Planning a trip from San José to Jacó Beach? You’re in for one of Costa Rica’s most exciting coastal getaways!
Whether you’re visiting for surfing, relaxation, or adventure, getting from San José to Jacó is easy — and there are several comfortable and reliable transportation options to choose from.
In this guide, we’ll help you understand all the best ways to travel from the capital city to this vibrant beach town so you can start your journey stress-free.
- San José to Jacó – Quick Overview
Distance: Approximately 100 km (62 miles)
Travel Time: 1.5 to 2 hours (depending on traffic and weather)
Main Route: Route 27 (Autopista del Sol) – a modern highway connecting San José to the Central Pacific coast
The drive takes you through scenic mountain landscapes, tropical forests, and small Costa Rican towns before reaching the beautiful beaches of Jacó.
- Best Transportation Options from San José to Jacó
- Private Transportation (Most Comfortable & Convenient Option)
If you’re looking for comfort, flexibility, and door-to-door service, private transportation is the perfect choice.
At Transporras CR, we offer private transfers from San José to Jacó Beach in modern, air-conditioned vehicles driven by professional, bilingual drivers.
Whether you’re traveling from your hotel in San José, an Airbnb, or directly from Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO), our team will pick you up at your location and take you directly to your destination in Jacó — no waiting, no hassle.
Why choose private transfer with Transporras CR?
- 🚐 Comfortable, air-conditioned vehicles
- 👨✈️ Professional bilingual drivers
- ⏰ Flexible departure times
- 🏖️ Direct hotel-to-hotel service (no stops)
- 🧳 Perfect for families, small groups, or travelers with luggage or surfboards
Approximate travel time: 1 hour 45 minutes
Cost: Based on group size and destination — request a free quote today!
✅Recommended for: Families, couples, or anyone who values comfort and safety.
- Shared Shuttle Service
Shared shuttles are a great budget-friendly option if you don’t mind traveling with other passengers.
These shuttles usually operate on a fixed daily schedule between San José and Jacó.
Benefits of shared shuttles:
- Affordable price per person
- Comfortable, air-conditioned vans
- Reliable and safe drivers
- Convenient for solo travelers
Things to consider:
- Limited departure times (usually morning and early afternoon)
- Slightly longer travel time due to passenger pickups and drop-offs
Cost: Around $35–$50 per person
Travel time: 2–2.5 hours
✅Recommended for: Solo travelers or couples looking to save money while traveling comfortably.
- Renting a Car
If you want the freedom to explore Costa Rica at your own pace, renting a car is another great option.
The road from San José to Jacó (Route 27) is paved and well-marked, making it an easy and scenic drive.
Advantages of renting a car:
- Total flexibility – stop wherever you like
- Opportunity to explore nearby towns like Orotina, Tarcoles, or Herradura
- Easy access to nearby beaches like Playa Hermosa or Esterillos
Considerations:
- You’ll need to pay highway tolls (bring small cash in colones)
- Traffic can be heavy during weekends and holidays
- Always choose a vehicle with good insurance coverage
✅Recommended for: Independent travelers or those planning to explore more of Costa Rica’s Pacific coast.
- Public Bus (Cheapest Option)
If you’re on a tight budget, taking the public bus from San José to Jacó is the most economical way to travel.
Buses are operated by Tracopa, one of Costa Rica’s most reliable bus companies.
How to get there:
- Head to the Tracopa Bus Terminal in downtown San José (near Plaza Viquez).
- Purchase a ticket for Jacó (you can also buy online on Tracopa’s website).
- The bus ride takes around 2.5 to 3 hours, depending on stops and traffic.
Cost: About $6–$8 USD
Schedule: Several departures daily, from early morning until evening
✅Recommended for: Backpackers and travelers with light luggage who don’t mind a longer journey.
- Taxi or Uber
Taxis and ride-share options like Uber or DiDi are available in San José and can take you directly to Jacó.
This is a convenient but more expensive option, especially for long distances.
Average taxi cost: $120–$160 USD (one-way)
Uber cost: Slightly cheaper, depending on demand and route
✅Recommended for: Travelers who prefer spontaneous, direct travel without prior booking.
- Why Choose Transporras CR?
At Transporras CR, we specialize in safe, reliable, and comfortable transfers across Costa Rica.
Our mission is to make your travel experience smooth and enjoyable from start to finish.
Here’s why travelers choose us:
- Professional bilingual drivers
- Clean, modern vehicles with air conditioning
- 24/7 customer assistance
- On-time pick-up and drop-off
- Customized routes (we can stop for photos or coffee breaks!)
Whether you’re heading to Jacó for a vacation, business trip, or weekend getaway, we’ll make sure you get there safely and on time.
- Travel Tips for Your San José to Jacó Trip
- 🌞Start early if you’re traveling on weekends to avoid traffic.
- 💰Bring small cash for tolls (₡600–₡850 colones each).
- 🚗Enjoy scenic stops along Route 27 — try a quick stop at Mirador Tárcoles for stunning views of the ocean and crocodiles.
- 📱Stay connected — most of the route has mobile coverage for GPS navigation.
- ☕Stop in Orotina or Atenas for local coffee or fresh fruit along the way.
- Final Thoughts
Traveling from San José to Jacó is one of the easiest and most scenic journeys in Costa Rica.
Whether you prefer a private transfer, shared shuttle, rental car, or public bus, there’s a transportation option for every type of traveler.
For the most comfortable and worry-free experience, book your ride with Transporras CR.
We take care of everything — from pick-up in San José to drop-off at your hotel in Jacó — so you can sit back, relax, and enjoy the ride to paradise.
Book Your Transfer Now
Ready to visit Jacó Beach?
🚐Book your transfer from San José to Jacó today with Transporras CR!
🌐 Visit www.transporrascr.com
📧 Email: transporrascr@gmail.com
📱 WhatsApp: +506-8522-2222
Enjoy the road, the view, and the start of your Costa Rican adventure — we’ll get you there safely and in style!
