How to Get to Santa Teresa Costa Rica – The Ultimate Travel Guide
If you’re dreaming of tropical beaches, surf-ready waves, and laid-back vibes, look no further than Santa Teresa, Costa Rica. But first, you need to know how to get to Santa Teresa Costa Rica. This guide breaks down every travel route to help you reach this Pacific paradise smoothly.
Whether you’re flying, ferrying, or road-tripping, we’ve got you covered. And once you arrive, Bimba – Santa Teresa’s local e-bike sharing service – makes getting around town easy, fun, and eco-friendly.
Where is Santa Teresa, Costa Rica?
Nestled along the southwestern edge of the Nicoya Peninsula, Santa Teresa is a small beach town located in the Puntarenas Province of Costa Rica. Despite its growing popularity among surfers, yogis, and remote workers, it still maintains a wild, untouched charm that sets it apart from more commercialized destinations.
Santa Teresa stretches along a dusty coastal road with access to several world-renowned beaches, including Playa Carmen, Playa Santa Teresa, and Playa Hermosa. The area is framed by lush jungle, rolling hills, and crystal-clear Pacific waves — offering a perfect balance between adventure and relaxation.
While Santa Teresa may feel remote, that’s part of what makes it so special. There are no high-rise resorts, no traffic lights, and no chain restaurants. Just barefoot beach bars, organic cafés, boutique hotels, and a strong sense of community.
If you’re wondering how to get to Santa Teresa Costa Rica, it’s important to know that the town doesn’t have a major airport or public bus terminal. Instead, travelers typically arrive by a combination of air, road, and ferry, depending on where they land in Costa Rica.
It’s a bit of a journey — but the reward is worth every step. Once you arrive, you’ll find a town where the days move slowly, the sunsets steal the show, and getting around on a Bimba e-bike is as easy as tapping your phone.
Quick Facts:
- Province: Puntarenas
- Region: Nicoya Peninsula (Pacific Coast)
- Nearby towns: Malpaís, Montezuma, Cobano
- Closest domestic airport: Tambor (TMU)
- Travel vibe: Surf town meets boho jungle escape
How to Get to Santa Teresa Costa Rica
✈️ Step 1: Domestic Flight from San José (SJO) to Cobano (COZ)
Two airlines offer regular domestic flights from San José to Cobano Airport (COZ):
These flights are short — around 30 minutes — and offer stunning aerial views of Costa Rica’s coastline, forests, and the Gulf of Nicoya. Cobano is a small regional airstrip, and it’s currently the closest airport to Santa Teresa, making this the most efficient option.
Tip: These are small aircraft (8 to 12 seats), so luggage is limited. Be sure to check baggage policies and book early during high season.
🚖 Step 2: How to Get to Santa Teresa from Cobano?
Once you land in Cobano, you’re almost there. Santa Teresa is just a 30 to 40-minute drive away by taxi or shuttle. Cobano is a small town, so it’s best to pre-arrange transportation if possible, though local taxis are often available when flights arrive.
You can choose from:
- Private taxi or van (recommended for convenience)
- Hotel-arranged transport
- Local shuttle companies
The road from Cobano to Santa Teresa is partly paved, but still bumpy in sections. If you’re arriving in the rainy season, expect muddy spots — though nothing a good 4×4 can’t handle.
✅ Why Choose This Route?
- Fastest total travel time from San José to Santa Teresa
- No need to deal with ferry schedules or long road trips
- Ideal for travelers with tight itineraries
- Scenic and memorable flight experience
⏱️ Total Travel Time:
- Approx. 1.5 to 2 hours total from SJO to Santa Teresa
💵 Estimated Cost:
- $120 – $160 USD for the domestic flight
- $40 – $70 USD for the taxi or shuttle from Cobano to Santa Teresa
🔋 Ride Bimba When You Land
Once you arrive in Santa Teresa, skip the stress of parking or car rentals. Just open the Bimba app, find the nearest electric bike, and start exploring. Whether you’re headed to your Airbnb, the beach, or a taco bar, Bimba is the easiest way to move around town.
