Explore Southern Nicoya Peninsula from Jaco Beach

Jaco Beach, on the central Pacific coast of Costa Rica is a popular destination for gentleman tourists. Offshore fishing is especial popular, along with swimming and surfing. However, one of the little known secrets to Jaco is that it is just a 70 minute boat ride from the southwestern tip of Nicoya Peninsula. Zuma Tours, operates a daily water taxi between Herradura Beach and Montezuma Beach. Herradura is a 10 minute drive from downtown Jaco, and Zuma Tours provides a shuttle transfer in the price of the $40 one-way water taxi.

Taking the water taxi is a huge time saver compared to overland transport. For example, the trip between the airport in San Jose and Montezuma Beach is over six hours, and requires a ferry transfer in Puntarenas. Using the same ferry, and coming from Jaco takes at least 3 hours to reach Montezuma. Either way, a portion of an overland trip to Montezuma requires a bone jarring transit over unpaved roads, which are still common in Nicoya.

Comparatively, the water taxi is a delightful boat ride in calm weather. The route crosses the picturesque Gulf of Nicoya, passing Tortuga island and Ballena Bay. Dolphins and humpback whales are often seen along the route.

The boat leaves daily from Herradura at 10:30 am, and the reverse trip from Montezuma leaves at 9:30 am. The boat can accommodate up to 18 people, and requires getting your feet wet on both beaches. It's a good idea to wear sandals and shorts. Heavy luggage goes on the top of the boat, and is carried ashore by the guides. Rain gear is recommended if the trip is made during a storm. Sometimes the taxi is rescheduled due to bad weather.

Using the water taxi is a great way to get to get other beaches in southern Nicoya. Mal Pais Beach is especially popular, and it's not far from the surfer village of Santa Teresa. Cabo Blanco Nature Reserve is also on the very tip of the Nicoya Peninsula.