Pick-up location
Pick-up date
Drop-off date
4.67/5
Reviews from 1300+ people
Excellent
Trustpilot
Golfito
Mini
Fiat 500 or similar
4
1
3
A/C
Auto
€ 24
per day
Golfito
Economy
Toyota Yaris or similar
5
2
5
A/C
Auto
€ 29
per day
Golfito
Compact
Volkswagen Golf or similar
5
3
5
A/C
Auto
€ 33
per day
Golfito
Intermediate
Skoda Octavia or similar
5
4
5
A/C
Auto
€ 39
per day
The average cost of car rental is €34 per day, with 1,878 vehicles available and an average rental duration of 6 days
Golfito is a beautiful coastal town in Costa Rica, offering stunning natural landscapes and access to incredible attractions. While local transportation options exist, renting a car provides unparalleled flexibility to explore the region at your own pace.
Explore Remote Beaches: Many of Golfito's most pristine beaches are accessible only by car. Renting a vehicle allows you to discover hidden gems and secluded spots that are off the beaten path.
Visit National Parks: Golfito is close to several national parks, including Piedras Blancas National Park. A rental car makes it easy to reach trailheads and explore the diverse ecosystems of the region.
Day Trips to Nearby Towns: With a rental car, you can easily take day trips to nearby towns like Puerto Jiménez or Zancudo, experiencing more of Costa Rica's culture and scenery.
Before booking a rental car in Golfito, ensure you meet the requirements and understand the regulations. Here are some essential details to consider.
Area
Approximately 30 square kilometers (12 square miles)
Population
Approximately 11,000 residents
Time Zone
CST (UTC-6)
Ideal for
Exploring national parks and beaches
Rush Hours
Limited traffic congestion, mostly during school hours
Rating
4.5/5
1. Age RequirementsMost rental companies in Golfito require drivers to be at least 21 years old. Some companies may have additional restrictions or fees for drivers under 25.
2. Driver’s License & DocumentationA valid driver’s license from your country of residence is required. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended for non-Spanish speakers.
3. Insurance & DepositsBasic insurance is usually included, but additional coverage options like collision damage waiver (CDW) are available. A security deposit is required and held on a credit card.
4. Mileage & Fuel PolicyUnlimited mileage is common, but it's always best to confirm. Rental cars typically require returning the car with the same fuel level as when picked up to avoid extra charges.
5. Additional FeesAdditional fees may apply for extras like GPS or child seats. One-way rentals might incur higher costs.
Estimated Daily Prices
Business:
from £40 / $50 / €45 per day
Electric:
from £20 / $25 / €22 per day
Classic:
from £10 / $12 / €11 per day
Executive:
from £30 / $38 / €34 per day
7 Seater:
from £35 / $44 / €40 per day
Automatic:
from £20 / $25 / €22 per day
SUV:
from £12 / $15 / €14 per day
Peak season (December to April): Higher demand, prices increase by 20-30%
Low season (May to November): Discounts and lower prices are often available
*Additional costs may apply for insurance, extra drivers, and one-way rentals. Booking early and comparing offers can help secure the best deal.
To book a car in Golfito, follow these simple steps to ensure a smooth and hassle-free rental experience.
1. Compare Prices - Use comparison websites to find the best deals from various rental companies.
2. Choose the Right Car - Select a vehicle that suits your needs, whether it’s a compact car for city driving or an SUV for rougher terrain.
3. Check Rental Terms - Review mileage limits, insurance coverage, and deposit requirements before booking.
4. Book in Advance - Secure lower prices and better availability by booking early, especially during peak seasons.
5. Pick Up Your Car - Bring your driver’s license, credit card, and passport when collecting your rental.
Golfito is a charming town known for its duty-free shopping, lush rainforests, and access to the Golfo Dulce. Exploring the area by car provides the freedom to discover its hidden gems.
As a port town in southern Costa Rica, Golfito offers a unique blend of natural beauty and local culture. While Golfito itself is relatively small, having a car allows you to explore the surrounding areas, including national parks and beaches. Driving in Golfito is generally straightforward, but it’s important to be aware of local traffic regulations and road conditions.
Top Attractions to Discover
Golfito National Wildlife Refuge
A protected area with diverse wildlife and hiking trails.
Golfo Dulce
A stunning gulf perfect for boating and fishing.
Duty-Free Zone
A shopper's paradise with various goods available at reduced prices.
Where to Find Parking
Public Parking Areas
Available near the town center and duty-free zone.
Street Parking
Can be found throughout the town, but pay attention to any restrictions.
Hotel Parking
Many hotels offer free parking for their guests.
Gas Stations in Golfito
Main Brands
Gas stations like RECOPE are available in and around Golfito.
Refueling Tips
Ensure you have enough fuel for longer trips, as gas stations can be sparse in remote areas.
Payment Options
Most stations accept both cash and credit cards.
Useful Tips for Visiting Golfito
Use GPS Navigation
Helpful for navigating unfamiliar roads and finding attractions.
Watch for Wildlife
Be cautious of animals crossing the road, especially in rural areas.
Allow Extra Time
Roads can be winding, so allow extra time for travel.
Check Road Conditions
Some roads may be unpaved, especially in remote areas.
Airports
Golfito Airport (GLF)
A small domestic airport serving flights to San José and other destinations in Costa Rica.
Bus Stations
Golfito Bus Terminal
Offers connections to various towns and cities in Costa Rica.
Ports
Golfito Port
A cruise ship port and a center for maritime activities.
Renting a car in Costa Rica is a straightforward process. Here’s what you’ll need to ensure a smooth rental experience in Golfito.
A valid driver’s license from your country of residence is required. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended for non-Spanish speakers.
Most car rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old. Some may charge extra fees for drivers under 25.
A valid credit or debit card in the main driver’s name is necessary for the security deposit. Some companies may only accept credit cards.
You'll need to provide a passport or other form of identification for verification.
This content was written, fast-checked, and/or translated by our expert team of content creators.
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This page was edited, fast-checked, and/or translated by our experts which are passionate about helping travelers experience the world by car. CarTravelers team of seasoned travel writers and editors has driven across more than 50 countries, rented cars on six continents, and explored countless scenic routes — from Icelandic fjords to Moroccan deserts.
Our clients rate such place as Golfito as
Because we want to make sure each review listed here is left by a real customer, we don’t have the option to post a review here. Instead, we ask each and every customer to leave a review after they return their rental car. This way, you know that all reviews are authentic.
Meh. Mosquitoes were brutal.
Chad Thompson
Reviewed: 30.12.2024
Exploring Golfito by car was amazing! The wildlife was incredible, though the beach restaurants were a little pricey.
Amelia Jones
Reviewed: 15.08.2024
Relaxing, low-key vibe.
Kevin Garcia
Reviewed: 18.10.2024
Okay, but kinda dead.
Jessica Wilson
Reviewed: 09.12.2024
Quick weekend getaway to Golfito was fantastic! Having a car made exploring so easy. Beautiful beaches and lush scenery.
David Lee
Reviewed: 19.04.2025
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Golfito was perfect! Easy car rental, relaxing beaches, pura vida.
Sarah Miller
Reviewed: 04.10.2024