Hotel Mar de Luz is a family hotel in a green, quiet area, a few minutes' walk from the beach and Jacó's restaurants. Guests describe it as very pretty and welcoming, a bit old but well kept, with spacious, clean rooms (some with a kitchen included), a pool that is perfect for kids, a jacuzzi and a good breakfast included. The staff is one of its strengths: one visitor brought a group of 40 people in 20 double rooms, enjoyed the quincho with a grill for an asado and plans to return in November with another group.
There are caveats: one guest said in May that money went missing from her room, even with the door locked and after telling the front desk, so it is wise to keep valuables in the room safe. Rates start around $70 a night plus tax for 2 adults, depending on the date, and the hotel is on Avenida Pastor Díaz in Jacó.
Nightly rates from the official booking engine, for 2 adults, 13% tax not included; they change with date and availability, and December needs a 2-night minimum. Free breakfast daily from 7:00 to 10:00 and free Wi-Fi for guests.