Transfers Countries Costa Rica San JoseSan Jose to Tamarindo

Private car transfer from San Jose to Tamarindo

Door-to-door
in 4 h 20 min

From €48
per seat

Comfortable
car

One way

One wayReturnMulti-city

New

One way

Cancel for free 24 hours before departure

Tripadvisor Travelers’ Choice 2024

Excellent

Trip Information

Pick-up

Your driver will meet you at your address in San Jose.

Door-to-door service
Help with your luggage

Trip

You’ll travel in comfort for 4 h 20 min.

Optional sight-seeing
Clean, comfortable car
Professional driver
Bottled water
Child seats
Prepared for handicapped
Smoke-free
Pet friendly

Drop-off

Your driver will drop you off at your address in Tamarindo.

Door-to-door service
Help with your luggage

In total

260 km4 h 20 min

Overview: car trip from San Jose to Tamarindo

A car trip from San Jose to Tamarindo is not just some time spent in the car; with Daytrip, it’s an enriching Costa Rican experience. The drive covers a distance of 161 miles (260 km) and lasts around four hours and 20 minutes, giving you plenty of time to talk with your English-speaking driver about local culture.

From the bustling capital, the trip brings you out of the urban areas surrounding San Jose and into rural Costa Rican life and more secluded views of the countryside until you finally reach the calm beaches of Tamarindo.

Daytrip's private car service makes it easy to explore Costa Rica's natural beauty on your way to Tamarindo. Start getting to know the region at Los Chorros Waterfalls. Walk an easy jungle trail to arrive in Los Chorros and watch the heavy water falling down on a 40-meter-high cliff. Then, continue to Macaw Sanctuary Natuwa, a charity with the mission of preserving Costa Rica’s wildlife in a free habitat. You can support the rescued animals by booking a guided tour.

About Tamarindo

Located on the Pacific side of Costa Rica in the province of Guanacaste, Tamarindo has been a surfer's haven for decades. Here you’ll find warm ocean breezes, long golden beaches, fresh and juicy fruits, cheerful nightlife, and even dancing with the waves on your surfing board. Tamarindo used to be a quiet fishing village, but it’s hard to tell now that it’s become one of Costa Rica's most popular tourist destinations.

Tamarindo Beach is the heart of the town, and rightfully so, with its golden sands, clear blue waters, and amazing surfing opportunities. But if you are more for quieter settings, there are always Playa Grande and Playa Langosta, equally beautiful and captivating.

Tamarindo is part of the Baulas National Marine Park, which means that you can join a guided night tour during the nesting season to see leatherback turtles. Beyond witnessing natural phenomena like this one and surfing, you’ll also be enjoying lots of other outdoor adventures such as snorkeling, diving, sport fishing, horseback riding, and zip-lining!

From San Jose to Tamarindo: travel tips

For a perfectly smooth and enjoyable trip from San Jose to Tamarindo, take some of our travel tips into consideration:

Explore the local stops

Stop by some small towns and local attractions to have authentic Costa Rican experiences. Rest at a local "soda" (a small, casual restaurant) with a traditional Costa Rican meal, or visit a roadside fruit stand for a fresh bite.

Plan for the weather

The weather in Costa Rica can change quite quickly, and drastically, especially if you're traveling in the rainy season, from May to November. Check the weather forecast and be prepared for sudden showers by packing rain gear. The sun can be intense as well, especially on the coast, so sunscreen and hats are a must.

Stock up to stay hydrated

Keep plenty of water on hand, and stock up on snacks and essentials before leaving San Jose, where options are more plentiful. While there are places to stop along the way, having snacks and water from the get-go will add convenience and flexibility.

How to get from San Jose to Tamarindo

There are a lot of options, so deciding how to get from San Jose to Tamarindo can be a bit frustrating. Take a look at your options for transportation and find out which one is the best one for you:

San Jose to Tamarindo by bus

There are direct buses between San Jose and Tamarindo. Most bus services operate four or five times a day and the bus ride takes around four to five hours and tickets start at $8, making this the cheapest travel option. You can TIG for the bus schedules.

San Jose to Tamarindo by shuttle bus

A shared shuttle from San Jose to Tamarindo is the step up in service quality from the bus. Tickets start at $60 per person, which gets you a smaller, more intimate experience and gives you the chance to talk with your local driver. The shared option is a cost-effective alternative, but keep in mind that it can get crowded. Book in advance, especially during peak season.

