Traveling from Liberia International Airport (LIR) to Santa Teresa offers several transportation options, each with its own balance of speed, comfort, and cost. Below is a comprehensive guide to help you choose the best way to make this journey.

Charter Flights: Fly Adventure Air

Charter flights are the fastest way to get from LIR to Santa Teresa. Fly Adventure Air offers on-demand flights directly to Cobano Airport, which is the closest airstrip to Santa Teresa.
Flight Time: ~30 minutes.

Pros if Private Charter Flight:

• Quickest option with minimal travel time.
• Flexible scheduling, as flights can be arranged around your arrival time at LIR.
• Spectacular aerial views of the Nicoya Peninsula.

Cons:

• More expensive than other travel options.
• Requires a 20- to 40-minute taxi or private transfer from Tambor Airport to Santa Teresa.
• Flights are subject to weather conditions, especially during the rainy season.

Helicopter Transfers: You can also opt for helicopter transfers, which can land closer to your accommodation if there’s a helipad. While a bit slower (40–50 minutes), they offer direct landing at select properties in Santa Teresa.

Private Ground Transfers form LIR to Santa Teresa

Private transfers from LIR to Santa Teresa offer a comfortable and convenient option, with door-to-door service.
Travel Time: ~ four to five hours, depending on traffic and road conditions.

Pros of Private Ground Transfers:

• Direct and private, offering a personalized travel experience.
• Drivers can make stops along the way for meals or sightseeing.
• Available 24/7, so you can leave as soon as you arrive at LIR.

Cons:

• Higher cost compared to public and shared options.
• Travel time can vary significantly during rainy seasons (May–November) due to road conditions.

Car Rental from LIR to Santa Teresa

Renting a car at LIR is an excellent option if you prefer to drive yourself and explore the Nicoya Peninsula at your own pace.

Duration: Approx. four to six hours, depending on traffic.

Available Time: 24/7; rental agencies at LIR operate around the clock.

Pros:

• Ultimate flexibility for departure time; can leave anytime, including late at night.
• Freedom to explore Santa Teresa and surrounding areas independently.
• Ideal for longer stays, allowing easy exploration of nearby beaches and attractions.

Cons:

• Requires driving experience on Costa Rican roads, which can be rough, especially near Santa Teresa (unpaved, steep, and potentially muddy).
• Additional costs for insurance, tolls, and fuel.
• Parking can be limited in Santa Teresa, especially during peak season.
• Traffic conditions and road quality can extend travel time, especially during the rainy season.

Shared Shuttle Services from LIR to Santa Teresa

Shared shuttles are a more affordable option, offering daily departures from LIR to Santa Teresa.

Travel Time: ~ five to six hours, depending on passenger drop-offs and traffic.

Pros:

• Cost-effective, with a per-person fare.
• Convenient for solo travelers or small groups.

Cons:

• Longer travel time due to multiple stops along the route.
• Fixed departure times, usually twice a day (morning and afternoon).
• Less flexibility in terms of timing and stops.

Public Bus

Public buses offer the cheapest way to get to Santa Teresa, but they are also the slowest.

Route: From LIR, you would need to take a bus to Nicoya, then transfer to another bus heading to Cobano, and finally take a local bus or taxi to reach Santa Teresa.

Travel Time: seven to ten hours, depending on connections and schedules.

Pros:

• Most affordable option.
• Provides a cultural experience and interaction with locals.

Cons:

• Complex route with multiple transfers.
• Limited daily schedules.
• Can be uncomfortable for long distances, especially with luggage.

Bus Schedule:

• Liberia to Nicoya: Regular departures throughout the day.
• Nicoya to Cobano: Limited departures, with buses running primarily in the morning and early afternoon.
• Cobano to Santa Teresa: Local buses or taxis are available but infrequent.

Additional Travel Tips:

• Book in advance during the high season (December to April) to secure a spot, especially for shared shuttles and flights.
• Travel during daylight hours whenever possible, as some roads near Santa Teresa can be challenging to navigate in the dark.
• Consider travel insurance, especially during the rainy season, in case of delays or cancellations due to weather.

Arrival Time Comparison

• Flights (Charter, Scheduled, Helicopter): Only available from 6 AM to 5 PM. If your international flight lands after 4 PM, it may be difficult to reach Santa Teresa by air the same day.
• Private Transfers & Car Rentals: Available 24/7, making them the best option for late arrivals.
• Shared Shuttles: Limited to scheduled departures, typically unsuitable for late-night flights.
• Public Buses: Only feasible if arriving early, as the last bus connections depart in the afternoon.

