You can get from Tamarindo to San Jose by shared shuttle, private transfer, taxi, rental car, or flight!
I’ve traveled from the surf-friendly shores of Tamarindo to the urban sprawl of San Jose countless times, picking up practical tips along the way.
In this guide, you’ll find my experiences to give you the most straightforward advice for making this journey as hassle-free as possible.
This article is based on my trips and fact-checked by Jean Nájera, CEO of GuateGo.
Quick overview:
The cheapest way to get from Tamarindo to San Jose is by shared shuttle (USD 65, about 5 hours). The most popular option is the shared shuttle for its convenience and door-to-door service. The fastest way is by flight (around 2 hours).
Transportation Options
The following table outlines all transportation options:
| Method | Time | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Shuttle | 5 hrs | $65 |
| Private Transfer | 5 hrs | – |
| Taxi | 5 hrs | – |
| Rental Car | 5 hrs | – |
| Flight | 2 hrs | – |
1. Interbus Shared Shuttle
Journey Duration: 5 hours
The first and most convenient option is the Interbus shared shuttle.
The advantage of a shuttle is that the driver will pick you up at your hotel in Tamarindo and drop you off at your accommodation in San Jose. You don’t have to organize transportation to and from the station.
Interbus offers a daily shuttle to San Jose at 02:30 PM. The price per person is USD 65.
Shared Van Shuttle Schedule:
The table below displays the Interbus shared shuttle timetable, detailing departure times, journey lengths, and fares.
| Departure | Arrival | Duration | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 02:30pm | 08:00pm | 5h 30m | $65 |  |
2. Private Transfer
Journey Duration: 5 hours
A private transfer may be better if you prefer more comfort and don’t want to depend on bus or shared shuttle schedules.
The vehicles used for private transportation are air-conditioned and operated by professional Costa Rican drivers, ensuring a reliable and safe experience.
We recommend a private transfer to San Jose, especially for families and groups!
Moreover, private transfers provide the ease of being picked up and dropped off at your accommodation or the airport, making it one of the quickest and most hassle-free ways to travel between these two destinations!
Prices for a private transfer:
- 7-9 passengers: USD 355
- 1-13 passengers: USD 405
3. Rental Car
Journey Duration: 5 hours
The distance between Tamarindo and San Jose is only160 miles or 258 kilometers, so you can also easily travel by rental car.
One significant advantage of traveling by car to San Jose is that you can stop along the way and not depend on bus or flight schedules.
The ride from Tamarindo to San Jose takes around five hours, depending on the traffic.
4. Uber or Taxi
Journey Duration: 5 hours
Another option is to take a taxi. Make sure to negotiate a fixed price before entering the cab!
5. Flight
Journey Duration: 2 hours
You can also take a flight from the private airport in Tamarindo to the Tobias Bolanos International Airport in Pavas, San Jose.
Be aware that the airport in Pavas is around 20 kilometers away from the main international airport of San Jose (SJO).
Alternatively, you can fly from Liberia airport to the SJO airport in San Jose. The distance from Tamarindo to Liberia airport is 42 miles or 67 kilometers.
The ride takes around two hours, and you can travel from Tamarindo to Liberia Airport by private transfer, shared shuttle, or bus.
My Tip:
If you value convenience and comfort without spending a fortune, take the shared shuttle. It’s easy, direct, and reliable. For groups or families, private transfer is worth it for door-to-door service and flexibility. If you’re short on time and don’t mind paying more, flying gets you there in under 2 hours.
Best day tours in San Jose, 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.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the bus take?
It is a 5-hour bus ride. The Tralapa bus departs at 07:10 AM from the Pacific Park INN in Tamarindo and arrives around 12:10 PM at the Tralapa bus terminal in San Jose.
Can I fly?
Yes, there are small domestic flights available, but you’ll land at Tobias Bolaños Airport in Pavas, not the main international airport.
What’s the best option for families?
Private transfer! Super comfortable, door-to-door, and you can stop whenever you need.
Should I book in advance?
Absolutely, especially for shuttles and flights during peak travel seasons.
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