There are many ways to get around the country and I've tried them all!
-Flying
After your international flight to San Jose, Costa Rica get on a regional airline and fly to many different locations. The most popular airline that flys to the most destinations is Sansa Airways.
Being efficient with time can be challenging if the itinery is tightly packed with the many different adventures. Flying is definitely the quickest way to get to where you want to go and getting in and out of airporta is a breeze. I suggest renting a SUV once you get to the regional destination so you are able to drive to other spots freely. I highly recommend a SUV because some roads have more difficult terrain. If you drop your car in a different location make sure the town you are flying from has the rental company dropoff nearby.
Please consider! I can't stress this enough. When taking regional flights, remember, they are smaller planes. Luggage weight limits are usually much lighter than the major national airplanes. Always check the airlines guidelines before booking it.
-Car rental
Renting a SUV is the best way to move freely and enjoying stops along the way. It may be concerning to some who are unsure about how the drive can be in the busy parts of the city, typically San Jose. I have to say it's not for the faint of heart, you have to be a good and aggressive driver. However, there are ways to avoid this.
More rental cars are located on the outside of the city. Preferably on the way towards your desired destination. There are many different places to rent a car from. My top pick is Adobe, with the most locations all around Costa Rica. If you want to drive to your destinations then drop the vehicle off then fly to San Jose you, can do so conveniently. Also Adobe has a great car fleet, so many options to choose from.
My most important suggestion is to get insurance through the car company. Some travel insurances do not cover it and most companies will madate their insurance anyways. Things tend to happen more frequent when driving in unknown places like Costa Rica. If they do you do not want to stress too much about it. If you are traveling to an area where you have to drive through rivers make sure you get a 4x4 with a minimum of 7" of ground clearance. Why I recommend renting a SUV.
One example of driving through a river to my favorite destination Drake Bay, Costa Rica.
-Bus (Tracopa)
Having had to travel around Costa Rica on a budget so I can go to all the places I want while living there. It will take more time but I have some great memories taking the buses! It's a great way to immerse yourself in the culture. Around the Tracopa bus stations I have had some of the best authentic Costa Rican food, inexpensively. It is a great way to meet locals. People have helped get me to the right place and even recommended some of their favorite spots and tours worth your money.
I know it can be taunting to think about having to take the bus around a country you aren't familiar with. Especially if you are unfamiliar with the language, but it's easier than you think. When I land in San Jose I get in a taxi and ask them to go to the Tracopa Bus station before going to the hotel. This way I can buy my bus ticket and know exactly what time I need to be there in the morning. When buying a bus ticket just tell them where you want to go. They may ask directo? (Direct bus) or sometimes if they didn't ask I myself ask them if it's direct.
There isn't always a direct bus to your destination so you will have to get off and go on another bus. You will need to buy another ticket when you arrive at the next stop. You will need to do this quickly after arriving as the next bus is waiting or comes not long after you get there. The ticket will have the time the bus will leave there.
Don't be afraid to ask someone for help if you need it. Most Ticos know at least a little English or will find someone who does. Costa Ricans are so helpful and love when you practice the little Spanish you know. Most people are really patient and kind.
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