Summary by Arrival Time f Your Flight to LIR

• Best for Early Arrivals (before 3 PM): Charter flights, scheduled flights, or helicopter transfers offer the fastest trip.
• Best for Mid-Day Arrivals (before 5 PM): Scheduled flights, private transfers, or car rentals, depending on timing and preferences.
• Best for Late Arrivals (after 5 PM): Private transfers or car rentals are the only practical choices, with departures available 24/7.

Quepos is a much-visited town on the Central Pacific coast of Costa Rica. Once one of the country’s main Pacific ports and center of banana production, it’s now a sport-fishing center and the gateway to Manuel Antonio National Park, a few kilometers away. Indeed, it’s boat charters and nature that draw tourists from all over the world to this area. 

The town of Quepos itself, aside from the local marina, is more of an admin base for the Manuel Antonio area, as far as tourism goes. Most travelers to the area stay in one of the many hotels and rental homes between Quepos and the national park. For all intents and purposes, when we talk about Quepos, we’re talking about Manuel Antonio too. Bottom line is, Quepos provides the infrastructure and Manuel Antonio delivers the rainforests, nature, and beaches that make this region so popular. Most travelers coming to Costa Rica will pass through Quepos and Manuel Antonio during the course of their trip.

Which begs the question, what’s the best way to get from SJO to Manuel Antonio? Well, unlike some of Costa Rica’s more remote beach destinations, it is pretty easy to reach Manuel Antonio from the Central Valley, both by air and land.

Below, we’ll outline the best ways to get to Quepos and Manuel Antonio from Costa Rica’s capital, and back again. No matter your travel style, needs, and budget, we’ll show you the way and you’ll be sharing the beach with monkeys in no time at all!

Fastest and Most Convenient Options: Flying Private

Private Charter Flights with Fly Adventure Air

For travelers seeking the ultimate in speed and convenience, Adventure Air offers private charter flights from SJO to Quepos. This premium service transforms what could be a multi-hour journey by road into a quick and scenic flight, starting your vacation in style.

The flight from SJO to La Managua Airport (XQP) in Quepos takes just 20 minutes, making it by far the fastest way to reach your destination. Once in the air, you’ll see just how close the Pacific coast is as the Central Valley tapers down to sea level with mountains either side. It’s a beautiful sight, especially if you get to sit upfront or look over the pilot’s shoulder straight ahead out of the windscreen. Once you arrive, it’s no more than 10-15 minutes max to where you’re staying in the area. 

Adventure Air’s fleet includes everything from nimble single-engine aircraft perfect for couples or small families, to larger turboprops ideal for groups or those traveling with extensive luggage. Each aircraft offers a comfortable cabin environment and experienced pilots who know the route well. 

For travelers heading straight to Quepos from their international flight arrival into SJO, the Adventure Air experience begins the moment you land. There’s a personal meet-and-greet service waiting at immigration to guide you through the arrival process and escort you directly to your charter flight. This personalized attention ensures a smooth transition from your international arrival to your private plane and gets you relaxing poolside in Manuel Antonio while others are still on the road.

Pros of Using a Private Charter Flight:

• Fastest travel option (it’s possible to be in Quepos within an hour of your international arrival)
• Flexible scheduling to suit your travel plans
• Personalized meet-and-greet service at the airport
• Privacy and comfort of traveling only with your group

Cons of Using a Private Charter Flight:

• Higher upfront cost compared to other transportation options
• Some weight restrictions on excessive luggage (not usually applicable for smaller groups)
• Flights limited to daylight hours
• Smaller aircraft may not suit nervous flyers

Helicopter Transfers to Manuel Antonio

Helicopter transfers offer another premium option for reaching Manuel Antonio directly from SJO. The ride takes about 30-40 minutes, slightly longer than fixed-wing charters, but helicopters offer much more flexibility in where they land.

It’s possible to land at Quepos Airport, but so much easier to land directly in Manuel Antonio itself, where some hotels like Costa Verde have their own helipads. Like charter flights, helicopter services include meet-and-greet assistance at SJO and professional, bilingual pilots who can provide commentary about the passing landscape during your flight.

Pros of Flying to Manuel Antonio by Helicopter:

• Direct landing in Manuel Antonio
• Enjoy the ride! Helicopter transfer is a sightseeing tour in itself
• Private travel experience
• Bilingual pilots providing journey information

Cons of Flying to Santa Teresa by Helicopter:

• Expensive
• Weight restrictions on luggage
• Slightly slower than a charter flight
• Possibility of flight changes due to weather conditions

Flying privately from SJO to Quepos, whether by plane or helicopter, removes all the uncertainty – and lengthiness – of ground transportation. The caveat here, though, is the timing. If you’re planning to fly to the beach, you need to know that these flights operate only during daylight hours, meaning they need to arrive in Quepos by around 5:30 PM at the latest. If your international flight arrives after 4:30 PM, you’ll need to stay near SJO for the night and fly to Quepos the following morning. 

