What You Need to Know About the Tarcoles Bridge Construction and Central Pacific Travel Upgrades
Will Construction Delay Your Dream of Coastal Living?
Buying or investing in property in Costa Rica’s Central Pacific—Jaco, Hermosa, Esterillos, or Los Sueños—usually means one of the most scenic drives in the country. But in 2025 and 2026, infrastructure upgrades, especially around the Tárcoles Bridge, are temporarily affecting travel times.
If you’re planning visits, property tours, or moving logistics, here’s what you need to know—and how to plan smart.
What’s Happening with the Tárcoles Bridge?
The famous Tárcoles Bridge (Route 34)—also known as the Crocodile Bridge—is undergoing a major safety and structural upgrade.
Key facts:
- Duration: Now through mid–2026
- Current impact: One-lane traffic 24/7 with long delays during peak hours
- Why it matters: This is the main route from San José to the entire Central Pacific coastline
This project ensures long-term safety and reliability for the region’s growing tourism and real estate traffic. While delays are frustrating now, this work is essential for the Central Pacific’s future.
What to Expect for Travel Times
On a normal day, San José to Jaco takes about 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on your exact destination.
During construction:
- Add 30–60+ minutes, especially during weekends or rush hours
- Nighttime closures (9pm–5am) may cause full stops or detours
- Popular routes like Route 34 may experience backups of several kilometers
Tips to Travel Smart
Whether you’re flying in for a property tour or heading to your vacation home, these local travel strategies help:
Travel Tips
- Avoid peak hours: Travel early morning (before 6am) or mid-morning
- Check real-time traffic: Use Waze or Google Maps
- Monitor MOPT updates: Costa Rica’s road authority posts nightly closure alerts
- Book ahead: Plan arrival or property showings with buffer time
- Stay nearby: Consider overnighting in Jaco to beat next-day traffic
Costa Rica is investing in long-term access to its most iconic coastal zones—and that includes the roads leading to your future investment or dream home.
At REMAX Oceanside Realty, we guide you through more than just the property search—we help you navigate the journey here.
Want local travel advice or to schedule a visit around construction windows? We’ll help you plan your tour with precision.
