Welcome / San Jose / San Jose Airport to Jaco Beach

Transfer Options from Juan Santamaría Airport to Jaco Beach

April Dwyer

Travel/Copy Writer - 10+ years with private, NGO and startups | Adventure Seeker/World Explorer

April 5, 2025

Jaco Beach, located in the picturesque Puntarenas province of Costa Rica, is just 88 kilometers away from Costa Rica’s Juan Santamaria International Airport (SJO). To reach the beachside town of Jaco, you have four travel options to choose from: you can either take a taxi, a shuttle bus, a public bus, or a private San Jose Airport transfer.

The quickest and most convenient way to get from San Jose Airport to Jaco is to hop in a San Jose Airport taxi on arrival, or pre-book a private transfer. Both options take around 1 hour and 30 minutes and provide a door-to-door service.

If you don’t mind sharing the ride with other people, another direct transport option is an airport shuttle bus. Several private shuttle bus companies offer their services, with a journey time of around 2 hours and 10 minutes.

Lastly, if you want to save some money and don’t mind making a connection, you can take a public bus from downtown San Jose. This first requires reaching the main bus terminal by taxi, but overall the trip will take 2 hours and 30 minutes, excluding wait and transfer times.

Welcome Pickups offers meet and greet services and a friendly introduction to San Jose at the same price as a regular taxi. Click here to see the cost.

Book a trusted, English-speaking driver to pick you up at the same price as a regular taxi Learn more

Comparison of the options

PRICE FOR 2PASSENGERS

OPTION	PRICE	DURATION	AVAILABILITY
Taxi	€120.80	90min	24/7
Shuttle Bus	€86	130min	06:00–20:00
Public Bus	€16.80	150min	07:00–19:00
Welcome Airport Transfer	€130	90min	24/7

How to get from San Jose Airport to Jaco by taxi

If you’re looking for a safe and convenient transportation option from San Jose Airport to Jaco Beach, a local taxi is a pretty safe bet. Several taxi companies operate at the airport, and can either be booked in advance or taken directly from one of the official airport taxi stands. The ride from SJO to Jaco takes around 1 hour and 30 minutes under normal traffic conditions, and taxis can seat up to four passengers.

*Please note that official San Jose Airport taxis are orange with a triangle and the registration number on the front doors.

How much is the San Jose Airport to Jaco taxi fare?

San Jose taxis calculate their fares using taximeters, which factor in the time and distance traveled. Furthermore, prices increase at night, on weekends, and on holidays, and there are extra surcharges for things such as having more than three pieces of luggage.

Typically, a day trip from San Jose Airport to Jaco by taxi will cost around €120.80 (CRC 65,000). At night and on weekends, expect a higher cost of around €154.20 (CRC 83,000) for up to four people.

However, if you want to travel at a fixed rate fare with no hidden costs, you can always pre-book your San Jose Airport transfer with Welcome Pickups. You’ll receive a fully personalized door-to-door service, 24/7 customer support, and a trained, English-speaking driver.

Cost

€120.80

Trip Duration

1 Hr. 30 Min.

*The price above is for official airport taxis. Other private taxi companies may have higher prices.

Convenience

Safety

Value for Money

Taxis are available 24/7 at San Jose Airport (SJO).

Where can I catch a taxi from?

You can easily find the taxi station outside the main exit of the terminal building. SJO taxis are easy to recognise as they are orange with yellow triangles on each side of the vehicle.

Convenience

Taking a taxi from San Jose Airport to Jaco, Costa Rica, is definitely the most convenient way to travel. Not only do they provide 24/7 door-to-door services, but most drivers speak some English and know this route well. Moreover, it’s common for taxi drivers to accept both the local currency, colónes, and US dollars.

The downsides are uncertainty about cost, having to wait for an available cab, and carrying your luggage from Baggage Claim to the curb (which can all be avoided by booking a private transfer ahead of time).

Editor’s Note

If you've just landed after a long flight and you have lots of luggage, taxis are a great option, especially if you have children or bulky items such as surfboards.