The good news is that morning flights typically experience better weather conditions, especially during the rainy season, making them more reliable than afternoon departures.

Scheduled Domestic Flights to Quepos

Another fast way to reach Manuel Antonio/Quepos from San José is on a scheduled domestic flight. Think of this as a way to combine cost and speed. As Manuel Antonio is one of Costa Rica’s most popular tourist destinations, the route between SJO and Quepos is one of the country’s busiest domestic connections. You can expect to find Sansa and Green Airways (the main domestic airlines) operating up to six or seven daily flights between 6:30 AM and 4:30 PM.

The flight time matches that of private charters at around 20 minutes. For solo travelers or small groups who don’t need the full capacity or flexibility of a private charter, these scheduled flights offer substantial time savings for less money.

When booking scheduled flights, timing is crucial – particularly if you’re arriving on an international flight. After clearing immigration and collecting your bags, you’ll exit through arrivals and need to head upstairs to the domestic terminal – a short walk away – to check in. Airlines require check-in at least an hour before departure, so allow at least two to three hours between your international arrival and domestic departure. 

With multiple daily flights available, you have somewhat more flexibility in scheduling.

To make a same-day connection, your international flight should land no later than 1:30 PM to ensure you can make even the latest departures to Quepos. If you’re arriving later than that, consider a private flight (applicable for arriving up until 4:30 PM), traveling by land, or staying in San José for the night.

Upon landing at La Managua Airport, you’re just minutes from both downtown Quepos and the Manuel Antonio area. Taxis are easily available at the airport, and many hotels offer shuttle services for their guests.

One important consideration when flying domestically is luggage allowance. These aircraft are small, which means strict weight limits apply. You can typically check up to 35 lbs of luggage and carry on an additional 10 lbs per person. If you’re planning activities requiring extensive gear or a longer stay with more luggage, you might want to consider alternative transportation options.

Pros of Using Scheduled Flights:

• More affordable than private charters or helicopters (for singles, couples, and small groups)
• Multiple regular daily schedules
• Still much faster than driving

Cons of Using Scheduled Flights:

• Fixed schedules may not align perfectly with your plans
• Potential for delays or cancellations
• Strict luggage restrictions

Land Routes

While flying might be the fastest way to reach Quepos, traveling by road offers its own advantages. Unlike some Costa Rican destinations that require complex routing or ferry crossings, the journey from SJO to Quepos is relatively straightforward, following easy-to-navigate, well-maintained highways for most of the route. For travelers who don’t want to fly, there are several ground transportation options to look at.

Private Transfers

For travelers seeking comfort without flying, private transfers offer door-to-door service from SJO to Quepos/Manuel Antonio. Your professional driver will meet you at arrivals and transport you in an air-conditioned vehicle along Highway 27 and the Costanera Sur (Highway 34). The journey typically takes two and a half to three hours, though traffic can often extend this to four hours or more.

Private transfers are particularly ideal for families or groups with substantial luggage, as there are no weight restrictions to worry about. Your driver will likely act as an informal guide, pointing out interesting sights along the way, and can make stops for meals, photos, or restroom breaks whenever needed. Many travelers enjoy the opportunity to see more of Costa Rica, with chances to spot crocodiles at the Tarcoles Bridge, which you’ll stop at on the way.

Cost varies by group size – smaller groups might find prices surprisingly close to private charter flights, while larger groups often pay similar per-person rates to scheduled flights. Your choice ultimately depends on whether you prefer quick arrival or enjoying the journey and scenery along the way.

Car Rental from SJO to Manuel Antonio

Renting a car for the journey to Quepos offers maximum flexibility and independence. Unlike many Costa Rican beach destinations, the route follows well-maintained highways, making it accessible to standard vehicles – though a higher-clearance vehicle might be worthwhile if you plan to explore beyond the main roads around Manuel Antonio.

The drive is straightforward, following Highway 27 to the coast, then south along the Costanera Sur (Highway 34) to Quepos. Good signage and reliable navigation apps like Waze make this one of Costa Rica’s easier routes. While it’s one of the country’s better roads for night driving, we recommend making your first journey during daylight hours. If you’re driving straight from SJO, try to arrive by early afternoon.

