Visiting the hot springs in Costa Rica is a must for most travelers. The soothing and relaxing springs are a great way to wind down after a day of adventure. These hot springs come in all shapes, sizes and temperatures. Many can be found on resort properties at the Arenal Volcano and Rincon de la Vieja areas.
The best way to experience and enjoy hot springs is to stay at a resort or hotel that offers hot springs on-site. Most people can fully enjoy the thermal waters within a couple of hours. Rather than arranging transportation and dedicating time to visiting off-site hot springs, we highly recommend staying at a hotel with them on-site. This allows you to adventure by day and relax in the evening without the bother of going somewhere else. It also allows you to take advantage of rainy days (this is the rainforest after all!).
The Springs Resort (Arenal Volcano - luxury): Experience pure luxury at The Springs Resort, where breathtaking volcanic views meet world-class amenities. This thermal water oasis boasts stunning infinity pools cascading down a hillside, each filled with naturally heated mineral-rich waters. Indulge in gourmet dining, rejuvenating spa treatments, and thrilling activities like horseback riding and river tubing, all while surrounded by lush rainforest. With its elegant accommodations and world-class service, The Springs Resort promises an unforgettable escape.
Tabacon Thermal Resort & Spa (Arenal Volcano - luxury): Immerse yourself in nature's embrace at Tabacon Thermal Resort & Spa, a pioneer in Costa Rica's hot springs scene. Wander through lush gardens connecting a series of cascading waterfalls and naturally heated pools, each offering a unique therapeutic experience. Indulge in rejuvenating spa treatments inspired by ancient traditions, savor delectable cuisine with locally sourced ingredients, and unwind in luxurious accommodations with rainforest views. Tabacon provides a harmonious blend of relaxation and adventure.
The Nayara Resorts (Arenal Volcano - luxury): Escape to a tropical paradise at The Nayara Resorts (Nayara Gardens, Nayara Springs, and Nayara Tented Camp), a collection of luxurious havens nestled in the heart of Arenal. Choose from three distinct properties, each offering its own unique charm and personalized service. Unwind in private plunge pools fed by natural hot springs in both the Nayara Springs and Nayara tented Camp properties (Nayara Gardens rooms offers private plunge pools that are not fed by hot springs), indulge in gourmet dining experiences, and explore the surrounding rainforest with guided nature walks and thrilling adventures. The Nayara Resorts offer an intimate and unforgettable escape.
Rio Perdido Thermal Springs & Hotel (Guanacaste - upper midrange, entry-luxury): Embark on a wellness journey at Rio Perdido Thermal Springs & Hotel, a secluded sanctuary nestled in a breathtaking canyon. This eco-conscious retreat boasts naturally heated mineral pools, a unique "thermal river" experience, and a variety of adventure activities like canyoning and mountain biking. Reconnect with nature in minimalist-chic bungalows, savor farm-to-table cuisine, and embrace a holistic approach to well-being at Rio Perdido.
Hacienda Guachipelin (Rincon de la Vieja - midrange): Experience authentic Costa Rican hospitality at Hacienda Guachipelín, a working ranch and adventure center with a rich history. Enjoy rustic charm combined with modern comforts in charming accommodations, savor traditional cuisine, and explore the surrounding landscape with horseback riding, waterfall rappelling, and tubing adventures. Unwind in the natural hot springs, surrounded by lush greenery, and discover the true spirit of "pura vida."
Arenal Springs Resort & Spa (Arenal Volcano - upper midrange, entry-luxury): Relax and rejuvenate at Arenal Springs Resort & Spa, a family-friendly oasis with stunning views of Arenal Volcano. Enjoy spacious accommodations, multiple swimming pools, including a dedicated children's area, and on-site activities like yoga and volleyball. Indulge in soothing spa treatments, savor delicious meals with panoramic views, and create lasting memories with your loved ones.
Paradise Hot Springs Thermal Resort (Arenal Volcano - upper midrange): Escape to a tropical paradise at Paradise Hot Springs Thermal Resort, where lush gardens surround naturally heated mineral pools. This intimate retreat offers a variety of pool temperatures to suit your preference, swim-up bars for added enjoyment, and comfortable accommodations with a focus on relaxation. Enjoy peaceful surroundings, delicious dining options, and personalized service at Paradise Hot Springs.