Useful Tips

The taxi ride from SJO to Jaco Beach is quite long, however, most taxi vehicles are very comfortable and have free Wi-Fi.

It's best to pre-book your San Jose taxi to Jaco Beach in order to avoid last-minute charges. This will also help you stay on top of your holiday expenditure.

San Jose taxi drivers may pressure you into booking at a specific hotel. In this instance, we recommended politely but firmly declining.

How to get from San Jose Costa Rica Airport to Jaco by shuttle bus

A more affordable transport option is to take a shared shuttle from San Jose Airport to Jaco. Shared shuttle buses offer direct services from SJO to Jaco Beach in 2 hours and 10 minutes. You can find a shuttle bus that suits your schedule online, but keep in mind that each company may only offer one or two services a day.

How much is the shuttle from San Jose Airport to Jaco?

The price of your San Jose Airport to Jaco shuttle will depend on which company you book with, but you can expect to pay between €29.60 and €43 (CRC 15,915-23,120) per person. Some companies provide concessional prices for seniors and children, which is worth confirming before booking your ticket.

Cost

€43

Trip Duration

2 Hr. 10 Min.

*Make sure to arrive at the SJO shuttle bus pick-up point at least 20 minutes before your departure time.

Convenience

Safety

Value for Money

Airport shuttle buses operate daily, all year around. However, timetables are subject change, so it's important to check each company’s schedule before booking your transfer.

Where do I get the shuttle from?

The SJO to Jaco shuttle pickup point is located to the right as you exit the Arrivals Hall. Note that most shuttles have a single drop-off point in Jaco and won’t necessarily take you to your hotel specifically.

Convenience

Taking a shuttle bus from Juan Santamaría Airport to Jaco is a decently convenient and affordable transport option, so long as there is a departure time that suits your schedule. Keep in mind, however, that there is limited storage space available, so either pack light or be prepared to have your luggage placed on the roof.

Timetables

Interbus Rates and Timetable

Airport to Jaco Beach

Day Trip Rates and Timetable

Airport to Jaco Beach

Editor’s Note

If you're traveling in a group, it's best to pre-book a private transfer instead as the price will likely amount to the same as a shared shuttle.

Useful Tips

If your shuttle bus company offers to drop you at your hotel, keep in mind that they will also be dropping off every other passenger, which can significantly increase your journey time.

Shuttle buses can usually seat up to 15 passengers.

If your Jaco location isn’t listed under the online booking system, you can contact the shuttle company directly and arrange a custom drop-off. This means you won't have to walk around Jaco carrying your heavy luggage, but you may need to pay extra if this isn't offered as part of their base service.

How to get from San Jose Airport to Jaco by bus

Whilst traveling by bus from SJO to Jaco Beach is by far the cheapest transport option, it’s also the least convenient. There isn’t a direct bus from the airport, so you’ll first need to take a taxi from San Jose to the city center and have your driver drop you at Terminal 7-10. From there, board the “Transportes Jaco Route 665” bus, which takes 2 hours. All up, you can expect the journey to take 2 hours and 30 minutes without waiting and transfer times.

How much is the bus from San Jose Airport to Jaco?

A one-way ticket on the bus from San Jose Airport to Jaco costs €5.30 (CRC 2,860) per passenger. However, you will also need to pay for your taxi from San Jose Airport to Jaco, which costs approximately €28 (CRC 15,078) for up to four people. If you are traveling on your own, this will bring the total to €33.30 (CRC 17,938), but if you are in a group, you will pay as little as €8.40 (CRC 4,530) when you split the cost of the taxi.

Cost

€8.40

Trip Duration

2 Hr. 30 Min.

The wait time for the bus is 2 hours.

Convenience

Safety

Value for Money

The bus departs daily between 07:00 and 19:00.

Where do I get the bus from?

Unfortunately, there are no public buses to Jaco Beach from San Jose Airport, so you will first need to get to the Terminal 7-10 bus station on Calle 8, next to Mexico Park. When arriving in Jaco, you’ll be dropped off at the main bus terminal, which is right next to the beach.

