Quepos and Jaco.

Quepos has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. You'll find boutique shops around town that sell everything from clothing to art.

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 Quepos or Jaco Better for Families?

Quepos
Jaco

Quepos 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 Quepos. Most of the beaches are kid-friendly and the children will love the wildlife. You'll also find zipline tours in the area as well as canopy walks.

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 Quepos or Jaco Better for Couples?

Quepos
Jaco

Quepos is a world-class destination for couples. Also, Jaco is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Quepos has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. The beaches and resorts make this a favorite honeymoon destination for couples. There are many great restaurants and plenty of activities like horseback riding or surfing nearby.

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 Quepos or Jaco Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Quepos
Jaco

Quepos is a world-class destination for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Jaco is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Quepos, as it is a very popular town for budget travelers. It's one of the more popular destinations in Costa Rica, so you'll find plenty of hostels and other backpackers to hang out with.

Backpackers come from all over to 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 Quepos or Jaco Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Quepos
Jaco

Quepos 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.

Quepos has some public transit options. There are a number of buses that pass through town. There are also buses that travel between Quepos and Manuel Antonio.

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

Is Quepos or Jaco a more walkable city?

Quepos
Jaco

Jaco is a very popular place for its ease of walking around. Also, Quepos is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its walkability.

Jaco is a very walkable destination. 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.

Quepos is somewhat walkable. It is a relatively walkable town.

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

Should I spend more time in Jaco or Quepos?

How long in Quepos or Jaco?

It's fun to spend time in either Quepos or Jaco. In our opinion, Quepos has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Quepos than Jaco. In general, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Quepos, and 3-4 days is enough time in Jaco.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Quepos 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 Quepos.


  • How many days in Quepos or Jaco? Ideal Length of Stay
    Quepos 2-4 
    Jaco 3-4

One day in Quepos or Jaco?

Visitors enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the destination of Quepos. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the destination of Jaco. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.


A weekend in Quepos or Jaco?

Quepos is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. 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 great place to explore. Don't miss the nightlife, as that's what most people do. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Quepos or Jaco?

You'll find food and shopping around the local destination of Quepos. This town offers something for everyone. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Jaco. Don't miss the nightlife, as that's what most people do. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Quepos or Jaco?

The local town of Quepos offers shopping and nightlife. 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.

Travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the laid back destination of Jaco. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Wildlife Tours to Costa Rica, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Costa Rica, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Costa Rica, and The Best Adventure Tours to Costa Rica.


Which place is cheaper, Jaco or Quepos?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Quepos is $137, while the average daily cost in Jaco is $117. 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 Quepos and Jaco in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Quepos $75
    Jaco $66
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Quepos $150
    Jaco $132
Compare Hotels in Quepos and Jaco

Looking for a hotel in Quepos 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 Quepos


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: Quepos Hotel Prices and Jaco Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Quepos $9.43
    Jaco -

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Quepos

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

  • Transfer from Quepos Cruise Port to Juan Santamaria Airport (SJO): $72
  • Transfer from Manuel Antonio to SJO Airport and surroundings : $209
  • Transfer From San Jose Airport To Manuel Antonio Beach: $135
  • Shuttle Transfer from Manuel Antonio to San Jose: $60
  • Private transfer from SJ Airport to Manuel Antonio and vice versa: $230
  • Private Transfer: SJO Airport to/from Manuel Antonio (One Way): $100
  • Private Transfer: SJO Airport to Manuel Antonio with Scenic Stop.: $225
  • Private Transfer from Quepos Port to Liberia Int Airport (LIR): $87
  • Private Transfer from Manuel Antonio to Nauyaca Waterfalls (Round Trip): $199
  • Private Transfer from Manuel Antonio to Nauyaca: $220
  • Private Transfer FROM or TO Manuel Antonio - Sierpe : $189
  • Private One Way Transfer from Manuel Antonio to San José (Airport SJO): $210

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Jaco

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

  • Transfer to Jaco beach from San José or the airport one way: $245
  • Shuttle & transfer rides to SJO Airport Costa Rica: $55
  • Private transfer from Jaco Beach to Hotels in San Jose or the Airport: $219
  • Private Direct SJO ↔ Jaco Beach/Los Sueños Transfer Service: $70
  • One-Way Private Transfer from Quepos - Manuel Antonio to Uvita: $140
  • Jaco/Monteverde to Liberia Airport (LIR) - Departure Transfer : $90
  • Jaco to Juan Santamaria International Airport (SJO) - Departure Private Transfer: $68
  • Jaco or Playa Hermosa: Transfer to San Jose or Alajuela: $173
  • Jacó: Private Transfer to San Jose Airport: $205
  • Jacó Private Transfer to San Jose Airport 1 to 4 People: $205
  • Arrival Transfer Barcelo Tambor to Juan Santamaria Airport SJO : $82

Is it cheaper to fly into Quepos or Jaco?

