La Fortuna, home to Arenal Volcano, is one of the most popular destinations in Costa Rica. Outside La Fortuna Town around Arenal Volcano, there are many natural thermal waters and hotels with hot springs. Besides relaxing in the hot pools, Arenal thermal waters are famous for their curative properties. Some spa hotels blend into the lush tropical vegetation with naturally flowing waters. Based on guest reviews, we’ll highlight the top suites at each property with thermal baths and pools. Suitable for couples and families, here are the best La Fortuna Hotels with hot springs.
1. Nayara Gardens
Naraya Gardens is a jungle oasis filled with luxurious foliage and colorful birds. Deluxe rooms, or private bungalows, all have a two-person hot tub on a private terrace with views of Arenal Volcano. Even better, however, is their luxury suite with a private pool. There’s no jacuzzi, but you can step out of your bedroom into an infinity plunge pool overlooking the jungle. The unique hexagonal shape also fills the room with natural light. For dining, you’ll love the al-fresco La Terraza Del Arenal restaurant for its gourmet twist on Costa Rica flavors. At Nostalgia, there are Tapas with the best of old and new world wines. With beautiful tropical gardens surrounding the property, you’ll love the thermal hot springs here.
- Guest Reviews: Superb! We had a suite with a private pool which was extremely luxurious, and beautifully put together.
- Star Rating: 5 stars
- Best Rooms: Suite with private pool
- Address: La Palma Carretera 142, 61001 Fortuna, Costa Rica
2. Amor Arenal
Amor Arenal is a forest retreat that leaves no relaxation to chance. You can start with a terrace jacuzzi tub in your Canyon Casita or traditional wood cabin. Then, there’s the hot spring swim up bar, and to cool off there’s the adjacent mineralized pool. For more private moments, head to the smaller retreat pool. At El Rancho you can try international cuisine with Latin fusions, or Tico Grill for more authentic local flavors. Produce is all organic and meats are from grass-fed and cage-free animals. There’s more relaxation to be had at the Rainforest spa or you can find yourself on the meditation deck. The retreat is only a 7-minute drive to Kalambu Hot Springs, and there are some lovely nature trails to top off your stay.
- Guest Reviews: It exceeded my expectations. Such a nice, relaxing trip. We loved our private hot tub.
- Star Rating: 5 stars
- Best Rooms: Canyon casita
- Address: 7 km west of downtown La Fortuna on Route 142 on the way to Arenal Volcano National Park, 21007 Fortuna, Costa Rica
3. Nayara Springs
Naraya Springs is an adults-only boutique that is connected to Naraya Gardens Hotel. Each private suite has a thermal jacuzzi pool fed by natural spring water. There is also an additional large outdoor pool and a luxury spa. The spa won’t leave you short of choice and it uses locally grown chocolate, coffee, and volcanic mud. Even more satisfying than the spa are the exquisite dining locations. Amor Loco stands out for its local cuisine blended with a twist of Japanese and French fusion. For an evening of fine dining, Mis Amores will take you on a tour of Italian cuisine. Resident sloths can also be seen on casual nature walks.
- Guest Reviews: The scenery is outstanding. Truly immersed. The staff makes you feel like you’re the only guest.
- Star Rating: 5 stars
- Best Rooms: Springs villas
- Address: La Palma Carreterra 142, 21007 Fortuna, Costa Rica
4. Tabacón Thermal Resort & Spa
Tabacón is a luxury spa resort with hot spring baths, sauna, massage, spa treatments, and five swimming pools. The resort also includes Costa Rica’s largest network of naturally flowing hot springs. There are 45 rooms and suites in a crisp, clean, and simple modern décor. For couples, the Honeymoon suite will be perfect. You’ll love the balcony soaking tub looking directly towards Arenal Volcano. At night, dine at Tucanes for gourmet a la carte, but a great treat is the seven-course flavors of Costa Rica journey. There is also private dining and four different bars to choose from. Bosque tapas bar does tantalizing local cocktails, but Shangri La Gardens has a more filling snack menu.
