Arenal Springs Resort & Spa, Arenal/La Fortuna
Resort with on-site hot springs, wildlife encounters, family-friendly suites, and volcano views
This hotel was beautiful, the grounds were amazing and close to La Fortuna and the Arenal volcano. The villas were great and the staff was extremely... Read more
AMAZING! The best parts were the hot-springs tubs piped directly into your hotel room, the gorgeous breakfast, volcano views and many hot and cool pools. 10/10... Read more
WOW! This was a lovely place. The hot springs on the resort were wonderful.
the view of the volcano is really cool. nice room restaurants r good. shuttle service downtown close. recommend staying here
Loved the hotel and privacy of the hot springs. Would definitely stay here again.
Overview
Kimkim's Take
- You can enjoy the well-stocked minibar for free, though you'll need to pay if you want to restock it during your stay.
- The pool and hot springs are only for hotel guests—Arenal Springs Resort & Spa doesn't offer day passes.
- Enjoy your meals at one 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.
- Whether strolling through the grounds or relaxing in your room, you can enjoy some of the best views in the area of Arenal Volcano.
- 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 to get around the area, as the property is too far to reach any of the sites or La Fortuna by 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 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 covers a lot of ground and almost feels like its own neighborhood, as 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. Upgrade for a stone soaking tub with a mini waterfall.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.Wildlife
Travelers might see tropical birds, iguanas, sloths, armadillos, and capuchin monkeys around the resort's sprawling grounds. Some have spotted the famous Jesus Christ lizard, known for darting across the surface of water, at the springs and pool.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. A 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.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.Other Highlights
The property has three restaurants, all located near the central pool and hot springs area. Breakfast is served buffet-style at Ti Cain, the main restaurant with volcano views. Sakana is an a la carte restaurant and bar specializing in Asian cuisine for lunch and dinner. Italian Corner serves pizzas, pasta, and wines from Chile and Argentina. Bar El Barril has a full bar, including beer, cocktails, wine, and snacks.Like what you see?
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Travelers often mention
Summarized by AI based on kimkim traveler reviews
The customer service was praised for being attentive, efficient, and friendly. Specific mentions included staff greeting guests with hot towels and refreshing drinks, and solving room booking issues promptly. (8 mentions)
Numerous reviews mentioned the hot springs as a highlight. Guests appreciated the hot-springs tubs piped directly into hotel rooms, the privacy of the hot springs, and the swim-up bar. Many also noted the hot spring pools were a hit for both adults and kids. (8 mentions)
The hotel offers a variety of dining options, including an Italian restaurant, a sushi bar, and a snack menu. Breakfast was also highly rated, with a wide selection and convenient service times. (8 mentions)
Several reviews highlighted the fantastic views of the Arenal Volcano from the hotel rooms and throughout the resort. This natural feature added a special touch to their stay. (5 mentions)
Traveler Reviews
4.5
4.7
4.8
4.7
- BEAUTIFUL resort
- Customer Service was absolutely amazing and the BEST. They took care of you from the moment you arrived to when you left
- The food options and service at the pool was fantastic
- The rooms are BEAUTIFULLY stocked when you check in
- It is very easy to get around the resort
- The staff is fantastic and they are very efficient in their work
- The WIFI is absolutely insane. We tested it... Read more
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