The 5 Best Hot Spring Resorts in Costa Rica

No trip to Costa Rica is complete without a dip in one of the geo-thermal hot springs! Mount Arenal and the surrounding La Fortuna area is already a top tourist destination in Costa Rica due to their coffee tours, lush rainforests, abundant wildlife and many hidden waterfalls. But thanks to the natural volcanic heating of the water underground, there are numerous thermal hot springs that can take your stay here to a whole new level! I’m talking sipping fruity drinks at a heated swim up bar, or going for a secluded and romantic post-dinner dip! Not only are the springs relaxing and rejuvenating, but the high mineral content of the water eases aches and pains-perfect for soothing sore muscles after a day’s worth of adventure activities. Whether you’re looking for a luxury overnight resort experience, or just a day-pass to see what all the hype is about-here are the best hot springs around the La Fortuna/Mount Arenal area of Costa Rica!

Getting To La Fortuna, Costa Rica

From either Liberia airport or San Jose International, La Fortuna is approximately a 3 hour drive on windy mountain roads. While the roads are paved, if you plan on renting a car a 4-wheel drive is recommended. 

You can get a private shuttle to the area for around $200 or hop on a direct bus from San Jose to La Fortuna.

Tabacon Thermal Resort and Spa

For the best hot springs resort in Costa Rica, look no further than Tabacon Thermal Resort and Spa. This resort sits at the base of the Arenal Volcano, where the underground Tabacon River provides fresh (and hot!) running water and natural circulation for all of their thermal pools. Upon arrival, you’ll be handed a welcome drink and whisked away to change into a robe. Don’t worry about your luggage, they will take care of that, and head straight for the thermal baths. The pools get increasingly warmer the closer you get towards the volcano. Grab a Pina Colada at the warm swim-up bar and from there make your way through the rainforest as you try each individual thermal pool! One of my favorite parts about this resort was the gorgeous adults-only Shangri-La Gardens area containing some of the best (and warmest) hot spring pools as well as comfy daybeds (open to hotel guests only). The food here was also incredible.

Pro tip: even on the day you checkout, you still have all day access to the thermal baths and they will store your luggage! So worth the splurge.

Day Pass Rate for non-hotel guests: $95/adult (includes lunch)

The Royal Corin Thermal Water Spa and Resort

Sitting at the foot of the Arenal volcano, you’ll find the Royal Corin Thermal Water Spa & Resort tucked away among the dense rainforest. Each room has a view of the volcano or the hot spring pools from the balcony, which is amazing. You’ll want to head to the volcanic steam sauna, which has cracks in the floor to hear and smell the boiling hot spring below! There is also a swim-up bar to indulge in and it doesn’t get quite as crowded as Tabacon. 

Day pass rate for non-hotel guests: $45/adult

The Springs Resort

The Springs Resort in La Fortuna certainly lives up to its name, with more than 19 thermal pools and some of the best volcano views in all of Costa Rica! This luxe resort is a bit more family friendly than Tabacon, with a designated kids area and many other adventure activities on site like horseback riding, zip-lining and tubing. They have an award winning on-site spa where you can get volcanic clay facials or body wraps. 

Day pass rate for non-hotel guest: $68/adult (includes lunch)

 

Hotel Arenal Kioro

Just ten minutes outside of La Fortuna, Hotel Arenal Kioro sits on 27 acres of rolling countryside and is known as one of the more serene thermal spas. The hotel has its own hot springs to soak in, plus they offer a free shuttle and entry to the well known Titokú hot springs. It is a much more secluded area, perfect for those wishing to avoid crowds, especially in high season. Make sure to experience their Bath Ritual at the hotel spa, where you can unwind in a private petal-filled tub, infused with milk and honey!

Day pass rate for Titoku: $58/adult (includes lunch)

Baldi Hot Springs Resort and Spa

Located right in the middle of town, this 3-star hot springs resort is a beautiful budget friendly option. With 25 natural thermal baths to choose from, 2 on-site restaurants, spa and kid friendly waterpark, this resort is definitely geared a bit more towards entertainment. If it’s a party you want, it’s a party you’ll get. 

Day pass rate: $36/adult 

 

Honorable Mention

If you’re looking for hot springs only with no attached resort consider Eco Termales La Fortuna. This intimate facility puts a huge focus on guest experience. They only allow a certain number of people into their baths each day so that it will never feel over-crowded. This is the perfect spot for couples seeking tranquility, since the pools are surrounded by lush fauna and teeming wildlife. They also have a delicious on-site restaurant and swim up bar if you’re in the mood for a cocktail.

Day pass rate: $44/adult or $72 including lunch or dinner

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