Best hot springs in Arenal Volcano National Park: our top tips

For over two hundred years, people have sought relief and remedies in the mineral-rich waters of Costa Rica’s hot springs, especially Arenal Volcano National Park hot springs. Isn’t it time you joined them? You’ll discover that each has its own character — from romance and luxury, to budget-friendly and adventurous options  — in our overview of the best hot springs in Arenal Volcano National Park.

What are the best hot springs in Arenal Volcano National Park?

Several hot springs line the road linking Arenal and La Fortuna, the small town that serves as the gateway to Arenal National Park. 

Given that visiting this park is one of the best things to do in Costa Rica, you'll want to give serious thought to including it in your itinerary, along with visiting the best hot springs in Arenal Volcano National Park.

They're all fed by thermally heated underground streams in several locations in the area. While some are situated within resorts, like Ecotermales Fortuna, and open to non-guests for a fee, others can be visited independently, for free.

Looking for a short but fulfilling holiday in Costa Rica? Take inspiration from our 7 days in Costa Rica itinerary.

1. Ecotermales Hot Springs

Location: 4km west of La Fortuna

When is comes to hot springs in Arenal Volcano National Park with epic views, Ecotermales Fortuna is hard to beat.

Fronted by imposing wooden gates, this exclusive-looking place has five cascading thermal pools of varying temperatures set in idyllic forested surrounds. 

That said, it's stylishly low-key. Only 100 people are allowed in during any of the allotted times, so be sure to book ahead in high season. 

While there’s no volcano view from the pools, the rainforest setting more than makes up for it.

The water temperature reaches a toasty 42°C. When you’re suitably replenished by the hot springs, enjoy a meal in Ecotermales Fortuna’s homey restaurant.

Seeking more adventure? Read up on the best Arenal volcano hikes, and the best hikes in Costa Rica.

2. Ro Chollin Free Hot Springs

Location: 12km west of La Fortuna

You may hear Ro Chollin described by travellers as a “secret” hot spring. In truth, this beautiful creek is the worst-kept secret in Costa Rica. It’s as popular with locals as it is with tourists. But don’t let that deter you. 

Accessing Ro Chollin requires a short walk down a cement path. The wide, balmy river varies in water temperature along the route – in some of the pools the water reaches 40°C.

The creek is a favourite with families, as there are shallow areas close to a wall. You can hike through the water upriver to find more warm pools, surrounded by boulders.

Insider tip: visit the creek early in the morning to beat the crowds and, as the river has a stony bed, it's a good idea to wear water shoes.

3. Baldi Hot Springs Resort and Spa

Location: 4km west of La Fortuna

This large, family-friendly property – featuring 25 thermal pools – is perfect for those looking for a lively atmosphere. Take a stroll around tropical gardens and enjoy an a la carte restaurant and a full-service spa. Of course, the highlight is the water, and the resort’s 25 thermal pools are certified by Costa Rica’s National Water Laboratory.

Fancy a moonlit dip? One of the pools, reserved for hotel guests only, is open 24/7. The pools are themed; highlights include the Roman baths and a swim-up sports bar. 

Meanwhile, if you're visiting Costa Rica with kids, they're bound to love the spacious play area and water slides.

4. National Hot Springs at Los Lagos Hotel

Location: 6km west of La Fortuna.

Check into a tropical hotel situation right beside Arenal Volcano and indulge in the natural hot springs, a luxury spa and scenic volcanic views. Los Lagos offers more than just relaxation. 

Nature lovers will lose hours exploring the resort’s butterfly garden, frog refuge and turtle pond. Look out for iguanas and lizards lounging in the sun by the poolsides.

A zipline runs above the tree canopy and there are waterslides for kids (and big kids). The hotel concierge will book activities and trips for you, including canopy tours. A 1.7mile walk will take you to a splendid view of the volcano.

On the subject of canopy tours and ziplines, read up on the best Arenal volcano tours.

5. Paradise Hot Springs Resort

Location: 8km west of La Fortuna

Aptly named, Paradise Hot Springs is a little slice of, well, paradise close to Arenal Volcano National Park. 

Stay overnight or visit with a day pass to relax in one (or more!) of the resort’s eight pure-water hot springs. Temperatures range from 35ºC to 41ºC. 

If spa treatments are your thing, treat yourself to a facial or body wrap in the report’s spa.

The poolside bar is a fun place to relax. For overnight guests, a breakfast of local dishes is complimentary, as are the gym and airport transfers. 

Staying over? Ask for one of the suites with a balcony or patio.

6. Balneario Tabacón

Location: 10km west of La Fortuna

The glitziest of the main hot springs and the destination for most tourists is Balneario Tabacón. The spring is fed by a magma-boiled underground thermal river originating in the nether parts of Volcán Arenal. 

The water temperature ranges from 27°C to about 42°C., and the complex comprises fifteen mineral-rich pools, most of which are secluded among rich vegetation.

Several are set beneath waterfalls, so you can manoeuvre yourself under the cascades for a pummelling hot-water “massage”. 

The atmosphere, with a cocktail bar and bikini-clad tourists, makes you feel like you’ve just stepped into a 1970s James Bond film.

7. Termales Los Laureles

Location: 5.5km west of La Fortuna

Termales Los Laureles is the least expensive official hot spring in the Arenal area, and popular with Ticos. 

Four simple pools (one with slides) are set around a very ordinary garden. The volcano views, however, are sensational. 

Bring your food and booze and make a night of it.

8. La Catarata de La Fortuna

Location: 4km southwest of La Fortuna

The dramatically sited La Catarata de La Fortuna is the epitome of the picture-book cascade. A tall, thin stream plunges prettily from a narrow aperture in the rocky heights 75m above and forms a foaming pool among rocks and rainforest vegetation below. 

Not surprisingly, La Fortuna is also one of the best waterfalls in Costa Rica.

From the ticket booth, a path leads 600m vertically down to the base of the falls. Here, a series of pools provide a tempting spot for a quick dip, though swimming is not recommended, due to flash floods.

Also note that there’s a mirador (signposted) 200m along the trail for those who would rather look from a distance.

Decided to take a trip to Costa Rica? While planning your trip, take inspiration from  our suggested Costa Rica itineraries and wise up with our Costa Rica travel tips.

Or, if you're not keen on planning, contact our local Costa Rica travel experts, who can take care of planning your perfect trip.