How to Get to Drake Bay
A Quick Guide for First-Time Visitors
Drake Bay (Bahía Drake), located on the wild Osa Peninsula in southern Costa Rica, is one of the most remote and stunning destinations in the country. Reaching it takes some planning — but the adventure begins the moment you start the journey. Here's how to get there:
Option 1: Domestic Flight (Quickest & Easiest)
Route
Fly from San José (SJO) to Drake Bay (DRK)
Duration: ~40 minutes
Airlines:
Sansa Airlines (daily flights)
Pros
Fastest option
Amazing aerial views of coastline and rainforest
Things to Know
Book in advance — limited seats
Light luggage only (under 30 lbs total)
Option 2: Drive + Boat (Most Scenic)
Route
Drive or shuttle from San José to Sierpe (~6–7 hours)
Then take a boat from Sierpe to Drake Bay (~1–1.5 hours)
Highlights
Boat ride through Sierpe River & mangroves
Frequent wildlife sightings: crocodiles, monkeys, birds
Departure Time
Boats usually leave Sierpe at 11:30 AM and 3:30 PM
Always arrive 30 minutes early
Parking in Sierpe
Secure lots available near the docks
Option 3: Drive All the Way (Adventure-Ready Only)
Route
4x4 required from Sierpe to Drake Bay or Rincon Puerto Jimenez to Drake Bay
Not recommended in rainy season
Road Conditions:
Rough roads, OFF ROAD, all the rivers have bridges.
Beautiful scenery, but slow going
Tip
Only attempt if you're experienced with 4x4 and off-road driving
Parking in Drake Bay
There is no 24‑hour secured parking available in Drake Bay. The only parking options are unattended lots, which are not monitored and offer no on-site security staff
Public road parking
Free options on the road are available nearby, just a short stroll from the house.
Secure parking is available in Sierpe
The only properly enclosed and guarded parking is located in Sierpe, near the boat dock. They offer gated, monitored lots with cameras and staff during the day. The current cost is approximately $6 USD per day
Travel Time from Popular Areas
From San Jose to Sierpe by car 5-6 hrs / by bus 6-7 hrs
From San Jose to Drake Bay by car 8-9 hrs
From Manuel Antonio to Sierpe by car 2.5 hrs / by bus 3-3.5 hrs
From Manuel Antonio to Drake Bay by car 5-5.5 hrs
From Uvita to Sierpe by car 50 min / by bus 1.5hr
From Uvita to Drake Bay by car 4 hrs