5 Costa Rican Hot Springs You Need To Try
Costa Rica, a land where emerald jungle cloaks volcanic peaks and toucans paint the sky with their vibrant calls, holds within its embrace a hidden treasure – natural hot springs. These volcanic havens, kissed by fiery lava and cradled by lush landscapes, offer a unique blend of relaxation, adventure, and cultural immersion.
Best Time to Visit Costa Rica Hot Springs
Each season offers its own unique charm at Costa Rica's natural hot springs:
Dry Season (November-April): Enjoy sunny skies, pleasant temperatures, and fewer crowds. Perfect for exploring the surrounding nature and soaking in the warm embrace of the springs.
Green Season (May-October): Witness the lush rainforests come alive with vibrant greenery. Be prepared for occasional rain showers and slightly higher temperatures, ideal for cooling off in the springs.
Festival Season (August-September): Experience the vibrant culture of Costa Rica during the Independence Day and local festivals. Some hot springs host cultural events and celebrations during this time.
Health Benefits of Costa Rica’s Hot Springs
Costa Rica's natural hot springs are as diverse in their mineral content as they are in their settings. Here's a glimpse into the magic of their waters:
Sulfur: Found in springs like Tabacon and Rio Perdido, sulfur is known for its anti-inflammatory properties and can be beneficial for skin conditions.
Magnesium: This "relaxation mineral" present in springs like EcoTermales and Baldi Hot Springs can ease muscle tension and promote stress relief.
Calcium: Trace amounts of calcium found in springs like Fuentes Termales Rio Negro can be beneficial for bone health and skin health.
Silica: The smooth, silky feeling of some springs like Tabacon comes from silica, which is beneficial for skin health and hair growth.
Tabacón Thermal Resort & Spa
Nestled within the largest and most beautiful private reserve in Arenal, immerse yourself in the heart of the lush Costa Rican rainforest.
Tabacón Thermal Resort & Spa, is a Member of Small Luxury Hotels of the World at Hilton brands. So, if you have Hilton rewards use them here.
Spa treatments are rendered al-fresco in outdoors bungalows tucked away among the trees. The scents of the rainforest become an essential part of your wellness experience blending perfectly with the ubiquitous sounds of wildlife and the relaxing hot springs sounds.
The resort focuses on sustainability. Natural heating of water for guests use by volcano, clean energy project with installation of solar panels, State of the Art Water Treatment facilities. They have a “Plant a Tree” Program for reforestation towards carbon neutrality and zero emissions.
Water Quality: 5 stars - Crystal-clear pools, naturally filtered by tropical foliage, stunning volcano views.
Ease of Access: 5 stars - Paved road access, ample parking, clear signage, luxurious resort environment.
Ability to Be Alone: 4 stars - Large grounds with secluded pools and quiet zones, moderate crowds during peak season.
Water Temperature: 5 stars - Multiple pools with varying temperatures, perfect customization.
Health Benefits: 4 stars - Noticeable mineral content, potential benefits for skin and muscle conditions.
Nearby Amenities: 5 stars - Spa services, restaurants, on-site lodging, and various recreational activities.
The Springs Resort & Spa at Arenal
The Springs Resort & Spa at Arenal offers a spectacular view of the Arenal Volcano, natural hot springs, five unique dining experiences, and an impressive full-service Spa.
For those who would like to visit just for the day, they have a two-day pass that we offer for $110 + 13% VAT. You may arrive any time after 8:00 a.m. in the morning and stay until we close at 10:00 p.m. Of course, with the two-day pass, you can go back and forth to the property as much as you like during the allotted period.
Each pool has its own vibe—some quiet and romantic, others more lively—so you can choose whatever suits your mood.
CNN Travel voted it as one of the seven resorts with the most spectacular views in the world, and “The Bachelor” and many other famous TV Programs.
When you are done with hot water, enjoy the water slide, signature putt-putt course, kids’ game room and on-site Club Rio Adventure Center, offering river tubing, kayaking, horseback riding, rock climbing, hot springs and amazing Animal Sanctuary.
Water Quality: 4 stars - Clean pools with slight sulfur smell, diverse landscape enhances filtration.
Ease of Access: 4 stars - Short walk from reception, well-maintained paths and changing facilities.
Ability to Be Alone: 4 stars - Secluded areas within larger pools, designated quiet zones offer solitude.
Water Temperature: 5 stars - Multiple pools with varying temperatures, including cool options for hot days.
Health Benefits: 4 stars - Rich mineral content, documented benefits for joint pain and stress relief.
Nearby Amenities: 5 stars - Spa services, restaurants, on-site lodging, and adventure activities close by.
Rio Celeste Hideaway Hot Springs
Rio Celeste Hideaway Hot Springs offers a serene and immersive nature experience with comfortable casitas, a pool, a swim-up bar, and a restaurant serving local and international cuisine.
They're nestled in the foothills of Tenorio Volcano in Northern Costa Rica, one of the most biodiverse areas in the world.
