Transfers Countries Costa Rica La FortunaLa Fortuna to Tamarindo

Private car transfer from La Fortuna to Tamarindo

Door-to-door
in 3 h 50 min

From €39
per seat

Comfortable
car

One way

One wayReturnMulti-city

New

One way

Cancel for free 24 hours before departure

Tripadvisor Travelers’ Choice 2024

Excellent

Trip Information

Pick-up

Your driver will meet you at your address in La Fortuna.

Door-to-door service
Help with your luggage

Trip

You’ll travel in comfort for 3 h 50 min.

Optional sight-seeing
Clean, comfortable car
Professional driver
Bottled water
Child seats
Prepared for handicapped
Smoke-free
Pet friendly

Drop-off

Your driver will drop you off at your address in Tamarindo.

Door-to-door service
Help with your luggage

In total

209 km3 h 50 min

Overview: car trip from La Fortuna to Tamarindo

The drive from La Fortuna to Tamarindo covers 128 miles (207 km) takes just under 4 hours door-to-door. With a private car transfer, you will traverse the northwest of Costa Rica in exceptional comfort and safety. You will also have the opportunity to stop en route for sightseeing at fascinating sites you may otherwise miss out on!

For instance, check out La Fortuna waterfalls on your way, and tackle the 500-step hike to the top for spectacular views over the lush jungle before cooling off in the brilliant blue waters below. Or, visit the impressive Arenal Volcano National Park to witness the country’s most active volcano and admire its perfect cone shape. The surrounding jungle hosts over 800 bird species, making it one of the best stops for nature enthusiasts.

Of course, if you're in a rush to get to the beaches of Tamarindo, with both Daytrip's private car service and group shuttle service you can opt for a direct transfer.

About Tamarindo

Your La Fortuna to Tamarindo transfer deposits you in a tropical paradise, home to incredible sandy beaches, richly diverse nature preserves, and a vibrant surf culture. Tamarindo is best known for its abundance of watersport opportunities, with unmatched surfing, diving, snorkeling, and fishing. The town is one of the more modern fixtures in this area of Costa Rica, so it also boasts an energetic nightlife and ample shopping and dining choices.

Surfers, snorkelers, and sunbathers are spoiled for choice with renowned beaches such as Playa Tamarindo and Playa Langosta. From October to May, visitors can also head to Playa Grande to witness the nesting behaviors of hundreds of magnificent leatherback sea turtles. Other natural wonders include the bountiful mangroves, jungle scapes, and the Tamarindo Wildlife Refuge estuary, home to crocodiles and howler monkeys.

Visitors to this coastal town can take part in surf lessons for every level, including private coaching for true beginners in need of basic instruction. Or, take to the treeline with ziplining through the jungle and hikes across the hanging bridges in Monteverde Cloud forest. There are also guided tours on horseback and whitewater rafting trips available for the more adventurous sightseer.

Tamarindo is one of the most popular tropical getaways on the Pacific Coast of Costa Rica and is packed with outdoor recreation, surfing spots for every skill level, and plenty of chances to try the local food. A trip here showcases some of the best that the country has to offer, and may be made even more memorable with a Daytrip private transfer to start your visit out smoothly.

From La Fortuna to Tamarindo: travel tips

Before your journey from La Fortuna to Tamarindo, a few considerations can make your trip as seamless as possible.

Stay budget-friendly with a shuttle

If you want to save on transportation costs but still need comfort and convenience, consider the group shuttle offered by Daytrip. This service starts at only $32 and gets you direct transportation in just under 4 hours with a friendly, professional driver. This is also a great choice for avoiding the hassle of navigating public transit with all of your luggage.

Book activities in advance

For activities such as private surf lessons or smaller group tours on horseback, it’s a good idea to plan and book your guides as early as possible ahead of your trip. Particularly in peak travel seasons, the most in-demand activities can be filled for weeks!

Stop along the way

If you want to experience as much of Costa Rica as possible, make the trip to Tamarindo with a private Daytrip driver. You can stop at places such as the Arenal Volcano National Park or La Fortuna waterfalls. These slight detours will create lasting memories on your travel day without requiring you to stay the night outside of the major towns or factor in a separate day trip.

How to get from La Fortuna to Tamarindo

There are a few different options for getting from La Fortuna to Tamarindo depending on your priorities and budget, all varying in cost and travel time. The following options are organized based on practicality, from least to most efficient.

Flight from La Fortuna to Tamarindo

It is possible to take a flight from La Fortuna to Tamarindo, but the journey is not direct and ultimately does not save you time in comparison to driving. The trip will take you about 6 hours in total and begins with an hour-long shuttle to Alajuela, where you will have to catch the airport shuttle to INVU Las Cañas. From there, you can walk to the airport in San Jose and board a flight to Tamarindo. This can cost $179-$650, not counting transportation to and from the airport, depending on how far in advance you book.

