Manuel Antonio, known for its stunning national park and beautiful beaches, is a must-visit destination in Costa Rica. If you're starting your journey from Tamarindo, you have several transportation options to choose from for this 330-kilometer, 6-hour voyage. Whether you prefer the convenience of a rental car, the luxury of a private shuttle, or the budget-friendly bus, here's everything you need to know to make an informed decision of how to get to Manuel Antonio or Quepos from Tamarindo. Keep in mind that in this blog we write about getting to Manuel Antonio but all the information applies to getting to Quepos as well. The two towns make up the same 7-kilometer area.
Need other useful information? We have a complete travel guide dedicated to the town of Manuel Antonio & Quepos : the best hotels, restaurants, things to do in the area.
What is the best way to get to Manuel Antonio from Tamarindo?
Pura Vida Traveling Recommendations:
On a Budget: Shared Shuttle, Public Buses
Singles, Couples, or Small Groups: Air plane, Taxi or Rental Car, Shared Shuttle
Families or Large Groups: Private shuttle
To Manuel Antonio or Quepos from Tamarindo by Private Shuttle
Fast and Safe <> 6hrs <> $487
If you prefer a more personalized and flexible option, a private shuttle is an excellent choice. Private shuttles can be booked through various tour companies and offer door-to-door service. This option allows you to set your own departure time and make stops along the way for sightseeing, meals, or restroom breaks. The journey time is similar to that of a rental car, around 5-6 hours. While private shuttles are more expensive than shared ones, they offer greater comfort and convenience, especially for families or groups.
Writers Tips:
Private shuttles are great for groups of 4-12 people.
Ask your driver to stop along the way. There is so much to see and your driver should know the area well.
Click here for more detailed information about Group and Private shuttles
To Manuel Antonio or Quepos from Tamarindo by Group Shuttle
Solo travelers & couples <> 6-7hrs <> $80
For a balance between comfort and cost, consider taking a shared shuttle. Companies offer daily services between Tamarindo and Manuel Antonio. These shuttles are air-conditioned and provide a more comfortable ride compared to public buses. The journey takes about 6-7 hours with a few scheduled stops along the way. The cost is typically around $80 per person. Shared shuttles are convenient because they pick you up from your hotel in Tamarindo and drop you off at your accommodation in Manuel Antonio.
Writers Tips:
Reserve in advance as these shuttles can fill up.
Shared shuttles from Tamarindo to Manuel Antonio are only scheduled to leave in the morning.
Be aware of luggage restrictions. Surfboards and extra suitcases can cost extra.
Click here for more detailed information about Group and Private shuttles
To Manuel Antonio or Quepos from Tamarindo by public bus
cost-effective <> 8-10hrs <> $16 US <> 4 bus transfers
For budget-conscious travelers, the bus is the most economical option. For this route some recommend taking a direct bus to San Jose from Liberia and then taking another direct bus to Manuel Antonio. While this option is also viable, it doesn't make much since to have to enter into San Jose, as doing so could really delay your trip. For this trip we recommend the following route:
Tamarindo to Liberia ($3) (2.5hrs)
The first leg of your trip is to get to Liberia from Tamarindo. For this trip you will use Transporte La Pampa, you will pay the bus driver directly and the bus leaves from in front of the plaza in Tamarindo.
Liberia to Puntarenas ($6) (3 hrs)
The next step is to make it to Puntarenas. There are 10 buses per day from Liberia to Puntarenas between 5am and 5pm.
Puntarenas to Quepos ($6) (3hrs)
Use Transportes Quepos Puntarenas to travel from From Puntarenas to Quepos. Buses leave the Puntarenas bus station every 1to2 hours between 4:30am and 5:30pm.
Quepos to Manuel Antonio ($1) (15 min)
If you arrive in Quepos and need to get to Manuel Antonio, your final bus should be easy to get. Buses leave from Quepos to Manuel Antonio every 15-30 minutes. The buses are white with blue and red detail and they should say Manuel Antonio on the front.
