Looking to visit Santa Teresa, one of Costa Rica’s best surf towns, but can’t figure out the best way to travel? Well, look no further. This article will provide you with 6 transportation options to travel from Tamarindo to Santa Teresa. The article will include approximate costs, time, a list of pros and cons for each travel option so you can choose the best transportation for yourself or group!
Santa Teresa is a small coastal town in Costa Rica and one that is well travelled by tourists. Here, you can find cute resaturants, surf shops/lessons, beaches and aesthetic beach clubs. The town can be quite expensive and that includes transportation just to get here, so be prepared for that before visiting. Travel cost is dependant on who you are traveling with. For example, if you are travelling by yourself, purchasing a rental car would be much more expensive than if you were travelling with 3 other people and splitting the cost.
Frequently Asked Questions
The trip length is approximately 123 miles or 198 kilometres.
Public bus is the cheapest way to get to Santa Teresa, however it also will take the longest (9 to 12 hours).
4-wheel drive is recommended, especially if you are travelling during the wet season. The wet season may bring landslides, so check for road closures before you depart. Roads can be narrow and windy, which is typical of Costa Rica.
Similar to the United States and Canada, Costa Rica drives on the right side of the road.
Group Shuttle: Tamarindo to Santa Teresa
Duration: Approximately 5 hours, depending on traffic
Cost: Around $50 per person (this number can change depending on peak season)
A group shuttle service is great option for solo or budget travellers that are looking for a non-complicated way to travel from Tamarindo to Santa Teresa Costa Rica. Often these shuttles operate on fixed schedules, typically starting at 8 AM and 3 PM. While more economical than private shuttles, they may have limited departure times and require coordination with other passengers. Because you are travelling with other passengers, travel times may be more or less depending on passenger drop off points. The bus can also feel cramped at times if fully booked.
Private Shuttle: Tamarindo to Santa Teresa
Duration: Approximately 5 hours
Cost: Can start anywhere from $250 to $350 per trip (this number can change depending on peak season)
Private shuttles will typically pick you up from your accommodations, and offer flexible departure times and comfort. This option is ideal for travellers seeking a more personalized experience. This option can be expensive compared to other options, if you are not traveling in a group. Therefore, I would recommend this option for friends or family traveling in a group of 4 or more people.
Public Buses: Tamarindo to Santa Teresa
Duration: Approximately 9 to 12 hours
Cost: Around $20 for one-way trip
Travelling by public bus if not for the faint heart, although it is the most budget friendly option. This transportation option will include multiple transfers, leading to longer travel times. You will start by taking a bus from Tamarindo to Liberia bus terminal, then from the Liberia bus terminal to Santa Teresa. I would recommend this option to travellers with flexible schedules, no time constraints and a great sense of adventure. If you choose this option, remember to follow basic safety rules.
Rental Car: Tamarindo to Santa Teresa
Duration: Approximately 3.5 to 5 hours
Cost: Varies depending on rental company, vehicle type and amount of time rented
Renting a car offers the most flexibility and time efficiency. This option allows you to travel at your own pace and make as many or as little stops as you need along the way. You will want to make sure you use Waze for your travel route (take route 21 most of the way). Sometimes you may see an alternative route that appears faster. I would reccomend against using these “faster” routes as you may end up on poorly paved roads or river crossings and need to turn around. There is no waiting for group pick ups, transfers, drop-offs or public transportation delays with this option which is why it is is my favourite when travelling in a group that can split the cost of the rental vehicle.
Airplane/Shuttle: Tamarindo to Santa Teresa
Duration: Approximately 4 to 5 hours
Cost: Varies, depending on time of season. Starting from $350 to $900 per person
This option makes the least sense to use for travel due to the cost and multiple transfers. There are no direct flights from Tamarindo to Santa Teresa and even finding a flight from Tamarindo to a close by airport in Santa Teresa can be very difficult as many flights only depart on certain days. I would advise against this option completely.
Taxi: Tamarindo to Santa Teresa
Duration: Approximately 3.5 to 5 hours
Cost: $200 to $500
If you still want the time efficiency of renting a car, but you don’t feel comfortable driving the Costa Rican roads, then maybe choosing a taxi is the right option for you. A taxi can be convent as they can pick up from your accommodation and depart at any time, however it may cost more depending on how many people you are travelling with. You can ask your accommodation or Hotel to connect you with reliable taxi drivers.
Overall Reccomendations
- Budget Travel or Solo Traveller – Group Shuttle Service, Public buses
- Small group (2-4 people) – Rental car, Taxi, Airplane, Group Shuttle Services
- Large Groups (4+ people) – Private Shuttle