Route 2: From San José – Shuttle + Ferry + Shuttle (Scenic & Budget-Friendly Option)
If you prefer to stay on the ground and enjoy a more immersive experience of Costa Rica’s natural beauty, the shuttle + ferry + shuttle route from San José to Santa Teresa is a popular and affordable option.
This journey is a bit longer than flying, but it’s a favorite among backpackers, budget travelers, and anyone looking to see more of the country along the way.
🚌 Step 1: Shuttle or Private Transfer from San José to Puntarenas Ferry Terminal
Your journey begins with a drive from San José to Puntarenas, where you’ll catch the ferry across the Gulf of Nicoya. This leg of the trip takes about 1.5 to 2.5 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions.
You can choose from:
- Shared shuttle services (cheaper, set schedules)
- Private transfers (more flexibility and comfort)
- Rental car (if you plan to drive yourself onto the ferry)
Popular shuttle companies include:
- Montezuma Expeditions
- Tropical Tours Shuttles
- Cobano Transfers
- Pantera
Most shuttles coordinate with the ferry schedule, which makes things smoother for travelers.
⛴️ Step 2: Ferry from Puntarenas to Paquera
At the Puntarenas Ferry Terminal, you’ll board a large passenger and vehicle ferry that crosses the Gulf of Nicoya to the port of Paquera. The ferry ride takes about 70 minutes and is incredibly scenic — you’ll pass by islands, spot seabirds, and enjoy a fresh ocean breeze.
There are several departures per day, but the most popular are in the morning and early afternoon. You can walk onboard or bring a vehicle (if you’re driving yourself).
Tip: Buy your ferry ticket at the dock or online via Naviera Tambor. Arrive early during high season to ensure boarding.
🚐 Step 3: Shuttle or Taxi from Paquera to Santa Teresa
After the ferry docks in Paquera, the final leg of your journey is a 1.5 to 2-hour drive to Santa Teresa through lush tropical landscapes, rolling hills, and small towns.
Your options:
- Shared shuttle (pre-arranged or part of a direct service from San José)
- Taxi (available at the ferry terminal)
- Car rental (if you’re driving yourself)
The road from Paquera to Santa Teresa is a mix of paved and gravel surfaces, with occasional potholes and stream crossings — especially during rainy months. A 4×4 vehicle is recommended for a smoother ride.
✅ Why Choose This Route?
- More affordable than flying
- No baggage weight limits
- Incredible coastal and jungle scenery
- Ideal for travelers who enjoy the journey as much as the destination
⏱️ Total Travel Time:
- Approx. 5 to 6.5 hours, depending on connections and road conditions
💵 Estimated Cost:
- $50 – $90 USD total (shuttle + ferry + final transfer)
🔋 Ride Bimba Once You’re in Town
After your long journey, you’ll want a quick and easy way to get around Santa Teresa — and that’s where Bimba comes in. Whether you’re heading to your hotel, the beach, or a café, just grab an e-bike using the Bimba app and start cruising. No traffic, no gas, no stress.
Bimba is the perfect local travel solution after a long travel day.
Route 3: From Liberia – Drive or Shuttle to Santa Teresa (Scenic Overland Route)
How to Get to Santa Teresa From Liberia?
If you’re arriving in northern Costa Rica at Liberia’s Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport (LIR), you can reach Santa Teresa by road only — either by private shuttle or rental car.
There are no domestic flights from Liberia to Cobano, but the drive offers a rewarding overland experience through one of Costa Rica’s most scenic regions. It’s a great option for road-trippers and those planning to explore more of the Nicoya Peninsula.
🚐 Option 1: Private Shuttle from Liberia to Santa Teresa
Booking a door-to-door private shuttle is the most comfortable and convenient way to travel from Liberia to Santa Teresa. Most services pick you up directly from the airport or your hotel and drop you off in front of your accommodation in Santa Teresa.
