
Tabacón Thermal Resort & Spa
Luxurious rainforest resort featuring natural hot springs heated by Arenal Volcano, offering ultimate relaxation.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more tranquility

Tabacón Thermal Resort & Spa
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more tranquility

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Luxurious rainforest resort featuring natural hot springs heated by Arenal Volcano, offering ultimate relaxation.
"The Tabacon natural hot springs are a literal slice of paradise that you can indulge in whether you stay at the hotel or not."

Day Pass Value
Day passes offer access to the main springs; consider it if you're on a budget.
Morning Serenity
Staying at the resort grants early access to the springs, often with few people around.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Cascading Thermal Pools
Main Hot Springs Area
Naturally heated mineral-rich waters flow over volcanic rocks, creating a series of serene pools amidst lush jungle.

Rainforest Setting
Throughout the Resort
Immerse yourself in a private rainforest reserve with breathtaking volcano views and abundant tropical flora.

Exclusive Guest Access
Designated Areas
Hotel guests enjoy access to more secluded pools and can enter the springs up to two hours before the public.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Day Pass vs. Overnight Stay
Embrace the Rainforest Ambiance
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Day Pass Value
Day passes offer access to the main springs; consider it if you're on a budget.
Morning Serenity
Staying at the resort grants early access to the springs, often with few people around.
Hydrate and Relax
Drink plenty of water and take your time to truly soak in the rejuvenating thermal waters.
Food Options
The main restaurant food can be pricey and dry; opt for the bar inside the hot springs for better eats.
Tips
from all over the internet
Day Pass Value
Day passes offer access to the main springs; consider it if you're on a budget.
Morning Serenity
Staying at the resort grants early access to the springs, often with few people around.
Hydrate and Relax
Drink plenty of water and take your time to truly soak in the rejuvenating thermal waters.
Food Options
The main restaurant food can be pricey and dry; opt for the bar inside the hot springs for better eats.
Pack Light
Bring swimwear, a change of clothes, and essentials. The humid rainforest climate means less is more.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Tabacón Thermal Resort & Spa is overwhelmingly praised for its stunning natural hot springs and tranquil rainforest setting, offering a slice of paradise. Guests rave about the rejuvenating thermal waters and the exclusive access for resort guests, making it a highly recommended relaxing experience. However, some visitors find the main restaurant's food overpriced and of inconsistent quality.
"By far and away one of the best hotel experiences you will ever have. The service is amazing, the facilities are clean and well organized, the views are incredible, and hot springs... The Tabacon natural hot springs are a literal slice of paradise that you can indulge in whether you stay at the hotel or not, but I truly recommend staying. Can't wait to return."
Christopher Garcia
"Incredible stay! This property is beautiful! We stayed only one night here but would have loved at least one more. The thermal springs are beyond words. And if you stay at the resort you get access to more of the springs and you can get in 2 hours before the public in the morning. This was the most relaxing part of our trip in Costa Rica and I highly recommend it. The hotel rooms were very nice too and the free breakfast was also very good. We’re ready to go back!"
Jennifer Schultz
"We had an awesome time at the resort. From 10:00 AM on we were able to drop our luggage off at the concierge desk and go to the hot springs. The hot springs were amazing and the hotel guest exclusive area was really nice. On the day of your check out you can stay in the springs till 10:00 pm. All the staff were English speaking, extremely accommodating and friendly, the room was immaculate and the bed was very comfortable. It's hard to speak too highly of this place."
Sean
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Tabacón is a short Uber or taxi ride from La Fortuna, typically around 15-20 minutes. Many visitors also arrange transportation through their hotels or tour operators.
Yes, Tabacón offers day passes, allowing you to experience the thermal springs without an overnight stay. These passes are popular but can be crowded.
From San José, you can take a bus to La Fortuna and then a taxi or Uber to Tabacón. Alternatively, many travelers opt for a private shuttle or rental car for more flexibility.
Yes, numerous shuttle services operate between San José, La Fortuna, and Tabacón. Booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak season.
Tabacón is located very close to Arenal Volcano, offering stunning views of the volcano from the resort grounds. It's a key reason for the naturally heated springs.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Day passes typically range from $75-$90 USD, with slightly different pricing for locals and international visitors. Prices can vary, so it's best to check their official website.
A day pass usually includes access to the thermal springs, towels, and lockers. Some packages may include lunch or other amenities.
It is highly recommended to book day passes in advance, especially during peak travel times, to guarantee your entry and avoid disappointment.
