Las Catalinas is a car-free coastal town in Guanacaste that feels a world away, yet it’s surprisingly easy to reach. Those flying in from abroad or traveling within Costa Rica from a nearby destination, will find this guide handy to save, as there are multiple convenient ways to start your journey. Here’s everything you need to know to plan a smooth arrival.
Most visitors fly into one of two international airports in Costa Rica, depending on where they’re starting from and how they want to travel:
Guanacaste Airport (LIR) in Liberia – Just over an hour’s drive from Las Catalinas, this is the most convenient option for most international travelers.
Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO) in San José – About four and a half hours from Las Catalinas, this airport offers more flights overall and is a good option if you’re spending time in Costa Rica’s central region before heading to the coast.
Both of Costa Rica’s international airports connect to smaller domestic airstrips like Sansa Air throughout the country, like Tamarindo or Nosara. These flights take around an hour, and can be a convenient and quick way to connect to other destinations on your journey, with stunning views of the coast, volcanos, and rainforest below. Las Catalinas Doorway would be happy to help you book travel to Las Catalinas or for your onward ground journeys within the country.
If you’re traveling from North America, getting here is easier than you might think. Many major cities offer nonstop flights to both Liberia (LIR) and San José (SJO). Flight times vary by location, but here are the main options:
With so many options, you can often find a nonstop flight that fits your schedule and avoids extra layovers.
Once you land, the easiest way to reach Las Catalinas is by booking a private transfer. Services can be arranged in advance through Las Catalinas Doorway, ensuring a professional driver meets you at the airport. This can be wonderfully convenient for families or groups, and transfers can be tailored to fit extra luggage or surfboards. For those planning family reunions or weddings, let our dedicated onsite experts take care of organizing your shuttle schedule with guests.
If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option, shared shuttles run on set schedules from both airports. These rides take a little longer but are a chance to meet fellow travelers.
For travelers who enjoy flexibility, renting a car is another way to reach Las Catalinas. While town itself is car-free, parking is available at the entrance, with complimentary valet parking and luggage assistance to make the transition easy.
If you’ve just landed at Liberia Airport and want to get to Las Catalinas on the most straightforward road, we recommend Route 21. This paved highway is easy to follow, making it ideal if your priority is arriving at your home or hotel to relax right away.
Known locally as the Monkey Trail, Route 911 cuts through a mountain pass between Potrero and Playas del Coco. This rugged shortcut won’t save much time, compared to the conventional highway, but it is scenic and full of nature.
During the green season from June to November, expect a short drive through a shallow river. You can also avoid the river crossing by paying for a passage on bridge on a private property.
The Monkey Trail is popular with adventurous drivers and locals heading to destinations like Potrero and Las Catalinas.
Whichever route you take, the drive itself is part of the Costa Rican experience. Keep a little cash handy, because you’ll want to stop at roadside fruit stands for just-cut coconuts, sweet pineapples, or ripe mangoes.
Along the way, you’ll also find “sodas,” family-run Costa Rican eateries where you can sit down to a traditional casado, a plate of gallo pinto, or a ceviche.
Don’t forget to look up and around: you’re likely to spot howler monkeys in the trees, iguanas sunning on rocks, or flashes of color from tropical flowers and birds as the landscape opens into sweeping coastal views.
Driving isn’t for everyone, since the roads can be narrow and winding, but for those who embrace it, the journey adds its own sense of adventure.
The moment you arrive, you’ll notice the difference. Las Catalinas is designed for people, not cars. Cobblestone streets wind past plazas, fountains, and ocean views, and everything is walkable. Luggage and gear are transported for you, so you can step straight into vacation mode.
Whether you’re checking into Santarena Hotel, settling into a vacation rental, or meeting friends at the Beach Club, the journey is simple and welcoming.
Reserve your stay with Las Catalinas Doorway.