Bus from La Fortuna to Tamarindo

There is a public bus route from La Fortuna to Tamarindo that takes about 6.5 hours and requires at least one transfer to a new bus in Cañas. There is also often a stop required in Tilaran about 30 minutes before you reach Cañas. This is likely the cheapest option, averaging around $25-40 for tickets. However, keep in mind that buses can sometimes fill up before you get a seat, and you will still have to navigate to and from your accommodation in either city.

Group shuttle from La Fortuna to Tamarindo

Daytrip offers a group shuttle service for up to 7 people at a time, with multiple daily departures. It’s more reliable than the public bus, and you get better service, with a friendly, English-speaking driver to talk to along the way. Since it’s direct from La Fortuna to Tamarindo, it’s also faster, taking just under 4 hours in a comfortable van. Prices start at just $32.

Private car transfer from La Fortuna to Tamarindo

A Daytrip private car transfer from La Fortuna to Tamarindo is the best option for many travelers, as it provides stress-free door-to-door transportation and lets you stop along the way to experience more of Costa Rica. You will also receive local insights from your friendly English-speaking driver, providing you with a more personalized experience. A private car service is more reliable and cheaper than relying on local taxis, and you can let Daytrip know if you’re traveling with large luggage like surfboards. Starting at $48 per person, it’s a great deal considering the service you get.

Things to do when you get to Tamarindo

Once you arrive in Tamarindo, there are a wide variety of activities for the whole family to take part in. However you choose to travel from La Fortuna to Tamarindo, be sure to plan ahead and include the most popular attractions of this tropical paradise in your itinerary.

For surfers, it is hard to beat the variety of surf breaks in Tamarindo. Different beaches will be suitable for different skill levels, and there is something for everyone from the very beginner to the advanced or expert surfers. The most popular beaches for every level are:

Surf Playa Tamarindo

This is the most popular beach for beginners, with small waves and a sandy bottom (no danger of reef incidents.) This is also the closest beach to the center of town and is great for swimming and sunbathing too if surfing isn’t the goal of your trip!

Playa Casitas

This charming beach may be suitable for all surfers, beginners and pros alike, as the different breaks offer smaller waves and larger swells depending on where (and when) you visit. The beach is named for the tiny houses scattered along the shoreline and is worth a visit for the quaint coastal scenery even if you won’t be surfing.

Playa Langosta

Langosta is known for larger waves and crystal clear waters coming in from Tamarindo Bay, and it may be best for intermediate-advanced surfers.

Playa Grande

As the name suggests, this is a very large beach offering a few different surf breaks. Generally, though, the waves are stronger and larger across all of the breaks and are best left to more advanced surfers. This can be a great spot to come watch others take on the powerful swells while you soak up the sun from the soft sand!

Playa Avellana

Avellana is perhaps the most famous beach in Tamarindo among experienced surfers, and is known by the locals as “little Hawaii.” The waves here are big, sometimes reaching heights of up to 18 feet (5.5 meters), so it’s best left to the most advanced surfers!

Take a jungle trek

Beyond the beaches, be sure to explore the surrounding natural beauty of Tamarindo with one of the many jungle treks or trips to the volcanic national parks. This town highlights the surreal beauty of Costa Rica, in the water and on dry land.

When is the best time to visit Tamarindo?

The most popular time to visit Tamarindo is in December and January, given the dry, sunny climate perfect for long days at the beach. However, as the dry season lasts from November to April, consider timing your visit for the shoulder months of late autumn and early spring.

You will still be avoiding the rainy season, and you’ll likely find much better deals on flights and accommodation. The surf schools and other popular attractions tend to be less crowded too. If you are a beginner surfer, the early spring months tend to summon medium-sized swells that may be less intimidating than those rolling in during the winter.

Questions & Answers about Traveling from La Fortuna to Tamarindo

Can you take a flight from La Fortuna to Tamarindo?

There are no direct flights from La Fortuna to Tamarindo, you will first need to get to the airport in San Jose from La Fortuna. Once you're in San Jose, you can get a flight to Tamarindo. The whole journey will take at minimum 6 hours and can become very costly given the short distance. A shuttle or private car with Daytrip will be cheaper and faster.

What is the fastest way to get from La Fortuna to Tamarindo?

The fastest transfer option from La Fortuna to Tamarindo is a private car service or a group shuttle van, either of which will take just under 4 hours door-to-door.

Where to stop from La Fortuna to Tamarindo?