San Jose to Tamarindo by private car service

The best way to travel from San Jose to Tamarindo is by booking a private car ride with Daytrip. Daytrip offers door-to-door service, so your private driver will pick you up anywhere you'd like in San Jose, load up your luggage, and set off to Tamarindo. On the way, you can talk with your driver about local culture, or stop for exciting sightseeing stops before they drop you off at your accommodation in Tamarindo.

San Jose to Tamarindo by rental car

You can drive from San Jose to Tamarindo by taking Route 27 west from San Jose to Caldera, then north on Route 1 towards Liberia, and finally west on Route 21 and 155 to Tamarindo. Driving will take around four and a half hours. Be prepared for tolls on Route 27. A rental car is a good option if you plan on exploring the area around Tamarindo. Just get a 4x4 vehicle if you plan to venture off the main roads.

San Jose to Tamarindo by plane

Flying from San Jose to Tamarindo sounds fast, with a flight time of 45 minutes. But after you factor in at least an hour for check-in and security, waiting for your luggage, plus getting to and from the airport, it doesn't save much time. There are domestic flights several times a day, but with tickets at over $100 per person, this is an expensive and inconvenient option.

Things to do when you get to Tamarindo

After your smooth San Jose to Tamarindo transfer, you’ll only have one thing to think about: how to enjoy this lovely town to the fullest? Here are some of the best things to do when you get to Tamarindo:

Surf!

Tamarindo is one of the top surfing destinations in Costa Rica. There are beginner-friendly breaks and surf schools if you want to learn how to surf. And more experienced riders can head up the beach to the Rivermouth A-frame. The lineup can get crowded, and you might need a wetsuit if you're visiting in winter.

Go on a sunset sailing and snorkeling tour

Enjoy a sunset sailing excursion to explore the beauty of the Pacific Ocean. These tours often set sail in the late afternoon, so you’ll be able to snorkel in the crystal-clear waters among coral reefs and diverse marine life. As the sun begins to set, you'll enjoy unparalleled views of the horizon, often accompanied by a gourmet meal or cocktails on board.

Kayak at Las Baulas National Marine Park

If you are a nature enthusiast seeking some calmness away from the beach crowds, kayaking through the mangrove estuaries of Baulas National Marine Park is an amazing activity! You'll get an up-close look at one of Costa Rica’s most precious ecosystems. Gliding through the calm waters, you'll have the chance to spot wildlife such as crocodiles, monkeys, and a variety of bird species.

Learn to make chocolate from scratch

Dive into the world of Costa Rican chocolate with a hands-on workshop that takes you through the entire chocolate-making process, from bean to bar. You'll learn about the history of chocolate, the cultivation of cacao, and the traditional methods used to transform it into chocolate. Plus, you get to create your own chocolate concoctions to take home or enjoy on the spot.

When is the best time to visit Tamarindo

The best time to visit Tamarindo mostly depends on your interests and budget. If you are a beach lover and longing for sunny weather, you'll want to come for the dry season from December to March, with March being the driest month.

If you're planning a surfing trip to Tamarindo, April to October is the best time to visit. The waves are more consistent, and experienced surfers will appreciate the larger swells.

If experiencing the rainforest’s lush beauty interests you more, then you should consider visiting during the wet season. Although November is the coolest month, it’s still warm enough for beach activities. October is the wettest month and may bring lots of rain.

Tamarindo’s beaches are accessible all year round, so you can plan your trip at any time of the year. Stay updated about the weather here.

Questions & Answers about Traveling from San Jose to Tamarindo

Is Tamarindo, Costa Rica, worth it?

Tamarindo is indeed worth visiting for its beautiful beaches, nightlife, and t outdoor activities like surfing, wildlife watching, and eco-tours. It's a perfect destination for both adventure seekers and those looking to relax in a natural setting.

Is the drive from San Jose to Tamarindo safe?

The drive from San Jose to Tamarindo is generally safe, with well-traveled routes. However, it's important to be cautious, especially during the rainy season when roads can be more challenging. Drive during daylight hours and stay informed about local road conditions for a safe trip.

Can you fly from San Jose to Tamarindo?