Hotel Royal Corin (Arenal Volcano - entry-luxury): Embrace elegance and comfort at Hotel Royal Corin, a sophisticated resort with breathtaking views of Arenal Volcano. Indulge in thermal pools with varying temperatures, surrounded by lush tropical gardens, and enjoy rejuvenating spa treatments. Savor delectable cuisine in multiple on-site restaurants, unwind in spacious accommodations with modern amenities, and experience the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure.
Arenal Manoa Resort (Arenal Volcano - upper midrange): Discover a tranquil oasis at Arenal Manoa Resort, where lush gardens and tropical pools create a serene atmosphere. Unwind in natural hot springs pools with varying temperatures, enjoy breathtaking views of Arenal Volcano, and indulge in personalized service. Savor delicious meals with locally sourced ingredients, explore the surrounding rainforest with guided tours, and create unforgettable memories in this peaceful haven.
Arenal Kioro Resort (Arenal Volcano - entry luxury): Discover a tranquil oasis at Arenal Manoa Resort, where lush gardens and cascading waterfalls create a serene atmosphere. Unwind in natural hot springs pools with varying temperatures, enjoy breathtaking views of Arenal Volcano, and indulge in personalized service. Savor delicious meals with locally sourced ingredients, explore the surrounding rainforest with guided tours, and create unforgettable memories in this peaceful haven.
Los Lagos Hotel Resort & Spa (Arenal Volcano - midrange): Experience the best of both worlds at Los Lagos Hotel Resort & Spa, where affordability meets natural beauty. This family-friendly resort boasts a sprawling complex with multiple thermal pools, waterslides, and a swim-up bar, all surrounded by lush tropical gardens. Enjoy comfortable accommodations with stunning views of Arenal Volcano, savor delicious meals at on-site restaurants, and explore the surrounding rainforest with exciting activities like horseback riding and ziplining. Los Lagos offers a fun-filled and budget-friendly escape for all ages.
Hotel Montana de Fuego (Arenal Volcano - midrange): Discover a hidden gem nestled in the foothills of Arenal Volcano at Hotel Montana de Fuego. This charming resort offers a tranquil escape with its intimate atmosphere and focus on natural beauty. Unwind in thermal pools surrounded by lush greenery, hike through private trails to discover hidden waterfalls, and enjoy breathtaking views of the volcano from your cozy cabin or spacious suite. With its friendly service and focus on relaxation, Hotel Montana de Fuego provides a peaceful retreat for those seeking a true escape. While it is not a luxurious resort, Montana de Fuego is unique in the sense that it is the only resort in the Arenal Volcano region that offers an all-inclusive plan (select your plan wisely as it is not AI by default).
Baldi Hot Springs & Hotel (Arenal Volcano - midrange): Embark on a thrilling adventure at Baldi Hot Springs & Hotel, where 25 unique thermal pools await. This expansive resort boasts a waterpark atmosphere with exhilarating slides, cascading waterfalls, and swim-up bars, making it perfect for families and groups seeking excitement. Enjoy comfortable accommodations with volcano views, savor international cuisine at on-site restaurants, and explore the surrounding rainforest with activities like horseback riding and ziplining. Baldi Hot Springs offers a dynamic and unforgettable experience for those seeking both relaxation and adventure.
Hotel Silencio del Campo (Arenal Volcano - midrange): Embrace tranquility and rustic charm at Hotel Silencio del Campo, a hidden gem nestled amidst the lush landscapes of Arenal. This family-friendly retreat offers a peaceful escape with its cozy accommodations, expansive gardens, and stunning volcano views. Unwind in naturally heated thermal pools, surrounded by vibrant flora and fauna, and enjoy delicious farm-to-table cuisine at the on-site restaurant. With its focus on sustainability and authentic Costa Rican hospitality, Hotel Silencio del Campo provides a rejuvenating experience for those seeking a connection with nature and a slower pace of life.
Tabacon Hot Springs: Tabacon is by far the most recognized hot springs in Costa Rica. The hot springs are located within the resort property and are fed by the Tabacon River at the base of Arenal Volcano. While the resort does receive a lot of day and night pass visitors, there are many private and secluded sections that provide a natural jungle backdrop. Alternatively, there are common hot spring pool areas near the restaurant and wet bar. Tabacon does sell out frequently, so advance reservations are highly recommended.
