How to get from Tamarindo to San Jose

How to Get

Apr 13

About traveling from Tamarindo to San Jose

Tamarindo is one of Costa Rica’s most visited destinations, so it is not surprising it is easily accessible from the capital San Jose.

Each has their own unique charm and are well worth spending some time whilst vacationing in Costa Rica. San Jose, the busy, bustling capital, will keep you on your toes with its many museums, theatres and cultural attractions, and plenty of lively bars and restaurants abundant with energy.

When you’re ready to escape the chaos, Tamarindo is the perfect getaway with its lush landscape and miles of sandy beaches along the Pacific Coast. With year-round near perfect weather, it is the ideal place to relax by the blue waters or partake in one of many available outdoor activities if you prefer a little adventure.

Should you choose to take a private car transfer from San Jose to Tamarindo, you will also have the chance to see some spectacular sights along the way. If history is your thing, the Museo Historico Cultural Juan Santamaria is the one for you. For an outdoor adventure, the Los Chorros Waterfalls await, and for a truly out-of-the-ordinary unique experience there’s the magnificent Crocodile Bridge.

Whatever your interest, there’s plenty to see on the way from San Jose to Tamarindo.

How to get from Tamarindo to San Jose

When the time comes to head to the city, San Jose awaits with its energetic lifestyle, cultural activities and exciting nightlife. The perfect place to head after spending time enjoying the outdoors during your stay in Tamarindo.

There are many ways to travel from Tamarindo to San Jose, depending on your preference and your budget. For budget-conscious travellers, the cheapest way to travel from Tamarindo to San Jose is by bus.

For convenience and speed - not to mention the opportunity to sightsee along the way - the best method of travelling from Tamarindo to San Jose is by private car.

Some direct flights are available from Tamarindos small, private airport, arriving to into San Jose.

Tamarindo to San Jose by bus

Travelling from Tamarindo to San Jose is the most budget-friendly option, though be aware that it is also the longest in duration.

There are two companies that operate from Tamarindo and the pick-up point differs for each.. Be sure to check you have the location in advance! The Empreso Alfara terminal is next to Enea’s restaurant and the Tralapa bus stop is right across from Hotel Portofino in the town.

The bus journey takes on average 6 - 6.5 hours and there are 4 services per day (two per operating company).

Tickets can be purchased on-the-spot, though it’s never a bad idea to go to the terminal a day before to pre-purchase your tickets at the stand in case the service becomes too full.

The journey from Tamarindo to San Jose by bus typically costs around $10 for the ~254 km ride.

Tamarindo to San Jose by bus

Time intervals

4 times per day

First/Last Departure

3:30 AM / 2 PM

Avg. Price

$10

Distance

~254 km

Duration

6 - 6.5 hours

Operating Companies

Empresa Alfaro, Tralapa

Tamarindo to San Jose by plane

To travel by plane, head to Tamarindo’s small, private airport where one flight per day heads to San Jose. As usual with flights, but particularly as departures are so infrequent, you’ll want to purchase tickets in advance to secure your spot.

The flight takes less than an hour so it makes sense to take the direct route, though some routes via Liberia are available at certain times of the year. On average, you can expect a one-way ticket to cost around $120 per person, though this can fluctuate depending on the season and how far in advance you opt to book.

As always, it is recommended that you arrive at the airport at least 2 hours before departure to ensure a smooth transition through security to your departure gate. Taking this into account, flying from Tamarindo to San Jose becomes quite an expensive and inconvenient option for many.

Tamarindo to San Jose by plane

Departure times

2:10 PM

Avg. Price 2 persons

$240

Duration

0h 50

Operating Companies

Sansa Regional

Tamarindo to San Jose Taxi

For speed and convenience, a private car transfer with Daytrip is the best way to travel from Tamarindo to San Jose. You will be picked up at your accommodation, and the driver will take care of your luggage. You’ll then be able to enjoy door-to-door service to your accommodation in Tamarindo, and can even add sightseeing stops on the way!