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Tamarindo is one of Costa Rica's best-known surf and beach towns. It sits on the northern Pacific coast around 192 kilometres (119 miles) from San Jose. Flying is the quickest way, taking 2h. By road, the bus is the cheapest way to get from San Jose to Tamarindo at $15 (6,700 CRC), and takes 5h 30m - 6h.
Distance from San Jose to Tamarindo
San Jose and Tamarindo are about 192 km (119 miles) apart, and the journey itself covers around 247 km by road. The quickest way to get from San Jose to Tamarindo is by taking the flight, which takes around 2h.
4 ways to travel from San Jose to Tamarindo
There are four ways to travel from San Jose to Tamarindo. You can choose between the bus, minivan, flight, and private transport. The journey takes 2h–5h 30m and the quickest way is by flight. If you're on a budget, the cheapest option is by bus with tickets starting at $15 (6,700 CRC).
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ABOUT YOUR DESTINATION
Why Visit Tamarindo?
Tamarindo is a popular surf town on Costa Rica’s Pacific coast. What we love about this town are the amazing water activities both on the surface and underwater. It has a diverse marine life, making it perfect not just for surfing but for diving and snorkelling as well.
This once-quiet fishing village is also a common gateway to Las Baulas National Marine Park, which is a nesting territory of the leatherback sea turtles. Offering beaches, adventure, restaurants, bars and shops — there is a long list of things to do in Tamarindo.
Rounding it up
That's the full picture for getting from San Jose to Tamarindo, roughly 192 kilometres (119 miles) apart. In all, there are 4 ways to make the trip. The cheapest fare is $15 (6,700 CRC). The quickest trip takes 2h.
Prices and timetables change, so it's worth a quick check before you travel. Have a question, or travelled this route recently? Ask the community below and we'll do our best to help.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the distance from San Jose to Tamarindo?
The distance from San Jose to Tamarindo is 192 kilometres (119 miles).
What is the fastest way to get from San Jose to Tamarindo?
The fastest way to get from San Jose to Tamarindo is by flight and takes 2h.
What is the cheapest way to get from San Jose to Tamarindo?
The cheapest way to get from San Jose to Tamarindo is by bus with ticket costs starting from 6,700 CRC.
About the Authors
Senior Travel Writer
Ela is a storyteller, content producer, solo traveller and a mermaid-in-training. When she's not in front of her laptop, you will find her barefoot and living her best tan on some island in the Philippines. Or exploring the depths of its seas as a budding freediver. An island girl at heart, she'll be happy anywhere there is sea, sand, sun and coffee.
Founder & Trip Planning Expert
Based in Bali, Maarten's passion for travel is undeniable. In 2016, he decided to quit his job as a stock analyst and started doing what he always dreamed of: travelling through South East Asia and helping other people plan their trips. When he is not working on Gecko Routes, you'll find him surfing in the ocean or exploring the best gems of Indonesia.
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