Yes, you can fly from San Jose to Tamarindo. Domestic flights operate between Juan Santamaría International Airport in San Jose and Tamarindo Airport, offering a fast way to travel. The flight time is approximately 45 minutes which makes it the quickest option for reaching Tamarindo.

How do you get from San Jose, Costa Rica, to Tamarindo?

San Jose to Tamarindo transfer is possible through multiple options: driving, which takes about four and a half hours; taking a shuttle service or public bus; booking a domestic flight for the quickest route; or arranging a private car service like Daytrip for the most comfortable trip.

Visit these sights on the way

Museo Historico Cultural Juan Santamaria

Costa Rica’s history, and especially the life of its national hero, is detailed in this fascinating free museum. A Hero’s History

Los Chorros Waterfalls

Feel the rush of these two powerful cascades roaring in the lush jungle. The Jets

Crocodile Bridge

Dozens of crocs congregate on sunny river banks right below one of Costa Rica’s main highways. The Croc Stop

Macaw Sanctuary Natuwa

Colorful parrots and other at-risk animals are provided a safe-haven by this conservation charity. Jungle Gems

Monkey Park

This non-profit shares the plight of endangered species with visitors while rehabilitating sick and injured animals. Primates with Purpose

Why people love Daytrip

5,100+ reviews

558 travelers took this route with us

Oct 2, 2025

Great transfer option.

“I used this service for a transfer from Split in Croatia to Perast Montenegro. My experience was exceptional. My driver Bojan was helpful, informative and ensured my journey was comfortable and enjoyable. I highly recommend the service.”

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler Robyn C

Sep 20, 2025

It was a fantastic trip.

“We were extremely satisfied with the quality of service we received from Day Trip. We had two Day Trip rides on August 31 from Athens to Lefkada and September 7 from Lefkada back to Athens. Both trips included stops at scenic sites in Greece. Both drivers were excellent and accommodating. However, we’d especially like to recognize Panos Peppas, who was our driver from Lefkada to Athens. Panos was incredibly nice & pleasant and delivered outstanding customer service, which included handling all of luggage, providing us with cold waters throughout the trip, providing us protein bars, providing us with printed materials on the Corinth Canal (one of scenic stops), looking up and providing us with terminal & gate info for our flight back home and providing us with a recipe for tzatziki.”

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler Daydream20046758137

Sep 15, 2025

Best transport company anywhere

“We absolutely love this company and have used it many times over the years to get from A to B without the hassle of hiring a car ourselves. Excellent drivers every time. Efficient and professional. It’s worth every penny and we can honestly recommend Day Trip to everyone. It’s 5 star rating is well deserved.”

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler Mary L

Aug 20, 2025

Excellent experience in traveling

“We traveled from Nuremberg to Munich in a beautiful Audi. Driver picked us at our hotel at the exact time requested. Got us to Munich in plenty of time for our next tour. Driver made sure we were comfortable”

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler Steve N

Apr 22, 2025

Reasonably Priced and Safe Transportation

“Gonzalo from daytrip was our driver and he was absolutely amazing. He went over and beyond trying to locate us as our service wasn't so good on our phones. He patiently awaited our arrival to the lobby so he could take us from Tulum Dreams Resort to our other hotel in cancun an hour and a half away near the airport prior to our departure flight home. He was polite, respectful and kind. Made sure we were comfortable during our long ride. Fast and to the point. I recommend this company as finding a one way ride from Tulum to Cancun isn't easy or cheap and this company provides a great service for a great price. I will definitely be using them again whenever I'm in the Cancun/Tulum area. Thank you DayTrip and Gonzola.”

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler COCO

Apr 2, 2025

Daytrip never disappoints

“We were picked up by Marianna to drive us from Heraklion to Chania. The weather was terrible & due to this Marianna arrived a few minutes late. She contacted me to advise of this. Marianna lives in Chana and she made our trip very interesting by informing us of local things to do and see in Chania. Marianna is a safe driver and we all felt comfortable with the speed she drove at and how good her driving was in heavy rain. She is a lovely person with fluent English. We highly recommend Daytrips and if you are in Heraklion or Chania please make sure you ask for Marianna.”

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler Julie M

Feb 28, 2025

Great driver in Egypt

“Used the service to go from Luxor to Hurghada, Egypt. Ahmed H was our driver and he was perfect. The car was new, clean, he had water and snacks for us, and accommodated our stops. Great service from him and would recommend it.”

