Getting to Santa Teresa (and Getting Around Once You're There)
Santa Teresa is not hard to reach — it is just far enough down the Nicoya Peninsula that the last leg is part of the trip. Here are the realistic ways in, and what to do about wheels once you land.
Fly to Cóbano (fastest)
Take a short domestic flight from San José or Liberia to Cóbano, then a twenty-minute drive into Santa Teresa. It is the quickest way in and turns a long travel day into a short one — plus the coastline on the descent is worth the ticket on its own.
Shuttle or drive from SJO or Liberia
A shared or private shuttle from San José (SJO) or Liberia is the most common route. Expect roughly five to six hours door to door from SJO, including the ferry across the Gulf of Nicoya.
Driving yourself works too, and gives you a vehicle for the week. Take a 4x4 — the last stretch of road is unpaved and gets rutted in green season.
A note on the ferry
The Puntarenas–Paquera ferry is part of most overland routes and takes about an hour. It is a genuinely lovely crossing: get out of the car, go up top, watch for rays and dolphins.
Ferry times shift, so build a buffer rather than cutting it fine — especially if you are driving yourself. Book tickets and check the timetable at quickpaycr.com.
Ferry booking & timetable
Getting around town
ATV, scooter or motorbike
What most people rent. One road, dusty or muddy depending on the season, and everything within a few minutes' ride.
Walking
Fine if you are staying central.
Taxis
Best organised through your accommodation or WhatsApp.
Bicycle
Good for short hops, less fun in the heat of the afternoon or the mud of green season.
Arriving for a lesson or a stay
For lessons, you meet us at whichever beach is working that day and transport is available where it is needed. For Surf + Stay weeks, we pick you up from your hotel.
Frequently asked
What is the closest airport to Santa Teresa?
Cóbano, about a twenty-minute drive away, served by domestic flights from San José or Liberia. Most international travellers fly into SJO first.
How long is the drive from San José to Santa Teresa?
Roughly five to six hours by shuttle or car, including the ferry crossing from Puntarenas to Paquera.
Do I need a car in Santa Teresa?
It depends where you stay. Santa Teresa is spread along a long stretch, so if you are central you can walk everywhere. If you are staying on the mountain top or away from town, transport is needed.
Ready when you are
Come surf with us in Santa Teresa.
Small groups, local coaches, and Surf + Stay weeks at The Baya House.
