Costa Rica: Tabacón Thermal Resort, Arenal
Where a Volcano-Warmed River Runs Through the Rainforest
At the base of Arenal Volcano, a mineral-rich river winds through 570 acres of private rainforest, its waters warmed naturally by the volcano itself and threaded into more than twenty pools tucked among ferns, orchids and tropical canopy. Tabacón built its resort around this river rather than the other way around, and the effect is a property that feels less like a hotel and more like a discovery, one you stumble into at every turn along a forest path. Howler monkeys call overhead, mist rises off the warm water at dawn, and the volcano itself looms quietly in the background, a reminder of exactly what's heating the springs below.
The 105 rooms and suites are spread across two low-rise buildings connected by garden walkways, ranging from Orchid Rooms to the two-bedroom Arenal Suite, with a handful of adults-only Private Pool Suites offering their own thermal plunge pools on the terrace. Days move at the pace guests choose: a guided walk to spot wildlife or a nearby waterfall, a coffee or chocolate-making class, a craft session with members of the local Maleku community, or simply hours spent moving between pools of varying temperature as the rainforest closes in around you. Zip-lining, white-water rafting and horseback riding are all a short drive away for those who want more adrenaline mixed into their soak. New under Pursuit Attractions and Hospitality since mid-2025, the resort recently announced three additional two-bedroom villas with private plunge pools, due to open in 2027, a sign of continued investment in the property.
Life at Tabacón
105 rooms and suites across seven categories, including adults-only Private Pool Suites and a Two-Bedroom Arenal Suite
A naturally heated thermal river with over twenty pools woven through the rainforest reserve
Open-air spa bungalows offering treatments with local coffee, lemongrass and cocoa
Six dining and bar venues, including Tucanes for tasting-menu fine dining and the adults-only Shangri-La Gardens
Guided wildlife walks, waterfall hikes, coffee and chocolate classes, and cultural sessions with the Maleku community
Open-air rainforest yoga pavilion and daily complimentary classes
Zip-lining, white-water rafting and horseback riding nearby for a more active day out
Why Tabacón, Why Arenal
One of the most immersive natural hot spring experiences in the world, set inside its own private reserve
A rare combination of soft-adventure activities and genuine, unhurried relaxation
Consistently recognized among the world's top destination spas, with recent honors from Travel + Leisure and Condé Nast Traveler
Elite sustainable tourism certification, solar-powered operations and a genuine sense of place at the foot of an active volcano
Fresh investment and expansion underway, keeping the property current without losing its rainforest character
Ideal For: Couples and travelers seeking a soulful, nature-driven escape built around thermal springs, spa and gentle adventure, with enough polish and pedigree to suit a well-traveled clientele.
Gold Coast Travel Perks
Unlock Fora amenities when you book with Gold Coast Travel:
Complimentary daily breakfast
$100 resort credit
Early check-in / late check-out, subject to availability
Upgrade at check-in, subject to availability
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