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HotelTaxi

Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO) → Santa Teresa transfer

The transfer from Juan Santamaría Airport to Santa Teresa covers 169 km and typically takes 304–380 minutes. A car for up to three passengers usually costs €260–330 and a minivan €330–420; the exact price is shown before you book.

From
Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO)
To
Santa Teresa
Distance
169 km
Typical drive
304–380 min

Santa Teresa is a surf village near the southern tip of the Nicoya Peninsula, with long beaches, sunsets over the Pacific and a mostly young, international crowd of surfers and yoga travellers.

Two ways across the Gulf of Nicoya

The peninsula is separated from the mainland by the Gulf of Nicoya. One option is to drive to Puntarenas and take the car ferry to Paquera, a crossing of roughly an hour and a quarter, then continue by road through Cóbano. The other is the long road around the gulf over the Tempisque bridge and down the peninsula.

Which one makes sense depends on the ferry timetable, the season and your arrival time. The route is agreed with the provider when you book.

Arriving in Santa Teresa

The village stretches along one main road behind the beach, joined by Mal País to the south and Playa Hermosa to the north. Hotels and houses sit on both sides, some up steep tracks in the hills. Roads in the village can be dusty in the dry season and muddy after rain, so a sturdier vehicle is often used.

Things to know

Surfboards
Most visitors bring boards. Declare them when booking so there is room; a minivan is safer for more than two.
Fuel and cash
Services are limited at the tip of the peninsula, which is another reason to rely on a driver who knows the area.
Peak months
December to April is dry and busiest; ferries can be full on holiday weekends.

Frequently asked questions

How long does it take to get from SJO to Santa Teresa?

Typically 304–380 minutes for 169 km, depending on the ferry timing or the road around the gulf.

Is the ferry included in the transfer?

The route and what it includes are agreed with the provider before booking. The price you agree does not change afterwards.

How much does a private transfer to Santa Teresa cost?

Usually €260–330 for a car with up to three passengers and €330–420 for a minivan. The exact price is shown before booking.

Can we be dropped in Mal País?

Yes, Mal País is right next to Santa Teresa. Enter your hotel as the destination.

What if we land late in the evening?

Late ferries and night driving make for a long arrival. Many travellers stay near SJO and leave the next morning.

More transfers from Juan Santamaría International Airport

Juan Santamaría International Airport: arrival and transfer guide