This article to is inform you about the best route to drive from Arenal Volcano to the NW Pacific beach of Tamarindo: Best route to drive is go around the north face of Lake Arenal to Tiliran, then to Canas. This is very scenic and takes about 1.5 hours. The road is good in most places with a few areas of pot holes. At Canas you run into highway 1 which is same as Inter American highway. Turn right and head north to Liberia. In Liberia Turn left and go to Filadelfia and then follow the signs to Tamarindo. This road is good. From Canas to Tamarindo is approx 2.5 hours. Looks less on the map but driving distances take longer in Costa Rica.
Ask for a map of Costa Rica when you rent your car.
Don't drive at night. Fill your tank with gas in the towns. Costa Ricans are very nice and helpful so don't hesitate to stop and ask directions if you need additional help.
I keep reading that it takes 5 hours to travel from Tamarindo to
ReplyDeleteArenal. Is this route better? How many hours does it take?
Hi Susie, Depending on weather conditions and road traffic, and conditions of the road. It could take longer from Canas to Tamarindo thatn the 2.5 hours I stated.
ReplyDeleteHowever, still---the route I outlined is the best roads to take and will get you there in the shortest time frame.
Ann
Thanks, I appreciate the suggested route.
ReplyDeleteOK, any other questions fell free to email me. If you have a rental car, Flamingo Beach (not too far from Tamarindo) is a gorgeous beach...I think it is prettier than Tamarindo. Ann
ReplyDeleteHi Ann,
ReplyDeleteMy husband and I along with our two children ages 14 and 15 are arriving in San Juan on Wednesday morning. We are renting a car and driving to Flamingo Resort for 2 nights then Arenal Monao for 2 nights and then downtown san juan for one night. Any suggestions on driving directions would be greatly appreciated.Also suggestions on ziplining tours, horseback riding, atv tours, and local places to eat.
Thank you