Last Updated on October 13, 2025

Tabacón Thermal Resort & Spa: The Ultimate Luxury Escape in Costa Rica

Costa Rica is a place where nature puts on a show. A country that may be small but is vast in wonders – home to misty cloud forests, roaring waterfalls, and golden beaches where sloths snooze in the treetops. This is the land of Pura Vida – where adventure and tranquillity go hand in hand, embracing Costa Rica’s spirit of positivity, simplicity, and gratitude. And if there’s one spot that captures it all, it’s Arenal, a landscape dominated by its perfectly conical volcano, where geothermal waters bubble beneath the surface and the rainforest hums with life. Tabacón Resort and Spa is the jewel in Arenal’s crown.

About Tabacón Resort & Spa

Tabacón, a member of Small Luxury Hotels of the World and Traveller Made, has received numerous accolades, including being named one of the Top 3 Worldwide Destination Spas in the 2024 Travel + Leisure World’s Best Awards and earning recognition in the 2024 Tripadvisor Travelers’ Choice Awards and Condé Nast Traveler’s Readers’ Choice Awards for the best resorts in Central and South America.

Tucked away in Costa Rica’s Arenal region, this luxury resort is just 13 kilometres northwest of La Fortuna, and a peaceful 2.5-hour drive from Daniel Oduber Quiros International Airport in Liberia, one of the country’s two international hubs. Navigating the roads, I was immediately struck by the lush, vibrant green landscape, offering a first taste of La Fortuna’s charm. The imposing Arenal Volcano occasionally emerges from the mist, shrouded in clouds, lending an enchanting sense of mystery to the already stunning surroundings.

Arriving at the airy lobby of Tabacón Resort & Spa, we were warmly greeted by friendly staff who offered cool face towels and refreshing nectar. As we stepped outside, we were immediately immersed in the beauty of the surrounding private reserve, where towering tropical trees, lush vegetation, and freely roaming wildlife created an enchanting atmosphere.

The resort that put La Fortuna on the map, Tabacón is home to Costa Rica’s largest network of naturally occurring thermal springs, with 18 mineral-rich pools ranging from a refreshing 75°F to a soothing 105°F, all naturally heated by the volcano’s geothermal energy. The hot springs cascade through tropical gardens, offering the ultimate soak beneath a canopy of swaying palms and vibrant rainforest.

Renowned for its commitment to sustainability and the local community, Tabacón Resort & Spa leads in regenerative tourism, ensuring that every guest’s experience is both luxurious and environmentally conscious. Beyond the allure of its steaming pools, the resort has a deep-rooted commitment to conservation, having spearheaded an ambitious rewilding project in the 1990s that transformed 900 acres of former pastureland into a thriving rainforest. This lush sanctuary now hosts over 200 species of plants and indigenous wildlife, including the endangered green macaw. With its stunning surroundings, exceptional service, and a deep respect for nature, Tabacón creates a harmonious space where indulgence and conservation coexist.

Accommodation at Tabacón

There are 105 rooms, including 22 suites and 83 regular rooms at Tabacon, with accommodation to suit every need, from the highly comfortable Orchid Rooms, where we stayed, offering a choice of two queen beds or a king, to the Rainforest Room with its outdoor terrace overlooking the lush native landscape. The Two-Bedroom Arenal Suite provides a separate dining and living area for families seeking more space. For a touch of luxury, the Tabacón Suite offers expansive terraces, the Honeymoon Suite, with its private plunge pool, is perfect for those looking for a romantic escape.

The rooms at Tabacón were nothing short of exceptional. Modern and tastefully furnished, ours featured two supremely comfortable queen beds, draped in luxurious linens that provided the perfect night’s sleep. The beige-painted walls were enlivened by bright fern prints, adding a touch of nature’s vibrancy, while the minimalist furnishings, clean lines, teak hardwood, and marble floors exuded a serene, yet sophisticated, atmosphere.

The elegant shower room was a perfect blend of style and function, with a double sink set in soft cream marble and aromatic bath products. And to top it all a stunning view of the tropical gardens with the ever-present silhouette of Arenal.

Every detail in the room has been thoughtfully curated to enhance your stay. These included all the sockets you needed, (big tick from me!), efficient WiFi, a well-stocked minibar, coffee machine, kettle, plush cotton robes, slippers, a safe, and a widescreen TV – ensuring that all comforts were at your fingertips. A tablet preloaded with everything you need to navigate the resort – from maps to restaurant recommendations – made exploring effortless and allowed for a truly seamless experience.

Hot Springs & Spa

Upon arrival, you may be surprised by the guests waiting at the entrance in their crisp white robes. While it may seem like a display of their utter relaxation, they’re actually waiting for the shuttle service – which runs with admirable regularity – to take them off to the Tabacón hot springs and spa, which is just a short walk away if you’d rather not take the shuttle. It’s not just about the robes; it’s all part of the seamless luxury that makes this place so special.

On my first morning, I was booked in for a spa treatment – a welcome indulgence. Treatments are delivered al fresco in open-air bungalows, tucked away among the gardens beside the hot springs, creating a hidden sanctuary of relaxation. I was warmly greeted at the door and invited to lounge by the plunge pool, the soothing sound of running water setting the tone as I sipped on a freshly made smoothie. Then, just as I had fully settled into blissful tranquillity, I was whisked away for the ultimate back, neck, and shoulder massage, expertly delivered by Yadira, who worked her magic, ironing out every knot and soothing my weary muscles, which I had acquired after the previous day’s fuelled zip-wire adventure.

