Liberia to Tamarindo tickets

About the ride from Liberia to Tamarindo

Liberia is the gateway city for Costa Rica's glorious Guanacaste region. Its international airport allows travelers to skip the 3+ hour drive from San Jose and get to the area's beaches in a fraction of the time. 

So, when you're ready to take your downtime seriously, the beach town of Tamarindo is a great option. 

On the western coast of the Nicoya peninsula, Tamarindo is well known for its surf scene and energy after nightfall. Here, you can take in the natural beauty of Costa Rica by day and exercise your right to party all night. 

Top things to see and do in Tamarindo

Whether you're into surf or turf, Tamarindo has something that will keep you occupied and happy. Here are some of the top experiences in Tamarindo:

1. Catch some waves: Tamarindo is a surfer's paradise, drawing international travelers with its consistent surf. From its namesake beach, beginners and experts can hone their skills in the never-ending waves.

2. Go beach hopping through Guanacaste: By renting a car, you'll be free to explore all the other fine beaches in the area. Langosta Beach, famous for its white sand and natural setting, is just a short ride to the south. Venturing slightly further afield, you can also check out Coconut, Hermosa and Avellana Beaches. If it's fine sand you seek, you won't leave disappointed.

3. Turtle watching at Las Baules National Marine Park: Just to the north of Tamarindo is Las Baules National Marine Park. This preserve is home to Leatherback Sea Turtles, who lay their eggs here from November to April. For a real thrill, take a guided tour at night to see these gentle giants in person.

4. Get in the water without the waves: Even non-surfers can fully enjoy Tamarindo, which has many fun activities that don't include a board. You can take a sailing or snorkeling trip to the islets of Las Catalinas or paddle a kayak around the estuaries closer to town. 

What you can expect when traveling from Liberia to Tamarindo

As anyone who's been to Costa Rica can tell you, just because someplace looks close on a map doesn't mean it is. Liberia is just 77 kilometers (48 miles) from Tamarindo, but the combination of winding roads and stops along the way will make your journey anywhere between an hour and fifteen minutes to two hours by road.

Fortunately, that ride is on paved roads, with the occasional bump thrown in for good measure. 

As you travel through the semi-arid landscape, you'll get glimpses of the deep blue Pacific Ocean, teasing what's to come.

How to get from Liberia to Tamarindo

Your choices for the ride from Liberia to Tamarindo depend on whether you wish to travel privately or in a shared space. 

Minivans can be private or shared — usually the most economical option. 

SUV cars are private transfers for up to three people. 

Whichever way you choose, travel times don't vary a whole lot. Here's a breakdown to help you decide which option works best for you:

Minivans

Minivans are the workhorses for the one- to two-hour Liberia to Tamarindo route. 

They break down into either shared or private rides.

A shared minivan will be less expensive than a private one and may require a minimum of two passengers to run. Prices start at $50 per person on a shared minivan. 

Depending on the operator, you will be picked up directly from your hotel or the airport. Upon arrival in Tamarindo, you will be dropped off at your hotel.

Private minivans start at around $100 per vehicle, so if you're traveling as a group, this is a great option. Again, pick-up and drop-off will be directly at your hotel or, in some cases, the airport. And you get to choose your departure time.

All minivans have air conditioning and usually allow each passenger at least one large bag (23-40 kg/50-88 lbs), depending on the operator. 

If you're bringing your surfboard or extra luggage, reach out to the specific operator to work out the details. 

During the ride, you'll have the chance to take a break to use the restroom or stretch your legs.

Private SUV car 

Sure, hiring a private car and driver is the most expensive option, but this is the way to go in style. Prices start at $141 per vehicle.

Private rides are all SUVs, a necessity if you've ever traveled Costa Rica's roads. Cars make the run in about 1.5 hours, including time to stop for breaks.

They generally hold up to three passengers (plus the driver) and allow for one 20 kg (44 lbs) bag and one handbag per person included in the price. Once again, you can bring your surfboard at an additional cost.

SUV cars come with an English-speaking driver, air conditioning and, in some cases, WiFi and charging stations. 

Some operators allow pets as long as they are in a carrier or crate. 

With private rides, the schedule is quite flexible, and you have your choice of pick-up and drop-off points. If you want to go right from the plane to the beach, you can also be picked up at the airport.

When is the best time of year to visit Tamarindo?

Without question, the best time to visit Tamarindo is during the dry season, from about November to April. Not only will you enjoy clear skies and warm temperatures, but it is also ideal for spotting nesting Leatherback Sea Turtles.

Really, the only times you won't want to visit are in September and October. Not only is this the heart of the wet season, but all that rainfall and cloud cover will be a downer if you've come for any sort of water sports. 

How much time do I need in Tamarindo?

The town of Tamarindo itself won't take much time to see. If you're here to do a little surfing and partying, two to three days is enough. If you want to take advantage of the beautiful beaches and national parks nearby, add another day or two if your itinerary allows.

Where should I go after Tamarindo?

Once you've gotten your fill of sea and surf, a journey into Costa Rica's lush interior will add another dimension to your stay. 

The cloud forest of Monteverde and the active Arenal Volcano are just a few hours away and will allow you to experience another facet of this Central American gem's unending natural beauty.