Tabacon Hot Springs

The Basics

Adventure-weary travelers flock to Tabacon Hot Springs for a welcome change of pace from endless action. Spend the day soaking in volcanically heated waters—taking breaks to swim up to the waterfront bar or fly down the thermal water slide—for a true taste ofpura vida. Though it is possible to stay at an on-site resort for unlimited hot spring access, most visitors opt for full-day or half-day passes with upgrades including meals, spa packages, and specialty experiences such as a nighttime soak under the moonlight. Many Arenal area tours, such as those from San Jose, include a visit to the hot springs as well—an ideal way to unwind after an action-packed volcano hike or rain forest tour.

Things to Know Before You Go

• Entrance includes a towel and sunscreen.

• The number of guests is limited for a more enjoyable experience; book ahead.

• Tabacon Grand Spa services can be booked as part of an entrance package or separately.

• Pack or wear your swimsuit; changing areas are available on-site.

• Though out of range for most budget travelers, Tabacon Hot Springs is a worthwhile splurge.

How to Get There

Though it feels remote, Tabacon Hot Springs is located just off a main highway (Route 142) and is an easy drive from La Fortuna or San Jose. Many also visit as part of a day tour of the Arenal area, thanks to the location of the private rain forest reserve between Arenal Volcano and Arenal Volcano National Park.

When to Get There

Tabacon Hot Springs is open all year but is most enjoyable during the dry season from late November through mid-April. Enjoy the maximum recharge from the mineral-rich waters by visiting after an adventure-packed day.

A Pool for All

The diversity of pools at Tabacon is one of its greatest draws. Pools range from 72–105°F (22–40°C) and offer big spaces perfect for playing and socializing as well as more secluded nooks. There is also a cool-water pool on-site.

What are Tabacon Hot Springs, and where are they located in Costa Rica?

Tabacon Hot Springs is a luxury spa resort set around a series of natural thermal springs along the Tabacon River. The resort is located in northern Costa Rica, just north of the Arenal Volcano. From La Fortuna, head west along Highway 142—it’s about a 20-minute drive to reach the springs.

What are the opening hours of Tabacon Hot Springs?

Tabacon Hot Springs is open daily from 10am to 10pm, and you can book a pass that allows full-day access to the thermal pools. Guests staying at the resort hotel can visit the hot springs from 8am to 10pm, plus have exclusive access to the adults-only Shangri-La Gardens.

Are Tabacon Hot Springs suitable for families with children?

Yes, Tabacon Hot Springs can be a popular destination for families, but there are some restrictions. Anyone younger than 16 must be accompanied by an adult at all times, and the waterfall is off limits for under 12s. Children from 12 years old must pay the adult ticket price, but can’t enter Shangri-La Gardens.

Can you book accommodations at Tabacon Hot Springs?

Yes, the Tabacon Hot Springs resort has a range of rooms and suites available. All hotel guests can enjoy unlimited access to the hot springs, breakfast is included, and spa treatments can be booked on-site. The resort boasts a prime location at the foot of the Arenal Volcano.

What activities are available at Tabacon Hot Springs besides the hot springs?

While bathing in the hot springs is the biggest attraction at Tabacon Hot Springs, guests can also relax at the spa, use the fitness center, or book spa treatments. Combine your visit with a wildlife-watching hike or go swimming beneath the waterfall at Arenal Volcano.

Are there any spa services offered at Tabacon Hot Springs?

Yes, the spa at Tabacon Hot Springs offers a treatment menu, including massages, body wraps, scrubs, facials, and manicures. There are also holistic options, such as sound healing and Ayurvedic massage. Some treatments incorporate local Costa Rican products, including coffee, tamarind, wild berries, and volcanic mud.

Ways to explore

Visit the Tabacón Hot Springs on a day pass and enjoy full access to the thermal pools, book a massage or spa treatment, or reserve a table for lunch or dinner at the gastronomic restaurant. Guests at the Tabacón Thermal Resort & Spa can also enjoy access to the exclusive Shangri-La Gardens.

The Tabacón Hot Springs are also a popular inclusion on day-trip itineraries, often in combination with a hike around Arenal Volcano, a visit to La Paz or La Fortuna Waterfalls, or a view from the Arenal Hanging Bridges. Full-day tours leave from Arenal, La Fortuna, and San José.

Accessibility

The hotel, spa, and the main thermal pool are accessible to travelers using wheelchairs or who have limited mobility.

Age limits

Children of all ages are allowed at the hot springs, but visitors under 16 must be accompanied by an adult at all times. Reduced-rate tickets are available to children up to 11 years old, while children under 5 can visit for free. Spa treatments are available to children over 16, and the Shangri-La Gardens are exclusively open to hotel guests over 18.

What to pack

Swimsuit, water shoes, reusable water bottle, sunscreen, sunglasses, a sarong or cover-up

What to wear

Breathable clothing, flip-flops or sandals

Not allowed

Cell phones and cameras are not allowed in the spa area.

Amenities

Hotel, spa, two restaurants, four bars, fitness center, changing rooms, free Wi-Fi, free lockers and towels, free parking

Address 

Though it feels remote, Tabacón Hot Springs is located just off a main highway (Route 142), at the base of the Arenal Volcano. It’s an approximately 8-mile (13-kilometer) drive from La Fortuna.

Driving

To reach the Tabacón Hot Springs, head west along Route 142 from La Fortuna, about a 20-minute drive. Valet parking is available to hotel guests, while day pass holders can park in a free, secure lot across the street.

Public transportation

There is no public transportation to or from the Tabacón Hot Springs; if you don’t have a car, book a guided tour that includes a stop there.

Best times to visit

The hot springs are usually open to the public from 10am to 10pm, but hotel guests can enjoy exclusive access from 8am to 10am. Get there early or late to beat the crowds.

Best days to visit

Reserve your spot well in advance for summer and holiday weekends—limited spots are available. A weekday visit often means fewer crowds, and hotel rates are usually lower midweek.

Best months to visit

The most popular time is during the dry season (late November through mid-April). Try to avoid peak periods (late December, the first week of January, and Easter week), when the resort is often at capacity.