But the relaxation was far from over. The thermal springs are a breathtaking sight – layered waterfalls tumbling into steaming pools, where guests luxuriate in the naturally heated waters, courtesy of the mighty Arenal Volcano. No Jacuzzi or hot bath can quite compare to the extraordinary experience of soaking in these mineral-rich pools, enveloped by the raw beauty of the rainforest. This isn’t just relaxation, it’s nature’s own spa, an indulgence, unlike any treatment I’ve ever experienced.

For those seeking an added touch of exclusivity, hotel guests have access to the private Shangri-La Gardens – a secluded oasis complete with plush cabanas, private pools, lush gardens, and a café offering expertly crafted cocktails and light lunches. We spent the day here, leisurely dipping in and out of the pools, sipping cold beers, and soaking in the natural soundtrack of rustling leaves, wildlife, and the gentle murmur of running water. It felt like a peaceful retreat, worlds away from reality – an ideal spot to unwind, recharge, and fully surrender to the enchantment of the rainforest.

Dining at Tabacón

There are two main dining options on the property: Tucanes Restaurant, where guests can enjoy a delicious complimentary breakfast each morning, and Ave Restaurant, located at the hot springs, offering a more casual, laid-back atmosphere. The latter serves an enticing mix of international dishes alongside traditional Costa Rican cuisine for lunch and dinner. Scattered throughout the resort, you’ll also find four bars, each perfect for a refreshing cocktail or a leisurely afternoon drink.

Tucanes Restaurant and the adjacent Bosque Bar embrace the resort’s open-air aesthetic, seamlessly blending into their lush jungle surroundings. The handsome hardwood structure, with its stone floors and thatched roof, provides welcome shade by day, while at night, flickering candlelit oil lamps cast a warm, intimate glow over the space. Overlooking the swimming pool, it’s the perfect spot to linger, whether for a leisurely breakfast or an atmospheric evening drink.

Dinner at Tucanes was a feast for the senses, offering a choice between a refined tasting menu and an enticing à la carte selection. To truly whet your appetite, let me take you through our meal – starting with a delicate amuse-bouche of watermelon ceviche and avocado mousse, followed by locally sourced Costa Rican oysters, theatrically presented in a swirl of dry ice, their natural sweetness elevated by ponzu, chiliguaro, and citrus.

For mains, the beef tenderloin was melt-in-the-mouth tender, paired with crispy oyster mushrooms and chimichurri, while the generous filet of sea bass, cooked to perfection, was complemented by a rich Huancaína sauce, a traditional Peruvian creation from the Huancayo region.

Dessert was equally good – Basque burnt cheesecake with charcoal ice cream, and a whimsical herbal medley of eucalyptus ice cream, rosemary foam, and mint rocks. A dining experience to remember.

Activities and Experiences

At Tabacón, there’s never a dull moment, surrounded by the most extraordinary natural wonders. For nature lovers, the 900-acre estate offers plenty of opportunities to explore the rainforest, with nature walks and wildlife spotting around every corner. If you’re seeking something more adventurous, nearby activities like the Arenal Hanging Bridges Natural History Tour, Arenal Rainforest Sky Tram and Trek, and other local excursions will surely get your heart racing. For a more leisurely experience, the main pool, complete with a swim-up bar and a playful waterslide, offers the perfect blend of relaxation and fun for all ages. You can also enjoy a Tico Chef Cooking Class or find inner peace with rainforest yoga. And just when you think you’ve seen it all, we spotted a couple happily enjoying a cocktail-making lesson – proof that Tabacón knows how to cater to every whim.

Travelling through Costa Rica, you quickly notice the well-trodden tourist trail – and La Fortuna is undoubtedly a highlight. With its breathtaking landscapes, the majestic Arenal Volcano, and the allure of natural hot springs, it’s easy to see why. But when it comes to choosing where to stay, it’s a no-brainer – Tabacón stands out. Effortlessly blending wellness and adventure with exceptional hospitality, it offers a sanctuary where relaxation and exhilaration go hand in hand. Whether you’re seeking serenity or a thrill, Tabacón delivers an unparalleled fusion of nature, luxury, and the true essence of Pura Vida.

Tabacón 

Noreste de Centro de la Fortuna de San Carlos 13 Km,
Provincia de Alajuela,
Nuevo Arenal,
Costa Rica

Phone: +1 855-822-2266
 
Rates ( March 2025): Rooms from $473 per night (Orchid King Room). 
Honeymoon Suite Plunge Pool from $887 per night
All prices include breakfast and access to the thermal springs.      

We flew from London Heathrow, making our journey smoother with Holiday Extras. Their Meet and Greet service made parking hassle-free, and we started our trip in style with a hearty breakfast at the Plaza Premium Lounge before our long flight.

Holiday Extras is the market leader in UK airport parking, hotels, lounges, and transfers – and last year  its customers saved an average of £196 per trip by booking their airport parking in advance.  
Booking Airport Parking and Lounge Access means you can enjoy more holiday with less hassle. Plus with Flextras, if you need to cancel or amend you can without charge.

19 days of parking at Holiday Extras Meet and Greet at Heathrow T4 is available for £268.19 based on arrival on 17th April 2025. Lounge access for two people at Plaza Premium at Heathrow T4 is available for £85.50 based on arrival on 17th April 2025.  

For more information and to book, HolidayExtras.com or call 0800 316 5678.