How to get to Quepos or Manuel Antonio from Dominical Costa Rica?
- Shajeeha Mehdi
- Mar 7
- 8 min read
If you're in Dominical, a laid-back surf town on Costa Rica’s Pacific coast, and heading to Manuel Antonio or Quepos, you have several ways to make the trip. Manuel Antonio is known for its stunning national park, while Quepos offers a vibrant marina and local charm. You can choose between faster, more comfortable or budget-friendly alternatives depending on your budget and travel style. Here’s everything you need to know about getting from Dominical to Manuel Antonio or Quepos.
What is the best way to get to Manuel Antonio from Dominical?
Pura Vida Traveling Recommendations:
On a Budget: Shared Shuttle, Public Buses
Singles, Couples, or Small Groups: Taxi or Rental Car, Shared Shuttle
Families or Large Groups: Private shuttle
To Manuel Antonio from Dominical by Private Shuttle
Perfect for groups - 1hr - $153
For a more personalized and flexible journey, a private shuttle is an excellent choice. This one-hour trip offers door-to-door service in an air-conditioned microbus, allowing you to travel comfortably without worrying about schedules or multiple stops.
The cost per vehicle is around $153 to $316 depending on the number of passengers. With a private shuttle, you can choose your departure time and enjoy a direct transfer without waiting for other passengers. This option is perfect for families, groups, or travelers who want a stress-free and exclusive ride. While it’s more expensive than a shared shuttle, the convenience and comfort make it a worthwhile choice for many.
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 Manuel Antonio from Dominical by Shared Shuttle
Solo travelers & couples - 1hr - $45
A shared shuttle is a convenient and affordable way to travel from Dominical to Manuel Antonio or Quepos. The shuttle service operates on a fixed schedule, with pick-up times at 6:30 AM, 11:00 AM, and 3:45 PM. The journey takes approximately one hour in a comfortable, air-conditioned 12-passenger microbus.
The cost is around $45 per adult plus tax. Travelers are picked up from any hotel or hostel in Dominical and dropped off at their accommodation in Manuel Antonio or Quepos. The service ensures efficient pick-ups and drop-offs based on passenger locations. This option is great for those who prefer a hassle-free, semi-private experience at a reasonable price.
Writer's Tips:
Reserve in advance, as these shuttles can fill up.
Be aware that if your hotel is in the hills of Domincal, your shuttle might not be able to get you all the way there as many hotels in the hills require a 4x4 vehicle.
Be aware of luggage restrictions. Surfboards and extra suitcases can cost extra.
Click here for more detailed information about Group and Private shuttles.
To Manuel Antonio from Dominical by Public Bus
cost-effective - 1hr 35mins - $4.5 US - 2 bus transfers
Taking the bus from Dominical to Manuel Antonio via Quepos is the most budget-friendly option, requiring two bus rides. The total travel time is approximately 1 hour and 35 minutes.
Dominical to Quepos (1 hr 15 min)($3.17)
The first bus takes you from Dominical to Quepos, operated by Autotransportes Blanco Lobo and Transportes Blanco y Hernández. The journey takes 1 hour and 15 minutes, and buses stop along Dominical’s main street before heading to Quepos.
Bus Schedule:
Monday – Friday 5:35 AM 6:15 AM 11:50 AM 12:45 PM 2:50 PM 4:20 PM 4:40 PM
Saturday 5:35 AM 6:15 AM 9:00 AM 11:50 AM 12:45 PM 2:50 PM 4:20 PM 4:40 PM
Sunday 5:35 AM 6:15 AM 11:50 AM 12:45 PM 2:50 PM 4:20 PM 4:40 PM
Quepos Manuel Antonio (20 min)($0.66)
Once in Quepos, you will need to take a second short bus ride to Manuel Antonio.
This bus runs every 20 minutes from 5:30 AM to 9:30 PM, making it a convenient option. The ride takes only 20 minutes. No ticket purchase in advance is required.
Writer's Tips:
Most companies in Costa Rica provide services from early morning to late afternoon.
Store large suitcases and bags under the bus, and keep a small bag with you for all your most valued items.
To Manuel Antonio from Dominical by Car or Taxi
Fast and Easy - 45 min - $80
Driving is one of the easiest ways to reach Manuel Antonio or Quepos from Dominical. The drive takes about 45 minutes along Route 34, a well-paved coastal highway with scenic ocean views. Rental cars are available in Dominical, and having your own vehicle gives you the flexibility to stop along the way, visit hidden beaches, or explore the area at your own pace.
Taxis are another option for those who prefer not to drive. A taxi ride costs around $50 to $70, depending on the time of day and your exact destination. This is a convenient choice if you're traveling with luggage or simply want a stress-free journey. However, rental cars offer more flexibility for travelers who plan to explore beyond Manuel Antonio.
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.
To Manuel Antonio from Dominical by Airplane
Not Recommended - No flights available
Flying is not the best way to travel from Dominical to Quepos or Manuel Antonio. Since the two locations are very close to each other by road, taking a flight would be impractical. While Quepos does have a small airport (La Managua Airport - XQP) that receives domestic flights, most flights to Quepos depart from San José (SJO).
