Costa Rica's stunning landscapes beckon travelers to explore its natural beauty, from the tranquil town of Sierpe to the breathtaking beaches of Manuel Antonio. If you're planning a journey from Manuel Antonio to Sierpe or Drake Bay, options like group shuttles, private transportation, taxis, or rental cars are recommended for this 2-hour, 121-kilometer trip. For an adventurous route to Drake Bay, consider taking a boat down the Sierpe River. Even with a car, the boat ride may be preferable due to the lengthy and rugged overland drive, which requires a 4x4 vehicle. This guide provides information on various travel options, including directions to catch boats departing from Sierpe to Drake Bay twice daily (at 11:30 and 14:00) from Donde Jorge Restaurant in Sierpe.
What is the best way to get to Sierpe or Drake Bay from Manuel Antonio or Quepos?
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 Sierpe or Drake Bay from Manuel Antonio or Quepos by private shuttle
Best for Groups <> 2 hrs <> $210 (1-6 passengers)
For a more personalized and exclusive experience, consider hiring a private shuttle. Although pricier than shared shuttles, private transfers offer privacy, flexibility, and the ability to customize your itinerary. We recommend this travel option for any group of 4 or more passengers. The drive is quick, easy, and incredibly beautiful with a ton of great ocean-view vistas to stop at along the journey.
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; your driver should know the area well.
Stop for a meal break in Dominical or Uvita. The Farmers Market on Fridays in Dominical is incredible!
Click here for detailed information about shared and private shuttle service in Costa Rica.
To Sierpe or Drake Bay from Manuel Antonio or Quepos by shared shuttle
Solo travelers & couples <> 2hrs <> $50
Shared shuttles provide a balance between convenience and affordability, making them a popular choice among travelers. These shuttles operate scheduled services between major tourist destinations, including Sierpe and Manuel Antonio with regular morning routes almost always available. Click here for more detailed information about Group and Private shuttles
Writers Tips:
Reserve in advance as these shuttles can fill up
Shared shuttles from Manuel Antonio to Sierpe are normally only scheduled to leave in the morning.
Be aware of luggage restrictions. Surfboards and extra suitcases can cost extra.
To Sierpe or Drake Bay from Manuel Antonio or Quepos by car or taxi
Easiest <> 2hrs <> $180 (1-4 passengers)
Renting a car or hiring a taxi provides flexibility and convenience, allowing you to explore at your own pace. The distance from Sierpe to Manuel Antonio is approximately 115 kilometers, and the journey takes around 2 to 3 hours, depending on road conditions. Even if you have a car, traveling to Sierpe and taking riverboat to Drake Bay is most recommended. There isn't a lot of need for a vehicle in Drake Bay and the riverboat adventure is part of what makes this journey so special.
Writers tips:
Use our Pura Vida Traveling exclusive link to receive up to 10% off and additional rental benefits.
Get 4x4 if you want to get close to nature or if you plan to drive to Drake Bay.
Plan to make longer voyages during daylight hours as driving at night can be more dangerous.
Book rental cars well in advance to save some money.
Contact your credit card company to see if your car is insured as a benefit to your card (this is very common).
To Sierpe or Drake Bay from Manuel Antonio or Quepos by bus
Cheapest <> 3 hrs <> $12
The most affordable and convenient option is to take buses from Manuel Antonio to Sierpe. When traveling from Quepos or Manuel Antonio to Sierpe, you will need to take a direct bus from Quepos central station to Sierpe.
Bus company: Tracopa
Departure time: Mon-Sun 11:30 am, 6:30pm
Lenght: 3hours
We always recommend catching the first-morning bus available.
There's no bus to Drake Bay as the road access is very limited, so most of you will be taking a boat from Sierpe. From Sierpe, the river boat leave twice a day to Drake bay at 11:30 am and 4 pm. You don't need to buy or book tickets in advance, although you may through website.
Price: $40
Ride Duration: 1h 30m
Writers Tips:
When loading your luggage, make sure to give your bag to the driver only and make sure you see the bag go into the bus storage area.
Drivers will typically give you a luggage ticket that corresponds to your bag. Better to keep any expensive or cherished items on you, in your carry-on, or within arm's length.
To Sierpe or Drake Bay from Quepos Airport by Plane
Fastest <> 45 min <> $80-$240
While Quepos and Drake Bay both host an adequate airport to fly into domestically, it may be hard to find flights for this route. The distance to not too far and most people chose to make this journey by car making flights less popular and therefore also less prevalent. Sanza Air has these destinations on their website but seem to only have flights seasonally.
Writers Tips:
Always buy your tickets from the airline directly and avoid using any type of third party as scams for air travel within Costa Rica do exist.
Make sure you read their policies surrounding luggage as you may often be charged additional luggage fees, especially if your luggage is heavy.
Frequently Asked Questions:
What's the best way to get from Manuel Antonio to Sierpe?
The best option is to drive or take a private or shared shuttle. It's only 2 hrs away and the drive down the coast is a beautiful experience.
Do I need 4x4 vehicle to get to Sierpe or Drake Bay?
What time is the bus from Sierpe to Palmar Norte?
How much is the boat from Sierpe to Drake Bay?
Is it easy to get around Drake Bay without a car?
How do you get to Drake Bay Costa Rica?
Why Visit Drake Bay?
Can i Park my car in Sierpe while visiting Drake Bay?