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler Maps315861

Feb 20, 2025

Comfortable and Safe Rides in Mexico

“Used Daytrip for two rides in Mexico, which were both great. So comfortable, and we arrived at each of our destinations at a great time. Both were incredible drivers, and we felt so safe. One of our drivers, Miguel, also played the best music! Will definitely use Daytrip on our next trip to Mexico.”

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler Golourdesduarte

Feb 10, 2025

Great way to travel and see some sights on the way

“We did not know what to expect with this trip and booked from Australia. We were initially looking for an easy way to travel from Granada to Malaga. We decided not to waste the opportunity to see something additional on our way. Miguel certainly exceeded our expectations. His English was excellent (unfortunately we speak very little Spanish), and he was very friendly and helpful. We thoroughly enjoyed hearing about the regions as we passed through and also discussing some of the local ways. Miguel took us to Antequera as planned and ensured we were able to easily get our tickets to the attractions without any sense of rushing us. We were picked up and dropped off punctually and really enjoyed our trip. Hopefully we will return to Spain and we can use this service again sometime.”

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler Michelle R

Jan 25, 2025

Excellent service

“We used the service twice while in Thailand. Extremely prompt and efficient customer service. Best rate being offered in Chiang Mai for the travels. Polite, punctual, professional and English speaking drivers. Clean, comfortable vehicles. Being a regular visitor to Thailand, this was hands down the best service. Most pleased with the company. I hope it sustains the excellence of service that was rendered to us.”

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler Omar

Good to know

Children

If you’re traveling with children, make sure to let us know in the booking so we can get the appropriate child seats ready!

Pets

Pets are allowed (and loved)! We just need to know beforehand. You can tell us about them in the next phase of the booking.

Tips

Gratuity isn’t included or required, but if you really enjoyed your trip, you can show your driver your appreciation with an optional tip (10% is sufficient).

Luggage

Big luggage
29x21x11 inches
74x53x28 cm

Small luggage
22x14x9 inches
56x36x23 cm

Each passenger is allowed to have one checked bag and one carry on. If you’re traveling with more bags or oversized luggage, you can adjust this while booking.

Payment methods

Pay by credit card online, or in cash directly to your driver!

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have any questions, here are the answers.

Daytrip is a platform that connects you with local drivers who will transport you door-to-door, from one city to the next. We also give you the opportunity to explore sights/attractions along the way. We drive, you discover.

Yes! A return trip will take you back to your city of origin in the same size car in which you arrived. Return trips can be booked for the any day. You can also add customized sightseeing stops separately for each trip! Don’t worry if you don’t know your exact address at the time of booking - you’ll have the opportunity to update us closer to your travel date. Make sure to select “Return” when you start the booking process, then choose the dates and times of your departures.

For private trips, you can cancel for a full refund up to 24 hours before departure. For the Daytrip Pool shared shuttle, we offer 3 ticket options when booking: Non-refundable, Flexible with cancellations 24 hours before departure, and Super-flexible with cancellations up to 15 minutes before departure.

Simply choose your origin and destination via our homepage and enter your departure date and time. Browse and add sightseeing stops along the way by following the booking instructions provided on-screen. Select “One Way” or “Return” to change the type of trip you need. It’s a simple, easy, and fun way to book your next adventure! And if you don’t see your desired route on our website, you can request a custom trip. You can even book without knowing your exact pick-up or drop-off address - we let you add these later!

Each passenger is allowed one large bag (29" x 21" x 11" / 74 x 53 x 28 cm) and one small bag (22" x 14" x 9" / 56 x 36 x 23 cm). Luxury sedans can only accommodate 2 large bags. We always send the vehicle that is the best fit for you and your luggage, so make sure to select the actual amount of luggage you are traveling with when booking. If you have oversized luggage, or are unsure if your luggage will fit, contact us.

Everywhere except the USA, drivers will supply appropriate child seats (just let us know during booking). In the USA, certain states require you to supply your own child seats.

Daytrip is the most convenient way to experience 14,500+ cities around the world.

Every traveler deserves real insight into the cultures of the countries they’re visiting. And every amazing place on Earth deserves to be visited and appreciated. We believe unique local knowledge and real human connection are irreplaceable when it comes to truly comprehending another culture.