If you are looking to travel to Drake Bay or Sierpe from San Jose or SJO Airport, you are in for an adventure. First, decide which route to take, as there are two very different ways to get there from San José. The first option is to travel to the small city of Sierpe, where you can catch a taxi boat ($20) that will transport you down the Sierpe River and into the open ocean, with a final destination of Drake Bay. The second option is to drive the entire way to Drake Bay, which requires a 4x4 vehicle, patience, and a sense of adventure, as the roads can be very rough, especially during the rainy season. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you choose the best way to get to Drake Bay, highlighting five different travel options for this 7-hour, 360-kilometer journey.
What is the best way to get to Drake Bay or Sierpe from San Jose or SJO Airport?
Pura Vida Traveling Recommendations:
On a Budget: Shared Shuttle, Public Buses
Singles, Couples, or Small Groups: Domestic flight, Taxi or Rental Car, Shared Shuttle
Families or Large Groups: Private shuttle
To Drake Bay from San Jose by private shuttle
Perfect for groups <> 6-7hrs <> $359
Private shuttles provide the comfort of a personal vehicle with the convenience of a shuttle service. They are ideal for families or groups. The driver will pick you up at your desired San José location and take you directly to Sierpe in about 5 hours. From Sierpe, you’ll take a taxi boat to Drake Bay. This option offers a private and personalized service with flexible departure times but is more expensive than shared shuttles and buses.
Writer tips:
Be sure to inform the carrier if you have a surfboard or several large suitcases.
If you take a private shuttle, stop along the way to buy souvenirs and fresh fruit.
Private shuttles are normally priced for1-6 passengers ($15 extra per additional person you add).
Click here for detailed information on shared and private shuttle services in Costa Rica.
To Drake Bay from San Jose by shared shuttle
Solo travelers or couples <> 5-6hrs <> $90
Shared shuttles are a popular and cost-effective option. Shuttles typically pick you up from your hotel in San José and take you directly to Sierpe. The journey takes about 5-6 hours, including stops for refreshments. From Sierpe, you’ll need to take a taxi boat to Drake Bay. Shuttles offer comfort and convenience without the hassle of driving. While this option is more affordable than a private shuttle or taxi, it is shared with other passengers, which means less privacy and fixed schedules that may not align perfectly with your travel plans.
Writer tips:
Book in advance as these shuttles can fill up.
Be aware of baggage restrictions. Surfboards and additional suitcases may cost extra.
Click here for more information on group and private shuttles
To Drake Bay from San Jose by car or taxi
Easiest <> 5-7hrs <> $300
Traveling by rental car or taxi gives you the most flexibility and control over your itinerary. The drive from San José to Sierpe takes approximately 4-5 hours while reaching Drake Bay involves an additional boat ride from Sierpe. The most common route to Sierpe is via Route 34 (Costanera Sur), offering scenic coastal views. Once you arrive in Sierpe, you can park your car and take a taxi boat to Drake Bay, which takes about an hour. Opting for a taxi is more convenient but can be quite costly, especially for the long journey. While this option provides the flexibility to explore at your own pace and the ability to stop along the way, navigating Costa Rica’s roads can be challenging, and the cost of a taxi for such a long distance can be prohibitive. Expect to spend around $300 for a taxi for 1-4 passengers.
Writer tips:
Use our Pura Vida Traveling exclusive link to receive up to 10% off and additional rental benefits.
Make sure your car has full insurance coverage, if you plan to drive to Drake Bay.
Opt for a 4x4. You will need 4x4 if you plan to drive to Drake Bay. A 4x4 with a higher clearance is recommended for this trip.
Book well in advance to save money.
Be sure to add a quick stop on the Tarcoles River to check out the famous Crocodile Bridge - you don't want to miss it!
Make sure to negotiate with airport taxis as they can be more expensive.
Contact your credit card company to see if your car is insured as a benefit on your card (this is very common)
To easily bypass highway tolls, be prepared and have a few Colones with you, or use the tap to pay with your credit card or phone.
To Drake Bay from San Jose by public bus
The cheapest <> 7-9hrs <> $16 - $38 <> 4+ Bus Transfers
San Jose Aiport to Tracopa bus terminal ($5-$20) (30 Minutes)
When you land at San Jose Airport, you're not quite in San Jose yet; the airport is in a nearby town called Alajuela. That said, the bus to get to Drake Bay leaves from the Tracopa Bus Terminal in San Jose. So, you will have to commute from the airport to get there. Tracopa bus terminal runs buses that go down the southern coast to most coastal cities including the one you need to get to (Palma Norte).
To get to the Tracopa bus station in San José, you can take a local bus from the airport, a taxi, or an Uber. We recommend taking an Uber; it's more cost-effective than a taxi (which can cost you $15-20 more) and much easier than taking the bus after a day of flying. An Uber will usually cost less than $15.
If you decide to take a local bus to Tracopa, you will need to find the bus stop (located in front of the airport) and board the correct bus. You will need to ask the driver if they are heading to San Jose to ensure you get on the correct bus. You can pay the bus driver directly in colones or USD – it costs around 665 colones. The drive to San Jose will take approximately 30-45 minutes. However, when you get off the bus, you still won't be at the Tracopa bus terminal and will probably want to take an Uber if you have luggage. Taking an Uber directly from the airport will save you time and hassle for a slightly higher cost.