Prices for flights to both Jaco and Quepos 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
    Quepos $50
    Jaco $36
Typical Food Prices in Quepos

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


  • Lunch
    $15
  • Seafood Dinner (for 1)
    $19

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Quepos

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

  • Night Jungle Tour with Dinner (Rainmaker Park): $59
  • Cooking Class in Manuel Antonio with Medicinal Plants Garden Visit: $77
  • Cooking Class and Medical Plants Garden: $77
  • Cooking Class & Medicinal Plants Garden Manuel Antonio: $77
  • Night Mangrove Safari Boat Tour with Dinner | Manuel Antonio: $79

Typical Food Prices in Jaco

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


  • Hermosa BeachLlunch
    $3.89
  • Tsunami Sushi Dinner
    $17
  • Taco Bar Dinner
    $8.89
  • Pizza & Smoothie Lunch
    $6.22
  • Ice Cream
    $5.84
  • Breakfast Taco Bar
    $3.30
  • Fruit Plate
    $2.92

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Jaco

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

  • Costa Rican cooking class with cookbook author Melissa Guzman: $85
  • Taste of Costa Rica: Traditional Food Tour in Jacó: $87
  • Night Walk Tour and Jungle Dinner in Jaco: $89
  • Arenal Volcano, La Fortuna Waterfall, Hot Springs Combo Tour with Lunch & Dinner: $195

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Quepos $17
    Jaco $59

Tours and Activities in Quepos

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

  • 10 in 1 Tour! Zip Lines, Rappels, Tarzan Swing, Waterfalls & More: $158
  • 2 Hours Kayaking Tour in The Mangroves: $58
  • 2-3-Hour Manuel Antonio Park Nature Guided Tour: $30
  • 2-Hour Kayak Tour in Quepos: $85
  • ATV Tour Half Day Trip From Manuel Antonio: $88
  • Adventure Full Day Tour from Manuel Antonio & Quepos + 2 Tours : $162
  • All Inclusive Catamaran Eco Adventure from Manuel Antonio: $83
  • All Inclusive Nauyaca Waterfalls Adventure: $155
  • All-Inclusive Catamaran Eco Adventure with Lunch: $93
  • All-Inclusive Full-Day Nauyaca Waterfall and Beach Town Tour: $133
  • All-Inclusive Half Day Nauyaca Waterfall Tour: $146
  • All-Inclusive Jungle Night Tour: $59

Typical Entertainment Prices in Jaco

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


  • Dance Class
    $9.69
  • Surf Lesson
    $48
  • Bike Rental
    $9.69
  • Tortuga Island Tour
    $96
  • Massage
    $44

Tours and Activities in Jaco

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

  • All Inclusive Day Tour of Tortuga Island: $158
  • Jungle & River ATV Adventure, 2 hours / Jacó: $95
  • Ocean views Zip Line Canopy Tour in Jaco Beach and Los Suenos : $71
  • 10 Hidden Waterfalls with Local Cuisine Experience: $80
  • 2 HRS Buggy Tour + Waterfalls in Jaco Beach and Los Suenos: $212
  • 2 Hour ATV Jungle Adventure Jaco: $75
  • 2 Hour ATV Tour and 2 Hour Zipline Experience in Jaco: $119
  • 2 hour Double ATV Tour + Waterfalls in Jaco Beach : $99
  • 3-Hour ATV Jungle Waterfall Adventure: $110
  • 3-Hour ATV Jungle Waterfall Adventure: $95
  • 4x4 Happy Jungle Booze Cruise: $115
  • 5 Hour Off-Road ATV+ Zipline+ Waterfall Rappelling+ Tractor Jungle Tour: $160

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Quepos $14
    Jaco $31

Typical Alcohol Prices in Jaco

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


  • Wine
    $14
  • Night at the Bar
    $26


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Quepos and Jaco, we can see that Quepos 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 Quepos would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Quepos 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 Quepos Expensive? and Is Jaco Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Quepos or Jaco?

Quepos has a larger population, and is about 91% larger than the population of Jaco. When comparing the sizes of Quepos 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 Quepos or Jaco?