Car rental also provides great value for longer stays, as you’ll have transportation for exploring the Central Pacific’s many attractions. You can take day trips up to Esterillos and Jacó or down to Dominical if you have a car. If you’re staying local, though, remember that parking can be difficult in both Quepos and Manuel Antonio during peak tourist seasons.

Shared Shuttles

If you want a cheaper way of getting to the Quepos area from San José, shared shuttle transfers could be the way to go. Interbus runs twice-daily services to Quepos/Manuel Antonio, with comfortable, air-conditioned vans that accommodate up to eight passengers. The service offers door-to-door convenience, including SJO Airport pickups, with departures from San José at approximately 8:00 AM and 2:00 PM. If you’re using this service directly from an international flight, you’ll need to arrive by around noon at the latest to coordinate your shared shuttle or stay in San José to travel the next day. 

The journey takes about three an a half to four hours, including pickups and a rest stop. Each passenger can bring one carry-on and one large suitcase, with extra luggage possible for an additional fee if arranged in advance. At around $60 per person, it’s comparable to scheduled flight prices. Advance booking is essential, especially during high season.

Public Bus

For budget-conscious travelers or those seeking an authentic local experience, public buses provide the cheapest route to Quepos. Tracopa operates frequent daily service between San José and Quepos/Manuel Antonio, with multiple departures throughout the day.

If you’re planning to get the bus directly from your international flight arrival, you’ll need to plan a bit, because SJO Airport is actually in Alajuela, and you need to first reach the Tracopa Bus Terminal in downtown San José. This is best done by taxi or Uber and takes 25-45 minutes depending on traffic.

At Tracopa, you can buy tickets for the next available bus to Quepos. There are two types of service: direct buses and “collectivos“. Direct buses are preferable as they don’t make pick up and drop off stops along the route. Tickets cost around $10, and the journey typically takes about four hours, including a 15-minute rest stop halfway (note there are no onboard toilets).

The schedule is extensive, with buses departing from around 6:00 AM until 7:30 PM. Some buses terminate in Quepos while others continue to Manuel Antonio – ask which bus is which. The final stop in Manuel Antonio is about ten minutes after Quepos. If you get off in Quepos, you can either get a taxi to Manuel Antonio or wait around for another bus.

Returning from Quepos to SJO

When it’s time to leave Quepos, you have the same transportation options in reverse, but timing becomes crucial, especially if you have an international flight to catch. With scheduled flights operating up to seven times daily during daylight hours, flying remains the most reliable option for making same-day international connections, though early morning departures will require returning to San José the night before.

For ground transportation, whether by private transfer, rental car, or shared shuttle, it’s essential to factor in San José’s notorious rush hour traffic (7:00-9:00 AM and 4:00-7:00 PM). Plan to leave Quepos at least five to six hours before your international departure to ensure you meet the three-hour check-in requirement at SJO. While shared shuttles offer scheduled morning and afternoon departures, and public buses run frequently throughout the day, these options are better suited for travelers with flexible schedules or those planning to stay in San José before flying out.

Regardless of your chosen method, advance planning is essential, especially during peak tourist seasons. Though the distance isn’t great, Costa Rica’s unpredictable traffic conditions mean you should always allow extra time for international connections. For peace of mind, consider returning to San José the day before your departure if you have an early morning flight.

How To Get from SJO to Quepos Comparison Chart

Travel Option	Travel Time	Flexibility	Luggage	Cost	Comfort Level
Private Charter Flights	~45 min (25 min flight + 20 min ground transfer)	High	Varies by aircraft, generally flexible	$$$$ (High)	High
Helicopter Transfers	~40 min (flight)	High	Limited by weight restrictions	$$$$ (Very High)	Very High
Scheduled Domestic Flights	~90 min (60 min check-in + 25 min flight)	Moderate (multiple daily flights)	35 lbs checked, 10 lbs carry-on	$$ (Moderate)	Moderate
Private Transfers	2.5-3.5 hours	Moderate	Unlimited (vehicle dependent)	$$$ (Moderate-High)	High
Car Rental	2.5-3.5 hours	High	Unlimited (vehicle dependent)	$$-$$$ (Moderate)	Moderate
Shared Shuttles	4 hours	None (fixed schedule)	Limited (one suitcase + carry-on)	$ (Low)	Moderate
Public Bus	4-5 hours (including transfer to terminal)	None (fixed schedule)	Limited	$ (Very Low)	Low

Frequently Asked Questions

Santa Teresa and Mal País, two neighboring beach communities on the southern tip of Costa Rica’s Nicoya Peninsula, have become a magnet for travelers seeking beautiful beaches, world-class surf, and a laid-back vibe. Commonly labeled as Santa Teresa for the whole area, these communities blend into one long stretch of shoreline, offering visitors a perfect mix of natural beauty and bohemian charm.