On the way from La Fortuna to Tamarindo, you have the opportunity to visit sights such as La Fortuna waterfalls, offering incredible jungle trekking and swimming in the cool blue waters. Or, you can stop and see the perfectly cone-shaped Arenal Volcano, the most active in Costa Rica today.

How far is it from La Fortuna to Tamarindo?

The distance from La Fortuna to Tamarindo is about 129 miles (207 km), which takes about 4 hours by car or at least 6 hours with a bus or flight.

What is the easiest way to get from La Fortuna to Tamarindo?

The easiest way to get from La Fortuna to Tamarindo is with a private car transfer or group shuttle service. Both offer convenient, direct transportation with maximum safety and comfort. When you take a private car with Daytrip, you can even stop for sightseeing along the way!

Can you take a bus from La Fortuna to Tamarindo?

There is a public bus from La Fortuna to Tamarindo, but it requires a transfer to a second bus in Cañas. Crossing this distance by bus takes 6-6.5 hours, and tickets cost around $25-40 per person.

Visit these sights on the way

La Fortuna Waterfall

One of Costa Rica’s most iconic waterfalls paints a postcard-perfect picture of jungle beauty. A Jungle Gem

Arenal Volcano National Park

This still active volcano offers a taste of Costa Rica's diversity - from lush rainforest to lunar landscapes. The Cone

Centro de Rescate Las Pumas

This rescue center rehabilitates wild cats and many other animals in large, natural enclosures. Pouncing for Protection

Llanos de Cortez Waterfall

At one of Costa Rica’s most beautiful waterfalls offers, you can go behind the curtain. The White Curtain

Ponderosa Adventure Park

Unlike anywhere else in Costa Rica, you can enjoy indigenous wildlife and an exotic African safari at this nature reserve. A Taste of Africa

Monkey Park

This non-profit shares the plight of endangered species with visitors while rehabilitating sick and injured animals. Primates with Purpose

Why people love Daytrip

5,100+ reviews

795 travelers took this route with us

Oct 2, 2025

Great transfer option.

“I used this service for a transfer from Split in Croatia to Perast Montenegro. My experience was exceptional. My driver Bojan was helpful, informative and ensured my journey was comfortable and enjoyable. I highly recommend the service.”

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler Robyn C

Sep 20, 2025

It was a fantastic trip.

“We were extremely satisfied with the quality of service we received from Day Trip. We had two Day Trip rides on August 31 from Athens to Lefkada and September 7 from Lefkada back to Athens. Both trips included stops at scenic sites in Greece. Both drivers were excellent and accommodating. However, we’d especially like to recognize Panos Peppas, who was our driver from Lefkada to Athens. Panos was incredibly nice & pleasant and delivered outstanding customer service, which included handling all of luggage, providing us with cold waters throughout the trip, providing us protein bars, providing us with printed materials on the Corinth Canal (one of scenic stops), looking up and providing us with terminal & gate info for our flight back home and providing us with a recipe for tzatziki.”

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler Daydream20046758137

Sep 15, 2025

Best transport company anywhere

“We absolutely love this company and have used it many times over the years to get from A to B without the hassle of hiring a car ourselves. Excellent drivers every time. Efficient and professional. It’s worth every penny and we can honestly recommend Day Trip to everyone. It’s 5 star rating is well deserved.”

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler Mary L

Aug 20, 2025

Excellent experience in traveling

“We traveled from Nuremberg to Munich in a beautiful Audi. Driver picked us at our hotel at the exact time requested. Got us to Munich in plenty of time for our next tour. Driver made sure we were comfortable”

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler Steve N

Apr 22, 2025

Reasonably Priced and Safe Transportation

“Gonzalo from daytrip was our driver and he was absolutely amazing. He went over and beyond trying to locate us as our service wasn't so good on our phones. He patiently awaited our arrival to the lobby so he could take us from Tulum Dreams Resort to our other hotel in cancun an hour and a half away near the airport prior to our departure flight home. He was polite, respectful and kind. Made sure we were comfortable during our long ride. Fast and to the point. I recommend this company as finding a one way ride from Tulum to Cancun isn't easy or cheap and this company provides a great service for a great price. I will definitely be using them again whenever I'm in the Cancun/Tulum area. Thank you DayTrip and Gonzola.”

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler COCO

Apr 2, 2025

Daytrip never disappoints

“We were picked up by Marianna to drive us from Heraklion to Chania. The weather was terrible & due to this Marianna arrived a few minutes late. She contacted me to advise of this. Marianna lives in Chana and she made our trip very interesting by informing us of local things to do and see in Chania. Marianna is a safe driver and we all felt comfortable with the speed she drove at and how good her driving was in heavy rain. She is a lovely person with fluent English. We highly recommend Daytrips and if you are in Heraklion or Chania please make sure you ask for Marianna.”