The hot springs are generally open from morning until late evening. Resort guests often have extended hours, including early morning access.
While generally family-friendly, some areas might have age recommendations. It's always a good idea to check with the resort directly for specific policies.
🎫 ✨ Onsite Experience
Weekday mornings, especially if you are a hotel guest with early access, are generally the least crowded times.
Swimwear is essential. Many visitors also bring a light cover-up for when they are not in the water.
Yes, lockers and changing facilities are available for day pass visitors and hotel guests.
Yes, families generally enjoy Tabacón. The warm waters and natural setting are appealing, and children are often well-behaved.
The thermal waters are naturally heated by the Arenal Volcano and maintain a pleasant temperature, often around 100°F (38°C), with variations in different pools.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Tabacón has several dining options, including a main restaurant and a bar within the hot springs area.
Dining at the main hotel restaurant can be quite expensive, with some visitors finding the food quality not worth the price.
The bar within the hot springs area is often recommended for more 'eatable' food and good drinks at a more reasonable price compared to the main restaurant.
Typically, outside food and drinks are not permitted within the resort premises, especially in the thermal spring areas.
Reviews are mixed. While some enjoy the meals, others have found the main restaurant's offerings to be dry or overpriced.
📸 📸 Photography
The cascading waterfalls, lush greenery, and the various thermal pools offer numerous picturesque opportunities. The views of Arenal Volcano are also stunning.
Yes, photography is generally allowed, but be mindful of other guests' privacy. Waterproof phone cases are recommended.
Most resorts and natural attractions have restrictions on drone usage to ensure guest privacy and safety. It's best to check with the resort directly.
Early morning or late afternoon can offer softer light and fewer crowds, enhancing the magical ambiance of the springs.
A waterproof camera or a good smartphone with a waterproof case is ideal. A wide-angle lens can capture the expansive rainforest setting.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Tips for families: Consider visiting during off-peak hours or on weekdays to minimize crowds. While the main restaurant can be expensive, the bar within the hot springs offers more casual and kid-friendly food options. Ensure children are supervised around the water, and pack extra swimwear as they'll likely want to spend hours in the pools!
💖 Couples & Honeymooners
Recommendations for couples: Book an overnight stay to take advantage of the exclusive morning access to the springs, allowing for quiet, private moments. Consider a spa treatment at the open-air spa for ultimate pampering. The resort's secluded location and natural beauty make it a dream honeymoon destination.
💰 Budget Travelers
Budget tips: Pack your own snacks and water to save on in-resort purchases, though be mindful of their policies. Explore dining options outside the resort in La Fortuna for more budget-friendly meals. Consider visiting during the shoulder season for potentially lower day pass prices.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Magic of Tabacón's Thermal Waters
The resort has masterfully integrated these natural springs into the landscape, creating a series of cascading pools, waterfalls, and tranquil river sections. Surrounded by lush tropical vegetation, the ambiance is one of pure relaxation and connection with nature. The sound of the flowing water and the vibrant green surroundings create a truly serene escape.
Whether you opt for a day pass or an overnight stay, the thermal springs are the undeniable highlight. For those staying at the resort, the added benefit of exclusive access to certain areas, particularly in the early morning, provides an even more intimate and uncrowded experience. This allows for a deeper appreciation of the natural beauty and tranquility.
Planning Your Visit: Day Pass vs. Resort Stay
Opting for an overnight stay at Tabacón offers a more comprehensive and luxurious experience. Guests gain access to more secluded pools and often have the privilege of entering the springs up to two hours before the general public. This early access is highly praised for providing a much more tranquil and personal encounter with the thermal waters. Furthermore, staying at the resort allows you to fully immerse yourself in the rainforest ambiance and enjoy the resort's amenities at a relaxed pace.
When planning, consider that day passes are priced around $75-$90 USD, while hotel stays will naturally be a higher investment. Many travelers find the added tranquility and exclusivity of a resort stay to be well worth the extra cost for a truly rejuvenating experience.
Beyond the Springs: The Tabacón Experience
The resort's architecture and design blend seamlessly with the natural surroundings, creating an atmosphere of understated luxury. Guests can enjoy beautifully appointed rooms and attentive service, making for a comfortable and memorable stay. The proximity to Arenal Volcano also means that many areas of the resort offer breathtaking views of this iconic landmark.
Dining at Tabacón presents a few options. While the main restaurant can be pricey and has received mixed reviews for food quality, the bar within the hot springs area is often recommended for more satisfying and reasonably priced food and drinks. This allows visitors to enjoy refreshments without leaving the relaxing thermal environment.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit