How to Get to Tamarindo: Travel Guide from San José & Liberia Airports

Visiting Tamarindo is a dream for travelers looking for sun, surf, and adventure on Costa Rica’s Pacific coast.

Whether you’re coming for a quick surf lesson in Tamarindo, a full surf camp in Costa Rica, or one of our international surf retreats, getting here is easier than you think.

this guide, we’ll break down the best ways to get to Tamarindo from San José International Airport (SJO) and Liberia International Airport (LIR) - including updated costs, convenience, and tips for making your trip smooth and enjoyable.

Arrival Options: San José (SJO) vs. Liberia (LIR)

• San José (SJO): The capital city’s airport is the largest in Costa Rica and often has cheaper international flights. Travel time to Tamarindo is around 4.5-5.5 hours by road.

• Liberia (LIR): The closest airport to Tamarindo. Travel time is about 1.5-2 hours, making it the most convenient option for surfers eager to hit the waves quickly.

Transportation from Liberia Airport to Tamarindo

1. Private Shuttle

   • Cost: $120-140

   • Travel Time: 1.5-2 hours

   • Best for families, groups, or anyone wanting comfort and door-to-door service.
     

     

2. Shared Shuttle

   • Cost: $35-45 per person

   • Departs at set times daily.

   • Great budget-friendly choice if you’re flexible.
     

3. Taxi

   • Cost: $120-150 (ask for the official orange airport taxis).

   • Fast and direct, but pricier than shared shuttles.
     

4. Car Rental

   • Cost: $80-120 per day

   • Driving is safe and easy, plus you’ll have flexibility for day trips to nearby surf spots like Playa Avellanas or Playa Grande.
     

     

Transportation from San José Airport to Tamarindo

1. Private Shuttle

   • Cost: $300-350 (up to 5 people)

   • Travel Time: 4.5-5.5 hours

   • Comfortable and direct - no stress about driving or navigating.

2. Shared Shuttle

   • Cost: $60-70 per person

   • Daily departures, takes a bit longer due to stops.

3. Domestic Flight

   • Airlines: Sansa, Green Airways

   • Cost: $160-180 per person one-way

   • Flight time: 45 minutes, then a 5-minute taxi to Tamarindo center.

   • The fastest option, and the views of the Pacific coast are incredible.
     

     

4. Public Bus

   • Cost: $10-15 per person

   • Travel Time: 6-7 hours

   • Cheapest way, but less comfortable with luggage and surfboards.
     

Why Travel to Tamarindo?

Tamarindo is one of the top surfing destinations in Costa Rica. With consistent waves, warm water, and a safe sandy beach, it’s the perfect place for:

• Beginner surf lessons in Tamarindo

• Private & semi-private surf classes

• Family & group surf sessions

• Multi-day surf courses (3 or 5 lessons)

• Drone surf video analysis to improve technique and keep unforgettable memories

At Salty Smile Surf School, we also offer:

• Surfboards, rash guards, lockers, and showers included in every lesson

• Surf & stay packages (lesson + accommodation recommendations)

• Adventure tours like ATV rides, snorkeling, fishing, yoga, and day trips

Travel Tips

• Book early during high season (Dec-April) - both shuttles and surf lessons fill up fast.

• Bring sunscreen and a reusable bottle - Tamarindo is sunny year-round.

• Travel light - we provide all surf gear.

• Combine your surf trip in Tamarindo with visits to volcanoes, hot springs, or national parks nearby.

Final Thoughts

Getting to Tamarindo is part of the adventure. Whether you fly into San José or Liberia, once you arrive you’ll see why Tamarindo is known as one of the best places in Costa Rica to learn surfing and enjoy pura vida.

Book your surf lesson in Tamarindo today with Salty Smile Surf School - we’ll take care of the waves, the equipment, and the good vibes. You just need to get here!