Traveling from Santa Teresa to Nosara, two of Costa Rica's beloved beach towns, can be an exciting part of your adventure. Nestled along the Nicoya Peninsula, these destinations are separated by roughly 113 kilometers, but the journey often takes longer due to the area's rugged terrain. Here’s a detailed guide to the various ways you can make this trip, helping you choose the option that best suits your preferences and budget.
Do you need other useful information? We have a complete travel guide dedicated to Nosara, including the best hotels, restaurants, and things to do in the area.
What is the best way to get to Nosara from Santa Teresa?
Pura Vida Traveling Recommendations:
On a Budget: Shared Shuttle, Public Buses
Singles, Couples, or Small Groups: Airplane, Taxi or Rental Car, Shared Shuttle
Families or Large Groups: Private shuttle
To Nosara from Santa Teresa by Private Shuttle
Perfect for groups - 5hrs - $260
Private shuttles provide the perfect blend of comfort and convenience for a seamless and tailored journey from Santa Teresa to Nosara. These air-conditioned microbuses offer door-to-door service and the flexibility to travel on your schedule, with stops for dining or sightseeing along the way.
The trip takes about 5 hours, and costs range from $260 to $400 depending on the number of passengers. While private shuttles are more expensive than other options, they’re ideal for families or groups looking to share the cost and enjoy a direct, stress-free ride.
Writer's Tips:
Private shuttles are great for groups of 4-12 people. Shuttles are priced for 1-6 passengers. Plan to pay an additional $15 per extra passenger.
Ask your driver to stop along the way. There is so much to see; your driver should know the area well.
Click here for more detailed information about Group and Private shuttlesÂ
To Nosara from Santa Teresa by Shared Shuttle
Solo travelers & couples - 6hrs - $60
Shared shuttles are a budget-friendly and convenient way to travel from Santa Teresa to Nosara. Priced at $60 per adult plus tax, these air-conditioned 12-passenger microbuses offer pick-up and drop-off directly at hotels or hostels in both areas. The journey takes approximately 5.5 hours, including a 15-minute rest stop halfway through, ensuring a comfortable ride for all passengers.
This option is ideal for solo travelers or small groups seeking affordability without sacrificing convenience. While you’ll need to adhere to the fixed schedule, with pick-ups starting at 6:30 AM, the service is efficient and budget-friendly, making it a popular choice for exploring the Nicoya Peninsula.
Writer's Tips:
Reserve in advance, as these shuttles can fill up.
Kids under ten years old are half-price.
Be aware of luggage restrictions. Surfboards and extra suitcases can cost extra.
Click here for more detailed information about Group and Private shuttles.Â
To Nosara from Santa Teresa by Public Bus
cost-effective - 11hrs - $22 US - 5 bus transfers 1 Ferry
Taking the bus from Santa Teresa to Nosara is the most economical option, though it involves multiple transfers and a ferry crossing. While time-consuming, this journey is a great way to immerse yourself in Costa Rican culture and scenery. The total cost is approximately $22, and the travel time is around 11 to 12 hours, depending on connections.
Here’s a breakdown of the journey:
Santa Teresa to Cóbano (40 min) ($2–$3.4)
The journey begins with a Transportes MalpaÃs bus ride from Santa Teresa to Cóbano. The trip takes about 40 minutes, and buses run frequently throughout the day. Tickets are inexpensive and can be purchased onboard.
Bus Schedule: 3:15 AM, 5:50 AM, 7:15 AM, 8:15 AM, 9:45 AM, 11:45 AM, 1:45 PM, 3:45 PM, 5:00 PM, 6:00 PM, 7:00 PM, 10:00 PM
Cóbano to Paquera (1.5 hrs) ($3)
From Cóbano, board a Transportes Cóbano bus to Paquera. This scenic ride through rural Guanacaste takes around 1.5 hours.
Bus Schedule: 4:00 AM, 7:00 AM, 10:00 AM, 1:00 PM, 4:15 PM
Paquera to Puntarenas (1 hr) ($1.6)
At Paquera, catch the Naviera Tambor ferry to Puntarenas. This one-hour ferry ride is a highlight of the trip, with stunning views of the Gulf of Nicoya. Tickets can be bought at the ferry terminal.
Bus Schedule: 5:30 AM, 9:00 AM, 12:00 PM, 3:00 PM, 6:00 PM, 8:30 PM
Puntarenas to Liberia (3.5 hrs) ($6.8)
In Puntarenas, take a Reina del Campo bus heading to Liberia. The trip lasts approximately 3.5 hours, with several departures available daily.
