Traveling from Santa Teresa to Nosara, two of Costa Rica's beloved beach towns, can be an exciting part of your adventure. Nestled along the Nicoya Peninsula, these destinations are separated by roughly 113 kilometers, but the journey often takes longer due to the area's rugged terrain. Here’s a detailed guide to the various ways you can make this trip, helping you choose the option that best suits your preferences and budget.
Do you need other useful information? We have a complete travel guide dedicated to Nosara, including the best hotels, restaurants, and things to do in the area.
What is the best way to get to Nosara from Santa Teresa?
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 Nosara from Santa Teresa by Private Shuttle
Perfect for groups - 5hrs - Around $260
Private shuttles provide the perfect blend of comfort and convenience for a seamless and tailored journey from Santa Teresa to Nosara. These air-conditioned microbuses offer door-to-door service and the flexibility to travel on your schedule, with stops for dining or sightseeing along the way.
The trip takes about 5 hours, and the costs depend on the number of passengers. While private shuttles are more expensive than other options, they’re ideal for families or groups looking to share the cost and enjoy a direct, stress-free ride.
Writer's Tips:
- Private shuttles are great for groups of 4-12 people. Shuttles are priced for 1-6 passengers. Plan to pay an additional $15 per extra passenger.
- Ask your driver to stop along the way. There is so much to see; your driver should know the area well.
- Click here for more detailed information about Group and Private shuttles
To Nosara from Santa Teresa by Shared Shuttle
Solo travelers & couples - 6hrs - Around $67.80
Shared shuttles are a budget-friendly and convenient way to travel from Santa Teresa to Nosara. Priced at $60 per adult plus tax, these air-conditioned 12-passenger microbuses offer pick-up and drop-off directly at hotels or hostels in both areas. The journey takes approximately 5.5 hours, including a 15-minute rest stop halfway through, ensuring a comfortable ride for all passengers.
This option is ideal for solo travelers or small groups seeking affordability without sacrificing convenience. While you’ll need to adhere to the fixed schedule, with pick-ups starting at 6:30 AM, the service is efficient and budget-friendly, making it a popular choice for exploring the Nicoya Peninsula.
Writer's Tips:
- Reserve in advance, as these shuttles can fill up.
- Kids under ten years old are half price.
- Be aware of luggage restrictions. Surfboards and extra suitcases can cost extra.
- Click here for more detailed information about Group and Private shuttles.
To Nosara from Santa Teresa by Public Bus
cost-effective - 11hrs - Around $22 US - 5 bus transfers 1 Ferry
Taking the bus from Santa Teresa to Nosara is the most economical option, though it involves multiple transfers and a ferry crossing. While time-consuming, this journey is a great way to immerse yourself in Costa Rican culture and scenery. The total cost is approximately $22, and the travel time is around 11 to 12 hours, depending on connections.
Here’s a breakdown of the journey:
Santa Teresa to Cóbano (40 min) ($2–$3.4)
The journey begins with a Transportes Malpaís bus ride from Santa Teresa to Cóbano. The trip takes about 40 minutes, and buses run frequently throughout the day. Tickets are inexpensive and can be purchased onboard.
Bus Schedule: 3:15 AM, 5:50 AM, 7:15 AM, 8:15 AM, 9:45 AM, 11:45 AM, 1:45 PM, 3:45 PM, 5:00 PM, 6:00 PM, 7:00 PM, 10:00 PM
Cóbano to Paquera (1.5 hrs) ($3)
From Cóbano, board a Transportes Cóbano bus to Paquera. This scenic ride through rural Guanacaste takes around 1.5 hours.
Bus Schedule: 4:00 AM, 7:00 AM, 10:00 AM, 1:00 PM, 4:15 PM
Paquera to Puntarenas (1 hr) ($1.6)
At Paquera, catch the Naviera Tambor ferry to Puntarenas. This one-hour ferry ride is a highlight of the trip, with stunning views of the Gulf of Nicoya. Tickets can be bought at the ferry terminal.
Bus Schedule: 5:30 AM, 9:00 AM, 12:00 PM, 3:00 PM, 6:00 PM, 8:30 PM
Puntarenas to Liberia (3.5 hrs) ($6.8)
In Puntarenas, take a Reina del Campo bus heading to Liberia. The trip lasts approximately 3.5 hours, with several departures available daily.
Bus Schedule: 5:00 AM, 5:30 AM, 7:00 AM, 7:45 AM, 8:45 AM, 9:45 AM, 11:00 AM, 12:45 PM, 3:15 PM, 5:00 PM
Liberia to Nicoya (2 to 2.5 hours) ($3.5)
From Liberia, board a Transportes La Pampa bus to Nicoya. Depending on the schedule, you can take either a direct or an indirect bus, which stops more frequently.
Bus Schedule:
Direct Bus Times (Mon-Sun) - 5:00 AM, 7:00 AM, 10:00 AM, 12:00 PM, 3:00 PM, 5:00 PM.
