Home to large variety of healing hot springs, Costa Rica is a top destination for travelers looking to soak in ethereal thermal waters heated by active volcanoes. One of Costa Rica’s tourism hotspots is the area around the Arenal volcano which offers more than a dozen locations to soak in natural hot springs, many of which feature amenities including swim-up bars, water slides, and countless secluded soaking pools. But it doesn’t stop in Arenal. In Guanacaste, Costa Rica you’ll discover unique locations surrounding the Rincón de la Vieja and Miravalles volcanoes that allow you to enjoy baths in mineral-rich volcanic mud with an after-soak in the refreshing hot springs.
Many of Costa Rica’s hot springs are located in hotels which allows you around-the-clock access to the hot springs as well as romantic dining spots. Below you will find Travel+Leisure’s ‘Best Hot Spring in Costa Rica’ list:
1. Tabacon Grand Spa and Thermal Resort
Tabacon was the first hot springs facility in Costa Rica, and it remains the most impressive. Its two natural rivers are divided into dozens of bathing areas, and if you wander around enough, you’ll find secret bars and private spaces. Oh yeah, and there’s a waterslide and a swim-up bar with yummy cocktails.
2. Rio Perdido
A slightly newer site, Rio Perdidio is tucked behind Bagaces, a little-explored mountain town in the foothills of the Miravalles Volcano on the way to Guanacaste. The springs here are totally natural and the setting is wildly picturesque, with warm green water surrounded by dry forest and incredible rock formations.
3. The Springs
Set back from the Arenal Volcano, this magnificent hotel and its sprawling grounds are the mecca of hot springs. There are more than a dozen pools to choose from, some of which feature water slides and swim-up bars. Although the water is pumped in, these pools are as therapeutic as any.
4. Eco Termales Hot Springs
For a more intimate hot springs experience, Eco Termales is a smaller facility in the Arenal area that is solely focused on its baths. The space around the pools teems with flora and fauna; I once floated on my back for 20 minutes here watching a toucan fly from one tree to another overhead. The on-site restaurant is also delicious.
5. Vandara Hot Springs and Adventure
Heated by Rincón de la Vieja, this hot springs and adventure facility includes zip-lining, horseback riding, and a giant waterslide. After you’ve finished with the activities, its time for a dip in the Tizate hot springs, man-made pools filled with thermal waters heated by the nearby volcano. Mud baths and mineral treatments are also available.