We pay it in cash. I believe they also take credit cards but charge it as a cash advance.

I am new to this... how can I know if this tax is included or not? We'll fly American Airlines and join a tour group - if this makes a difference.

We've always had to pay it when we go. I don't think any airlines include it.

We paid the tax at our hotel before leaving. It was added to our bill. This was the SJ Marriott, but I don't know if other hotels will do this.Perhaps someone can answer.

We just flew home from San Jose and had to stand in the departure tax line first-cost $122 for all of us- in cash. Then they give you each a receipt to fill out and that has to be filled out before they let you get in line at your airline to check bags and get your boarding passes. Have a pen with you- lots of people scrambling to find a pen to fill out their forms in line. They check each person to make sure they had the departure tax receipt form.
The departue tax lines moved quickly and there was an ATM right next to it if you were out of cash. They take colones or US dollars and if you used the credit card- it was a cash advance as someone else mentioned.