We’re Sean Russell (34) and Amanda Ortiz (32), and we decided to make Jaco Beach our honeymoon base because we couldn’t choose between beach and rainforest. Jaco gave us both—and then some. We stayed in a beautiful Contemporary Airbnb Apartment near Jaco Beach where we could walk to the ocean in minutes and be picked up for tours right at our door.

Four experiences stand out as the pillars of our honeymoon: Ziplining through Rainforest, a thrilling Savegre River White Water Rafting day, exploring Manual Antonio National Park, and wandering the lush grounds of Pura Vida Gardens and Waterfalls. Ziplining gave us sweeping views over the canopy, rafting had us laughing and paddling in sync, Manuel Antonio’s beaches and wildlife felt like a dream, and Pura Vida Gardens was so beautiful it looked almost unreal.

Jaco itself quickly felt like home. We spent mornings on Jaco Beach watching the waves and sipping coffee, then used taxis, Ubers, and buses to reach adventure spots and nearby towns. Day trips to Herradura, the Los Sueños marina, and down the coast toward Quepos and Esterillos showed us just how much there is to see in this part of Costa Rica. Every ride felt safe and easy, and the guides and drivers we met were some of the friendliest people we’ve ever traveled with.

The kindness of the locals made the whole trip feel special in a way we weren’t expecting. Our guides on every tour cheered us on, took photos of us, and shared stories about growing up between the rainforest and the ocean. Restaurant staff remembered us after one visit and congratulated us on our marriage every time we came back. Even small encounters at shops and cafés came with big smiles and warm “pura vida” energy.

At night, Jaco gave us a full menu of options: romantic dinners, casual beach bars, lively casinos, and dance clubs that stayed open late. Some nights we kept it low-key with a sunset dinner and a walk along the sand. Other nights we stayed out later, dancing and trying our luck at the tables, always surrounded by a mix of locals and travelers just enjoying the night. Walking back to our apartment late felt safe and relaxed, with music in the air and plenty of people still out.

By the end of our honeymoon, we both agreed that starting our married life in Jaco was one of the best decisions we’ve made. The combination of rainforest adventures, pristine beaches, friendly locals, and easy access to stunning places like Manuel Antonio and Pura Vida Gardens gave us memories we’ll talk about for decades. We’re already planning an anniversary trip back to the same town—and probably the same Airbnb.