A direct bus ride to Puntarenas, was a really new experience for me on this last trip to Costa Rica. I normally go to this province in my own vehicle or with family or friends, but this time the plan was somewhat unexpected, before returning to the cold temperatures of Canada. One of the most frequent questions is if it is safe to go to Puntarenas in bus.
Puntarenas is one of the oldest and most beloved beaches by Costa Ricans for the slushies and the great seafood that can be enjoyed near the sea. It is also one of the closest beaches to San Jose, which only takes about 2 hours in bus and costs around $10 dollars per person. These buses are leaving every hour and you need to buy your ticket at the station before getting on the bus.
Where is the Puntarenas Terminal?
At the San Jose to Puntarenas Terminal called Eupsa, I had a pleasant experience, the station was very clean and safe with some small cafeterias that have some fresh Costarican food and bakery.
On the weekends, you can see many students from the city returning to their homes, local tourists in groups that go for a day trip and working people who go to that area. Another of my big surprises was how clean and modern the bus was, which created a pleasant and comfortable environment for me at all times, while I was enjoying the nice sea views.
During my time in the waiting room, some students shared with me one of our typical breakfast wrapped in plantain leaves”tortilla” with “torta de huevo” for sure I had to have one with my coffee!
My destination was El Roble in Puntarenas, where I got off in front of the Fiesta Resort Hotel to spend a day of total summer and all the food included, of course our refreshing cocktails. Important detail…it is better to tell the driver to please let us know when the Fiesta Resort stop is coming up so you can just cross the street and get to the hotel. My previous question if it is safe to go to Puntarenas in bus was positively confirmed.
Puntarenas Bus Station: Calle 2, San Jose Centro (it’s better to take a taxi or Uber to arrive there).