The scheduled shuttles do all leave early.

You alsways have the option of hiring a private driver to meet you at the airport and drive you there. Many have been recommended in this forum . (There is a current) thread on the subject) It will probably cost in the $200 range - give or take.

You would be able to take the public us. You would take a cab to the Caribe Sur Bus Terminal located on Calle Central about 8 blocks North of the Parque Central. There is a bus at 2.00 PM and one at 4.00. The bus trip is really not bad. The buses however do not have bathrooms nor airconditioning.

You can check this website for transportation info to PV.
http://puertoviejosatellite.com/transport.php#bus

raquel

Agree the buses are a good mode of transportation if you can keep an eye on your belongings and are traveling light. The taxi to the bus terminal will run you about $20-25, your bus ticket around $8 pp. It's actually quite simple--and I feel sure the taxi driver would assist in the purchase of your ticket if necessary. Depending on time spent in the airport, you could have a problem making the 2:00 bus, and the 4:00 bus will get you there way past dark, but it's still do-able.

If I were you guys, I'd probably choose to overnight in San Jose, though, rather than take that late bus. Rest, have a nice dinner, stay at a nice hotel (recommend Grano de Oro) and get an early start the next a.m. I would ultimately provide you with a more relaxing 1st 24 hours, my opinion.

Thank you raquel_z and shillmac. I had seen that site for the public bus, but hearing you guys clarify the procedure is very helpful and reassuring. Shillmac, re: your very sound advice on relaxing the first night in SJ over taking the 4pm bus -- it's just that we will be spending our last night in SJ so we can catch our2:50pm flight without having to stress on a long trip back from PV the same morning, so I was really hoping to get on the road on that 1st day, even knowing that it makes for a long 1st day of travel...just to maximize time in PV. So we're prepared for that if all it means is a long trip, but in your opinion is the evening ride at all dangerous (roads or otherwise)? I'm hoping we won't need the 4pm bus and can make the one at 2pm.

btw, during our first trip to Costa Rica in 2005, we did one leg of the journey with a private driver (Arenal to La Finca Que Ama), and while it was a very good experience (and really couldn't have been done any other way unless we rented a car), I just can't bring myself to spend that kind of money on a trip that can be done reasonably comfortably for $150 less!

Thanks again

No, I don't think there would necessarily be a problem with taking the 4:00 bus, just a long day as you know. We would do it, probably, with a short trip. I understand about wanting to max your time in a particular place. Hopefully you can get a direct bus into PV. The only thing that WOULD worry me would be changing buses in Limon and being in that area late in the day. It wouldn't be a huge worry, but a concern for sure. I know others on this forum will be able to give you more information about that.

We stayed many times at La Finca Que Ama. Interesting that you mentioned it. The previous owners are doing well and living in Canada with their little daughter. We stay in touch.

Good luck and have a great time!