PRIVATE TRANSPORTATION FROM SJO AIRPORT TO SANTA TERESA
Traveling to Santa Teresa, one of Costa Rica’s most stunning beach destinations on the Nicoya Peninsula, requires a bit of planning—but with the right transportation, the journey becomes part of the adventure. At SJOShuttle.com 🇨🇷, we offer flexible and reliable private transportation options designed to match different budgets and travel preferences.
HOW TO GET TO SANTA TERESA FROM SJO AIRPORT
Santa Teresa is located on the Nicoya Peninsula, separated from mainland Costa Rica by the Gulf of Nicoya. Because of this, most routes involve traveling to Puntarenas and taking the Paquera Ferry, followed by a scenic drive to Santa Teresa.
FERRY PAQUERA SCHEDULE
The ferry operated by Naviera Tambor S.A. connects Puntarenas to Paquera multiple times daily:
04:00 AM
06:00 AM
09:00 AM
12:00 PM
03:00 PM
06:00 PM
08:00 PM
10:00 PM
Schedules may change seasonally. Check updates here: https://navieratambor.com/horarios-y-tarifas
OPTION 1: FULL PRIVATE TRANSFER (DOOR-TO-DOOR WITH FERRY)
Price per way: $330 ($60 deposit + $270 cash balance) UP TO 4 PEOPLE
This is the most convenient and popular option, ideal for travelers who want a smooth, stress-free experience.
Includes:
Airport pickup by a professional driver
Direct transfer to Puntarenas ferry terminal
Vehicle boarding on the ferry (included)
Ferry tickets for passengers
Private transfer from Paquera to your hotel in Santa Teresa
Complete door-to-door service
Best for: Families, groups, and travelers who value comfort and efficiency.
OPTION 2: BUDGET-FRIENDLY PARTIAL TRANSFER
Price per way: $150 ($50 deposit + $110 cash balance) UP TO 4 PEOPLE
A great option for travelers who want to reduce costs and don’t mind handling part of the journey on their own.
Includes:
Transportation from SJO Airport to Puntarenas ferry terminal
https://maps.app.goo.gl/xQGJZL8HtTsKqQTt7
From there, you will:
Take the ferry to Paquera
https://maps.app.goo.gl/Zh85To5bSjZb1t4w9
Then continue to Santa Teresa by:
Public bus: $5–$7 per person
Taxi: $40–$50 total
Important: Ferry tickets and transportation from Paquera to Santa Teresa are not included.
Best for: Solo travelers, couples, and budget-conscious visitors.
OPTION 3: FULL PRIVATE TRANSFER VIA TEMPISQUE BRIDGE (NO FERRY)
Price per way: $380 ($330 base + $50 surcharge) UP TO 4 PEOPLE
This option avoids the ferry completely by driving around the Gulf of Nicoya via the Tempisque Bridge:
https://maps.app.goo.gl/QLy4Ngy3WnhEA7qp8
While this route eliminates ferry coordination, it significantly increases both distance and travel time. The drive is longer, requires more fuel, and adds considerable driving hours.
Why the extra $50?
More mileage
Longer driving time
Higher operational costs
When to choose this option:
Ferry schedules don’t match your arrival
Ferries are full during peak season
You prefer to avoid waiting at the ferry terminal
Important: In most cases, the ferry route (Option 1) is still faster and more efficient.
RETURN TRIP OPTIONS
All options are available for return trips:
Option 1: Santa Teresa ➜ SJO Airport ($330)
Option 2: Santa Teresa ➜ Paquera ferry ($150) + local transport
Option 3: Overland via Tempisque Bridge ($380)
WHY CHOOSE SJOShuttle.com 🇨🇷
Professional drivers with extensive route experience
Reliable and punctual service
Comfortable, well-maintained vehicles
Assistance with logistics and ferry coordination
Safe and stress-free travel experience
PLANNING TIPS
Coordinate your flight with ferry schedules
Book early during high season
Choose Option 1 for convenience and speed
Choose Option 2 to save money
Use Option 3 only when ferry timing is not ideal
CONCLUSION
Santa Teresa is absolutely worth the journey, and choosing the right transportation makes all the difference. Whether you prefer the ease of a full private transfer, the savings of a partial option, or the flexibility of the overland route, SJOShuttle.com 🇨🇷 ensures a safe, reliable, and comfortable experience.
Travel smart and let SJOShuttle.com 🇨🇷 take care of the logistics while you enjoy the beauty of Costa Rica.
