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Central Pacific Coast

The closest beaches to San José, from Jacó to Manuel Antonio.

Investing in Central Pacific Coast

The Central Pacific Coast represents Costa Rica's most mature and amenity-rich coastal investment market, attracting a diverse mix of North American (45%), European (25%), Latin American (15%), and domestic Costa Rican (15%) investors.

The market features high transaction volume with well-established valuation metrics, properties typically selling within 3-6 months when properly priced, and reliable performance patterns based on decades of market history and multiple economic cycles.

Appreciation

Average annual appreciation of 4-7% over the past decade, with premium properties in Manuel Antonio and exclusive developments achieving 6-9% in strong market periods.

Highlights

Most accessible coastal region from San José and airport
Highest concentration of amenities and services on any coast
Multiple distinct beach towns with different character
Well-developed tourism infrastructure and activities
Year-round appeal to domestic and international visitors

Popular property types

  • Beachfront condominiums with resort amenities
  • Boutique eco-hotels and lodges
  • Commercial Spaces
  • Development land with subdivision potential
  • Mixed-use commercial/residential buildings

Central Pacific Coast market at a glance

Region-wide ranges, USD

Average prices

Ocean-View Condominiums

$200,000-$750,000

Development Land

$250,000-$1,500,000

Commercial Retail Space

$400,000-$2,500,000

Residential Lots (Ocean View)

$100,000-$350,000

Rental yield by property type

Luxury Vacation Rentals

5-8%

Commercial Properties

6-10%

Long-term Residential Rentals

4-7%

Is Central Pacific Coast right for you?

Grade B · Emerging market

Bejuco

Bejuco is best for nature lovers wanting one of the Central Pacific’s least developed coastlines.

Occupancy high / low

50% / 26%

Good fit for

  • Surfer / active lifestyle
  • Rental income investor
  • Appreciation investor

Grade B+ · Mature market

Jaco

Jacó is best for weekend-rental investors and buyers wanting the closest beach to San José, about 1.5 hours from the capital, with nightlife, restaurants, bars and surf all in one place.

Occupancy high / low

56% / 34%

Good fit for

  • First-time international buyer
  • Rental income investor
  • Retiree
  • Second home, personal use

Grade A+ · Mature market

Manuel Antonio

Manuel Antonio is best for vacation rental investors looking for strong year-round tourism demand and jungle ocean views.

Occupancy high / low

64% / 40%

Good fit for

  • Rental income investor
  • Appreciation investor
  • Second home, personal use

Grade B+ · Mature market

Quepos

Good fit for

  • First-time international buyer
  • Rental income investor
  • Second home, personal use

Current market trends

Increasing demand for branded residence concepts with hotel management
Rising interest in mixed-use commercial/residential properties
Growing premium for walkable locations as traffic increases
Development focusing on larger unit sizes to accommodate remote workers
Strategic acquisition of commercial properties serving growing permanent population

Why investors choose Central Pacific Coast

Shortest drive time from international airport to beach destinations
Complete urban infrastructure including multiple hospitals and shopping centers
Established legal and regulatory environment with predictable outcomes
Strong rental demand from both international and domestic tourism
Multiple exit strategies through diverse buyer pools including Costa Ricans

Properties for sale in Central Pacific Coast

Live listings, updated daily

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Investor

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