I’m Joshua Moore, 38. I booked a Downtown Jaco Beach Airbnb Apartment and promised myself I wouldn’t overschedule. The beach did most of the work—soft gray mornings, then honest sunshine.

My four anchors: Surfing on Jaco Beach, Jaco Walk Open Air Shops, Graffiti Restaurant, and a slow wander over the Tarcoles Crocodile Bridge. Everyone seemed genuinely happy I was visiting—drivers, baristas, surf instructors.

I split time among Playa Hermosa, Herradura’s marina, and a humbling sunset at Esterillos. Ubers and taxis were quick; the bus made sense the first try. I felt safe and welcome moving around solo.

A local pointed out scarlet macaws drifting above the palms—red punctuation against green.

Nights were easy: music, a little casino sparkle, and warm air on the walk home.

Jaco made rest feel active in the best way. I’m bringing this pace back with me.