5 Best Ways to get from Jaco to Tamarindo, Costa Rica

You can get from Jaco to Tamarindo by bus, shared shuttle, private transfer, taxi, or rental car.

The cheapest option to travel from Jaco to Tamarindo is by public bus, which costs USD 13. The journey takes about 8 hours.

The most popular option is the shared shuttle, offering direct transport and convenience at a very affordable price.

The fastest way to travel to Tamarindo from Jaco is by private transfer, taxi, or rental car, which takes about 4.5 hours.

Having frequently traveled the stretch between Jaco’s vibrant shores and Tamarindo’s laid-back allure, I’ve learned every twist and turn.

This guide distills those experiences, offering detailed advice on the best travel methods to ensure your trip is effortless and enjoyable!

Check our guide for the best options to travel from Jaco to Tamarindo. Here, you can find more information about transportation in Costa Rica.

Transportation Options from Jaco to Tamarindo

The following table outlines all transportation options from Jaco to Tamarindo:

Method	Time	Price
Shuttle from Jaco to Tamarindo	5 hrs	$62 to 64
Public Bus from Jaco to Tamarindo	+8 hrs	~$13
Jaco to Tamarindo Private Transfer	4.5 hrs	$350
Taxi from Jaco to Tamarindo	4.5 hrs
Rental Car	4.5 hrs

How far is Tamarindo from Jaco?

The distance from Jaco to Tamarindo is 145.5 miles or 234 kilometers.

Getting to Tamarindo from Jaco

1. Our recommendation: Shared Shuttle from Jaco to Tamarindo

Journey Duration: 5 hours

The shared shuttle service from Jaco to Tamarindo is a popular transportation option for travelers looking for comfort and convenience without the high price tag of private transfers.

The service usually operates on a daily schedule with a journey duration of approximately 5 hours. Prices for this service can vary; some options are available at around USD 43 per person, while others may cost up to USD 64.

You will be picked up and dropped off directly at your hotel. Vehicles used for shared shuttles are modern minibusses fully equipped with air conditioning and offer ample space for luggage, ensuring a comfortable ride​.

The route includes at least one stop where passengers can stretch their legs, use the restroom, and grab snacks.

We recommend booking online to ensure availability at your preferred travel date.

Jaco to Tamarindo Shared Van Shuttle Schedule:

The table below displays the shared shuttle timetable for trips from Jaco to Tamarindo, detailing departure times, journey lengths, and fares.

DEP	ETA	DUR	PX
09:00am	02:00pm	5h	$62
09:40am	02:20pm	4h 40m	$64

2. Private Transfer from Jaco to Tamarindo

Journey Duration: 4 hours 30 minutes

A private transfer will give you more freedom if you want more luxury and don’t want to depend on bus or shuttle schedules.

We recommend this travel option, especially for families and groups. Depending on the size of your travel group, the cost per person might be similar or even cheaper than for a shared shuttle.

Another advantage of a private transfer is that you can make stops on the way (additional costs might apply) and carry more luggage (given that it all fits in the car).

The journey takes approximately 4 hours and 30 minutes, slightly quicker than the shared shuttle option.

Prices for a private transfer from Jaco to Tamarindo:

• 7-9 passengers: USD 350

3. Public Bus from Jaco to Tamarindo

Journey Duration: 8+ hours

There is no direct bus available from Jaco to Tamarindo. If you want to travel by bus, you first must take a bus to San Jose. In San Jose, you can take another bus to Tamarindo.

While this is the cheapest travel option, costing only USD 13, we don’t recommend it as the trip takes more than eight hours.

4. Driving with a Rental Car from Jaco to Tamarindo

Journey Duration: 4 hours 30 minutes

Traveling by rental car is also an excellent choice since Tamarindo is only 145.5 miles or 234 kilometers from Jaco Beach.

The advantage of renting a car is that you can stop along the way and not worry about departure schedules and luggage limitations (as long as it fits in the vehicle).

5. Uber or Taxi

Journey Duration:

You can also take a taxi from Jaco to Tamarindo. Just make sure to agree on a fixed price before you depart!

Best day tours in Tamarindo, 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.

Here, you can find some of the best tours in Tamarindo, Costa Rica.

Frequently Asked Questions