This means you would first need to travel north to San José by road, catch a short 30-minute flight to Quepos, and then take another transfer to Manuel Antonio, making the journey significantly longer and more expensive than simply driving or taking a bus. For a quicker and more practical trip, consider a rental car, private shuttle, shared shuttle, taxi, or bus instead.
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 Manuel Antonio from Dominical by Private Vehicle
Best for extended visit - 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
Each transportation option has its advantages. Renting a car or taking a taxi offers flexibility, shared and private shuttles provide a balance of comfort and cost, and the bus is the most affordable way to travel. No matter which option you choose, getting from Dominical to Manuel Antonio or Quepos is straightforward, allowing you to enjoy the stunning beaches, wildlife, and natural beauty of Costa Rica’s Pacific coast.
What is the best way to get to Manuel Antonio from Dominical?
0%By Private Shuttle
0%By Shared Shuttle
0%By Air Plane (domestic flight)
0%By Taxi or Rental Car
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a Shuttle from Dominical to Manuel Antonio?
Yes, shared shuttles leave in the morning and can be reserved using this link:
How much is a taxi from Dominical to Manuel Antonio?
A taxi from Dominical to Manuel Antonio typically costs around $60 to $80 for 1 to 4 passengers. Prices may vary depending on the time of day, demand, and whether you arrange it in advance. If you’re traveling with a group, this can be a convenient option for a direct and comfortable ride.
How much does it cost to fly from Dominical to Manuel Antonio?
There are no direct flights from Dominical to Manuel Antonio, as the two locations are too close for air travel. Most flights require a connection in San José, making the journey unnecessary and expensive. It’s much faster and cheaper to take a taxi, shuttle, or bus.
Is Manuel Antonio closer to Liberia or San Jose?
Manuel Antonio is closer to San José. If you’re flying into Costa Rica and Manuel Antonio is your first stop, it’s best to arrive at Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO) in San José instead of Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport (LIR) in Liberia.
What airport should I fly into for Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica?
The best airport to fly into is San José’s Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO). From there, you can take a domestic flight to Quepos, or travel by rental car, shuttle, or bus to reach Manuel Antonio. Liberia Airport (LIR) is much farther away and less convenient.
How far is it from Dominical to Manuel Antonio?
The distance between Dominical and Manuel Antonio is about 44 kilometers. The drive takes around 1 hour, depending on traffic and road conditions.
Is Quepos or Manuel Antonio better?
Quepos is a bustling town with a lively atmosphere, offering a mix of local culture and modern conveniences. Here, you’ll find plenty of restaurants, shops, and markets, giving you a more authentic Costa Rican town experience. It’s a great base if you prefer being close to amenities but still want to be near the beach and national park.
On the other hand, Manuel Antonio is more focused on nature and relaxation. If you're looking for a quieter place to stay, surrounded by rainforests, beaches, and wildlife, Manuel Antonio may be a better option. The area is renowned for its national park, where you can hike trails through lush jungles and enjoy pristine beaches like Playa Espadilla.
Is Dominical close to Manuel Antonio?
Yes, Dominical is close to Manuel Antonio, with just 44 kilometers between them. The drive is short, but the coastal roads can be winding, so travel time is around 1 hour.
Why is Manuel Antonio so popular?
Manuel Antonio has become one of Costa Rica's most iconic destinations due to its unique blend of stunning natural beauty, wildlife, and beaches. The area is most famous for its Manuel Antonio National Park, one of the country's smallest yet most biodiverse parks. The park is home to monkeys, sloths, iguanas, and a variety of bird species, making it a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Another reason for its popularity is its pristine beaches. Playa Espadilla, the main beach, is perfect for swimming, surfing, and relaxing under the sun. The beach is easily accessible from the park and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding lush jungle meeting the ocean. The combination of beautiful beaches and abundant wildlife in such proximity is rare, which draws in thousands of visitors each year.
What is the best bus route to take from Dominical to Manuel Antonio?
The best bus route is to take a direct bus from Dominical to Quepos, which takes about 1 hour 15 minutes. From Quepos, you can catch a local bus to Manuel Antonio, which runs every 20 minutes and takes about 20 minutes.
Are the Beaches Free in Manuel Antonio?
Yes, some beaches in Manuel Antonio are free, like Playa Espadilla, which is right outside the national park. However, the beaches inside Manuel Antonio National Park require an entrance fee, as they are part of a protected area.
Is there a national park near Manuel Antonio?
Yes, Manuel Antonio National Park is one of the most famous parks in Costa Rica. It features stunning beaches, tropical rainforest, hiking trails, and abundant wildlife, including monkeys, sloths, and toucans.
Is Manuel Antonio Costa Rica worth visiting?
Absolutely! Manuel Antonio offers a perfect mix of adventure and relaxation, with wildlife, pristine beaches, and outdoor activities like hiking, zip-lining, and snorkeling. It’s a great destination for nature lovers, families, and couples.
How many days do you need in Manuel Antonio?
Most travelers spend 2 to 3 days in Manuel Antonio. This gives enough time to explore the national park, relax on the beaches, and enjoy local tours like boat trips, kayaking, or wildlife spotting.
Do you need a car in Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica?
You don’t need a car if you’re staying in Manuel Antonio, as most places are within walking distance or accessible by bus or taxi. However, if you want to explore beyond the area, renting a car can be helpful.
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