- Guest Reviews: Great breakfast buffet, thermal springs, and spa. Incredibly relaxing stay.
- Star Rating: 5 stars
- Best Rooms: Honeymoon suite
- Address: 13 km oeste del centro de La Fortuna de San Carlos, Alajuela Costa Rica, 21007 Fortuna, Costa Rica
5. Hotel El Silencio del Campo
El Silencio del Campo is a little closer to La Fortuna and it has lovely landscaped gardens. Basic chalets have two large double beds while Romantic chalets have one extra-large double. The Romantic villa with a hot tub is much the same size but has a jacuzzi tub in the bathroom. The largest room, the Family chalet, has a double bed and two singles. Key attractions are the hotel’s rocky hot spring pools and the spa which uses natural organic treatments. The hotel has an organic farm and guests are invited to meet the animals or roam the vegetable fields. You will love Papiro restaurant for its delicious organic and sustainable meals.
- Guest Reviews: Lovely cascading hot spring pools, and good breakfast options. The on-site farm was a big hit with the kids.
- Star Rating: 3 stars
- Best Rooms: Romantic villa with hot tub
- Address: from Catholic church 5 km northwest, the road to Volcano National Park, main street right-hand side, 21007 Fortuna, Costa Rica
6. Hotel Arenal Springs Resort & Spa
Hotel Arenal Springs is a spacious resort with lovely landscaped lawns. The most basic rooms are Junior suites which will be sufficient for couples. If you’re traveling in a group, the master suite has two bedrooms and two sofa beds in the lounge. The main room has a stone thermal spa bath and an ensuite jacuzzi tub. Outside on the main premise, there are large thermal pools and a jungle-like ‘river’ with limestone beds. Their most popular restaurant is Sakana for its delectable sushi rolls. The Italian restaurant is worth trying too paired with their Chilean and Argentinian wines. If you want to relax to the max, head to Natria Spa and book their honeymoon packages.
- Guest Reviews: Amazing hot spring pools with great swim-up bar. The bedroom was very comfortable.
- Star Rating: 4 stars
- Best Rooms: Master suite
- Address: 7 km west of La Fortuna on the way to Arenal Volcano, 60503 Fortuna, Costa Rica
7. The Springs Resort & Spa at Arenal
The Springs Resort & Spa is further outside La Fortuna across the Arena River. It’s a true luxury resort with cascading hot springs, suites with private thermal pools, and exclusive villas. Their 5-bedroom Villa Palacio has a 50-foot pool and a 12-person hot tub. Closer to the hub, The Honeymoon or Vista Grande suite has a deck jacuzzi with full views of Arena Volcano. It also has a 9-hole putting green, basketball court, bocce court, ping pong, darts, and an organic farm maze. The best thing about the resort is its Club Rio Adventure Center. It has onsite river tubing, kayaking, horseback riding, rock climbing, and water slides. For dining, they have plenty of options onsite including Las Vetanas and Treetop Grill.
- Guest Reviews: We loved the gorgeous grounds, hot springs pools, and amazing mountain views.
- Star Rating: 5 stars
- Best Rooms: Villa palace
- Address: 9 kilometers west and 3.5 kilometers north of downtown Fortuna, 21007 Fortuna, Costa Rica
8. The Royal Corin Thermal Water Spa & Resort
Royal Carin is a spa resort with luxury rooms and suites. The Master suite is the largest and, like the Junior suite, it has balcony views of Arenal volcano. You can also relax in your hydro-massage bath with a TV. Onsite, the resort has two hot spring pools, 4 hot spring jacuzzies, and two with waterfalls. For more downtime head to Loto Spa, especially for the thermal water steam sauna. Lava restaurant on the 5th floor is the best location for scenic views. Or try the fine dining at Emperador, specializing in gluten-free and low-calorie cuisine. The informal Lobby Bar is nice, but the pool wet bar, Basalto, is where most guests relax during the day.
- Guest Reviews: The lush landscaping was absolutely breathtaking, and the hot thermal pools and swim-up bars were fantastic.
