How to get from Liberia (LIR) or San José (SJO) Airport in Costa Rica to Playas del Coco
- Rich Coast Diving
- Oct 7
- 3 min read
Playas del Coco is a favorite beach town in Guanacaste, Costa Rica, and many travelers arrive via Daniel Oduber Quirós Airport (LIR, near Liberia) or Juan Santamaría Airport (SJO, in San José). In this blog an overview of transport options, including public buses, shared shuttles, and private transfers — with URLs so you can check schedules and book your trip.
Disclaimer:
Travel times, departure schedules, prices, and other transport details mentioned in this article are provided as general guidelines and may change without notice. Seasonal variations, traffic conditions, or operational adjustments by the service providers can affect actual times and rates. Always confirm directly with the transportation company or booking platform for the most accurate and up-to-date information before you travel.
From Liberia Airport (LIR) → Playas del Coco
1. Shared Shuttle / Minibus (door-to-door)
Provider: Tropical Tours Shuttles
WhatsApp: +506 8890 9197
Details:
The shuttle departs from the LIR terminal (outside, near the mini-market area). Tropical Tours Shuttles
You can choose a time (they often allow flexible or prearranged pick-up).
Trip duration is approx. 45 min - 1 hour (may vary slightly depending on route or stops).
Price starts around USD $75 one‐way for a private minibus; shared shuttle pricing may vary.
Pros: More comfortable than public bus; door-to-door service; no need to navigate local bus terminals.
Cons: More expensive than public bus.
2. Public Bus
The bus stop to Playas del Coco is located outside the Airport terminal on the Main road. It is a bit of a walk and there is no sidewalk. If you are traveling with suitcases this 15-20 minute walk in the hot sun might not be the best option. The bus passes by every hour at no set time.
Google maps link: from Airport Liberia to Bus stop
The fare is very low (just a few dollars or local colones)
Travel time for the local bus portion is around 1 hour. The bus arrives in the center of Playas del Coco next to Rich Coast Diving.
3. Private Transfer / Taxi
Private, direct-to-hotel service from LIR to Playas del Coco is offered by many transfer companies and taxis (often pre-booked).
Because of the proximity (about 25–35 km, depending on the specific route/hotel), travel time is typically 40-60 minutes, depending on traffic and exact drop-off point.
Cost is often in the USD $50–$90 range depending on vehicle size, company, and service level.
If you are diving or snorkeling with us we can arrange your Airport transfer from Liberia (LIR) to Playas del Coco.
Bookings WhatsApp: +506 8449 4217
From San José (SJO) → Playas del Coco
1. Shared Shuttle / Minibus
Provider:
WhatsApp: (+506) 6050 6500
Details: San José (Airport) → Playas del Coco
Shared shuttle departures start at 7.45 from San Jose Airport or earlier from Hotels in San Jose.
Price starting at $61 USD per person or $351 USD for private shuttle.
Travel time is 5 hours (could be more depending on road conditions and intermediate stops)
Booking: Reservations link
WhatsApp: +506 8890 9197
Shared shuttle departures 9 AM from SJO.
Price starting at $60 USD per person or $297 for Private mini bus
Travel time is 4-5 hours (could be more depending on road conditions and intermediate stops)
Pros: You avoid multiple transfers; door-to-hotel drop-offs; more comfort.
Cons: Less flexibility in departure times
2. Public Direct Bus (long-distance bus)
There is a direct long-distance bus from San José to Playas del Coco, operated by Pulmitan / regional bus lines.
Frequency & schedule: Around 3 daily departures (times may vary) — typical morning and early afternoon buses.
Duration: 4 to 6+ hours, depending on traffic and stops.
Fare: ~₡4,000–₡6,000 (Costa Rican colones) (~USD $7–$10)
Note: you’ll need to go from SJO airport into the San José bus terminal area to catch this bus.
3. Private Transfer / Taxi
A door-to-door private transfer is possible, especially for groups, but the distance and time make it expensive.
Expect 5+ hours travel time on mostly highway and some rural roads.
Cost can easily be USD $300+, depending on vehicle, service, and company.
Use a trusted transfer operator or hotel-recommended provider.
If you are booking your trip with Rich Coast Diving we can help you organize a private transport from San Jose to Playas del Coco. Contact us directly for more details.
Contact us for more information.
Rich Coast Diving, Playas del Coco
WhatsApp: +506 8449 4217
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