Paradise Hot Springs Thermal Water Resort, Arenal/La Fortuna

Pros

• This family-run resort combines clean, comfortable rooms and on-site hot pools, all at a reasonable price point.
• It's well-placed between La Fortuna (a 10-minute drive east) and Arenal Volcano National Park (a 20-minute drive west).
• The property is smaller than others in the area, with just 25 rooms and lush gardens and grounds that are easy to get around.
• There's a daily limit on outside visitors, so the hot pools don't get too crowded.
• Other amenities include a small spa, an on-site restaurant, a swim-up bar, and a coffee shop.
• There are ramps throughout the property for guests with limited mobility, and one of the thermal pools includes a special ramp to make it wheelchair accessible.

Cons

• The hot pools and restaurants are open to the public, and can get busy with tour groups at certain times.
• The resort isn't within walking distance of any sights or restaurants, and a car or taxi is required for self-guided off-site exploration.
• Some rooms and villas are located on an upper level, with no elevator access.

Authenticity

You'll definitely feel the paradise vibes at Paradise Hot Springs Thermal Water Resort, home to eight mineral hot pools enveloped in jungle greenery. There's nothing fancy about this simple, family-run resort, but the smaller, more intimate setting (and a daily limit on outside guests) sets it apart from some of the area's other busier, budget-friendly options.  

Location

The resort sits on Route 142, just over 3 miles (5.3 km) west of La Fortuna. It's a busy main thoroughfare lined with other resorts and hotels, but the property's lush gardens create a secluded feeling and help reduce road noise. Although it's close to town, it's not within walking distance, so you'll need a car if you're planning to explore the area on your own or dine at an off-site restaurant. You're essentially next door to Baldi Hot Springs, and Arenal Volcano National Park is a 20-minute drive southwest. Most travelers drive or take a shuttle from the airport in San José, about 3-4 hours away.

Rooms & Bathrooms

Each of the 25 rooms and suites is clean and simple, if somewhat nondescript, with locally made hardwood furniture, tile floors, and marble bathrooms. All units include minifridges, air-conditioning, flat-screen TVs, and terraces with wooden furniture. All rooms are generously sized, but upgraded suites and top-floor villas offer more square footage, plus perks like soaking tubs, rooftop patios, and volcano views. Your room rate includes entrance to the hot pools and daily breakfast. 

Amenities

You'll find eight thermal pools of varying temperatures throughout the property, some with waterfalls, a swim-up bar, and/or submerged stone loungers. There's also a large infinity pool, a small spa (with a sauna and treatment rooms), and a gym. The resort's restaurant, Azalia, is open all day and serves a mix of Costa Rican and international dishes. Other dining options include the Phoenix Pool Bar, where you can grab a snack or cocktail, and the Ficus Coffee Bar, which offers the property's best volcano views alongside locally sourced coffee and pastries. 

Family-Friendliness

Children of all ages are welcome here, but room options are limited. Extra beds aren't available, and there's an additional fee per child. Luxury units are the best bet for families, sleeping four with two queen beds. Previous travelers with kids have found that the thermal pools, especially those with waterfalls, are a big hit with children, as well as the breakfast and dinner buffets. 

Wildlife

The busy roadside location limits wildlife viewing opportunities compared to other lodging options in Arenal. Still, travelers have spotted a variety of colorful butterflies and native birds hanging out in the canopies of the hotel's garden.