Convenience

Although the cheapest transfer option, the bus isn’t all that convenient since there isn’t a direct service. Moreover, the bus may stop to pick up passengers along the way, which can add to your journey time. Additionally, the driver won’t make any bathroom or food stops, so you should come prepared.

If you want to reach your Jaco Beach hotel as quickly as possible, consider choosing another transport method, such as a pre-booked private transfer.

Timetables

Bus Tickets and Timetable

San Jose to Jaco Beach

Editor’s Note

The bus is a great option for backpackers and solo travelers who are traveling light and on a budget.

Useful Tips

Always check the website before traveling for the most up-to-date schedule as it often changes without notice.

It is best to purchase your bus ticket online in advance, as they sell out quickly.

If you arrive at the bus station early, you can visit the Costa Rican Center of Science & Culture or the nearby Mexico Park while you wait for your bus to depart.

Children under the age of three that don't require a seat can travel for free.

Online bookings will incur additional booking fees.

How to get from San Jose Airport to Jaco, Costa Rica, by private transfer

For an elevated travel experience that combines comfort and convenience, the best transport option from San Jose Airport to Jaco is a private transfer. When you book with a company like Welcome, you’ll receive a fully personalized San Jose Airport transfer, including a door-to-door service and a friendly, professional driver hand-picked for their local knowledge.

Additional perks include a competitive set rate fare, guaranteed on-time pickups, and a meet-and-greet service at the airport. On top of that, as you sit back and relax, your driver will provide information on the best places to eat and visit in Jaco Beach as well as point out some of the sights along the way.

How much does a private transfer from San Jose Airport to Jaco cost?

When you book a private transfer with Welcome Pickups, you’ll know exactly how much your transfer costs at the time of booking, and the payment can be taken right away, so you won’t need to worry about withdrawing cash on arrival or any extra surcharges.

For up to four passengers, the trip from San Jose Airport to Jaco will cost €130 (CRC 70,079). Otherwise, you can stretch out in one of our spacious minivans with room for up to 12 passengers for the price of €180 (CRC 97,031).

You’ll receive an upfront quote at the time of booking, inclusive of all charges. To complete the booking, head to our website or download the Welcome Pickups app and then simply enter a few personal details and your flight information.

Cost

€130

Trip Duration

1 Hr. 30 Min.

*Your driver with the vehicle of your choice will be waiting on arrival when you book in advance.

Convenience

Safety

Value for Money

*Private transfers can be arranged at any time of day from San Jose Airport.

Where will my private transfer depart from?

Your friendly driver will be waiting for you in the Arrivals Hall, right after the Baggage Claim area. No need to wait in line for a taxi, your driver will take you straight to your pre-selected private vehicle while lending a hand with any luggage.

Furthermore, to ensure you recognize them upon landing, they’ll be holding a sign with your name on it and you’ll have received an email with their contact information and photo in advance.

Convenience

Enjoy a door-to-door service to your beachside accommodation with plenty of space for friends, family, and all of their luggage. Unlike a standard taxi, you won’t need to worry about the language barrier, as your English-speaking driver will know exactly where you’re headed, ensuring a seamless and relaxing ride.

Editor’s Note

At a lower cost than a taxi, a private transfer guarantees you'll be met right on time, plus you can book a ride to any destination you like.

Useful Tips

You can easily make customizations to your booking, such as upgrading to a minivan or requesting a baby seat, either at the time of booking or through the Welcome app.

Your driver will receive live status updates on any changes to your scheduled arrival so that they can adjust the pickup time accordingly.

Each sedan can accommodate up to four passengers with a standard-sized suitcase each.

Welcome Pickups transfer

Book a trained, English-speaking taxi driver to pick you up at the same price as a regular cab from the line

If you feel more relaxed knowing that somebody is waiting for you, you may as well book a Welcome Pickups transfer. As soon as you arrive at the airport you will be greeted by your driver. He will be waiting for you at the terminal of your arrival with a sign that has your name on it. Your driver will help you out with your luggage and together you will make your way to the vehicle. While he is driving you to your accommodation, the driver can give you some tips and recommendations on what to do during your holidays in San jose. Our drivers are hand-picked and speak fluent English. No need to worry about miscommunication issues that you may face with the local taxi drivers regarding your destination. Relax and enjoy your ride.