Part of that charm is its remote location. Put simply, this isn’t the easiest part of Costa Rica to reach. Especially in comparison with beach and surf communities on the Central Pacific or Guanacaste. The Nicoya Peninsula, sticking out of the Pacific side of Costa Rica like a large crooked thumb. It might as well be an island if you’re traveling from San José or the Central Valley. And Santa Teresa is on the far side of that “island”. As the crow flies, the distance from Costa Rica’s capital to Santa Teresa is about 115 miles (185 km ) but that includes a stretch of water called the Gulf of Nicoya. It takes a minimum of five hours to get to Santa Teresa by road, assuming you get the ferry connection just right.

So Santa Teresa isn’t a place you stumble upon by accident. It requires some effort to reach. And once you figure out how to get to Santa Teresa from SJO Airport, you know you’re starting your journey on the right foot. Whether you prioritize speed, budget, or scenic routes, there’s an option to suit your needs.

Fastest and Most Convenient Options: Flying Private

Private Charter Flights with Fly Adventure Air

For travelers who value time, comfort, and flexibility, Adventure Air offers private charter flights from SJO to Santa Teresa. This option provides a swift and luxurious start to your Costa Rican adventure.

The flight from SJO to Santa Teresa takes about 30 minutes, a significant time-saver compared to the drive and ferry. Adventure Air flies to two airports near Santa Teresa: Tambor Airport (TMU) and the newer Cobano Airport. From Tambor, it’s a 45-minute drive to Santa Teresa, while Cobano is just 25 minutes away. While in the air, you’ll enjoy spectacular views of the Costa Rican coastline and island of the Gulf of Nicoya.

Adventure Air offers a range of aircraft to suit different group sizes and preferences. The Cessna 206, a single-engine plane, seats up to five passengers and is ideal for small groups with more luggage. For larger groups or those wanting more speed and comfort, options like the twin-engine Piper Navajo (six passengers) or the King Air small jet (seven passengers) are available. The Cessna Caravan, seating up to 12 passengers, is perfect for large groups or those with extensive luggage.

One of the key benefits of flying with Adventure Air is the personalized service. If you’re arriving off an international flight, we offer a meet-and-greet service at the immigration area. We’ll guide you through the process and transfer you directly to your plane. This attention to detail extends to our flexible scheduling, and ability to arrange ground transfers from the runway to your hotel or vacation rental.

While the upfront cost of a private charter is higher than other transportation options, many travelers find the time saved and added convenience well worth the investment. You’ll arrive in Santa Teresa relaxed and ready to enjoy your vacation, while others might still be navigating traffic on Ruta 27, the ferry crossing, or the bad roads of the southern Nicoya Peninsula.

Pros of Using a Private Charter Flight:

• Fastest travel option, you’ll be in Santa Teresa within one hour of clearing customs in SJO
• Flexible scheduling to suit your travel plans
• Variety of aircraft options to accommodate different group sizes and luggage needs
• Personalized meet-and-greet service at the airport
• Direct flights to Tambor or Cobano, closer to Santa Teresa
• Privacy and comfort of traveling only with your group

Cons of Using a Private Charter Flight:

• Higher upfront cost compared to other transportation options
• Some weight restrictions on excessive luggage (not usually applicable for smaller groups)
• Need for ground transfer from Tambor or Cobano airports to Santa Teresa
• Possibility of flight changes due to weather conditions
• Smaller aircraft may not be suitable for travelers with fear of flying

Helicopter Transfers with Fly Adventure Air

Helicopter transfers offer another premium option for reaching Santa Teresa from SJO. This service takes about 45 minutes, a touch longer than fixed-wing charter flights, but provides unique advantages.

The main benefit of helicopter transfers is their ability to land directly at hotels or properties with helipads in Santa Teresa. This eliminates the need for lengthy ground transportation upon arrival, saving time and increasing convenience for travelers. At the SJO end, travelers come off their international flights and receive the same personalized meet-and-greet service to get them on board their helicopter outlined above for charter flight passengers.

Helicopters cater to groups of up to six people. These flights provide a private, VIP-style travel experience, allowing you to journey with only your group or family.

Pros of Flying to Santa Teresa by Helicopter:

• Direct landing in town
• Enjoy the ride! Helicopter transfer is a sightseeing tour in itself
• Private travel experience
• Bilingual pilots providing journey information

Cons of Flying to Santa Teresa by Helicopter:

• Expensive
• Weight restrictions on luggage
• Slightly slower than a charter flight
• Possibility of flight changes due to weather conditions

Flying privately, whether by plane or helicopter, is by far the quickest and easiest way to get from SJO to Santa Teresa. There’s no comparison with any other method. And the larger your group is, the more reasonable the price per person – certainly comparable to regular flights or private transfers.