Benefits of this option:
- No driving required
- Air-conditioned vehicles
- Friendly local drivers
- Flexible scheduling
Estimated drive time: 4.5 to 5.5 hours
Cost: Around $200 – $260 USD per group (depending on group size)
Recommended shuttle providers:
- Tropical Tours Shuttles
- Costa Rica Transfers
- Taxi Boat Costa Rica
🚙 Option 2: Drive Yourself – Rental Car from Liberia to Santa Teresa
For maximum freedom and the chance to explore along the way, consider renting a car at Liberia Airport and driving to Santa Teresa.
This route takes you through Nicoya, Paquera, and Cobano, with potential stops in places like:
- Playa Samara – a relaxed beach town
- Playa Naranjo – near the ferry route
- Montezuma – waterfalls and boho charm
Important: Parts of the road near Cobano and Santa Teresa can be rough, especially during rainy season (May–November). A 4×4 vehicle is strongly recommended.
Drive Time: 4.5 to 6 hours
Road Conditions: Mix of paved and unpaved roads, river crossings in some seasons
Fuel Cost: ~$40 USD
Car Rental Cost: ~$60 – $90 USD/day
✅ Why Choose This Route?
- Great for travelers already in northern Costa Rica
- Ideal if visiting multiple beach towns on the Nicoya Peninsula
- No need to connect with flights or ferries
- Perfect for road trip lovers
⏱️ Total Travel Time:
- 4.5 to 6 hours, depending on route, stops, and road conditions
💵 Estimated Cost:
- Shuttle: $200 – $260 USD (private)
- Rental car: $60 – $90 USD/day + gas and insurance
Bimba E-Bikes Rental – Your Ride in Santa Teresa
Once you arrive in Santa Teresa, the last thing you’ll want to deal with is traffic, dust, or hunting for parking. That’s why Bimba – Santa Teresa’s local e-bike sharing service, is the smartest way to get around town.
Think of Bimba like Costa Rica’s version of Bird, Lime, or Dott — but built for beach life.
🚲 What Is Bimba?
Bimba is an app-based electric bike sharing service designed specifically for the unique terrain and vibe of Santa Teresa. Whether you’re commuting between the beach and your hotel, heading to yoga class, or grabbing a smoothie bowl in town, Bimba e-bikes give you flexible, eco-friendly mobility with zero hassle.
Just open the app, scan a bike, and ride.
🌴 Why Bimba is Perfect for Santa Teresa
Santa Teresa is a small, spread-out town with limited public transportation. Taxis are available but not always consistent, and car rentals can be expensive, hard to park, and unnecessary for short distances.
Here’s why Bimba is the local favorite:
- ✅ No parking problems – just lock the bike at a Bimba zone
- ✅ No fuel costs – powered by clean electricity
- ✅ No stress – ride at your own pace
- ✅ Eco-friendly – reduce your impact on the environment
- ✅ Fun & scenic – feel the breeze and enjoy the ride
Bimba bikes are built for Santa Teresa’s road conditions, with wide tires, solid brakes, and smooth electric assistance to help you navigate hills, dirt roads, and beach-town terrain with ease.
📱 How to Use Bimba
Getting started is easy:
- Download the Bimba app from the App Store or Google Play
- Create an account and add a payment method
- Find a nearby e-bike using the map
- Scan the QR code to unlock the bike
- Ride, explore, repeat
Once you’re done, just park the bike in any designated Bimba zone and end your ride in the app.
🏖️ Where You Can Ride
Bimba is available throughout the Santa Teresa area, including:
- Playa Carmen
- Santa Teresa town center
- Playa Hermosa
- Popular cafés, yoga studios, surf schools, and hotels
Pro tip: Riding a Bimba during sunset along the main road is one of the most relaxing ways to take in the magic of Santa Teresa.
