Puntarenas–Paquera Ferry Guide: Taking Your Rental Car to Santa Teresa & Montezuma

If you’re heading from San José to Santa Teresa, Mal País or Montezuma, the car ferry from Puntarenas to Paquera saves you a long drive around the Gulf of Nicoya — and it’s a relaxing break with great views.

Getting to the terminal

From San José, take Route 27 west to Caldera and follow signs to Puntarenas; the ferry terminal is near the western tip of the Puntarenas peninsula. Allow about 1h 30m from SJO in normal traffic.

Tickets and schedules

The Puntarenas–Paquera car ferry is run by a private operator with published schedules and online booking. Departures are spread through the day, but the timetable changes by season, so check the operator’s official website the day before. In high season (December–April) and on holiday weekends, ferries fill up — book ahead.

Boarding step by step

1. Join the vehicle line at the terminal and show your ticket.
2. Only the driver stays in the car to drive aboard; passengers may be asked to walk on.
3. Park where directed, turn off the engine, set the handbrake and go upstairs.
4. Return to the car when the ferry approaches Paquera.

From Paquera onward

• Montezuma: about 1 hour via Cóbano.
• Santa Teresa / Mal País: about 1h 15m – 1h 30m via Cóbano; the last stretch is rough.

Bottom line

Book ahead in high season, arrive early, and enjoy the crossing — it’s one of the nicest “commutes” in Costa Rica.