Best drivers

Hand-picked english-speaking drivers

Flight monitoring

Drivers are always on time

Quality support

24/7 email & phone support

Cancel up to 24 hours before the pickup and get an 80% refund

Edit or cancel transfers

Frequently asked questions

How to get to Jaco from San Jose Airport?

When considering your SJO to Jaco transportation, you have four main options: a taxi, shared shuttle, public bus, or a private transfer. The quickest way to travel is by taxi or private transfer, both of which take roughly 1 hour and 30 minutes and provide a door-to-door service.

A shared shuttle will take slightly longer, at around 2 hours and 10 minutes, however, this is a more affordable choice for solo travelers. Finally, if you don’t mind making a transfer, you can opt for the public bus. With wait times, the bus can take up to 5 hours, although it is a very cheap way to travel.

How much is a taxi from San Jose Airport to Jaco?

You can expect the cost of a taxi from San Jose Airport to Jaco to be around €120.80 (CRC 65,000) during the day, and €154.20 (CRC 83,000) at night and on weekends.

How to get to Jaco Beach from the airport?

You can travel between San Jose Airport and Jaco either by taxi, private transfer, shuttle, or bus.

If you opt for a private transfer or taxi from San Jose Airport to Jaco, you’ll arrive after 1 hour and 30 minutes under normal traffic conditions.

A shared shuttle will take 2 hours and 10 minutes, and a combined public bus journey will take 2 hours and 30 minutes, not including wait and transfer times.

What is the best way to get from San Jose Airport to Jaco?

If you’re after a reliable and comfortable transport option, we recommend pre-booking a San Jose Airport to Jaco transfer with Welcome Pickups. This is the best way to travel since all arrangements will be taken care of for you, plus you’ll pay a set rate fee in advance.

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How to get from San Jose Airport to Jaco by taxi

How much is the San Jose Airport to Jaco taxi fare?

Cost

€120.80

Trip Duration

1 Hr. 30 Min.

Convenience

Safety

Value for Money

Taxis are available 24/7 at San Jose Airport (SJO).

Where can I catch a taxi from?

Convenience

Editor’s Note

Useful Tips

How to get from San Jose Costa Rica Airport to Jaco by shuttle bus

How much is the shuttle from San Jose Airport to Jaco?

Cost

€43

Trip Duration

2 Hr. 10 Min.

Convenience

Safety

Value for Money

Airport shuttle buses operate daily, all year around. However, timetables are subject change, so it's important to check each company’s schedule before booking your transfer.

Where do I get the shuttle from?

Convenience

Timetables

Interbus Rates and Timetable

Airport to Jaco Beach

Day Trip Rates and Timetable

Airport to Jaco Beach

Editor’s Note

Useful Tips

How to get from San Jose Airport to Jaco by bus

How much is the bus from San Jose Airport to Jaco?

Cost

€8.40

Trip Duration

2 Hr. 30 Min.

Convenience

Safety

Value for Money

The bus departs daily between 07:00 and 19:00.

Where do I get the bus from?

Convenience

Timetables

Bus Tickets and Timetable

San Jose to Jaco Beach

Editor’s Note

Useful Tips

How to get from San Jose Airport to Jaco, Costa Rica, by private transfer

How much does a private transfer from San Jose Airport to Jaco cost?

Cost

€130

Trip Duration

1 Hr. 30 Min.

Convenience

Safety

Value for Money

*Private transfers can be arranged at any time of day from San Jose Airport.

Where will my private transfer depart from?

Convenience

Editor’s Note

Useful Tips

Welcome Pickups transfer

Best drivers

Flight monitoring

Quality support

Cancel up to 24 hours before the pickup and get an 80% refund

Frequently asked questions

How to get to Jaco from San Jose Airport?

How much is a taxi from San Jose Airport to Jaco?

How to get to Jaco Beach from the airport?

What is the best way to get from San Jose Airport to Jaco?

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Transfer Options in San Jose