In this in-depth route guide, you'll find the best ways to travel the 185 kilometre distance from Jaco to Montezuma. Whether you prefer the scenic overnight train, a convenient bus+ferry combo, or the fastest flight option — we've got all the details you need.
There are 2 ways to get from Jaco to Montezuma. You can choose between the shuttle + taxi boat, minivan. The most affordable option is by shuttle + taxi boat, starting from $55. The fastest route is by shuttle + taxi boat (1h 30m).
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1h 30m
$55
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5h 45m
$60
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The most popular way to travel the 50 km distance from Jaco to Montezuma is with a combined taxi boat and shuttle. This takes and rates start from .
are the companies offering combined taxi boat and shuttle rides for this route. Both are trusted operators so you can choose which suits you best.
There are only two trips available from Jaco to Montezuma daily. But thanks to this, the journey has become faster and easier! Before, travellers had to travel north to Puntarenas Port, hop on a slow car ferry to Paquera, and then continue by land to Montezuma — a journey that easily took 3 to 4 hours!
At the pier, you will transfer to a boat that will take you to the main beach in Montezuma. And then, you will board another shuttle van to your hotel.
From ~$55 · 1h 30m
Direct operator sites
Do you get seasick easily? You can also travel from Jaco to Montezuma completely overland by minivan.
However, instead of completing the journey in just 1.5 hours, the minivan trip will take at least 5h 45m.
If you don't mind sitting in a minivan that long, Santa Teresa Adventure offers minivan trips from Jaco to Montezuma. A seat costs $60.
ABOUT YOUR DESTINATION
Montezuma is an untouched gem on Costa Rica's Pacific coast. It boasts a vibrant jungle and pristine beaches, inviting nature enthusiasts for a serene escape. Explore Montezuma Falls, a majestic waterfall that's a hiker's dream. If you're in for a more serious hike, you can also visit the nearby Cabo Blanco Natural Reserve.
This picturesque town also offers a laid-back bohemian atmosphere, with beaches for both swimming (Playa Montezuma) and surfing (Playa Grande). At Montezuma town centre, you'll find a wide range of cafes with international cuisine, yoga classes, and artisan shops.
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Carbon Footprint
This 185 km journey produces approximately 16 g CO2 by bus. Taking public transport is one of the lowest-emission ways to travel this route.
Used the Songserm ferry from Koh Samui. Cheaper than Lomprayah but takes a bit longer. Still a perfectly fine crossing. The views approaching Koh Tao are stunning either way.
OOliver S.November 2025Ferry
Train via Surat Thani was our pick. More scenic than Chumphon route and the Lomprayah catamaran from Tapee Pier is very comfortable. Book the special express train for the quickest ride.
The overnight bus with Montanatip was okay but not great. The bus was older and the seats didn't recline much. Ferry portion was fine though. If you're on a tight budget it works.
Took the sleeper train to Chumphon — magical! Woke up to palm trees and transferred to the Lomprayah catamaran. Whole journey felt like an adventure.
Lomprayah bus+ferry combo from Khao San Road was seamless. Departed at 6am, arrived Koh Tao by 3pm. Well organized.
Flew to Koh Samui and took Lomprayah catamaran. More expensive but saved a full day. Worth it if your holiday is short.
Most travelers base themselves near the main beach for easy access to transport, restaurants, and activities.
Popular budget resort with pool, located on Sairee Beach. Walking distance to dive shops and restaurants.
800 THB/night ($24)
Beachfront bungalows with balconies overlooking Sairee Beach. On-site restaurant and dive center.
2,200 THB/night ($66)
Luxury resort with private beach, infinity pool, and spa. Perfect for couples wanting extra comfort.
6,500 THB/night ($195)
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