La Fortuna to Tamarindo tickets

How to get from La Fortuna to Tamarindo

If you’re still seeking adventure after the time of your life in La Fortuna, you won’t leave Tamarindo disappointed. 

Whether it’s surfing along the coast, going on a sailing or kayaking adventure, embarking on a hiking tour through the forests, swimming under the waterfalls, or simply relaxing on the beach, as you can see, Tamarindo has plenty of activities to keep you busy.

There are a few different options for traveling from La Fortuna to Tamarindo.

The most cost-effective way to go is by standard minivan. 

Is it worth going to Tamarindo?

Do you want a vacation filled with beaches, beautiful forests, and wildlife? Are you a surfer looking for adventure in Central America? Or are you a sunset chaser? If you answered yes to any of these questions, Tamarindo is the place for you.  

Whenever you have a town bordering the Pacific Ocean, you will have gorgeous beaches and incredible surf. 

But besides its seaside resting spots, Tamarindo is also known for its forested trails, popular boutique shops, fantastic art galleries, treasured wildlife, and mangrove forests. 

You never have to worry about being bored in Tamarindo.

Things to do in Tamarindo

So, you’re surrounded by all these scintillating beaches. Where should you go? 

You may not have time to hit them all on your trip, but you should most definitely have Tamarindo Beach and Playa Langosta at the top of your beach bucket list. Get your camera ready to capture the immaculate scenery, especially if you go at sunset. 

If you want to experience good surf, Tamarindo Beach and Playa Grande are your go-to spots. 

If you’re looking for a combination of beauty, peace, and quiet, check out Playa Avellanas.

But Tamarindo is more than great beaches. 

Las Baulas Marine National Park is where you’ll find some of Costa Rica’s best wildlife. The highlight here is the leatherneck turtles, which nest between October and April. If you want to explore, bring your backpack and camera and wander the mangrove forests.

And, if you need some adrenaline, you can go ziplining, scuba diving, and ATVing.

What is the trip from La Fortuna to Tamarindo like?

As you transition from inland Costa Rica, you’ll drive through small towns and rural areas where you’ll come across plenty of rainforests and high elevations.

If you travel along Route 1 and toward Liberia, you’ll have the chance to pass near the famous La Leona Waterfall and the Llanos de Cortes Waterfall. If you are going by private car, you may want to ask the driver to make a stop. 

You will also have the chance to see lots of wildlife, including monkeys, turtles, and white-nosed coatis. 

How to get from La Fortuna to Tamarindo

You have several options when traveling from La Fortuna to Tamarindo. 

Separated by 207 km (129 miles), it can take 2.5 to 4.5 hours to make the connection, depending on traffic. 

Taking a bus

The air-conditioned bus ride from La Fortuna to Tamarindo takes approximately four hours. There is just one departure per day, which will pick you up and drop you off at your hotel. 

Tickets start at $100, and you’re allowed one bag and one handbag per passenger.

You have free cancellation up to 15 days before departure. There’s a 50% charge if you cancel within the 14-day window.

Taking a minivan

If you’re looking to save money, taking a minivan is the best way to go. 

You can choose to take a shared or private minivan. Both types of minivans have air conditioning and make bathroom stops. Some providers have reclining seats.

Shared minivan (most affordable):

$54 per passenger

Approximate travel time is 3.5-5 hours

1 20 kg bag and 7 kg handbag allowed per passenger

Surfboard allowed (max 6 ft) for an extra charge

Toilet stops

Air conditioning

Private minivans:

Prices range from $120 to $269 per passenger

Travel time between 2.5-4 hours 

Can accommodate anywhere from 5 to 18 passengers

Air conditioning

Bathroom stops

Take a private car (fastest route)

Have a little more control over your trip by choosing a private car. You can leave any time you wish and be picked up and dropped off at any local hotel. All vehicles are SUVs. 

Possible private car amenities:

Prices range from $212 to $286

Include A/C, snacks and drinks, and WiFi

One 20 kg bag and 7 kg handbag allowed per passenger

Toilet stops

Ranges from 3 to 4 passengers (depending on provider)

Free cancellations up to 24 hours before departure. There is a 50% charge to cancel between 12 and 24 hours.

Pro tip: Jacamar allows pets in the car.

When is the best time to travel to Tamarindo?

If you’re going to Tamarindo for the beaches (and why wouldn’t you be), you want to avoid the rainy season. 

The best months to go to enjoy the sunshine are November through March. 

The humidity picks up during the summer, and the rains intensify. So, if you’re looking for high surf, the waves are best between April and October.

Average highs during the year stay mainly in the mid-80s to low 90s°F (upper 20s to low 30s°C). Water temperatures also stay warm all year, hovering around 80°F (upper 20s°C) all year.