Playa Agujas, Jacó · Kayaking
Kayak Jaco
Sea kayaks, outrigger canoes and a trimaran near Jacó
By Monirul Hoque on , updated on
Kayak Jaco has been running paddle and snorkel trips on the Central Pacific coast since 1998, from its base at Playa Agujas just south of Jacó. It suits beginners, families and groups, and its small trimaran gives couples and small parties a private sail out of Playa Herradura.
What they offer
Kayak Jaco is a small paddle-sports operator that's been on the water around Jacó since 1998, which makes it one of the longest-running adventure outfits in town. It was founded by Neil Kahn, and guests still mention Neil by name. What sets it apart is that the team designs and builds its own paddles and outrigger canoes.
The main trips:
- Sea kayak and snorkel: a half-day paddle along the coast from Playa Agujas, with a snorkel stop when the water allows.
- Outrigger canoe and snorkel: the same coastline in multi-person outrigger canoes, popular with groups and team-building outings.
- Stand-up paddle: for people who want to try SUP in calmer water.
- Kayak fishing: fishing from a kayak along the rocky shoreline.
- Sunset tour: a seasonal evening paddle, offered from late December through April.
- Private sailing: by the hour on the trimaran Ashuma (more below).
No experience is needed for the paddle trips.
The boat
Ashuma is a 25-foot Searunner trimaran. She's stable and quick, with big trampoline nets around a roomy center cockpit and a bimini for shade. You charter her by the hour, so every sail is private: you pick the time and the guest list, and you can relax or help sail. There's a 2-hour minimum, and the company recommends 3 to 4 hours. Snorkel gear and a fishing rod are on board, and drinks, fruit and snacks are included.
Dolphins sometimes come alongside, and humpbacks pass this coast in season.
Where you leave from
The paddle trips start at Kayak Jaco's base on Playa Agujas in Quebrada Ganado, a few minutes south of central Jacó. Sailing trips start at Playa Herradura, where a water taxi from the beach takes you out to the boat. Los Sueños Marina is on the same bay.
Who it suits
- First-time kayakers and families with kids who can handle a paddle
- Groups and clubs looking for an outrigger canoe outing
- Couples or small groups who want a private sail rather than a crowded party boat
Good to know before you book
- Snorkeling depends on conditions. Water tends to be clearer in the dry season (December to April), and windy days or recent rain can cloud it.
- The office is open daily from 7 am, with shorter hours on Sundays.
- Bring a hat, sunscreen, water shoes, a swimsuit, a towel and a change of clothes.
- Contact them by phone or WhatsApp to set up a sailing time.
For more boats nearby, see The King Catamaran for bigger group cruises from Los Sueños, and the Central Pacific section.
Where to stay near the Central Pacific coast
Live prices from Booking.com, Expedia, Hotels.com and more.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need experience to kayak with Kayak Jaco?
No. The kayak and canoe tours are set up for beginners, with guides along.
How long is the sailboat charter?
You book by the hour with a 2-hour minimum. Most people take 3 to 4 hours.
Where does the sail start?
From the beach at Playa Herradura, with a short water taxi out to the trimaran.
Is the sunset tour year-round?
No. It runs seasonally, from late December through April.