Indirect Bus Times - Every 30 minutes between 4:00 AM and 6:30 PM, plus additional times at 7:10 PM and 10:15 PM
Nicoya to Nosara (1 hour 40 min) ($4.1)
Finally, take a Traroc bus from Nicoya to Nosara. This leg of the journey passes through small towns and lush landscapes, ending your trip to Nosara.
Bus Schedule:
Mon-Sat - 5:00 AM, 10:00 AM, 12:30 PM, 3:30 PM, 5:30 PM
Sunday Times: 10:00 AM, 12:30 PM, 3:30 PM, 5:30 PM
Writer's Tips:
- Most companies in Costa Rica provide services from early morning to late afternoon.
- Leave as early as possible to make all your connecting bus transfers.
- While taking a bus to Nosara is the most cost-effective, it is also the longest option. Consider taking a shared shuttle or flight for this trip to cut your travel time down significantly.
- Store large suitcases and bags under the bus, and keep a small bag with you for all your most valued items.
To Nosara from Santa Teresa by Car or Taxi
Fast and Easy - 5hrs - $240
Driving from Santa Teresa to Nosara offers independence and flexibility. The journey typically takes about 4.5 to 5 hours, depending on road conditions. Renting a car will cost between $40 and $70 per day, excluding insurance and fuel, while a one-way taxi ride can range from $220 to $280. While Route 160 is the most direct path, it includes unpaved sections and river crossings, making a 4x4 vehicle highly recommended.
The other path goes through Route 21, a longer, fully paved road offering a smoother drive. Route 160 is shorter but can be challenging, especially during the rainy season when river levels rise. Route 21, while longer, provides a more comfortable journey with better road conditions. The main advantage of driving is the freedom to stop and explore along the way, such as hidden beaches and small local eateries.
Writer's Tips:
- Use our Pura Vida Traveling exclusive link to receive up to 10% off and additional rental benefits.
- Always check with your credit card company to see if international car insurance is an added cardholder benefit. This can save you some money on your rental.
- Waze is the most used direction application in Costa Rica, so it normally has the most up-to-date road conditions.
- Check current road conditions before departing, as weather can significantly impact travel times and safety.
To Nosara from Santa Teresa by Airplane
The fun and fast option - 2.5 hrs - $260
Currently, there are no direct flights between Cóbano and Nosara. However, travelers can still reach Nosara by taking a connecting flight through San José (SJO) or Liberia (LIR). Although, SJO might have more frequent services to Nosara Airport (NOB). This option requires two separate flights but offers greater flexibility with flight schedules.
Here’s how the journey breaks down:
Santa Teresa to Cóbano by Road (40 min)($2–$3.4)
For an affordable option, you can take a Transportes Malpaís bus from Santa Teresa to Cóbano, the nearest town with an airport. The journey typically takes around 40 minutes, though travel time may vary depending on road conditions.
Cóbano to San José by Air (40 min)($135)
Fly from Cóbano to San José, with flights taking about 40 minutes and priced between $119 and $135.
San José to Nosara by Air (45 min) ($131)
From San José (SJO), take a 45-minute flight to Nosara Airport (NOB), costing approximately $131.
Alternatively, you can fly from Cobano to Liberia Airport, which costs $135 for a 30-minute flight. Then, you can catch a 30-minute flight from Liberia to Nosara for $135.
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.
Find a private flight to Nosara
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 Nosara from Santa Teresa by Private Vehicle
Best for extended visits - Purchase and resell
If you are planning an extended visit to Costa Rica and want to travel the entire country in the luxury of a private vehicle, consider buying a car or van when you arrive and selling 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 in time before leaving the country, but this hassle could end up being worth the hassle if you can get most of your investment back before you go.
For more information, check our article: How to buy a car in Costa Rica?
Choosing Your Ideal Route
There are a few ways to get from Santa Teresa to Nosara, each with its perks. While flying is possible, it's not a direct flight and may even be multiple flights, making it a poor option for traveling this route. For the fastest and easiest trip, consider driving by rental car, taxi, shared shuttle, or private shuttle. If you are okay with a long journey at the lowest cost, buses are an OK option, but they require major patience due to the multiple transfers in order to make it to Nosara. Either way, enjoy the pura vida ride and have fun in Nosara!
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, shared shuttles leave in the morning and can be reserved using this link:
A taxi from Santa Teresa to Nosara typically costs between $220 and $280, depending on the taxi company and the time of day. The journey usually takes around 4.5 to 5 hours, and it's a more direct option if you're looking for comfort and flexibility, though it can be on the pricier side compared to other transport methods.
Flying from Santa Teresa to Nosara involves a connecting flight, as there are no direct flights between the two airports. First, you would take a flight from Cóbano to San José (SJO), which costs around $119–$135 and takes about 40 minutes. Then, from San José, you would catch a flight to Nosara, which costs about $131 and takes around 45 minutes. In total, expect to spend around $250–$270 and around 1.5 hours of flying time, not including any layover.