🛵 Bimba vs. ATVs & Cars
| Feature | Bimba E-Bike | ATV Rental | Car Rental |
| Cost | 💲 Affordable | 💸 Expensive | 💸 Expensive |
| Parking | ✅ Easy | ❌ Limited | ❌ Very limited |
| Environment | 🌿 Zero emissions | ❌ Polluting | ❌ Polluting |
| Fun & Freedom | 🎉 High | 🎉 High | 😐 Moderate |
| Terrain Ready | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ❌ Not ideal |
🌎 Travel Local, Ride Bimba
By choosing Bimba, you’re not only making your life easier — you’re also supporting local innovation and promoting sustainable travel in one of Costa Rica’s most beautiful destinations.
Whether you’re staying for a weekend or a month, Bimba e-bikes give you freedom without the footprint.
Ready to ride?
📲 Download the Bimba app and start exploring Santa Teresa your way.
Best Time to Visit Santa Teresa, Costa Rica
Santa Teresa is beautiful all year round, but your experience can vary a lot depending on the season. Understanding Costa Rica’s tropical climate will help you decide when to plan your trip — whether you want guaranteed sunshine, consistent surf, or fewer crowds.
Here’s a breakdown of the best times to visit Santa Teresa, based on weather, travel conditions, and local vibe.
☀️ Dry Season (December – April)
This is high season in Santa Teresa — and for good reason. You can expect sunny skies, warm temperatures, and minimal rain, making it the ideal time for beach days, surfing, yoga retreats, and exploring by e-bike.
- Weather: 28-32°C (82-90°F), low humidity
- Road conditions: Excellent, even in remote areas
- Best for: First-time visitors, families, digital nomads
- Events: Christmas, New Year’s, Semana Santa (Holy Week)
Pro tip: Dry season is also peak tourist season, so book your accommodation, tours, and even your Bimba rides in advance to avoid missing out.
🌦️ Green Season (May – November)
Also known as the rainy season, this time of year is often misunderstood. While there is more rain, especially in the afternoons or evenings, the mornings are often sunny and perfect for activities. The landscape becomes lush and vibrant, and the vibe in town slows down in a peaceful, magical way.
- Weather: 24-30°C (75-86°F), humid, with daily showers
- Road conditions: Muddy in some areas; a 4×4 is helpful
- Best for: Surfers, budget travelers, photographers
- Events: Local festivals, fewer tourists
Bonus: You’ll find lower prices on accommodation and tours — and fewer crowds at popular beaches.
🌊 Best Surf Season
Santa Teresa is one of the top surf destinations in Costa Rica, and the waves are consistent year-round — but:
- Big swells: May – October
- More beginner-friendly waves: November – March
Whether you’re a pro surfer or trying your first lesson, there’s a wave for every level, all year long.
When to Visit & Use Bimba
| Month | Weather | Bimba Availability | Travel Vibe |
| Dec – Apr | Dry, sunny | ✅ Available | Busy, energetic |
| May – Aug | Green, some rain | ✅ Available | Calm, lush |
| Sept – Oct | Heavy rain | ❌ Not Available | Quiet, limited |
| November | Clearing up | ✅ Resumes | Refreshing, active |
🏖️ Plan Smart, Ride Smart
If you’re planning to explore Santa Teresa by Bimba e-bike, the best time to visit is between November and August. From beach-hopping to smoothie stops, Bimba is the easiest way to ride through town and experience life like a local — just not during the wettest months of the year.
Summary: How to Get to Santa Teresa Costa Rica
Whether you’re flying from San José to Cobano, taking the scenic ferry from Puntarenas, or road-tripping from Liberia, there are several ways to figure out how to get to Santa Teresa Costa Rica — each with its own charm. The fastest option is flying into Cobano and taking a short taxi ride. The most budget-friendly is the shuttle-ferry-shuttle combo from San José. And for full flexibility, travelers coming from Liberia can enjoy a scenic drive down the Nicoya Peninsula.
Once you arrive, the best way to explore the town is with Bimba, Santa Teresa’s local e-bike sharing service — a fun, eco-friendly alternative to cars and ATVs, perfect for getting around with ease and style.
Ready to experience paradise? Now you know exactly how to get to Santa Teresa Costa Rica — and how to ride like a local once you’re ther