Santa Teresa is still a hidden gem because it is not easy to get here.
The distance between San Jose International Airport and Santa Teresa Beach is 115 miles.
You may be wondering how long it will take from San Jose to Santa Teresa and the cost involved. The answer goes from $14 by public bus to $2700 in a private charter flight. Find in this articles all the options available and take the option that suits you the best.
✈️ 1. Fly to the Closest Airport: Cobano
Estimated time to Santa Teresa Beach by flight is approximately 30 minutes and an additional driving duration.
If you’re short on time, flying is the fastest way to get to Santa Teresa. Domestic flights operate daily from San José and Liberia to Cobano Airport, the closest airstrip—just 17 minutes from town.
- Airlines: Green Airways, Sansa.
- Duration: ~40 minutes.
- From there: You’ll need a taxi or private transport.
👉 Read more about: Cóbano Airport, the newest and closest airport to Santa Teresa Beach 2025
👉 Need a taxi? Here’s how to book it. Fill up this form and set it up with our trustfull local driver, price starts at $55.
🚗 2. Drive from San José or Liberia
From San Jose to Santa Teresa by car takes about 6 hours, from Liberia about 4 hours.
Driving is a great option if you want flexibility and a scenic journey.
- From San José: Route 27 to Puntarenas → Ferry to Paquera → Drive to Santa Teresa.
- From Liberia: Drive through Nicoya Peninsula (no ferry required, but slower). 👉 Read our full Liberia to Santa Teresa guide -avoiding rivers!
⚠️ A 4×4 is highly recommended due to road conditions.
⚠️ From San Jose, read our article: all about the ferry!
A key part of most journeys to Santa Teresa is the Paquera Ferry.
- Operator: Naviera Tambor
- Duration: 1.5 hours
- Cars allowed onboard
- Purchase tickets in advance via QuickPayCR
🚌 3. Take the Public Bus (Most Budget-Friendly Option)
Buses from San José to Santa Teresa run twice a day and include your ferry crossing.
- Operator: Transportes Cobano
- Times: 6:00 AM and 2:00 PM (from Terminal 7-10)
- Duration: ~6 hours
Cost: ~$17 USD
Tickets are available online at La Terminal Costa Rica. This website is perfect for checking information regarding schedule changes.
👉 Full step-by-step bus travel guide here
Coming from the airport? You can also catch the bus at Puente Villa Bonita – here’s how
🚐 4. Book a Shared Shuttle
Shuttles are the sweet spot between comfort and cost.
- Providers: Tropical Tours Shuttle, Interbus, etc.
- Duration: ~5 hours with ferry
- Cost: ~$50 USD
These services pick you up at hotels or airports and take care of everything.
🛻 Getting Around Once You Arrive
Santa Teresa is small, but spread out — and roads are dusty.
- ATVs & UTVs: Most popular, especially in dry season
- Bikes: Great for shorter distances
- Taxis: Available but pricey
- Walking: Ideal for Playa Carmen & Santa Teresa center
🧭 Bonus Tips for Your Trip
- Best time to travel: December to April (dry season)
- What to pack: Reusable bottle, flashlight, water shoes, travel insurance
- Need help? Feeling PURA VIDA offers custom travel advice and concierge bookings. Just reach out by whatsapp icon.
📩 Want More Local Tips?
Download our free Santa Teresa Travel Guide including:
✅ Route suggestions
✅ Local restaurant map
✅ Packing list
✅ Contacts for reliable transport
❓ FAQ – Getting to Santa Teresa, Costa Rica
- Is flying faster than taking the bus?
Yes. Flying from San José to Cobano takes 40 minutes, while the bus takes about 6 hours. - Do I really need a 4×4?
Yes — especially in rainy season or if you’re exploring outside the main roads. - Can I buy ferry tickets online?
Yes, through QuickPayCR, or directly at the terminal. In case you present any issue during the process, chat with us by whatsapp! - Are there taxis in Santa Teresa?
Yes, but availability can be limited during peak hours. It’s best to arrange in advance. - What’s the cheapest way to get to Santa Teresa?
Taking the public bus from San José, which includes the ferry, is the most affordable option.
