The Paquera ferry terminal is more than a dock; it is the hinge between Costa Rica's central Pacific coast and the southern Nicoya Peninsula. The crossing from Puntarenas saves hours of driving and gives a fine view of the gulf on a clear day.
Arrive early with a car in high season, and do not cut onward connections too close. The terminal is functional rather than comfortable, but the crossing itself is one of the more enjoyable public-transport experiences in the country.