Bus Schedule: 5:00 AM, 5:30 AM, 7:00 AM, 7:45 AM, 8:45 AM, 9:45 AM, 11:00 AM, 12:45 PM, 3:15 PM, 5:00 PM
Liberia to Nicoya (2 to 2.5 hours) ($3.5)
From Liberia, board a Transportes La Pampa bus to Nicoya. Depending on the schedule, you can take either a direct or indirect bus, which stops more frequently.
Bus Schedule:
Direct Bus Times (Mon-Sun) - 5:00 AM, 7:00 AM, 10:00 AM, 12:00 PM, 3:00 PM, 5:00 PM.
Indirect Bus Times - Every 30 minutes between 4:00 AM and 6:30 PM, plus additional times at 7:10 PM and 10:15 PM
Nicoya to Nosara (1 hour 40 min) ($4.1)
Finally, take a Traroc bus from Nicoya to Nosara. This leg of the journey passes through small towns and lush landscapes, ending your trip to Nosara.
Bus Schedule:
Mon-Sat - 5:00 AM, 10:00 AM, 12:30 PM, 3:30 PM, 5:30 PM
Sunday Times: 10:00 AM, 12:30 PM, 3:30 PM, 5:30 PM
Writer's Tips:
Most companies in Costa Rica provide services from early morning to late afternoon.
Leave as early as possible to make all your connecting bus transfers.
While taking a bus to Nosara 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 Nosara from Santa Teresa by Car or Taxi
Fast and Easy - 5hrs - $240
Driving from Santa Teresa to Nosara offers independence and flexibility. The journey typically takes about 4.5 to 5 hours, depending on road conditions. Renting a car will cost between $40 and $70 per day, excluding insurance and fuel, while a one-way taxi ride can range from $220 to $280. While Route 160 is the most direct path, it includes unpaved sections and river crossings, making a 4x4 vehicle highly recommended.
There other path goes through Route 21, a longer, fully paved road offering a smoother drive. Route 160 is shorter but can be challenging, especially during the rainy season when river levels rise. Route 21, while longer, provides a more comfortable journey with better road conditions. The main advantage of driving is the freedom to stop and explore along the way, such as hidden beaches and small local eateries.
Writer's 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.
Check current road conditions before departing, as weather can significantly impact travel times and safety.
To Nosara from Santa Teresa by Airplane
The fun and fast option - 2.5 hrs - $260
Currently, there are no direct flights between Cóbano and Nosara. However, travelers can still reach Nosara by taking a connecting flight through San José (SJO) or Liberia (LIR). Although, SJO might have more frequent services to Nosara Airport (NOB). This option requires two separate flights but offers greater flexibility with flight schedules.
Here’s how the journey breaks down:
Santa Teresa to Cóbano by Road (40 min)($2–$3.4)
For an affordable option, you can take a Transportes MalpaÃs bus from Santa Teresa to Cóbano, the nearest town with an airport. The journey typically takes around 40 minutes, though travel time may vary depending on road conditions.
Cóbano to San José by Air (40 min)($135)
Fly from Cóbano to San José, with flights taking about 40 minutes and priced between $119 and $135.
San José to Nosara by Air (45 min) ($131)
From San José (SJO), take a 45-minute flight to Nosara Airport (NOB), costing approximately $131.
Alternatively, you can fly from Cobano to Liberia Airport, which costs $135 for a 30-minute flight. Then, you can catch a 30-minute flight from Liberia to Nosara for $135.
Writer's Tips:
Be aware that flying with extra 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 Nosara from Santa Teresa by Private Vehicle
Best for extended visits - 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 go.
For more information, check our article: How to buy a car in Costa Rica?
Choosing Your Ideal Route
There are a few ways to get from Santa Teresa to Nosara, each with its perks. While flying is possible, it's not a direct flight and may even be multiple flights, making it a poor option for traveling this route. For the fastest and easiest trip, consider driving by rental car, taxi, shared shuttle or private shuttle. If you are okay with a long journey at the lowest cost, buses are an OK option, but they require major patience due to the multiple transfers in order to make it to Nosara. Either way, enjoy the pura vida ride and have fun in Nosara!
What is the best way to get to Nosara from Santa Teresa?
0%By Private Shuttle
0%By Shared Shuttle
0%By Air Plane (domestic flight)
0%By Taxi or Rental Car
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a Shuttle from Santa Teresa to Nosara?
Yes, shared shuttles leave in the morning and can be reserved using this link:
How much is a taxi from Santa Teresa to Nosara?
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Is Nosara closer to Liberia or San Jose?
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Are the Beaches Free in Nosara?
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