- Star Rating: 5 stars
- Best Rooms: Master suite
- Address: 4.2 km west from the Catholic church, road to Arenal Volcano, 21007 Fortuna, Costa Rica
9. Arenal Manoa Resort & Hot Springs
Arenal Manoa is one of the more affordable thermal hot springs resorts with a range of rooms. The Junior suites are in simple colonial style while the Superior suites are more modern. If you want the best room, book the Premium suite with spa bath. They also have a spacious terrace with views of Arena Volcano. The resort has two hot spring pools, a common jacuzzi, and a swim-up bar. For a proper meal, La Saca restaurant has flavors from around the world and a great selection of old and new-world wine. Alambique Bistro, however, is the best place for sizzling wood-fired pizzas.
Guest Reviews: The private patio had a view of the volcano. Lovely pool, hot tub, and volcanic hot spring. Breakfast was amazing.
- Star Rating: 4 stars
- Best Rooms: Suite with spa bath
- Address: La Fortuna San Carlos, 21007 Fortuna, Costa Rica
10. Chachagua Rainforest Hotel & Hot Springs
Chachagua is a charming resort with a number of terraced thermal pools. Their bungalows all have wood interiors offset with bright colors and raised terraces among the trees. For romantic couples, have a look at the Master suite which has a terrace jacuzzi spa. If you’re staying with friends, the two-bedroom villa with a private pool is the best option. In-house activities such as the coffee and cocoa workshop, daily nature tour, and forest night walk are well worth it. Or, you take yourself on walking trails to waterfalls, streams, and ponds. For dining, Colibri restaurant serves homely Costa Rican foods with ingredients from their organic garden.
- Guest Reviews: Stunning surroundings, felt amazing being immersed in nature. Loved the hot springs and friendly staff.
- Star Rating: 4 stars
- Best Rooms: Two bedroom villa
- Address: 2 Km. west from San Rafael de Penas Blancas, San Ramon Alajuela, 15 Km from Fortuna downtown, 20108 Fortuna, Costa Rica
11. Hotel Arenal Kioro Suites & Spa
Arenal Kioro is a fairly modern resort with a classic contemporary style. They have large suites with floor-to-ceiling windows. All their rooms have hydro-massage tubs by the window too so you could easily spend hours staring at the volcano. Outside, they have thermal water flowing into separate rock pools. A free shuttle to Titokú Hot Springs is also available where Kioro guests get free entry too. If you need more downtime, try the body treatments at Neiden Spa. And for dining, they have a delicious international menu at their onsite venues Heliconias and Orquídeas.
- Guest Reviews: The beds are very comfortable and the rooms are extremely spacious. The hot springs were spectacular.
- Star Rating: 5 stars
- Best Rooms: Suite
- Address: 10km Carretera al Volcan de la Fortuna, 50201 Fortuna, Costa Rica
12. Paradise Hot Springs
Paradise Hot Springs is nothing too fancy, but comfortable all the same. Most guest spend their time in the outdoor thermal pools and swim-up bar. The thermal waters are as good a quality as anywhere else in La Fortuna but less crowded. A notable feature is the nice range of affordable room options. Some of the suites have private pools or hot tubs, ideal for romantic stays. If you want to get out and about, the front desk can organize tours for you. Kalambu Hot Springs is just a 5-minute walk from the property though so you may not need any tours.
- Guest Reviews: Peaceful stay in the thermal pools. Enjoyed the cocktails in the pool bar. The breakfast was excellent.
- Star Rating: 4 stars
- Best Rooms: Villa
- Address: 142 4.8km northwest downtown Fortuna, 21007 Fortuna, Costa Rica
13. Los Lagos Spa & Thermal Resort Experience
Los Lagos is a cheap option for a spa hotel and comes with a few fun things to do. You’ll enjoy the small thermal hot spring pools with hydro-massage. There are also two water slides, one passing through a tunnel before splashing into the main pool. For young kids, there is a small ‘volcano’ swimming pool, and for adults, there’s the spa. Nearby, there is a forest zip line and you can organize horse rides too. The Superior room is the most spacious and sleeps up to four people. At the restaurant, there are local dishes, pizza, burgers, and other foods, but the pool wet bar is the most popular place.