One thing to consider, though, is the timing of your arrival into SJO if you’re on an international flight.

If you arrive later in the day, after around 4:30 PM, flying straight to Santa Teresa may not be an option. While we can speed up your way through immigration and customs and get you to your flight, we can’t do much about it getting dark. It gets dark at around 6:00 PM in Costa Rica, and the regional airstrips around the country are only equipped to handle flights during the day. So if you arrive late, we recommend staying near SJO airport for a night and flying to the beach in the morning.

An advantage of morning flights, especially during the rainy season, is the weather. Flights in the morning are less likely to be affected by weather conditions, so that’s also something to consider when flying to Santa Teresa.

Scheduled Domestic Flights to Tambor/Cobano

For travelers seeking a balance between cost and speed, scheduled domestic flights offer a viable option to reach Santa Teresa. These flights operate from SJO to two nearby airstrips: Tambor Airport (TMU) and Cobano Airport (ACO).

Domestic airlines Sansa and Green Airways provide daily flights on these routes to Cobano and Tambor. The flight time is approximately 30 minutes to either destination.

When booking your scheduled flight, allow enough time between your international arrival and the domestic departure. Once you’re through immigration, customs, and baggage collection, you’ll leave the airport and then head to the departure entrance of the domestic terminal to check in for your flight to Cobano (or Tambor). You need to check in at least an hour before.

We recommend at least two or three hours between your international flight arriving and your domestic flight departing. To fly domestic on the same day as arriving on an international flight, ensure that your flight arrives by 1:30 PM at the latest. That gives you an hour or two to enter the country, plus an hour to check in for your new flight.

Upon arrival, you need ground transportation to Santa Teresa. Many hotels offer shuttle services, or you can take a taxi or rent a car for the remaining journey. Taxis arrive at both airports when a plane comes in to take people to their destinations.

Another factor with scheduled flights is luggage. These are small planes, known as “puddle-jumpers”, not larger jets. That means your luggage allowance is minimal. Domestic airlines generally allow you to check up to 35 lbs of luggage per person with 10 lbs carry on. That’s not a great deal, so packing smart and packing light is the way to go. Note that one of the main reasons to visit Santa Teresa is for the surf. Domestic airlines can carry surfboards, but they don’t count as check luggage and there’s an extra charge. And crucially – they can’t guarantee your surfboard will travel with you. Worth thinking about.

While not as flexible as private charters, scheduled flights offer a good compromise between convenience and cost. They’re particularly suitable for solo travelers or small groups who don’t require the full capacity of a charter flight.

Pros of Using Scheduled Flights:

• More affordable than private charters or helicopters (for singles, couples, and small groups)
• Regular daily schedules
• Still much faster than driving

Cons of Using Scheduled Flights:

• Fixed schedules may not align perfectly with your plans
• Potential for delays or cancellations
• Strict luggage restrictions

We get it. Flying isn’t for everyone. It’s fast and convenient to get around Costa Rica on a plane, of course. But they can get a little bumpy sometimes and nervous fliers might prefer to get to Santa Teresa from SJO by land instead. And even if you’re not nervous, maybe your international arrival time doesn’t work with flying. Or maybe you have too much luggage and a bunch of surfboards. Maybe you want to see more of the country at ground level. Perhaps you just want to save money. Whatever your reasons, it’s possible to reach Santa Teresa by land (and sea) from San José:

How to Get from SJO to Santa Teresa by Land/Ferry

Private Transfers

For travelers who prefer a comfortable ground journey without the hassle of driving themselves, private transfers from SJO to Santa Teresa are a popular option. This service provides a door-to-door experience with a professional driver familiar with the route. How it works is that if you’re arriving into SJO on an international flight, you’ll be met by your driver in a luxurious and comfortable transfer van, who’ll load you and your luggage on board and start the journey.

Once away from the airport, you’ll eventually get onto Highway 27 to the Pacific coast, where you’ll swing north to the city of Puntarenas. Here, you’ll board a ferry for the 80-minute journey across the Gulf of Nicoya to Paquera. Once on the Nicoya Peninsula, you’ll drive south through Cobano to reach Santa Teresa.

Overall, in ideal conditions, you can expect it to take about an hour and a half to get from SJO to Puntarenas, two hours or so on the ferry (allowing for minimum of 30 min loading time before departure), and then another hour and a half from the ferry dock at Paquera on the Nicoya Peninsula to Santa Teresa. That’s about five hours in total, assuming ideal conditions (minimal traffic, no waiting around for the ferry, and good weather for optimal driving on the peninsula). In reality, you can expect to add at least another hour to the travel time.

