Arenal Springs Resort & Spa, Arenal/La Fortuna

Pros

• You'll be treated to some of the area's best views of the Arenal volcano from the property and rooms.
• The pool and hot springs are only for hotel guests—Arenal Springs Resort & Spa doesn't offer day passes. 
• Take your pick of the three on-site eateries; one serves meals throughout the day, and the two others serve lunch and dinner.
• Because the hotel situates each room in a duplex bungalow, you'll only share one wall with your neighbor for a quieter, more private experience—and you'll have your own parking spot right out front.

Cons

• The property is pretty big, so it takes a bit more time to get around on foot (though there's also a shuttle service).
• You'll need to book a transfer or rental car for your visit, as the property is too far to reach any of the sites or La Fortuna on foot.
• The hotel uses wristbands rather than a key card to enter rooms, which some may dislike.

Additional Notes From Brittany 

At first look, the hotel seemed big, and I could see how it might give off an impersonal vibe. But once you get into the details, it all comes together and feels cozy yet luxurious. The on-site hot springs are the biggest draw, and I was definitely charmed by the swim-up bars, stone pools with waterfalls, and soaking tubs surrounded by vegetation. 

Authenticity

Yes, this is a resort, but you certainly won't forget that you're in beautiful Costa Rica. The grounds are huge and provide a nice mix of cultural elements, including views of the Arenal volcano, on-site farms and ranching, jungle gardens, and a large hot springs complex with 13 different pools to enjoy. As a bonus, more than 130 bird species call the property home, and there's a special bird-watching corner to enjoy. 

Location

You'll be in the Palma area, which isn't within walking distance of any major attractions but is fairly convenient for driving around the region. It takes about 20 minutes to drive to the national park, 15 minutes to La Fortuna Waterfall, and about 10 minutes to downtown La Fortuna. The property isn't on any major roads, so it's easy to feel hidden in the jungle while being relatively close to the action.

Rooms & Bathrooms

The property's winding roads lead to duplex cabins hosting two rooms and offering a parking spot for each. All rooms feature warm wooden furnishings, beamed ceilings, air-conditioning, and complimentary minibars (only pay if you need a restock). Bathrooms have open showers with tropical plants (making it feel like an outdoor shower), and all units provide a terrace with patio furniture and volcano views. Opt for the Superior Junior Suite for a bathroom with a stone soaking tub, or upgrade to the Master Suite for two spacious bedrooms and a Jacuzzi tub.

Amenities

Arenal Springs' biggest draw is its three hot spring pools (one only for adults and two open to children). The pool complex includes landscape gardens and the hotel bar, and the standard (unheated) swimming pool has its own bar and a swim-up sushi restaurant. The property also offers a spa and a small fitness center. There are three restaurants on-site, with breakfast served buffet-style complete with volcano views at Ti Cain. Sakana specializes in Asian cuisine for lunch and dinner, while Segreto serves pizzas, pasta, and wines from Chile and Argentina. Bar El Barril offers beer, cocktails, wine, and snacks.

Family-Friendliness

Arenal Springs Resort & Spa is a family-friendly hotel with a kids' pool, an outdoor play area, and kid-friendly options (pizza, burritos, chicken fingers) on restaurant menus. The best room for families with children is the Junior Superior Suite. The hotel has an ideal layout for parents with strollers, and golf carts are also available to transport families around the grounds.

Wildlife

If you're lucky, you might see tropical birds, iguanas, sloths, armadillos, and capuchin monkeys around the resort's sprawling grounds. Some travelers have spotted the famous Jesus Christ lizard, known for darting across the surface of water, at the springs and pool.

Sustainability

Arenal Springs Resort & Spa functions on a sustainable management system, meaning they strive to meet current demands without impacting future needs. Some examples include growing food on-site (you can visit the garden, cows, pigs, and chickens), heating water through solar energy, treating water with a Biodigester, and using the byproduct for power.