Floridafran

Hi, it's me again, still planning.

I've been able to determine from other posts here that it's takes from 1 and a half to 2 hours to make the drive from Dominical to Manuel Antonio. Haven't been able to find a post that tells me how long it takes to get from MA to Nosara via the Friendship Bridge (if this would be the best route) or via the ferry (if this is the better way). Also, I think I saw a post which told how long from MA to the Mal Pais area but I can't find it now. I do recall that the way to go for this the ferry. Whichever we go to, we'll have to stop to see the crocs at Tarcoles.

If the surf is good in Dominical when we leave Pavones we'll stop there for a couple of days. Assuming that's the case, we'll probably only try to go to either Mal Pais or Nosara, but not both. I just don't think we'll have time. So, the difference in travel time between the two could affect our choice.

Thanks for you help - past and present.

Fran

rogerd

Hi Fran,

Manuel Antonio to Nosara is about 6 hours.
I always go via the bridge because I don't like the ferry and having to be there just at the right time or getting there early to wait around to be safe...
It is a little longer but 18 is in great shape and I enjoy the drive.

Have a fun vacation!
Roger
http://www.fun-costa-rica-vacations.com

shillmac

Definitely take the Friendship Bridge to Nosara. The other road up the east coast of the peninsula (from Naranjo where the ferry would take you) is extremely rough. There would be absolutely no benefit to that route whatsoever. I agree it should take between 5 and 6 hours from MA.

MA to Malpais will take you about 5 hours given a 30 min. wait for the ferry. That could very well need a little more time, just depends. Be sure you check ahead at the last minute on the ferry schedule as it tends to change. Also, if you are traveling on a weekend to Malpais, you might expect a longer line at the ferry landing and might need to budget more time.

The difference in travel time between the two surf locations (from MA) will be negligible, I think.

Floridafran

Thanks, rogerd and shillmac.

I had a gut feeling that the bridge would be the way to go if Nosara is our destination. But it's always good to have that confirmed by someone who knows for sure.

A part of me wants to ride that ferry; I love being on the water. If we do head for Mal Pais it will be mid-week. But thanks for the heads up on that, shillmac.

My problem is I need at a month for this trip, not 2 weeks. At least we don't have to spend our first and last nights near the airport.

Fran

shillmac

I know your pain! And if you had a month, you'd need 6 weeks! It's a good problem to have, though, when you choose a world class destination!