Writers Tips:
Leave as early as possible to make sure you make all your connecting bus transfers.
While taking a bus to Manuel Antonio is the most cost-effective, it is also the longest option. Consider taking a shared shuttle or flight for this trip to cut your travel time down significantly.
Store large suitcases and bags under the bus and keep a small bag with you for all your most valued items.
To Manuel Antonio or Quepos from Tamarindo by Air
The fun and fast option <> 3-4 hrs <> $175
The fastest way to get from Tamarindo to Manuel Antonio is by air. Tamarindo has a small airport with flights operated by local carriers such as Sansa Airlines and Nature Air. These flights usually connect through San José’s Juan Santamaría International Airport before heading to Quepos, the nearest airport to Manuel Antonio. The total travel time, including layovers, is about 3-4 hours. Although flying is the quickest option, it is also the most expensive, with round-trip tickets often costing several hundred dollars. Once you arrive in Quepos, it's a short 15-minute taxi ride to Manuel Antonio.
Writers Tips:
Be aware that flying with extra luggage or heavy luggage could come with an additional cost.
Be at the airport check-in at least 1 hour before your flight or they won't allow you to fly.
To Manuel Antonio or Quepos from Tamarindo by car or taxi
Fast and easy <> 6-7 hrs <> $400
Driving from Tamarindo to Manuel Antonio offers the freedom to explore Costa Rica at your own pace. The journey is approximately 330 kilometers and typically takes around 6-7 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions. The route generally involves taking Route 21 towards Nicoya, then Route 18 towards Puntarenas, and finally Route 34, the Costanera Sur, which takes you straight to Manuel Antonio. Rental cars are available in Tamarindo, and prices can vary depending on the season and vehicle type. Ensure you have a GPS or a reliable map, as road signage can be limited. Alternatively, you can hire a taxi, but this can be quite expensive, often costing between $350-$400
Writers Tips:
Use our Pura Vida Traveling exclusive link to receive up to 10% off and additional rental benefits.
Always check with your credit card company to see if international car insurance is an added cardholder benefit. This can save you some money on your rental.
Waze is the most used direction application in Costa Rica so it normally has the most up-to-date road conditions.
To Manuel Antonio or Quepos from Tamarindo by private vehicle
Best for extended visit <> Purchase and resell
If you are planning an extended visit to Costa Rica and want to travel the entire country in the luxury of a private vehicle, consider buying a car or van when you arrive and selling it when you leave. Buying a vehicle is both legal for tourists and pretty easy to do. You would have to pay the initial lawyer's fees to transfer ownership and then you would have to sell the vehicle in time before leaving the country but this hassle could end up being worth the hassle if you can get most of your investment back before you leave.
Do not hesitate to read our specific article on this subject: How to buy a car in Costa Rica?
Conclusion : choosing your ideal route
Traveling from Tamarindo to Manuel Antonio offers a variety of options to suit different preferences and budgets. Whether you opt for the independence of a rental car, the speed of a flight, the comfort of a shared shuttle, the convenience of a private shuttle, or the affordability of a bus, you’re sure to find a way to make the journey enjoyable. Plan ahead, consider your priorities, and choose the option that best fits your travel style for a smooth trip to the stunning shores of Manuel Antonio.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a Shuttle from Tamarindo to Manuel Antonio?
Yes, shared shuttles leave in the morning and can be reserved using this link:
How much is a taxi from Tamarindo to Manuel Antonio or Quepos?
How much does it cost to fly from Manuel Antonio to Tamarindo?
Is Tamarindo closer to Liberia or San Jose?
What airport should I fly into for Tamarindo Costa Rica?
How far is it from Manuel Antonio to Tamarindo?
Is Tamarindo or Manuel Antonio better?
Is Manuel Antonio close to Tamarindo?
Why is Tamarindo so popular?
Why is Manuel Antonio so popular?
Do you have to stop in San Jose when traveling by bus from Tamarindo to Manuel Antonio?
What is the best bus route to take from Tamarindo to Manuel Antonio?