How to get to Dominical from San Jose or SJO Airport?
- Esteban Acedo
- May 1, 2024
- 7 min read
Updated: Aug 25
Nestled along the Pacific coast of Costa Rica, Dominical invites travelers to discover its pristine beaches, lush rainforests, and vibrant local culture. Whether you're a nature enthusiast, an adventure seeker, or simply craving relaxation, getting to Dominical from San Jose or the San Jose airport (SJO) offers a variety of transportation options for the 200-kilometer and 4-hour journey. In this guide, we'll explore each method in detail, ensuring you find the perfect way to reach this tropical paradise.
What is the best way to get to Dominical from San Jose or SJO Airport?
Pura Vida Traveling Recommendations:
On a Budget: Shared Shuttle, Public Buses
Singles, Couples, or Small Groups: Airplane, Taxi or Rental Car, Shared Shuttle
Families or Large Groups: Private shuttle
To Dominical from San Jose by Private Shuttle
Perfect for groups - 3-4hrs - $324-$550
For travelers seeking privacy and flexibility, private shuttles provide a personalized transportation experience to Dominical. Taking a private shuttle from San Jose to Dominical is our most recommended form of travel for small or large groups.
Writer tips:
Be sure to inform the carrier if you have a surfboard or several large suitcases.
If you take a private shuttle, stop along the way to buy souvenirs and fresh fruit.
Private shuttles are normally charged for 1-6 passengers. Plan to pay $15 more per additional person you add after six passengers.
Click here for detailed information on shared and private shuttle services in Costa Rica.
To Dominical from San Jose by Shared Shuttle
Solo travelers or couples - 3-4hrs - $59
Shared shuttles offer a convenient and cost-effective mode of transportation to Dominical from San Jose or SJO airport. Several reputable shuttle companies operate in the area, providing comfortable rides with fellow travelers.
Writer tips:
Book in advance, as these shuttles can fill up quickly.
Be aware of baggage restrictions. Surfboards and additional suitcases may cost extra.
Click here for more information on group and private shuttles
To Dominical from San Jose by car or taxi
Easiest - 3-4hrs - $240
Renting a car or hiring a taxi provides travelers with the freedom to explore at their own pace, making it an ideal option for adventurous souls. Renting a car can be expensive during the summer season (December-March) and reasonable during the “winter” season (August-November). The 200-kilometer journey can take up to 3 to 4 hours, depending on traffic.
Writer tips:
Use our Pura Vida Traveling exclusive link to receive up to 10% off and additional rental benefits.
Opt for a 4x4 if you want to get closer to nature!
Book well in advance to save money.
Be sure to add a quick stop on the Tarcoles River to check out the famous Crocodile Bridge - you don't want to miss it!
Contact your credit card company to see if your car is insured as a benefit on your card (this is very common)
To easily bypass highway tolls, be prepared and have a few Colones with you, or use the tap to pay with your credit card or phone.
To Dominical from San Jose by public bus
The cheapest - 3.5-5hrs - $10 - $15
Dominical is a relaxed surf town on Costa Rica’s southern Pacific coast, known for its laid-back vibe, long beaches, and vibrant sunsets. If you're traveling from San José, there are three public bus options to get there, ranging from direct rides to one-transfer routes via Quepos.
Option A: Direct bus with Grupo Blanco Lobo ($10) (3.5 hrs)
San José to Dominical
Operated by: Autotransportes Blanco Lobo
This is a single direct route with one departure per day.
Daily departure (Mon–Sun): 12:00 PM
Arrival: Drop-off is at the main entrance to Dominical
Advance ticket required? No — but arrive early to secure a seat.
Option B: Direct bus with Tracopa ($12) (3–4 hrs)
San José to Dominical
Operated by: Tracopa
Offers multiple daily departures, including express options with fewer stops.
Daily departures (Mon–Sun):6:30 AM, 8:30 AM, 10:15 AM, 11:00 AM, 12:15 PM, 1:05 PM, 4:30 PM, 6:40 PM
Arrival: Drop-off is at the entrance to Dominical
Advance ticket required? Not required but recommended for morning or weekend travel.
Option C: Via Quepos (2 buses) ($12–13.25) (4.5–5 hrs)
Step 1: San José to Quepos ($8–12) (3–4 hrs)
Operated by: Tracopa
Choose from frequent departures heading toward Quepos or Manuel Antonio.
Daily departures (Mon–Sun):6:00 AM – 7:30 PM (every 30–90 min)
Advance ticket required? Yes — especially for peak travel times.
Step 2: Quepos to Dominical ($3–3.25) (1 hr 15 min)
Operated by: Autotransportes Blanco Lobo and Transportes Blanco y Hernández
Frequent local buses from Quepos to Dominical.
