Tamarindo, a coveted destination in Costa Rica, boasts exceptional surfing conditions, upscale dining options, and diverse accommodations. Its proximity to Liberia Airport, merely a one-hour drive, makes it an ideal base for exploring Guanacaste.
Planning a trip to Tamarindo, Conchal, or Flamingo is straightforward, and this post will guide you on how to get to Tamarindo from both Liberia Airport and San Jose Airport, ensuring a seamless start to your vacation.
Reaching Tamarindo from Liberia Airport
The route from Liberia Airport to Tamarindo is straightforward, featuring well-paved roads and only five turns, making it easily navigable by sedan. For those planning to rent a vehicle, numerous car rental companies are conveniently located near Liberia Airport, offering shuttle services to their offices, just a 5-10 minute drive away, for a hassle-free experience.
Driving
To reach Tamarindo, head right onto the main road from the airport and continue for 30 minutes until reaching a major intersection in Belen, marked by a gas station on the right. Turn right and proceed for another 10 minutes, then make a sharp left past a school. Follow the road, passing numerous signs for Tamarindo and Conchal, until reaching Huacas. Turn left and continue for 10-15 minutes before turning right into Tamarindo.
To access Conchal, follow the same route, but proceed straight at Huacas instead of turning left to Tamarindo. Shortly after, turn right at the next intersection, following signs for Conchal, and enter the Westin Conchal on your left. Continue past a bridge to arrive in Brasilito.
To reach Flamingo, follow the same route as Conchal, but instead of turning into the Westin, continue through Brasilito town and stay on the road until arriving in Flamingo, guided by ample signage along the way.
Shuttle
Tamarindo Tours and Transfers provides affordable shared shuttle services from Liberia Airport to Tamarindo, starting at $20 per person (minimum two passengers). Additionally, they offer shared shuttles to Nosara, Samara, Mal Pais, Grande, Conchal, Pinilla, Avellanas, and Flamingo. This convenient service awaits you directly at the airport, and also offers airport transfer services.
For a more personalized experience, private shuttles are available, accommodating 1-6 passengers for a one-way fee of $80-110. Enjoy flexible stops along the way, including supermarket or bank visits, before arriving at your final destination.
Taxi/Uber
At Liberia Airport, taxis are readily available, but it’s crucial to opt for the official red taxis in Costa Rica, avoiding unofficial “pirate” services. Taxi fares range from $70 to $100, depending on the number of passengers.
To ensure a smooth arrival, especially during late-night, holiday, or peak season visits (Christmas, New Year’s, or Easter), consider pre-booking a private shuttle to avoid potential taxi rate fluctuations.
As of April 2019, Uber has expanded its services to Liberia and Guanacaste, including Tamarindo, although availability is still limited. You may want to check for Uber options, but official taxis and private shuttles remain reliable choices.
Flying
Tamarindo boasts its own local airport in Costa Rica, offering a seamless arrival experience. While the distance between Liberia Airport and Tamarindo is relatively short (1 hour drive or 10 minute flight), this route is not commonly operated.
Upon arrival at Tamarindo Airport, travelers can easily access their car rentals or hail a taxi to reach their final destination. The airport is strategically located, with Tamarindo just a 5 minute drive away and Conchal accessible within a 20 minute drive.
Public Bus
A direct bus service operates from Liberia Municipal to Tamarindo, with multiple departures throughout the day.
This route passes through Flamingo, Brasilito, and Matapalo, taking approximately 3 hours (typically 2 hours). The fare is around 1400 Costa Rican colones ($2.30).
Please note that the bus may not always stop at Liberia Airport, so it’s advisable to proceed to the main road (about a 20-minute walk) to ensure you catch the bus. Alternatively, inquire with airport staff if the bus has been stopping at the airport that day and whether you should wait there or head to the highway. If you’re fortunate, the bus will stop at the airport, near the departures area, about 20-25 minutes after the scheduled times.
Traveling from San Jose Airport to Tamarindo: Options and Tips
While Tamarindo is farther from San Jose Airport than Liberia Airport, there are still convenient ways to reach this popular destination.
Driving
The 4.5-hour drive from San Jose to Tamarindo is on a well-paved road, with the fastest route being via Route 18 and the Friendship bridge. Check our guide for recommended stops along the way.
Flying
A 30-minute flight from San Jose to Tamarindo is available, priced at around $100 one way.
Bus
TIG operates a public bus service from San Jose to Tamarindo, taking approximately 5.5 hours.
Shuttle
Interbus offers shared shuttles at 8 AM and 3 PM, costing $55 per adult, while private shuttles for 1-6 people are available for around $250 one way.
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