How to get to Nosara: 4 Ways

Nosara is one of Costa Rica’s hidden gems, known for its serene beaches, lush jungles, and laid-back vibe.

While it does have its own airport, the Nosara Airport (NOB), there are no direct international flights to this town. Instead, your journey begins by flying into Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO), Located about 17 km (10.5 miles) from Capital city San José.

SJO is the main gateway to Costa Rica and is well-connected with major cities worldwide. Whether you’re coming from New York, Toronto, or Sydney, this is your first stop on the way to Nosara.

Most international flights from the US, Canada, Europe, or Asia land here, making it a busy but convenient hub.

From here, you can travel to Nosara using 👇

• Domestic flights
• Car
• Public transport
• Taxi

I’ve explained each of these transportation options in detail below. Take your time and read patiently.

1. Domestic Flights

Flying to Nosara is one of the quickest and most scenic ways to get there. Domestic flights from San José or Liberia to Nosara Airport are easy to book and offer an amazing view of Costa Rica’s forests and coastline.

Tickets usually cost between $120 and $150 USD for a one-way trip. Small airlines, like Sansa or Green Airways, operate these flights.

The planes are tiny, with just a few seats, making the ride feel personal. It’s best to pack light since most airlines have strict weight limits for luggage—usually around 30 pounds. You can bring extra luggage, but expect to pay additional fees, typically about $1-2 USD per pound.

From the airport, a short 15-minute taxi ride costing around $10-15 USD will take you right into town. Taxis are readily available, but it’s helpful to carry cash in USD or Costa Rican colones.

Remember to book flights early during the peak season, as seats fill up quickly. For safety, confirm flight schedules in advance because changes can happen due to weather. Arrive a bit early at the departure airport—check-in is quick, but it’s always better to be on time.

2. Rent a Car

Renting a car from Juan Santamaría International Airport is a popular way to travel to Nosara. It gives you the freedom to explore Costa Rica at your own pace.

The drive from the airport to Nosara takes about 4-5 hours, depending on traffic and stops along the way. The roads are paved for most of the journey, but the final stretch to Nosara might include a few unpaved sections.

Renting a 4×4 vehicle is highly recommended for comfort and safety, especially during the rainy season.

Car rental prices at the airport range from $40 to $80 USD per day, depending on the type of vehicle. This often includes basic insurance, but it’s wise to double-check the coverage.

Additional insurance may cost around $15 to $30 USD per day. Gasoline prices in Costa Rica are about $5 to $6 USD per gallon, so budgeting for fuel is important.

Make sure to carry your driver’s license, passport, and a credit card for the rental deposit. Many rental companies require a credit hold of $1,000 USD or more, so be prepared for that.

If you’re driving to Nosara, keep an offline map handy, as GPS signals can be spotty in some areas.

3. Public transport

Getting to Nosara by public transport from Juan Santamaría International Airport or other Costa Rican cities is an affordable option

if you’re not in a rush. From the airport, you’ll need to first travel to the San José bus terminal. A taxi to the terminal costs about $25 USD, or you can take a local bus for just $1 USD.

From San José, buses to Nosara are operated by companies like Alfaro. A direct ticket to Nosara costs around $12 to $15 USD and takes about 6-7 hours.

If you’re traveling from other cities like Liberia, expect a shorter ride. Liberia to Nosara costs about $8 USD and takes 3-4 hours.

Most buses in Costa Rica only accept cash, so it’s important to carry enough coins or small USD bills. Make sure your money isn’t torn, as damaged bills might not be accepted.

Keep some snacks and water handy because bus stops for food are limited.

The buses are often simple but comfortable, with air-conditioning in some cases. A seat isn’t always guaranteed, especially during busy times, so arrive early for the best chance of getting one. Guard your belongings, as public buses can get crowded.

4. Taxi

Getting to Nosara by taxi from Juan Santamaría International Airport is one of the fastest and most comfortable ways to start your trip.

A direct taxi ride from the airport to Nosara will cost you around $200–$250 USD, depending on traffic and the time of day. It’s a long journey, about 4–5 hours, but taxis in Costa Rica are reliable and give you flexibility.

Make sure to hire an official red taxi with a yellow triangle on the door or book through a trusted taxi service.

Many taxis now accept cards, but it’s better to confirm with the driver first. If you’re paying in cash, USD is widely accepted, but try to carry smaller bills for easier transactions.

If you’re traveling from another Costa Rican city, like Liberia, taxi rates are cheaper. From Liberia to Nosara, it’s about $100–$130 USD, and the journey takes roughly 2.5 hours. You can negotiate the price a bit, but remember that drivers might include toll fees in the final fare.

The drive to Nosara is scenic but includes some bumpy roads, especially near Nosara itself. It’s smart to ask your driver if they’re familiar with the area to avoid getting lost.

Taxis are a great choice if you’re in a group or carrying a lot of luggage, offering comfort and the freedom to enjoy the whole ride.

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