Nosara to San Jose tickets

About the ride from Nosara to San Jose

Leaving behind the yogi and surfer paradise of Nosara may be hard, especially when you're replacing it with the complete opposite — the hustle and bustle of the capital city of Costa Rica. 

San Jose has a reputation that it doesn't really deserve. Many people will tell you to skip it, but that's because they probably haven't taken the time to look below the surface. 

San Jose's architecture, museums, people and food tell unique stories about the country's history and culture. Spending a few days in the capital will give you a unique perspective on local life in Costa Rica. 

Roll up your yoga mat and get ready to go from Nosara to San Jose. 

There are three ways to cover the travel between these two destinations: 

1. Car 

2. Van + ferry 

3. Minivan 

Nosara is located on the Nicoya Peninsula. You can get to San Jose entirely by land or cross the Gulf of Nicoya on a ferry. 

This journey takes 4.5-7 hours, depending on the route and the transport option you choose. 

Both private and shared transport options are available — the choice comes down to your budget, group size and flexibility. 

To find out your ideal way to get from Nosara to San Jose, keep reading and start planning an epic journey!

Five unique things to do in San Jose

Hopefully, after reading some of the must-do things in San Jose, you'll give the capital city some of your time

1. Visit the National Theater. If you can only experience one thing in San Jose, make it this. It's a symbol of the city's cultural and historical significance. The paintings inside are not only stunning but also educational. The highlight is a 1.5-hour guided tour that provides an engaging exploration of Costa Rica's history.

2. Take a free walking tour. To further delve into Costa Rican history, a free walking tour is an excellent choice. Spending a few hours with a local guide will uncover hidden gems and stories you wouldn't discover on your own.

Pro tip: A free walking tour is a great way to explore any new city you visit. At the end of the tour, pay the guide whatever you think the tour was worth.

3. Get lost in San Jose Central Market. This market, a feast for the senses, features local produce, crafts, and just about everything else you can imagine. Be sure to dine at one of the market's local eateries (known as sodas) for a cheap, delicious, and memorable meal.

4. Learn something at Costa Rica's National Museum. Housed in the historic Bellavista Fortress, built in 1917, this bright yellow museum is a gem even from the outside. Upon entering, you'll explore Costa Rica's history and culture, from pre-Columbian times to today.

5. Go on a DIY craft beer tour. Surprisingly, San Jose boasts an impressive craft beer scene. Numerous breweries offer a variety of options, from light lagers to fruity IPAs and hearty stouts. Opt for a beer flight to sample several brews.

How to get from Nosara to San Jose

There are three ways to get between Nosara and San Jose: by car, van + ferry, and minivan. 

By car

A private car for four people is the most expensive way to travel from Nosara to San Jose, but it offers greater convenience, privacy, and comfort. The SUV costs around $745, and the trip takes about 4.5 hours.

The SUV-style car is ready to tackle any tricky terrain — a must in Costa Rica — and has air conditioning.

Stops for bathroom breaks and snacks are available upon request. 

Door-to-door service is included in the price, so you don't have to think about a thing.  

By van + ferry 

If you are a solo traveler, the van and ferry combination is the cheapest way to get from Nosara to San Jose, but it also takes the longest. Prices start at $90 per person, and the journey time is around 6.5-7 hours. 

This trip includes pick-up and drop-off at your selected hotel or San Jose Airport. 

The minivan will pick you up in Nosara and drive across the peninsula. Then, you'll board the ferry with the minivan, so you won't have to switch vehicles. The ferry ride breaks up the journey and provides stunning views of the Gulf of Nicoya. Once back on land, you'll continue driving to San Jose. 

By minivan

If you're traveling with a group and prefer to do the entire journey by land, book a private minivan from Nosara to San Jose. 

The trip takes around 4.5 hours, with prices starting from $380 for a six-person van. If you manage to find five other people to share the minivan with you, it can work out to be the cheapest way to get to San Jose. 

Private minivans can fit 6-18 people, depending on which one you pick. 

All minivans include door-to-door service, comfortable seats, air conditioning and bathroom stops upon request. 

What to expect on the journey from Nosara to San Jose

With so many different ways to get from Nosara to San Jose, the route and transport options you take will impact your journey. 

Those taking the more scenic route with the ferry will get to break up their journey and keep an eye out for dolphins. 

If efficiency and speed are key, the other routes may be more viable options. 

Your driver will make stops along the way, where you can grab some snacks and go to the bathroom. Make sure to have some small change on you — sometimes there's a fee. 

When is the best time to visit San Jose?

The ideal time to visit San Jose is in the dry season, from December to April. Expect plenty of sunshine and warm weather, along with a higher number of tourists.

If a bit of rain doesn't bother you, consider the shoulder months of November and May. These months often come with lower prices. Just be ready — it can be quite intense when it rains in Costa Rica.

How many days should you spend in San Jose? 

You didn't come to Costa Rica to spend time in the city. Give San Jose two days of your time. This gives you ample time to explore the key sites, learn about the country's history, eat at a few of San Jose's many delicious restaurants and sample a beer or two. 

Where to visit after San Jose?

San Jose is the country's transportation hub, so your options for where to go next are almost endless. You'll have come from the Nicoya Peninsula, so maybe it's time to head over to the Caribbean Coast. 

Want to continue surfing? Puerto Viejo is perfect, and the beaches are glorious. 

Love turtles? Why not visit Tortuguero, where 20,000 green turtles lay their eggs every year?