While the hotel itself doesn't have hot springs, there are several popular hot springs located near the Arenal Volcano.
It's important to note that the Hideaway Rio Celeste is located in a somewhat remote area with unpaved roads leading to the hotel, which can be bumpy. If going in the rain you may need 4 wheel drive.
For excursions try the ATV tour, tubing and hike to the Rio Celeste waterfall.
Water Quality: 4 stars - Clean pools with natural turquoise tint from nearby waterfall, slight sulfur aroma.
Ease of Access: 3 stars - Moderate hike through rainforest, some steep sections, limited parking.
Ability to Be Alone: 5 stars - Secluded pools tucked away in the jungle, minimal crowds except during peak season.
Water Temperature: 4 stars - Comfortable soaking range, slightly cooler due to rainforest setting.
Health Benefits: 4 stars - Noticeable mineral presence, potential benefits for muscle tension and relaxation.
Nearby Amenities: 2 stars - Limited options on-site, restaurants and shops require a short drive.
Baldi Hot Springs Resort Hotel & Spa
Baldi Hot Springs Resort Hotel & Spa is another beautiful option near Arenal.
Amidst the tropical rainforest, 25 thermal water pools are filled by crystalline waterfalls, for the use and enjoyment of al visitors.
No food, drinks or pets are allowed. Children under 5 years old, admission is free (maximum of 5 free children under 5 years old). Children equal or over 11 years old, pay the adult rate.
Your children can have fun playing games and using the cool water slides inside the special kid’s pool. The cool pool area includes a beautiful and colorful game park, while adults can enjoy the adventure of whirling bowl slide right next to the kid’s area. Be careful with the crazy slides, as some folks have been injured on them.
Towels required $10 deposit each (refundable) - cash only. Lockers cost $6.78 each (for rental).
If you are getting a daypass you can stay nearby at Tifakara Boutique Hotel & Birding Oasis just outside Arenal Volcano National Park in Fortuna where you can enjoy stunning volcanic views, with free breakfast and parking.
Water Quality: 4 stars - Clean pools with slight sediment, diverse thermal offerings, playful atmosphere.
Ease of Access: 5 stars - Easily accessible by paved road, ample parking, clear signage, extensive resort facilities.
Ability to Be Alone: 3 stars - Busy resort atmosphere, shared pools, limited quiet areas.
Water Temperature: 5 stars - Numerous pools with varying temperatures, water slides add a fun element.
Health Benefits: 3 stars - Moderate mineral content, primarily offers relaxation and stress relief.
Nearby Amenities: 5 stars - Spa services, restaurants, on-site lodging, and various recreational activities.
Eco Termales Hot Springs
The smallest of the Arenal hot springs, Eco Termales is geared toward privacy and relaxation — it does not accept more than 100 visitors at one time.
Ecotermales Hot Springs is located about ten minutes from downtown La Fortuna in Costa Rica’s Northern Zone. The entrance is off Route 142, the road that leads to Lake Arenal. Stay nearby in town at Los Lagos Spa & Thermal Resort Experience and enjoy tropical dishes made with local produce or a cocktail at the relaxing swim-up Lemnos Wet Bar.
The water at Ecotermales is heated by magma, deep below the earth’s surface. It contains a lot of magnesium, calcium, and bicarbonates.
Four geothermal pools vary in temperature, with the coolest being 91º F (32 C) and the hottest being 105º F (41 C). One of the pools has a refreshing, cascading waterfall that you can stand beneath — enjoy the exhilaration without the usual chill. Paths laid with volcanic silt run throughout the complex, connecting the pools, changing rooms, and restaurant — making it easy and safe for you to navigate the pools and property as a whole.
Ecotermales also has a few small cool water pools. These feel downright cold compared to the hot pools but are very refreshing if you need a break.
Children up to the age of 4 years enjoy FREE Entry.
The “eco” reference in Ecotermales is tied to the company’s commitment to sustainability. They have an integrated waste disposal system. This allows them to process all the waste generated from their tourism activities, wastewater, and traditional solid and organic wastes.
Water Quality: 5 stars - Crystal-clear pools, eco-friendly practices ensure pristine water quality.
Ease of Access: 5 stars - Paved road access, ample parking, clear signage, beautiful natural setting.
Ability to Be Alone: 4 stars - Varied pool sizes offer privacy, designated quiet zones available.
Water Temperature: 4 stars - Multiple pools with varying temperatures, comfortable soaking range.
Health Benefits: 5 stars - Rich mineral content, documented therapeutic benefits for skin and respiratory issues.
Nearby Amenities: 4 stars - Restaurant and bar on-site, shops and lodging require a short drive.
Arenal Natura Hot Springs
Are you traveling in other parts of Latin America? Take a look at more hot springs in Colombia, Belize, El Salvador, Costa Rica, Carribean, Panama, Honduras, Mexico, Guatemala, and Nicaragua.