Private transfers are ideal for families or groups with substantial luggage, including surfboards. Your driver will handle navigation, ferry tickets, and can even make stops for meals or breaks if requested. It’s quite normal to see your driver as a personalized guide.

Another advantage is the ferry itself. It’s actually great fun crossing the Gulf of Nicoya on the ferry. The scenery is beautiful, there’s a store on board to buy food and drink, and it’s nice to get out on the top deck in the breeze and sunshine to take everything in. It’s definitely part of the whole adventure if you enjoy that type of thing. That all said, ferry schedules can significantly impact travel time, especially during high season or holidays. Your transfer company will plan around these schedules, but delays are possible. The last ferry from Puntarenas to Paquera departs at around 10:00 PM. It’s possible to travel from SJO to Santa Teresa at night, meaning your international flight can arrive later than if you were flying and don’t want to stay in San José.

Once on the Peninsula, it’s a pretty drive from Paquera to Santa Teresa, and although the roads are getting better there are still a couple of unpaved stretches. This can make for some slow going during the rainy season or at night. Once you finally arrive in Santa Teresa and your driver/guide drops you off at your hotel, you’ll be ready to relax!

Private transfer costs depend on group size. The smaller the group, the more expensive it is and the per person cost might not be too different from chartering a plane. Larger groups will find themselves paying, per person, similar prices to scheduled flights. At the end of the day, whether you fly or take a private transfer depends on your travel style regarding the amount of luggage and whether you want to see some of Costa Rica along the way.

Car Rental

Renting a car for the journey from SJO to Santa Teresa offers maximum flexibility and independence. This option is ideal for all of you who want to explore Costa Rica at your own pace. When renting, choose a 4×4 vehicle. The roads on the Nicoya Peninsula, especially around Santa Teresa, are often unpaved and can be challenging, particularly during the rainy season or at night. There are also plenty of remote beaches around Santa Teresa only accessible by 4×4, especially if you’re lookin to surf.

Car rental allows for more luggage flexibility compared to flying, which can be advantageous for surfers or those planning an extended stay. However, be prepared to navigate on your own and handle ferry ticketing yourself. This involves arriving at the ferry dock in Puntarenas, getting your car into line, and going to the nearby office to buy the ticket. An easier alternative is to buy your ticket online in advance through QuickPayCR (Spanish only, no refunds or reschedules). If you buy online, you still need to be at the ferry dock at least 30 minutes before departure.

Your journey from SJO to Santa Teresa is the same as outlined above for private transfers. We recommend using a navigation app like Waze to guide your way. One main difference between driving yourself and using a private transfer is night driving. If you’re arriving at SJO and renting a car, we strongly recommend arriving before around 11:00 AM in order to make the whole journey during daylight. The 3:00 PM ferry from Puntarenas to Paquera is the latest we recommend if you’re renting a car.

Shared Shuttles from SJO to Santa Teresa

Shared shuttles offer an affordable and convenient option for traveling from SJO to Santa Teresa. Two main companies operate this route: Interbus and Tropical Tours. Both services use comfortable, air-conditioned medium-sized buses that typically seat up to nine passengers. They offer a door-to-door service, picking you up from your starting point (generally a hotel) and dropping you off at your exact destination in Santa Teresa. In the case of SJO Airport pickups, they use the Malinche restaurant right outside the airport on the right side of the arrivals area.

Unless your international flight arrives into SJO in the early morning, though, you’ll probably stay in San Jose the night before to use the Interbus service, as this shuttle from San Jose to Santa Teresa departs once daily in the morning, at around 9:00 AM. Tropical Tours has two pickup times: 7:30 AM and 3:15 PM.

The cost for this type of transfer starts at around $50 per adult. Each passenger is allowed one carry-on bag and one large suitcase. On Interbus, extra luggage or surfboards up to six feet may be accommodated for an additional fee, subject to space availability. Tropical Tours will carry your surfboard for free. You want to book these shuttles well in advance, especially during high season, as they are a popular option among tourists.

Another option from Tropical Tours is to take you from San José to Jacó on the Central Pacific coast. From there, they operate a boat-taxi service direct to Santa Teresa, thus avoiding the ferry and the trek across the southern Nicoya Peninsula. It’s a creative and fun way to get from SJO to Santa Teresa, but feasible if you’re able to get to Jaco in time for their 9:00 AM departure.