Los Perdidos Hot Springs: The Los Perdidos Springs are located at The Springs Resort. This is about 20 minutes from town on a bumpy dirt road, but when you arrive, you arrive at a luxurious resort and hot springs facility. While the landscaping is beautiful, the hot springs at Los Perdidos have more of a man-made feel to them. The pools are of various shapes, sizes, and temperatures. Similar to Tabacon, there are many secluded areas or you can socialize in the larger pool by the bar and spa.
Ecotermales Hot Springs: Ecotermales is the smallest of the public hot springs in the Arenal area. The property only allows 100 visitors at a time, so advance reservations are a must. While there is a small stream, most visitors stay in the pool area. One advantage Ecotermales has over the other public springs is service. The property is run by a local family and they really enjoy what they do.
Baldi Hot Springs: Baldi Hot Springs is the most commercialized of the hot springs in la Fortuna. It is conveniently located near town and offers a reasonable entrance fee. There are 25 different pools of varying sizes and temperatures. They also have a hotel on the property.
Titoku Hot Springs: The Titoku Hot Springs is an affordable small hot springs property located next to Baldi. The facilities include 8 hot spring pools of varying sizes and temperatures. The springs at the top are the hottest and then as the springs cascade down to the lower pools, the temperature decreases in each pool.
Paradise Hot Springs: This is the newest hot springs in La Fortuna. The facilities include 5 hot spring pools and one cool pool for cooling down.
There are also many resorts in the la Fortuna area that offer guests private hot springs. Arenal Springs Resort is our staff favorite with a beautiful hot springs area that is surrounded by lush and colorful tropical gardens. Other hotels in the area with hot springs include Hotel Silencio del Campo, the Royal Corin, Hotel Los Lagos, Hotel Arenal Paraiso, and Arenal Manoa.
Worth noting is El Choyin, which is a free public hot springs river. It is located just below the Tabacon property and is mostly utilized by locals. Visitors should be vigilant with their belongings as petty theft is common there.
There are several hot springs in the Las Pailas section of Rincon de la Vieja National Park. While there is no entrance fee to use the hot springs, visitors must pay the $10 per person entrance fee to the park. Visitors to hot springs in the Rincon de la Vieja area should note that this is a very hot area, with daytime temps usually reaching the low 90s.
Hacienda Guachipelin Hot Springs: Hacienda Guachipelin is an adventure ranch located on the border of the Rincon de la Vieja National Park. The lodge has a hot springs stream running through and they have constructed Jacuzzi-like pools off of the stream so guests can enjoy the springs safely. Visitors can also be painted with volcanic mud prior to using the springs. Day passes to the facilities are available or you can stay at the lodge.
Borinquen Resort: Borinquen Resort offers a large hot spring-fed pool for guests or day pass visitors. This is a nice upscale lodge with a sprawling property near Rincon de la Vieja.
There are many hot springs in the Miravalles Volcano area including a couple of public access hot springs. Rio Perdido is a new hot springs resort in this area. The hot springs river is totally natural and the facilities they have constructed above it are luxurious. The facilities offer day passes and hotel rooms have recently been opened. Similar to Rincon de la Vieja, this is a very hot area.
Tenorio National Park has a few hot springs that feed into the Rio Celeste. While these are generally unmarked, look for rising bubbles in the river and chances are likely you have found a hot spring feeding into it. Update: This section of the park has been closed to the public.
The Hotel Rio Perlas, located in the Cartago area, offers hot spring pools. While it does not provide a natural feel, the waters are indeed hot spring-fed.
As you've explored the diverse and rejuvenating world of Costa Rican hot springs, it's clear that these geothermal wonders offer more than just a relaxing soak. They provide a unique opportunity to connect with nature, revitalize your body and mind, and experience the true essence of "pura vida." While day trips to hot springs offer a taste of these benefits, a true immersion comes from staying at a resort where these therapeutic waters are seamlessly integrated into your experience. Imagine waking up to the sight of steaming pools nestled amidst lush rainforest, spending your days exploring nearby attractions, and returning to unwind in naturally heated waters under a canopy of stars. This is the magic that awaits you at Costa Rica's hot spring resorts, where wellness, adventure, and natural beauty converge to create an unforgettable escape. So, pack your bags, embrace the warmth of "pura vida," and embark on a journey to revitalize your soul in the enchanting hot springs of Costa Rica.
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