Tracopa Bus Terminal to Palma Norte ($12) (5 hours)
From the Tracopa bus terminal in downtown San Jose take a bus to the city of Palmar Norte. (Note: there is one bus daily directly to Sierpe that leaves San Jose at 8:30 am). This bus will cost you $11-$15 USD. If you can't catch this one direct bus, you could look for a bus that is headed to Paso Canoas or David. These buses will pass by Palma Norte and can drop you along the way. Make sure to confirm this with the driver of your bus.
Palma Norte to Sierpe ($2) (30min)
Once you get off the Tracopa bus in Palmar Norte, you'll need to find the Sierpe bus stop. From the main bus station where you were dropped off, head into town to the left if you're facing the station's ticket counter and waiting area. Walk about 50 meters, then take the first right onto a larger street. After another 25 meters, you'll see a long metal bench with a roof over it on the left side of the road—this is the Sierpe bus stop. If you have trouble finding it, don't hesitate to ask a local; they're usually friendly and willing to help. The bus ride costs around $1 USD. Once on the bus, get off at the last stop, and you'll be at Sierpe Park, right in the middle of town. From there, walk a few blocks to Donde Jorge Bar and Restaurant where the taxi boats leave for Drake Bay.
Alternatively, you can take a taxi from Palmar Norte to Sierpe, which will cost between $15-$20 USD.
Bus schedules from Palmar Norte to Sierpe: 5:00 am, 6:30 am, 8:00 am, 9:30 am, 11:30 am, 2:30 pm, 5:15 pm.
Bus schedules from Sierpe to Palmar Norte: 5:30 am, 7:15 am, 9:00 am, 10:30 am, 1:30 pm, 4:00 pm, 6:00 pm.
Sierpe to Drake Bay ($20) (1hour)
Taxi boats to Drake Bay leave from Donde Jorge restaurant located centrally in Sierpe twice daily. The first boat leaves at 11:30 AM and the second leaves at 4:30 PM. This taxi boat normally drops passengers on the beach of Drake Bay. Let the captain know where you are going as they may be able to drop you right at your hotel or at least a lot closer to it.
Writer tips:
This can be a long and complicated trip to make by bus. We recommend a shared shuttle for this journey.
Leave as early as possible to make all your connecting bus transfers.
Store large suitcases and bags under the bus and keep a small bag with you for all your most valued items.
To Drake Bay from San Jose by airplane
The fastest <> 45min <> $155
Flying is the quickest way to reach Drake Bay from San José. Domestic airlines like Sansa and Nature Air offer direct flights to Drake Bay, which take about 45 minutes. From the Drake Bay airstrip, you can take a taxi or boat to your final destination. If you’re heading to Sierpe, you can fly to Palmar Sur and then take a taxi to Sierpe, a 30-minute drive. Flying is the fastest and most convenient option with stunning aerial views, but it's also the most expensive and has limited baggage allowances and schedules.
Writer tips:
Make sure to arrive at the domestic airport at least one hour before your flight for check-in. If you arrive within the hour, you will lose your original ticket and will have to purchase a new ticket for the next flight.
Always buy your tickets directly from these companies and avoid using any third party, as Costa Rica air travel scams exist.
Be sure to read their baggage policies, as you may often be charged additional baggage fees, especially if your luggage is heavy.
Conclusion : choosing the best route
Choosing the best way to travel from San José to Sierpe or Drake Bay depends on your budget, time, and personal preferences. For flexibility and control, renting a car or hiring a private shuttle is ideal. If speed is a priority and budget allows, flying is the best option. Shared shuttles offer a good balance between cost and convenience, while buses are perfect for those looking for the most budget-friendly option. Regardless of your choice, the journey to these remote and beautiful destinations will be an unforgettable part of your Costa Rican adventure.
Frequently asked questions
Should I drive to Drake Bay or is it better to drive to Sierpe and take the boat taxi to Drake Bay?
Choosing whether to drive directly to Drake Bay or drive to Sierpe and take the boat taxi depends on your adventure preference and comfort with driving conditions. Driving to Sierpe and taking the boat taxi is often considered the easier and more scenic option. The boat ride from Sierpe offers stunning views as you travel through mangrove channels and then along the coast, providing a unique experience and an opportunity to see wildlife. On the other hand, driving directly to Drake Bay requires a 4x4 vehicle and a good deal of patience, as the roads can be quite rough, especially during the rainy season. This route is for those who seek an off-the-beaten-path adventure and are comfortable with challenging driving conditions. Overall, taking the boat taxi from Sierpe is generally recommended for a more relaxed and picturesque journey.
What's the best way to get from San Jose to Drake Bay?
Is it okay to travel between San Jose and Drake Bay at night?
How easy is it to drive from San Jose to Drake Bay?
How much does a shuttle cost from San Jose to Drake Bay?
Is the drive from San Jose to Drake Bay a good experience?
How much does the bus from San José to Drake Bay cost?
Do I need a 4x4 vehicle to get from San Jose to Drake Bay?
What airport do you fly into for Drake Bay Costa Rica?
Is Drake Bay worth visiting?