How to get from San Jose to Tamarindo

How to Get

Apr 13

About traveling from San Jose to Tamarindo

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 its 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 San Jose to Tamarindo

When the time comes to retreat from the city, Tamarindo awaits with its beautiful beaches, adventure activities and exciting nightlife. The perfect spot to get away from it all and enjoy this bustling beachtown.

There are many ways to travel from San Jose to Tamarindo, depending on your preference and your budget. For budget-conscious travellers, the cheapest way to travel from San Jose to Tamarindo is by bus. A private car or taxi is both the fastest way to travel from San Jose to Tamarindo and the best way to travel from San Jose to Tamarindo for both the convenience, and the opportunity to sightsee along the way.

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

San Jose to Tamarindo by bus

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

There are two companies that operate from San Jose and the pick-up point differs for each, though both are fairly central to the city. Be sure to check you have the right bus terminal in advance! 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 San Jose to Tamarindo by bus typically costs around $10 for the ~254 km ride.

San Jose to Tamarindo by bus

Time intervals

4 times per day

First/Last Departure

7 AM / 3:30 PM

Avg. Price

$10

Distance

~254 km

Duration

6 - 6.5 hours

Operating Companies

Empresa Alfaro (Terminal 7-10), Tralapa (Tralapa Terminal)

San Jose to Tamarindo by plane

To travel by plane, head to San Jose International airport where two flights per day head to Tamarindo. 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 San Jose to Tamarindo becomes quite an expensive and inconvenient option for many.

San Jose to Tamarindo by plane

Departure times

06:10 AM, 2:10 PM

Avg. Price 2 persons

$240

Duration

0h 50

Operating Companies

Sansa Regional

San Jose to Tamarindo Taxi

For speed and convenience, a private car transfer with Daytrip is the best way to travel from San Jose to Tamarindo. 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 San Jose, and can even add sightseeing stops on the way!