About Puerto Viejo
A relaxed Caribbean town of bikes, reggae and rice and beans, where the jungle meets a string of beaches running south toward Manzanillo.
Best for: Surfers, backpackers and travelers who want the Caribbean side
Top things to do in Puerto Viejo
- Bike the coast road to Playa Cocles, Punta Uva and Manzanillo
- Snorkel the coral reef in Cahuita National Park, just up the coast
- Visit the Jaguar Rescue Center, a wildlife rescue between Cocles and Punta Uva
- Try Caribbean rice and beans cooked in coconut milk
- Watch (or, if you're experienced, surf) the Salsa Brava reef break
Local tip: There are two Puerto Viejos in Costa Rica. This is Puerto Viejo de Talamanca, on the Caribbean coast — not Puerto Viejo de Sarapiquí, inland. Add your hotel's exact name when you book, since many sit along the road south of town.
Flights to Puerto Viejo: which airport to fly into
For Puerto Viejo, the closest international airport is San José Airport (SJO) — about 4h 30m away (232 km) by road.
| Airport | Distance | Drive time | From |
|---|---|---|---|
| San José Airport (SJO) | ~232 km | ~4h 30m | $389 USDtaxes included |
Your options to reach Puerto Viejo
Private transfer (recommended)
EasiestA certified driver meets you at arrivals and takes you door-to-door to Puerto Viejo. No waiting, no extra stops, flight tracked. The premium choice for families, groups, surfboards and late arrivals — from $389 USD (taxes included) with Pick Me Up.
Shared shuttle
Cheaper per seat, but you wait for other passengers and stop at multiple hotels. Fixed departure times — less flexible if your flight is delayed.
Rental car
Full freedom to explore, but you'll be driving unfamiliar roads after a long flight, plus parking and insurance costs. Best if you plan day trips.
Public bus
The cheapest option, but slow, with transfers and limited luggage space — not ideal arriving with bags from the airport.
Ready to book your Puerto Viejo transfer?
See the exact route, drive time and price, then request in 30 seconds.
Puerto Viejo travel FAQ
What is the closest airport to Puerto Viejo?
San José Airport (SJO) is the closest international airport — about 4h 30m and 232 km by road.
How far is Puerto Viejo from the airport?
San José Airport (SJO): ~232 km, about 4h 30m.
What's the best way to get to Puerto Viejo?
A private door-to-door transfer is the easiest and most reliable — no waiting, no transfers, and your certified driver tracks your flight. Shared shuttles are cheaper but slower; rental cars give freedom but mean driving unfamiliar roads after a long flight.
Is it worth booking a private transfer to Puerto Viejo?
For most travelers, yes — especially arriving with family, luggage or surfboards. From $389 USD you skip the lines and arrive relaxed. You pay online when you book, so the price is settled before you land.