How to Get to Drake Bay from Uvita
Travelling to Corcovado National Park? This is how to get to Drake Bay from Uvita
Known as ‘The Hidden Treasure’ of Costa Rica, Drake Bay, with its stunning beaches and mangrove forests, is a tropical paradise right next to Corcovado National Park. It is one of the most biodiverse places on Earth. ‘The Hidden Treasure’ actually has a double meaning. For one, it’s less travelled due to its remoteness. But it’s also named after the famous pirate Sir Francis Drake because it is believed he hid treasure in the area.
The treasure has never been found.
Drake Bay’s charm is sometimes overlooked by travellers who are put off by its seemingly remote location. Fear not, people! Your trip to this beautiful place is not just easy—it’s an adventure in itself.
When we visited Drake Bay on our last Costa Rica trip, we travelled from Uvita. We know exactly how it works and what to keep in mind. The trip was an adventure but not as difficult as it might seem.
This guide simplifies travelling from Uvita to Drake Bay. Grab your Indiana Jones hat as we go looking for the treasure, and explore Costa Rica’s land, skies, and waters on the way.
Why Visit Drake Bay?
Before we sail into the logistics of travel (see what I did there?), let’s take a moment to understand why Drake Bay is a great stop for any globetrotter. This town is not just any town. There are very few cars, the roads are sand, it’s full of wildlife such as Toucans and sloths, and it’s right next to Corcovado National Park—a biodiversity hotspot any animal lover should visit. I recommend doing a tour of the area.
Imagine walking on beaches, crossing paths with sloths, monkeys, and more, or exploring the heart of a tropical jungle. Drake Bay offers all that and more. And it’s precisely its remote, unspoiled charm that appeals. From humpback whales breaching off its coast to the mystical, bioluminescent waters that light up the night, an adventure here is seeing nature at its best.
It’s one of the most special places we visited in Costa Rica, and that says something! Costa Rica is beautiful all over and worth visiting. Anyway, I highly recommend adding Drake Bay to your Costa Rica itinerary if you’re still considering going.
How to Get to Drake Bay from Uvita: By Boat
For many, this is the most adventurous way to reach Drake Bay, with images of tropical mangrove forests along wild coastlines. It’s not that bad, really. We both enjoyed it!
Uvita to Sierpe
The first leg of the boat-bound adventure starts from Uvita, from where you have to get to Sierpe. This is the closest mainland town to Drake Bay and where you take the boat from. I know Drake Bay is technically the mainland, too, but you know what I mean.
There are a few different ways to get to Sierpe.
By tourist shuttle
This is the option that we chose. We used this shuttle company, and they were great. They were not just on time but early! We arrived in Sierpe at the port with much time to spare. It’s not really a port, but it’s more like a small dock.
The tourist shuttle is a convenient way to get to Sierpe. It’s perfect for those who prefer a hassle-free journey with minimal planning. The shuttle will pick you up from your ho(s)tel in Uvita and drop you off at the dock in Sierpe, where you can catch a boat to Drake Bay. I recommend booking in advance, especially if you’re travelling in high season.
By public bus
You might prefer travelling by public bus if you’re on a tight budget. While this may be the cheapest option, it’s also the most time-consuming. But since Costa Rica can be pricey, saving every penny you can is helpful.
There is no more direct bus to Sierpe, which means you’ll have to transfer in Palmar Norte. The bus schedule for that trip is found here.
Once you arrive in Palmar Norte, you’ll have to find the bus to Sierpe. It should be straightforward since they leave from the same station.
Once in Sierpe, you’ll need to make your way to the dock. It’s about a 15-minute walk from where the bus drops you off. Alternatively, you can take a taxi for about $2.
By car
Another option is driving yourself. You can park your car in a guarded car park next to the police station so it’s safe and sound. From there, it’s only a few minutes to the dock.
Boat Ride to Drake Bay
From Sierpe, the boat ride to Drake Bay is a great first impression of the area. Be prepared to witness mangroves that morph into the open sea, painting a picture of what to expect.
