If you're in Dominical, a laid-back surf town on Costa Rica’s Pacific coast, and heading to Manuel Antonio or Quepos, you have several ways to make the trip. Manuel Antonio is known for its stunning national park, while Quepos offers a vibrant marina and local charm. You can choose between faster, more comfortable or budget-friendly alternatives depending on your budget and travel style. Here’s everything you need to know about getting from Dominical to Manuel Antonio or Quepos.
What is the best way to get to Manuel Antonio from Dominical?
Pura Vida Traveling Recommendations:
On a Budget: Shared Shuttle, Public Buses
Singles, Couples, or Small Groups: Taxi or Rental Car, Shared Shuttle
Families or Large Groups: Private shuttle
To Manuel Antonio from Dominical by Private Shuttle
Perfect for groups - 1hr - $153
For a more personalized and flexible journey, a private shuttle is an excellent choice. This one-hour trip offers door-to-door service in an air-conditioned microbus, allowing you to travel comfortably without worrying about schedules or multiple stops.
The cost per vehicle is around $153 to $316 depending on the number of passengers. With a private shuttle, you can choose your departure time and enjoy a direct transfer without waiting for other passengers. This option is perfect for families, groups, or travelers who want a stress-free and exclusive ride. While it’s more expensive than a shared shuttle, the convenience and comfort make it a worthwhile choice for many.
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 shuttles
To Manuel Antonio from Dominical by Shared Shuttle
Solo travelers & couples - 1hr - $45
A shared shuttle is a convenient and affordable way to travel from Dominical to Manuel Antonio or Quepos. The shuttle service operates on a fixed schedule, with pick-up times at 6:30 AM, 11:00 AM, and 3:45 PM. The journey takes approximately one hour in a comfortable, air-conditioned 12-passenger microbus.
The cost is around $45 per adult plus tax. Travelers are picked up from any hotel or hostel in Dominical and dropped off at their accommodation in Manuel Antonio or Quepos. The service ensures efficient pick-ups and drop-offs based on passenger locations. This option is great for those who prefer a hassle-free, semi-private experience at a reasonable price.
Writer's Tips:
Reserve in advance, as these shuttles can fill up.
Be aware that if your hotel is in the hills of Domincal, your shuttle might not be able to get you all the way there as many hotels in the hills require a 4x4 vehicle.
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 from Dominical by Public Bus
cost-effective - 1hr 35mins - $4.5 US - 2 bus transfers
Taking the bus from Dominical to Manuel Antonio via Quepos is the most budget-friendly option, requiring two bus rides. The total travel time is approximately 1 hour and 35 minutes.
Dominical to Quepos (1 hr 15 min)($3.17)
The first bus takes you from Dominical to Quepos, operated by Autotransportes Blanco Lobo and Transportes Blanco y Hernández. The journey takes 1 hour and 15 minutes, and buses stop along Dominical’s main street before heading to Quepos.
Bus Schedule:
Monday – Friday 5:35 AM 6:15 AM 11:50 AM 12:45 PM 2:50 PM 4:20 PM 4:40 PM
Saturday 5:35 AM 6:15 AM 9:00 AM 11:50 AM 12:45 PM 2:50 PM 4:20 PM 4:40 PM
Sunday 5:35 AM 6:15 AM 11:50 AM 12:45 PM 2:50 PM 4:20 PM 4:40 PM
Quepos Manuel Antonio (20 min)($0.66)
Once in Quepos, you will need to take a second short bus ride to Manuel Antonio.
This bus runs every 20 minutes from 5:30 AM to 9:30 PM, making it a convenient option. The ride takes only 20 minutes. No ticket purchase in advance is required.
Writer's Tips:
Most companies in Costa Rica provide services from early morning to late afternoon.
Store large suitcases and bags under the bus, and keep a small bag with you for all your most valued items.
To Manuel Antonio from Dominical by Car or Taxi
Fast and Easy - 45 min - $80
Driving is one of the easiest ways to reach Manuel Antonio or Quepos from Dominical. The drive takes about 45 minutes along Route 34, a well-paved coastal highway with scenic ocean views. Rental cars are available in Dominical, and having your own vehicle gives you the flexibility to stop along the way, visit hidden beaches, or explore the area at your own pace.
Taxis are another option for those who prefer not to drive. A taxi ride costs around $50 to $70, depending on the time of day and your exact destination. This is a convenient choice if you're traveling with luggage or simply want a stress-free journey. However, rental cars offer more flexibility for travelers who plan to explore beyond Manuel Antonio.
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.
To Manuel Antonio from Dominical by Airplane
Not Recommended - No flights available
Flying is not the best way to travel from Dominical to Quepos or Manuel Antonio. Since the two locations are very close to each other by road, taking a flight would be impractical. While Quepos does have a small airport (La Managua Airport - XQP) that receives domestic flights, most flights to Quepos depart from San José (SJO).
This means you would first need to travel north to San José by road, catch a short 30-minute flight to Quepos, and then take another transfer to Manuel Antonio, making the journey significantly longer and more expensive than simply driving or taking a bus. For a quicker and more practical trip, consider a rental car, private shuttle, shared shuttle, taxi, or bus instead.
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 Manuel Antonio from Dominical 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 go.
For more information, check our article: How to buy a car in Costa Rica?
Choosing your ideal route
Each transportation option has its advantages. Renting a car or taking a taxi offers flexibility, shared and private shuttles provide a balance of comfort and cost, and the bus is the most affordable way to travel. No matter which option you choose, getting from Dominical to Manuel Antonio or Quepos is straightforward, allowing you to enjoy the stunning beaches, wildlife, and natural beauty of Costa Rica’s Pacific coast.
What is the best way to get to Manuel Antonio from Dominical?
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 Dominical to Manuel Antonio?
Yes, shared shuttles leave in the morning and can be reserved using this link:
How much is a taxi from Dominical to Manuel Antonio?
How much does it cost to fly from Dominical to Manuel Antonio?
Is Manuel Antonio closer to Liberia or San Jose?
What airport should I fly into for Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica?
How far is it from Dominical to Manuel Antonio?
Is Quepos or Manuel Antonio better?
Is Dominical close to Manuel Antonio?
Why is Manuel Antonio so popular?
What is the best bus route to take from Dominical to Manuel Antonio?
Are the Beaches Free in Manuel Antonio?
Is there a national park near Manuel Antonio?
Is Manuel Antonio Costa Rica worth visiting?
How many days do you need in Manuel Antonio?
Do you need a car in Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica?
Comments