- Guest Reviews: The view of the volcano was outstanding! Got a lot of pictures of birds, including a toucan.
- Star Rating: 3 stars
- Best Rooms: Superior room
- Address: 6 km west of Parque Central, 21007 Fortuna, Costa Rica
14. Baldi Hot Springs Hotel & Spa
Baldi Hot Springs is a popular choice for day-trippers and has around 25 thermal pools of varying temperatures. It has waterslides, activities suitable for children, and nicely landscaped gardens. Hotel rooms are a bit dated and things have been in need of an upgrade. If you want to stay as a couple, the Junior Suite is the best choice. Although their rooms can be reconfigured to fit extra guests. Apart from thermal pools, you can also book in for a massage or the sauna. The four on-site restaurants and four bars (including a swim-up bar) will provide plenty of variety. Ristorante Virgita is quite popular with Italian and Costa Rican dishes.
- Guest Reviews: Good location and fun hot pools. Food could be better.
- Star Rating: 5 stars
- Best Rooms: Suite
- Address: La Fortuna San Carlos, 50432 Fortuna, Costa Rica
Best Areas To Stay in La Fortuna
- Arenal – Arenal refers to the area surrounding Arenal Volcano in the north of Costa Rica. It is one of the most popular tourist areas largely accessed via La Fortuna town and airport. It’s famous for its hot spring resorts. Popular activities include exploring Arenal Volcano National Park, hiking to La Fortuna Waterfall, river rafting, horseback riding, and other outdoor activities. Out of all the luxury resorts, Nayara Springs and Nayara Gardens are the most highly rated by guests.
- La Fortuna Town – There are no hot springs in La Fortuna Town, but it’s a good base for exploring the Arenal area. In La Fortuna Town you can get more budget accommodations in addition to higher-end. There are plenty of restaurants, shopping, and nightlife compared to limited options at a hot spring resort. Many hot spring resorts accept day visitors and you join numerous tours leaving from La Fortuna or hire a car.
Best Places To See In La Fortuna
Besides hot spring hotels, La Fortuna is surrounded by natural beauty. Here are some of the top places to visit in the area.
- Mistico Arenal Hanging Bridges Park – This beautiful park is home to eight suspension bridges that offer stunning views of the Arenal Volcano, lush rainforest, and abundant wildlife. Guided tours are available to learn more about the park’s flora and fauna. (Official site)
- La Fortuna Waterfall – This 70-meter waterfall is one of the most popular attractions in La Fortuna. You can take a short hike through the lush rainforest to reach the base of the waterfall. When you get there, make sure you go for a refreshing swim in the natural pool.
- Arenal Volcano – This iconic volcano is one of the main attractions in La Fortuna. Although it is currently in a resting phase, visitors can still take a guided tour to learn about the volcano’s history and geology.
- Kalambu Hot Springs – In addition to the many hotels with hot springs, visitors can also visit Kalambu Hot Springs. This is a water park that features several thermal pools, waterslides, and other fun activities for all ages. Baldi Hot Springs Hotel & Spa and Paradise Hot Springs are within walking distance.
- Arenal Natura Ecological Park – This ecological park offers a unique opportunity to observe and learn about Costa Rica’s wildlife. Take a guided tour to see sloths, monkeys, birds, snakes, and other animals in their natural habitat. Nayara Gardens and Nayara Springs are the closest hotels to this park.
- Bogarin Trail – This nature reserve offers a peaceful escape from the crowds and noise of the touristy areas. Take a self-guided hike through the forest and enjoy the serenity and beauty of the surroundings.
Best Time To Visit La Fortuna
The best time to visit La Fortuna is the peak dry season from December through April. Temperatures can range between 75-85°F (or 24-29°C). The hottest months are February to April when temperatures can reach 88˚F (31˚C). So dipping into hot springs might not be a good idea. The cheapest time to fly is August into November, while the wet season from May to November is the cheapest for bookings and rentals. If you want the rare chance to see a quetzal bird, they tend to be more visible between May and November.