Schedules and Price
Boats from Sierpe to Drake Bay take off at 11:30 AM and 4:30 PM. It’s $20 USD per person, and you’ll need to pay the boat captain in cash. Public boat seats are up for grabs on a first-come, first-served basis. During the busy season, it’s a good idea to show up about 1-2 hours early to get your tickets. Luckily, the shuttles arrive with plenty of time. And if you’re driving yourself, you decide your schedule.
You’ll be assigned a boat based on your hotel. The more high-end hotels include a boat trip, so if that’s for you, ignore all this and follow the hotel’s instructions.
How to Get to Drake Bay from Uvita: by Car
If you’ve got a solid sense of adventure and have rented a 4×4 car with high ground clearance, you could potentially drive yourself. But keep in mind, barely anyone does, and that’s for a reason.
Route Details and Driving Conditions
Use a navigation app such as Waze to find the optimal route. There are signposts, but they’re not all visible due to overgrown trees and plants.
If you’re considering driving in the rainy season, I strongly advise you to reconsider. The roads near Drake Bay are very bad and don’t have bridges. This means that if it has rained a lot, you’ll have to cross actual rivers.
In the dry season, it should be possible with the correct car. But the trip will take about 3 hours from Sierpe, and not many people drive that road. You might be in a little trouble if you get stuck in mud or anything. It’s unlikely that you will in the dry season, but still.
I also recommend reconsidering if you’re not an experienced driver. And always check if your insurance covers the trip. Many rental agencies do not want you to drive to Drake Bay, and their insurance policies are invalid for the journey.
It’s doable with the right car in the dry season and some driving experience.
Essential Tips for Renting a Car and Driving in Costa Rica
Renting a car allows flexibility. However, the roads in Costa Rica can be challenging, especially during the wet season when river crossings can be hazardous. A 4×4 vehicle is highly recommended, and it’s wise to familiarize yourself with the route and local driving customs. Here are some tips to keep in mind when renting a car and driving in Costa Rica:
- Always rent from reputable companies to avoid any potential scams.
- Book in advance, especially during peak tourist season, to secure a good deal.
- Check the insurance policies carefully before signing any contracts. It’s important to have coverage for all types of roads and conditions.
- Be prepared for unexpected delays and detours, as road conditions can change.
- Keep your vehicle well-maintained and always have a spare tyre and emergency kit in case of any breakdowns. They normally come with the rental.
- Drive defensively and be aware of your surroundings, including pedestrians, unpredictable animals, and reckless drivers.
- Follow all traffic rules and signs, including speed limits, which are strictly enforced in Costa Rica.
- Avoid driving at night as visibility can be poor, and road conditions are often worse.
- Use GPS or a map to navigate, but also be open to asking locals for directions if needed. They are usually very friendly and helpful.
- Be mindful of your belongings and never leave valuables in the car when parked.
How to Get to Drake Bay from Uvita: by Plane
Due to time restrictions, we flew back from Drake Bay to San José. To be honest, I love aeroplanes and found riding in a propellor plane incredibly exciting, which was definitely part of the reasoning.
Flight Options
There are not many options—only one! There are daily flights to San José. This means that if you’re travelling from Uvita, you’d have to make your way to Costa Rica’s capital city first. You can drive, take a public bus for $19, or take a tourist shuttle for $50-$60.
Flying from San José to Drake Bay, or vice versa, turns into a spectacular sightseeing adventure as the small propeller plane gently rises above the landscape. From above, you get a unique perspective on Costa Rica’s stunning coastline, with the iconic Manuel Antonio National Park and the distinctive whale-tail-shaped sandbar of Uvita coming into view.
The contrast of the rainforests against the deep blue Pacific Ocean is a beautiful sight. These flights save time and offer a glimpse of Costa Rica’s enchanting landscapes, making the journey between San José and Drake Bay as memorable as the destination itself.
At the moment of writing, the flights go for $144-$170.
The flight is a scenic 50-minute tour of Costa Rica’s tropical landscape. It’s quick, relatively comfortable, and provides unbeatable views of the forest canopy.