Public Bus

For budget-conscious travelers or those seeking a local experience, public buses offer the most affordable way to reach Santa Teresa from San José. There are two main options: a direct bus and an indirect route.

Transportes Cobano operates a direct bus service from San José to Mal Pais/Santa Teresa twice daily. The bus departs from Terminal 7-10 in downtown San José at 6:00 AM (arriving around 12:30 PM) and 2:00 PM (arriving around 8:30 PM). This service costs approximately $15 USD one way, including the ferry ticket, and takes about 6 hours. The bus takes you directly to the ferry, travels with you on the ferry, and continues the journey on the other side. Remember to keep your receipt to re-board in Paquera. The bus drives through Santa Teresa, so inform the driver where you want to get off.

An alternative option involves multiple connections— which is a drag if you have a lot of luggage, but offers more flexibility with your time. You can take a bus from the Puntarenas terminal in San José to Puntarenas. These buses run every hour – often every 30 minutes during high season – so waiting around for ages isn’t really an issue. Once in Puntarenas, take a taxi or walk to the ferry terminal and buy a foot passenger ticket for the ferry to Paquera. You’ll cross the Gulf of Nicoya on the ferry and then take the waiting bus (there’s always a bus waiting in Paquera for the ferry to arrive) on the other side.

This bus tends to go to Montezuma, not Santa Teresa, so you’ll need to get off in Cobano, and take another bus to Santa Teresa. The route is longer but allows for breaks in the journey and the opportunity to explore Puntarenas or Cobano. Costs are a little cheaper than the direct bus service, at around $12 (slightly more expensive if you get a taxi in Puntarenas from the bus station to the ferry terminal).

If you’re taking the public bus, we would recommend staying in San José the evening before and not attempting to travel directly after your flight. Technically it’s possible to get downtown for either the afternoon direct bus or any of the Puntarenas buses (the direct bus passes through Alajuela, close to the airport, so you don’t even need to go to San José in this case), but it’s really easier to relax and make the journey the following day.

Returning from Santa Teresa to San Jose

All good things come to an end, including vacations in Santa Teresa. When it’s time to peel yourself away from the beach and head back to San José, you have essentially the same options as your journey to Santa Teresa, but in reverse. Here’s what you need to know about getting back to SJO:

Flying from Santa Teresa (Cobano) to SJO

Private charters and scheduled flights remain the fastest way back. Adventure Air offers return charter flights, while Sansa and Green Airways operate daily scheduled flights from Tambor and Cobano to SJO. Remember that flights typically only during daylight hours, so plan accordingly if you have an early international departure from SJO. Private Transfers

These operate in reverse, picking you up from your accommodation in Santa Teresa. Be sure to allow plenty of time for the journey, especially if you need to catch an international flight. It’s often wise to return to San José the day before your departure to avoid any stress from potential delays.

Driving or Taking the Land and Ferry Route

If you rented a car, simply reverse your route. Remember to book your ferry ticket in advance, especially during high season. Aim to arrive at the ferry terminal in Paquera at least 30 minutes before departure. For Shared or private shuttle option, same companies as above offer return services to San José. These usually depart Santa Teresa in the early morning to ensure arrival in San José by late afternoon.

Finally, public bus from Santa Teresa to San José operates twice daily, departing at 6:00 AM and 2:00 PM. Just wait on the main road and it will pass – you’ll see other people waiting for the bus, too. The indirect route via Cobano, Paquera, and Puntarenas is also available but a little more complicated than arriving. Basically, there are two local buses from Santa Teresa to Cobano and then two buses from Cobano to Paquera, aimed at commenting with the 9:00 AM or 3:00 PM ferry back to Puntarenas. Oftentimes people get a taxi from Santa Teresa to Cobano to ensure catching that bus. Once in Puntarenas, buses to San Jose depart every 30 to 60 minutes.

Regardless of your chosen method, plan your return journey in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons. If you have an international flight to catch, return to San José a day early to avoid any potential complications. Note that you should be at SJO Airport three hours in advance of your flight.

Traveling from SJO to Montezuma

When you arrive in Cobano, whether by plane or any of the other methods we’ve described, you have a choice. The town of Cobano is basically a crossroads and you can head straight on to Santa Teresa or turn left to Montezuma. If you turn left, you’ll find a funky little community with a hippy vibe and access to beautiful beaches. Santa Teresa is more “happening” nowadays, with better hotel and vacation rental options, but Montezuma retains its charm and is well worth staying in.

Again, feel free to use this guide to get here, or from SJO to Cabuya or other spots around Montezuma.

Frequently Asked Questions

How to get from SJO to Santa Teresa Comparison Chart

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