Costa Careyes doesn’t have its own airport, and there’s no shuttle service that runs to it — getting here takes a bit more planning than a typical beach destination, but it’s straightforward once you know the two real options.
Manzanillo (ZLO) — the shorter drive
Manzanillo International Airport is the closest option, roughly a 1.5-hour drive from Careyes. It has fewer flight routes than Puerto Vallarta, so it’s worth checking whether your departure city connects here before booking.
Puerto Vallarta (PVR) — more flights, longer drive
Puerto Vallarta International Airport has significantly more flight options and connections, at the cost of a longer drive — roughly 3 hours south along Highway 200. For many travelers, the wider flight availability makes up for the extra time in the car.
Getting from the airport to the villa
There’s no shuttle service to Careyes from either airport. Renting a car is the most common approach, and it’s worth noting that taxis based in the Careyes community only operate until 6:00pm, so a rental gives you flexibility a taxi won’t. Major rental companies operate out of both ZLO and PVR. A private driver is the other standard option for guests who’d rather not drive themselves — let us know if you’d like help arranging one.
Flying in privately
For guests arriving by private aircraft, the Chamela airstrip (CHM31) is about 15 minutes from Careyes.
Planning your trip
Whichever airport you fly into, plan for the drive as part of your travel day rather than an afterthought — especially arriving PVR side, where 3 hours can stretch depending on traffic through Puerto Vallarta itself. Browse the Costa Careyes villa collection or reach out and we can help you plan arrival logistics around your specific villa.