Cheapest La Fortuna Hotels With Hot Springs
Arenal Manoa Resort & Hot Springs
Here are some of the cheapest hotels in La Fortuna with hot springs:
- Los Lagos Spa & Thermal Resort Experience – This hotel has pools, natural hot springs, and a wet bar. Room rates start from $120 USD
- Paradise Hot Springs – You’ll enjoy the underwater beds in their hot springs. Room rates start from $200 USD
- Arenal Manoa Resort & Hot Springs – This hotel has 2 hot spring pools, a hot tub, and a swim up bar. Room rates start from $210 USD
It’s important to note that prices can vary depending on the season and availability. Before booking, check the websites for the most up-to-date information.
Best La Fortuna Hotels With Hot Springs For Families
Three-Bedroom Premier Suite at The Springs Resort & Spa at Arenal
- Hotel Arenal Springs Resort & Spa – The best deal for families is the master suite. It has two separate bedrooms and you’ll find a lovely rock-formed hot tub in the master bedroom. In the lounge, there are two sofa beds so the suite can sleep up to 6 people.
- The Springs Resort & Spa at Arenal – The Springs Resort is one of the best resorts for families. There are two and three-bedroom luxury villas and suites. Compared to other resorts, they have the most onsite activities, especially for kids.
Best La Fortuna Hotels With Hot Springs For Couples
Villas at Nayara Springs
- Nayara Gardens – Nayara Gardens is a jungle paradise with private bungalows. Each bungalow has a two-person hot tub and a private terrace while the villa has an infinity plunge pool. You can enjoy hot spring pools, a luxury spa, or romantic garden walks. Dine al-fresco or take your time over tapas.
- Nayara Springs – Nayara Springs, connected to Nayara Gardens, is an adults-only boutique spa. Each luxury suite has a jacuzzi tub with fresh thermal water. Dining choices range from Mediterranean fare, Costa Rican fused with Japanese and French, to fine Italian dining. Their spa also has one of the best selections of treatments.
Local Tips For Visiting La Fortuna Hot Springs
- Bring a Towel – Although most hot springs hotels provide towels, it’s always a good idea to bring your own. This way, you can use it to dry off after soaking in the hot springs. You can also use it to cover up your bathing suit when walking around the hotel.
- Wear Water Shoes – The hot springs can be slippery, so wearing water shoes or sandals with good grip is recommended. This will also protect your feet from getting burned on hot surfaces.
- Stay Hydrated – Soaking in hot springs can be dehydrating, so make sure to drink plenty of water before and after your soak. Most hotels provide water stations, but it’s always a good idea to bring a refillable water bottle.
- Go Early or Late – To avoid crowds, try to visit the hot springs early in the morning or late in the afternoon. Many hotels also offer evening hours, which can be a great time to soak under the stars.
- Check for Special Deals – Some hotels offer special deals on their hot springs admission. Check their website or inquire at the front desk. For example, Hotel Arenal Kioro offers free entry to Titokú Hot Springs.
La Fortuna Hot Springs Hotels Map
Find More Hot Spring Hotels in La Fortuna
Best La Fortuna Rooms
| La Fortuna Hot Spring Hotels | Best Rooms |
| Nayara Gardens | Suite with private pool |
| Amor Arenal | Canyon casita |
| Nayara Springs | Springs villas |
| Tabacon Thermal Resort & Spa | Honeymoon suite |
| Hotel El Silencio del Campo | Romantic villa with hot tub |
| Hotel Arenal Springs Resort & Spa | Master suite |
| The Springs Resort & Spa at Arenal | Villa palace |
| The Royal Corin Thermal Water Spa & Resort | Master suite |
| Arenal Manoa Resort & Hot Springs | Suite with spa bath |
| Chachagua Rainforest Hotel & Hot Springs | Two bedroom villa |
| Hotel Arenal Kioro Suites & Spa | Suite |
| Paradise Hot Springs | Villa |
| Los Lagos Spa & Thermal Resort Experience | Superior room |
| Baldi Hot Springs Hotel & Spa | Suite |