Both destinations experience a warmer climate with nice weather most of the year. Instead of summer and winter seasons, they usually have a rainy season and a dry season.

Should I visit Quepos or Jaco in the Summer?

Both Jaco and Quepos are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Quepos throughout the year. Plenty of visitors come to Jaco because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Jaco. It's quite rainy in Quepos. In July, Quepos usually receives around the same amount of rain as Jaco. Quepos gets 164 mm (6.5 in) of rain, while Jaco receives 164 mm (6.5 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Quepos usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Jaco during summer. Quepos gets 164 hours of sunny skies, while Jaco receives 164 hours of full sun in the summer.

Quepos is around the same temperature as Jaco in the summer. The daily temperature in Quepos averages around 28°C (82°F) in July, and Jaco fluctuates around 28°C (82°F).


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Quepos 28°C (82°F) 
    Jaco 28°C (82°F)

Should I visit Quepos or Jaco in the Autumn?

Both Jaco and Quepos during the autumn are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Quepos because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Jaco year-round.

December to April is the dry season in Quepos. Also, the hurricane season in Quepos is May to November. November to May is the dry season in Jaco. Also, the hurricane season in Jaco is June to October. Jaco gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Quepos. Quepos usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Jaco. Quepos gets 254 mm (10 in) of rain, while Jaco receives 254 mm (10 in) of rain this time of the year.

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

In the autumn, Quepos is around the same temperature as Jaco. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Quepos in October average around 27°C (81°F), and Jaco averages at about 27°C (81°F).


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Quepos 27°C (81°F) 
    Jaco 27°C (81°F)

Should I visit Quepos or Jaco in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Quepos and Jaco. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Quepos year-round. Jaco attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate.

In January, Quepos usually receives around the same amount of rain as Jaco. Quepos gets 8 mm (0.3 in) of rain, while Jaco receives 8 mm (0.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Jaco this time of the year. In Quepos, it's very sunny this time of the year. Quepos usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Jaco during winter. Quepos gets 264 hours of sunny skies, while Jaco receives 264 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Quepos is generally around the same temperature as Jaco. Daily temperatures in Quepos average around 27°C (81°F), and Jaco fluctuates around 27°C (81°F).


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Quepos 27°C (81°F) 
    Jaco 27°C (81°F)

Should I visit Quepos or Jaco in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Quepos as well as Jaco. Quepos attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. The warm climate attracts visitors to Jaco throughout the year.

Also, December to April in Quepos is the dry season. Keep in mind that May to November is the hurricane season in Quepos. Also, November to May in Jaco is the dry season. Keep in mind that June to October is the hurricane season in Jaco. Quepos usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Jaco. Quepos gets 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain, while Jaco receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Jaco. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Quepos this time of the year. In the spring, Quepos often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Jaco. Quepos gets 255 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Jaco receives 255 hours of full sun.

Quepos is around the same temperature as Jaco in the spring. The daily temperature in Quepos averages around 29°C (85°F) in April, and Jaco fluctuates around 29°C (85°F).


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Quepos 29°C (85°F) 
    Jaco 29°C (85°F)

Typical Weather for Jaco and Quepos

Quepos Jaco
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 27°C (81°F) 8 mm (0.3 in) 27°C (81°F) 8 mm (0.3 in)
Feb 28°C (83°F) 2 mm (0.1 in) 28°C (83°F) 2 mm (0.1 in)
Mar 29°C (84°F) 4 mm (0.2 in) 29°C (84°F) 4 mm (0.2 in)
Apr 29°C (85°F) 28 mm (1.1 in) 29°C (85°F) 28 mm (1.1 in)
May 29°C (83°F) 226 mm (8.9 in) 29°C (83°F) 226 mm (8.9 in)
Jun 28°C (82°F) 226 mm (8.9 in) 28°C (82°F) 226 mm (8.9 in)
Jul 28°C (82°F) 164 mm (6.5 in) 28°C (82°F) 164 mm (6.5 in)
Aug 26°C (79°F) 289 mm (11.4 in) 26°C (79°F) 289 mm (11.4 in)
Sep 28°C (82°F) 328 mm (12.9 in) 28°C (82°F) 328 mm (12.9 in)
Oct 27°C (81°F) 254 mm (10 in) 27°C (81°F) 254 mm (10 in)
Nov 27°C (81°F) 121 mm (4.8 in) 27°C (81°F) 121 mm (4.8 in)
Dec 27°C (81°F) 33 mm (1.3 in) 27°C (81°F) 33 mm (1.3 in)