Hotel Cocal & Casino in Jaco, Costa Rica
Legendary adults-only vibe in central Jaco: casino, pool bar, and late-night energy.
What It’s Like at Hotel Cocal
Updated
Hotel Cocal & Casino is a legendary adults-only nightlife spot in the heart of Jaco. Days are relaxed around the pool; nights are louder and social, with a casino, bar service, and a steady flow of party seekers.
Adults-only
Party vibe
Casino on-site
Pool bar
Restaurant
Heads up: This is an adult nightlife scene and not a family environment. If you want all the vibe but prefer privacy, upgraded interiors, and your own pool, then our party-friendly villas in Jaco are the best option.
Want the bigger picture on going out in Jaco? Our guide covers peak nights, what to wear, safety tips, and where to go.
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Jaco Casino: The Casino at Hotel Cocal
Small but lively, the casino at Hotel Cocal draws a steady late-night crowd in central Jaco. Expect a mix of table games and slots with bar service nearby, plus a flow of guests before and after the pool bar.
Bring valid ID, keep cash/cards minimal, and plan for busier weekends and holidays. Policies like hours and table minimums can change - check at the door. Arrive a little early if you want a table or a good spot.
Prefer to sleep close by, but not in the middle of it? Republik Hotel is a small boutique option with an on-site restaurant, located directly across the street.
Pool Bar & Nightlife
The pool bar is the mega magnet at Hotel Cocal. Casual by day and louder, more social after dark. There's a steady crowd all week, but Fridays and Saturdays are the busiest. Expect an adults-only, meet-and-mingle vibe: arrive early if you want a good spot, bring ID, and use registered taxis for late-night rides. Dress is casual but beachwear typically isn’t allowed in the casino.
Planning a guys’ trip or bachelor party in Costa Rica? Start with our Jaco bachelor party planning guide.
Rooms at Hotel Cocal
Hotel Cocal offers a range of room types in a central Jaco location. A few rooms are facing the beach but most wrap around the pool and some face the parking and courtyard. Typical amenities for the rooms include air-conditioning, WiFi, wall mounted TV, a programmable safe, as well as access to the swimming pool, pool bar, restaurant, and casino.
Good to know: Room categories, features, and availability vary. Room rates change by the night of the week, and season.
Beachfront Restaurant & Dining
The on-site beachfront restaurant at Hotel Cocal serves mostly casual food and a few higher end plates including steak and seafood dishes. You can order from the pool and casino.
Good breakfast options, easy lunches, and late-night bites when the scene picks up. Expect a laid-back setting with bar service nearby and seating close to the action in the evening.
Good to know: Hours and menus do change; check at the door for daily options and last call. Non-guests have typically been able to dine at the bar/restaurant areas with valid ID.
Stay Nearby: Private Villas Near the Cocal
Practical Info
Location
Central Jaco, on the beach; walk to nightlife, restaurants, pharmacies, groceries and more.
Access
Bar, restaurant, and casino areas have typically been open to visitors with a valid ID. Policies can change and capacity limits may apply on busy nights.
Dress
Casual wear is perfect; beachwear is usually not permitted inside the casino.
Transport
There are always taxis out front. Use registered taxis or pre-arranged drivers for late-night rides; keep valuables minimal.
Noise & Crowds
Lively at night. Busy all week, but especially Friday and Saturday night. Arrive earlier for a good spot. For quieter sleep, choose a nearby villa.
Payments
Most credit cards are accepted at the bar and restaurant. Bring cash for tips, taxis and entertainment. Use ATMs at reputable locations.
Note: Hours, access and policies can change without notice. Check at the door.
FAQs About Hotel Cocal
Is the Cocal Hotel family-friendly?
No. Hotel Cocal is known for an adults-only nightlife scene and is not a family environment.
Can I visit the casino and pool bar if I’m not a guest?
Yes. The casino and bar areas are open to visitors, in some cases a valid ID may be required. Cover charges or minimums can apply during busy times.
When are the busiest nights?
Evenings are lively most days, more so on Fridays and Saturdays, and holiday weekends. Arrive earlier for a good spot.
Is there a dress code?
Casual wear is fine. No real dress code, but there are limits. Beachwear is not permitted inside the casino.
Where should I stay nearby for more privacy or space?
Consider our party-friendly villas with private pools and concierge, or Republik Hotel directly across the street.
Is the area walkable?
Yes. Hotel Cocal is in Jaco center and very close to nightlife, restaurants, liquor stores, pharmacies, souvenirs and more.
How loud does it get?
It’s a social, adults-only scene and can be loud at night, especially on weekends. For quieter sleep, choose a nearby villa.
Do I need cash?
Cards are accepted at the casino, restaurant and bar, but bring cash for tips, taxis and entertainment. Use ATMs at reputable locations.
Plan Your Jaco Nightlife Getaway
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