Nosara is closer to Liberia than to San José. The distance from Nosara to Liberia is about 3 hours by car (approximately 123 kilometers), while the drive from Nosara to San José takes around 6 hours (around 256 kilometers).
The most convenient airport to fly into for Nosara, Costa Rica, is Nosara Airport (NOB). It’s located just a short distance from the town, making it the closest airport. However, flights to Nosara Airport are limited and usually smaller regional planes. If you’re looking for more frequent flights with larger aircraft, you can fly into Liberia International Airport (LIR), which is about a 3-hour drive from Nosara.
San José International Airport (SJO) is another option, though it’s farther away (around 5 hours by car). For the most flexibility, flying into Liberia or San José and then taking a local flight or driving to Nosara is often the best choice.
The distance from Santa Teresa to Nosara is about 113 kilometers. By road, it typically takes 4.5 to 5 hours to drive, depending on the route you take and road conditions. The journey can be longer if you're traveling during the rainy season, as some of the roads can be rough, especially on Route 160, which has unpaved sections. If you drive on Route 21, which is a paved road, the trip may take a bit longer but will be smoother and more comfortable.
Nosara is perfect for those looking for a peaceful, laid-back atmosphere with yoga retreats, great surf, and a close connection to nature. It’s quieter, eco-friendly, and ideal for a more relaxing vacation. Playa Grande, near Tamarindo, offers a lively surf scene and is famous for its beautiful beach and sea turtle nesting. It’s more active and gives you easy access to national parks, with a bit more buzz compared to Nosara.
Nosara’s popularity comes from its perfect blend of natural beauty, laid-back vibe, and outdoor activities. The area is known for its stunning beaches, especially Playa Guiones, which is a hotspot for surfers of all levels. It’s also famous for its eco-conscious community, with many sustainable businesses, wellness retreats, and yoga centers. Nosara is a great spot for those seeking relaxation, adventure, and a chance to connect with nature without the crowds that other Costa Rican destinations often have. Plus, its proximity to nature reserves and wildlife, like the Ostional Wildlife Refuge, adds to its charm.
We recommend the following route:
Santa Teresa to Cóbano (40 min)
Cóbano to Paquera (1.5 hrs)
Paquera to Puntarenas (1 hr)
Puntarenas to Liberia (3.5 hrs)
Liberia to Nicoya (2 to 2.5 hours)
Nicoya to Nosara (1 hour 40 min) ($4.1
Yes, the beaches in Nosara are free to visit! There are no entrance fees for public access to the beaches, including Playa Guiones and Playa Pelada. Visitors can enjoy the natural beauty, relax, or surf without paying for beach access. However, some private beach clubs or resorts may charge for certain amenities like chairs, umbrellas, or meals if you choose to use their services. But overall, enjoying the beaches themselves is completely free.
The Sibu Wildlife Sanctuary is a protected area that spans around 1,000 acres and is dedicated to preserving the local flora and fauna. While it's not a national park in the formal sense, it offers visitors a chance to explore lush forests, wetlands, and diverse wildlife. Additionally, the Diria National Park, located a bit further south of Nosara, is another great natural area to explore. It’s known for its dry tropical forest, wildlife, and hiking opportunities, offering an authentic Costa Rican nature experience not far from Nosara.
Absolutely, Nosara is worth visiting! This charming beach town on Costa Rica’s Nicoya Peninsula is a haven for nature lovers, surfers, and those seeking a laid-back vibe. Its pristine beaches, like Playa Guiones, are perfect for surfing and enjoying breathtaking sunsets. Nosara also stands out for its focus on sustainability and wellness, offering yoga retreats, eco-friendly accommodations, and farm-to-table dining experiences.
Beyond the beaches, Nosara’s vibrant wildlife, lush jungle trails, and community-centered atmosphere make it a unique destination. Whether you're riding the waves, spotting monkeys in the treetops, or simply unwinding in paradise, Nosara offers a memorable escape.
The ideal length of stay in Nosara depends on your interests, but 3 to 5 days is a great starting point. This gives you enough time to enjoy the highlights, like surfing at Playa Guiones, yoga classes, exploring local wildlife, and soaking up the laid-back vibe.
If you want a deeper experience, like taking multiple yoga or surf lessons, visiting nearby attractions like the Wildlife Refuge, or just unwinding without a schedule, a week or more would be perfect. Nosara’s charm lies in its relaxed pace, so having extra days allows you to immerse yourself in its tranquility fully.
Having a car in Nosara can be incredibly helpful, but it’s not necessary. The town is small, and if you’re staying close to Playa Guiones or downtown, many places like restaurants, shops, and yoga studios are within walking or biking distance. For these areas, a bicycle or even a golf cart rental can be a fun and eco-friendly option.
However, if you plan to explore beyond Nosara—like nearby beaches, waterfalls, or remote spots, a car, preferably a 4x4, is highly recommended. The roads in and around Nosara can be unpaved and bumpy, especially during the rainy season, making a sturdy vehicle a good choice for comfort and convenience.