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler Julie M

Feb 28, 2025

Great driver in Egypt

“Used the service to go from Luxor to Hurghada, Egypt. Ahmed H was our driver and he was perfect. The car was new, clean, he had water and snacks for us, and accommodated our stops. Great service from him and would recommend it.”

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler Maps315861

Feb 20, 2025

Comfortable and Safe Rides in Mexico

“Used Daytrip for two rides in Mexico, which were both great. So comfortable, and we arrived at each of our destinations at a great time. Both were incredible drivers, and we felt so safe. One of our drivers, Miguel, also played the best music! Will definitely use Daytrip on our next trip to Mexico.”

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler Golourdesduarte

Feb 10, 2025

Great way to travel and see some sights on the way

“We did not know what to expect with this trip and booked from Australia. We were initially looking for an easy way to travel from Granada to Malaga. We decided not to waste the opportunity to see something additional on our way. Miguel certainly exceeded our expectations. His English was excellent (unfortunately we speak very little Spanish), and he was very friendly and helpful. We thoroughly enjoyed hearing about the regions as we passed through and also discussing some of the local ways. Miguel took us to Antequera as planned and ensured we were able to easily get our tickets to the attractions without any sense of rushing us. We were picked up and dropped off punctually and really enjoyed our trip. Hopefully we will return to Spain and we can use this service again sometime.”

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler Michelle R

Nov 3, 2022

Traveling Solo Through Costa Rica

“I'm traveling in Costa Rica and was looking for transportation from Tamarindo to La Fortuna. I found mydaytrip.com and saw all of the positive reviews so I decided to take a chance. I'm so glad I did. My driver Danny was great. He showed me different sites along the way and even stopped so I could take pictures. As a solo traveler, he made sure I was comfortable and ensured I didn't need anything. Booking through mydaytrip.com actually cost less than trying to book with group transportation. I highly recommend Danny and mydaytrip.com for all of your travel needs in Costa Rica.”

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler Finallytraveling72

Good to know

Children

If you’re traveling with children, make sure to let us know in the booking so we can get the appropriate child seats ready!

Pets

Pets are allowed (and loved)! We just need to know beforehand. You can tell us about them in the next phase of the booking.

Tips

Gratuity isn’t included or required, but if you really enjoyed your trip, you can show your driver your appreciation with an optional tip (10% is sufficient).

Luggage

Big luggage
29x21x11 inches
74x53x28 cm

Small luggage
22x14x9 inches
56x36x23 cm

Each passenger is allowed to have one checked bag and one carry on. If you’re traveling with more bags or oversized luggage, you can adjust this while booking.

Payment methods

Pay by credit card online, or in cash directly to your driver!

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have any questions, here are the answers.

Daytrip is a platform that connects you with local drivers who will transport you door-to-door, from one city to the next. We also give you the opportunity to explore sights/attractions along the way. We drive, you discover.

Yes! A return trip will take you back to your city of origin in the same size car in which you arrived. Return trips can be booked for the any day. You can also add customized sightseeing stops separately for each trip! Don’t worry if you don’t know your exact address at the time of booking - you’ll have the opportunity to update us closer to your travel date. Make sure to select “Return” when you start the booking process, then choose the dates and times of your departures.

For private trips, you can cancel for a full refund up to 24 hours before departure. For the Daytrip Pool shared shuttle, we offer 3 ticket options when booking: Non-refundable, Flexible with cancellations 24 hours before departure, and Super-flexible with cancellations up to 15 minutes before departure.

Simply choose your origin and destination via our homepage and enter your departure date and time. Browse and add sightseeing stops along the way by following the booking instructions provided on-screen. Select “One Way” or “Return” to change the type of trip you need. It’s a simple, easy, and fun way to book your next adventure! And if you don’t see your desired route on our website, you can request a custom trip. You can even book without knowing your exact pick-up or drop-off address - we let you add these later!

Each passenger is allowed one large bag (29" x 21" x 11" / 74 x 53 x 28 cm) and one small bag (22" x 14" x 9" / 56 x 36 x 23 cm). Luxury sedans can only accommodate 2 large bags. We always send the vehicle that is the best fit for you and your luggage, so make sure to select the actual amount of luggage you are traveling with when booking. If you have oversized luggage, or are unsure if your luggage will fit, contact us.

Everywhere except the USA, drivers will supply appropriate child seats (just let us know during booking). In the USA, certain states require you to supply your own child seats.

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