Daily departures (Mon–Sun):5:00 AM, 6:00 AM, 9:30 AM, 11:30 AM, 2:30 PM, 3:30 PM, 5:30 PM
Arrival: Several stops along Dominical’s main street
Advance ticket required? No
Writer's Tips:
Tracopa express buses are quicker, but sell out fast — book ahead online or at the terminal.
Bring snacks and water, especially for the midday Blanco Lobo bus, which has no scheduled stops.
If you're catching the second bus from Quepos, try to match your arrival time to the next departure — schedules don’t always align perfectly.
To Dominical from San Jose by Plane
The fastest - 30 min - $170
While there are no direct domestic flights to Dominical, Costa Rica, you can get close by air travel. The Quepos/Manuel Antonio Airport (commonly known as Managua Airport, with the code XQP) is conveniently located just a 30-minute drive from Dominical. Domestic Airlines operates multiple daily flights from San Jose to Quepos, with flight times of only 30 minutes. A taxi from Quepos Airport to Dominical typically costs around $50. This is the fastest and most exciting way to travel from San Jose to Dominical.
Private charter flights
If you're short on time and don’t mind splurging, private charter flights offer one of the most convenient and scenic ways to travel around Costa Rica. You can charter a single-engine plane (typically seating up to 12 passengers) between any domestic airports in the country. These flights often feel like a private aerial tour, offering incredible views of Costa Rica’s diverse landscapes, from coastlines to volcanoes, all in under 45 minutes. It’s a fast, effortless, and unforgettable way to get from one destination to another. A direct private flight is the quickest and coolest way to make this journey.
Writer's Tips:
Be aware that flying with extra or heavy luggage could come with an additional cost.
Be at the airport check-in at least 1 hour before your flight, or they won't allow you to fly.
To Dominical from San Jose by Private Vehicle
Best for extended visit - Purchase and resell
If you plan to spend an extended visit in Costa Rica and want to travel the entire country in the comfort of a private vehicle, consider renting a car or van upon arrival and returning it when you leave. Buying a vehicle is both legal for tourists and pretty easy to do. You would have to pay the initial lawyer's fees to transfer ownership, and then you would have to sell the vehicle on time before leaving the country. However, this hassle could end up being worth it if you can recoup most of your investment before departure.
Do not hesitate to read our specific article on this subject: How to buy a car in Costa Rica?
Writer's Tips:
Give yourself time to resell the vehicle. It can be fast and easy, but in Costa Rica, there always tend to be delays.
The car buyer is normally responsible for paying lawyers' fees for the transfer of ownership
Buying a new scooter or motorcycle is fast and easy, and you can normally resell it easily and only lose a few hundred dollars in resale value.
Choosing your ideal route
Traveling from San José to Dominical by bus is a scenic and affordable journey that fits most travel styles. Whether you prefer the simplicity of a direct ride or the flexibility of more frequent departures via Quepos, getting to this laid-back surf town is straightforward. Just choose the route that matches your timing, grab a window seat, and enjoy the ride to Costa Rica’s southern coast.
Frequently asked questions
What's the best way to get from San Jose to Dominical?
We recommend driving to Dominical from San Jose. The 3-hour coastal highway route has many beautiful viewpoints and cities to see along the way. We recommend a shared shuttle for singles or couples. We recommend a private shuttle for medium to large groups.
Is it okay to travel between San Jose and Dominical at night?
Although possible, it is not recommended to travel to Costa Rica at night. If something happens to your car late at night, you may be stuck on the highway until morning.
How easy is it to drive from San Jose to Dominical?
The drive from San Jose to Dominical takes approximately 3-4 hours without traffic or stops. Although the distance is not great, the roads are generally one lane, so you can only go as fast as traffic allows. You don't need 4x4.
How much does a shuttle cost from San Jose to Dominical?
A private shuttle should cost around $300 for 1-6 passengers. A shared shuttle should cost around $59 per person.
Is the drive from San Jose to Dominical a good experience?
The landscape and jungle are absolutely incredible with multiple coastal viewpoints worth stopping for. It is recommended to stop to see crocodiles at Tarcoles Bridge or stop at Jaco for a meal.
How much does the bus from San José to Domincal cost?
The bus from San Jose to Uvita should cost around US$11. Take the Uvita bus and make sure it will let you off in Dominical.
Do I need a 4x4 vehicle to get from San Jose to Dominical?
No, any type of vehicle will work.
What airport do you fly into for Dominical Costa Rica?
The closest domestic airport to Dominical is the Quepos Airport, a 30 minute drive from Dominical.
Is Dominical worth visiting?
The region boasts rich biodiversity, inviting visitors to delve into its lush rainforests, where they can encounter monkeys, sloths, and vibrant tropical birds. Dominical serves as a hub for adventure seekers, providing opportunities for exhilarating activities such as zip-lining, waterfall rappelling, and hiking amidst awe-inspiring landscapes.
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