You can get from Tamarindo to Jaco by public bus, shared shuttle, private transfer, taxi, or rental car.
The cheapest transportation option from Tamarindo to Jaco is by public bus, which costs USD 13. The journey takes about 7 hours.
The most popular option is the shared shuttle, offering direct and convenient transportation at a very affordable price of only USD 62.
The fastest way to travel to Jaco from Tamarindo is by private transfer, rental car, or taxi, which takes about 4 hours.
I’ve frequently traveled between the vibrant beach towns of Tamarindo and Jaco, each trip teaching me something new.
In this guide, I’m excited to pass on the knowledge I’ve gained to ensure your travels between these popular spots are enjoyable and efficient!
Check our guide for the best options to travel from Tamarindo to Jaco, and here you can find more information about getting around in Costa Rica.
Transportation Options from Tamarindo to Jaco
The following table outlines all transportation options from Tamarindo to Jaco:
| Method | Time | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Public Bus from Tamarindo to Jaco | 7 hrs | $13 |
| Shuttle from Tamarindo to Jaco | 5 hrs | $62 to 73 |
| Tamarindo to Jaco Private Transfer | 4 hrs | $350 |
| Taxi from Tamarindo to Jaco | 4 hrs | – |
| Rental Car from Tamarindo to Jaco | 4 hrs | – |
How far is Jaco from Tamarindo?
The distance from Tamarindo to Jaco is 145.5 miles or 234.1 kilometers. You can travel for up to 7 hours, depending on the mode of transportation you select.
Getting to Jaco from Tamarindo
1. Shared Shuttle from Tamarindo to Jaco
Journey Duration: 5 hours
Probably the easiest, most comfortable, and, at the same time, cost-effective way to get from Tamarindo to Jaco is to use a shared shuttle service. We recommend shared van shuttles that offer convenient pickup and dropoff at both destinations.
Many shared van shuttle options include spacious seats and air conditioning to make your trip enjoyable.
Another advantage is that these vans usually have at least one stop on their route where you can get some food or take a bathroom break.
Make your reservation today to save your seat!
Tamarindo to Jaco Shared Van Shuttle Schedule:
The table below displays the shared shuttle timetable for trips from Tamarindo to Jaco, detailing departure times, journey lengths, and fares.
| DEP | ETA | DUR | PX | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 02:00pm | 07:00pm | 5h | $62 |  |
| 07:00am | 11:30am | 4h 30m | $64 | |
| 07:30am | 11:50am | 4h 20m | $73 | |
2. Public Bus from Tamarindo to Jaco
Journey Duration: 8 hours
The cheapest method to get from Tamarindo to Jaco Beach is to take a public bus, which costs USD 13 for all the tickets.
There is a bus service between Tamarindo and Jaco Beach once per day. It leaves from Tamarindo at 05:30 AM and arrives at Jaco Beach at 01:00 PM.
Unfortunately, there are no direct buses to Jaco; all services require a transfer at San José Terminal 7-10. Therefore, taking this option will take about 7 hours.
To get to Jaco, you must take the Empresa Alfaro bus to San Jose, where you can transfer to the next bus.
You should only consider this option if you have extra time to spare and want a cheap adventure!
3. Private Transfer fromTamarindo to Jaco
Journey Duration: Custom Time
Taking a private transfer to Jaco will be faster and more comfortable than all other options.
A private transfer is an excellent choice for more freedom and luxury. With a private transfer, you no longer need to worry about bus or shuttle schedules.
Depending on the size of your travel group, a private transfer might be as cheap or even cheaper than a shared shuttle.
This transfer is also perfect if you want to make additional stops on the way to Jaco to stretch your legs and grab some snacks!
Take your time to cherish the journey through Costa Rica, and take many photos!
Prices for a private transfer from Tamarindo to Jaco:
- 7-9 passengers: USD 350
4. Rental Car from Tamarindo to Jaco
Journey Duration: 3 hours 50 minutes
Traveling by rental car is also an excellent choice!
If you want to rent a car, Tamarindo is an easy place. Renting a vehicle will allow you to get around on your schedule while seeing all that Costa Rica offers.
We recommend renting a 4×4 since secondary roads are usually unpaved and not in good condition.
Jump in your car and take a leisurely drive along the coast, stopping for fantastic photo opportunities or grabbing a bite to eat at one of the many beach-side restaurants.
Plus, there are no luggage limitations!
5. Taxi or Uber from Tamarindo to Jaco
Journey Duration: 3 hours 50 minutes
A taxi ride to Jaco is also an option, but you should expect to pay more because of the distance. This option might only be worthwhile if you travel in a group since you can split the cost.
Make sure to agree on a fixed fare beforehand so you don’t get ripped off, and keep this as a last option – there are much more convenient ways to travel!
Best day tours in Jaco, Costa Rica
Get Your Guide helps you find the best tours wherever you are heading. It’s usually the first website I check when I plan a trip to a new place.
Here, you can find some of the best tours in Jaco, Costa Rica.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Jaco Costa Rica expensive?
Costa Rica’s Jaco is more expensive than other cities. Costa Rica can be an affordable destination, but Jaco is a resort area, which means it has a higher price tag. It’s still an affordable destination, especially when compared to Western Europe and the Caribbean.
What is Jaco Beach known for?
Jaco is known for its beaches, nightlife, and surfing. Beaches, incredible sunsets, and the proximity to San Jose International Airport are some reasons for the Central Pacific Coast’s popularity.
Do you need a car in Jaco?
You don’t need to rent a vehicle to get around Jaco Beach unless you plan to travel to a different destination.
What is the cheapest way to get from Tamarindo to Jaco?
The cheapest transportation option from Tamarindo to Jaco is by public bus, which costs USD 13.
What is the fastest way to get from Tamarindo to Jaco?
The fastest way to travel to Jaco from Tamarindo is by private transfer, rental car, or taxi, which takes about 4 hours.
More Routes from Tamarindo, Costa Rica
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AnaMaria is a dedicated SEO specialist and content strategist with profound expertise in Transport in Costa Rica, Transportation in Mexico, Transport in Guatemala, Transport in Peru, and Transport in Thailand.
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Jean Nájera is the CEO of GuateGo, an online marketplace to buy transportation tickets in more than 200 cities. He has profound expertise in Transport in Costa Rica, Transportation in Mexico, Transport in Guatemala, Transport in Peru, and Transport in Thailand.
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