We’re Daniel Turner (39) and Amanda Phillips (36), and Jaco was our first real vacation without kids in years. We wanted somewhere we could relax, explore, and still have a little nightlife, and Jaco Beach hit every note. We stayed in a comfortable Central Jaco Airbnb Vacation Rental that gave us an easy walk to the sand, restaurants, and all the action.

Four experiences really defined our week together: a mellow yet scenic Horseback riding by Sunset along the coastline, a refreshing Waterfall Tour in Bijagual, an excellent dinner at Graffiti Restaurant, and an upscale-feeling night with cocktails and hookah at Mynt Lounge Jaco. The guides were attentive and fun, the restaurant’s food was creative and memorable, and the staff at Mynt made us feel like VIPs without any snobbery.

We used Jaco as our launchpad for exploring the surrounding area. One day we headed up to Herradura and the Los Sueños Marina, wandering past boats and rainforest views; another day we went down the coast toward Esterillos and Bejuco for quieter beaches and long, hand-in-hand walks. Taxis and Ubers made getting around simple, and the buses felt safe and efficient whenever we used them. Everywhere we looked, we saw this beautiful mix of beach, mountains, and lush green rainforest.

The locals added a layer of charm to everything. Our horseback guide told us stories about growing up in the region and pointed out hidden lookout points. A woman at a small soda in town remembered our names after one visit and greeted us like old friends the next day. People were warm, patient with our Spanish, and genuinely happy we’d chosen Costa Rica for our getaway.

At night, Jaco’s personality brightened even more. We danced at clubs, visited a couple of casinos for low-stakes fun, grabbed drinks right on the beach, and ended one of our favorite evenings lounging at Mynt, watching the mix of tourists and locals filter through. We always felt safe walking back to our apartment, even when it was late and the music was still drifting through the streets.

By the time we flew home, we both agreed Jaco is the kind of place we want to return to—sometimes just the two of us, and eventually with friends or family in tow. It’s easy, beautiful, energetic, and still somehow laid-back. Exactly what a couple’s escape should feel like.