Comparing Transportation Methods
Deciding how to get to Drake Bay from Uvita is not just about modes of transport; it’s about adventure. Each method has its own pros and cons, but the flight definitely wins when it comes to convenience.
Taking public transport and the boat may seem more budget-friendly, but it can take up to 5 hours.
Driving yourself is only for the ones who are very confident in their driving skills, and it’s not an option all year round.
As an aviation enthusiast, I loved the flight, but the boat was a lot more adventurous and budget-friendly.
| Transportation method | Pros | Cons | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| By boat | Cheap, adventurous, pretty | Slightly longer | $30-$76, depending on how you get to Sierpe |
| By air | Quick, great views | Expensive | $144 |
| By car | Very adventurous, your own pace and timeframe | Only in the dry season, need 4X4, experience required | Fuel costs |
Best Choice for Different Types of Travellers
Backpackers often favour boats and buses for the unique experiences they offer, while families may prefer the comfort and convenience of a quicker plane ride. Your choice will depend on your budget, schedule, and, most importantly, your appetite for adventure.
If budget is a concern, opt for public transport and the boat; make sure to plan ahead and be prepared for a longer journey. Those who value convenience and are willing to splurge on a flight will have more time to explore Drake Bay and its surroundings.
Practical Tips for How to Get to Drake Bay from Uvita
Preparation is the key to a successful voyage. There are a few practicalities that can enhance your travel experience. First, it’s important to research the best time of year to travel based on weather conditions. The rainy season can make roads more difficult to navigate.
The weather plays a significant role in planning your trip, especially when your destination is as remote as Drake Bay. The rainy season, often referred to as the green season, spans from May to November. The frequent rains can add an element of unpredictability to your travel plans.
On the flip side, the dry season from December to April presents a starkly different climate. Skies clear up, and rain is a rare visitor, making it the ideal time for travellers who prefer to explore without the interruption of rain. However, it’s worth noting that this is also the peak tourist season.
Next, be sure to book your transportation in advance. This is especially important for flights, as they tend to sell out quickly during peak travel seasons. We had the last spots on the shuttle from Uvita because we had only booked the day before.
If you’re opting for public transport, the journey may take longer but is often more affordable. From Uvita, you can catch a bus to Palmar Norte and then transfer to another bus heading towards Sierpe
Packing Essentials for Drake Bay
Pack light but smart. Sunscreen, a hat, insect repellent, and a waterproof bag for electronics are essentials for all travellers. Packaging travel sickness medication is also recommended, regardless of your chosen mode of travel.
When it comes to clothing, choose items that are quick-drying and breathable. The humidity in Drake Bay can make clothes feel damp. Also, pack a light rain jacket or poncho for unexpected showers. Even in the dry season.
For footwear, comfortable hiking shoes are essential for exploring Drake Bay and Corcovado National Park.
Take long pants and high socks to protect yourself from mosquitos while exploring the National Park. Even a long-sleeved shirt and bug spray are recommended.
Safety and Travel Tips for First-Timers
Costa Rica is a country steeped in culture and safety. Always travel with important documents, keep an eye on local news for any travel advisories, and learn a few basic Spanish phrases—they go a long way in bonding with locals and ensuring a pleasant trip.
It’s also important to respect the environment and avoid leaving any trash behind. This includes not touching or taking anything from the National Park, such as rocks, plants, or animals.
Be cautious when swimming in the ocean and follow warning signs, as strong currents can be dangerous. It’s also recommended that you do not leave valuables unattended on the beach.
Finally, always be aware of your surroundings and trust your instincts. If something doesn’t feel right, your gut is usually right.
Final Thoughts – How to Get to Drake Bay from Uvita
The beauty of travelling to Drake Bay from Uvita is in the diversity of your choices and the adventure. Each mode of transport offers a different perspective and a different entry point into the heart of the tropics. Drake Bay holds the promise of dreams coming true.
It’s a place where you can disconnect from the world and connect with nature. So pack your bags, grab your camera and head out to Drake Bay for an unforgettable experience! Travel safe, travel responsibly, and let the magic of Costa Rica unfold before your eyes.
See you abroad!
