In the heart of Costa Rica’s northern lowlands, Arenal Volcano stands as a majestic natural wonder, its near-perfect conical shape rising 5,437 feet above the lush rainforests and vibrant ecosystems below. Once a fiery spectacle spewing lava and ash until its activity quieted in 2010, it remains a magnetic draw for travelers seeking adventure, relaxation, and unparalleled beauty. The surrounding region, dotted with steaming hot springs, cascading waterfalls, and verdant trails, offers an idyllic backdrop for an unforgettable vacation.
Choosing the right accommodation can elevate your Arenal experience from memorable to extraordinary. Fortunately, the area boasts a range of world-class hotels and resorts, each blending luxury with the raw splendor of nature. In this updated guide, we’ll explore five of the best hotels near Arenal Volcano, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration or indulging in the region’s geothermal delights. Whether you’re a couple seeking romance, a family craving adventure, or a solo traveler chasing serenity, these properties promise to enhance your Costa Rican journey. Let’s dive in!
The 5 Best Hotels and Resorts Near Arenal Volcano
1. Tabacon Thermal Resort & Spa
My first encounter with Tabacon’s hot springs predates its transformation into a resort. Back then, it was just a hidden gem guarded by a night watchman who’d let us sneak in for a soak under the stars. I remember thinking, “This would be an incredible spot for a hotel.” Little did I imagine it would evolve into the luxurious Tabacon Thermal Resort & Spa we know today.
Tabacon offers a rare treat: the chance to soak in mineral-rich springs naturally heated by the volcano you’re gazing at. On a clear night, if luck is on your side, you might even catch a glimpse of Arenal’s silhouette against the sky—though lava flows are a thing of the past since its dormant phase began. The resort is divided into two areas: the main hotel with reception, rooms, and dining options like Los Tucanes Restaurant, and a separate hot springs complex 300 meters away, complete with its own eatery, Ave del Paraíso, and a stunning thermal pool with a swim-up bar and waterslide.
The hot springs are the star here, a network of 18 cascading pools set amidst tropical gardens, open to guests until 10 PM. After a day of hiking, zip-lining, or swimming at La Fortuna Waterfall, there’s nothing better than sinking into these warm waters.
Hotel guests enjoy exclusive access to Shangri-La Gardens, an adults-only oasis with six additional pools, offering privacy and tranquility away from day-pass visitors. Rooms are spacious and modern, featuring suites with large seating areas, dining tables, and luxurious bathrooms with thoughtful touches like bathrobes and espresso machines. A complimentary shuttle runs every 10 minutes between the hotel and springs, though the 5- to 10-minute walk is a pleasant option if you’re feeling active.
In 2025, Tabacon remains a top contender, celebrated for its sustainability efforts (it’s carbon-neutral) and award-winning spa, where treatments like volcanic mud wraps are delivered in open-air ranchos. It’s ideal for those seeking a blend of nature and indulgence.
2. The Springs Resort & Spa
The Springs Resort & Spa is a sprawling sanctuary that caters to both families and couples with its serene ambiance and top-notch amenities. Tucked away from the hustle of La Fortuna, about 20 minutes off the main road, it’s enveloped by pristine nature, offering jaw-dropping views of Arenal Volcano from nearly every vantage point. This is not a party spot—its vibe is all about relaxation and connection with the surroundings.
The rooms here are a standout: spacious, impeccably clean, and equipped with large balconies featuring seating for four, a hammock, and that postcard-worthy volcano vista. Bathrooms are expansive, with double sinks and showers so luxurious you might not want to leave. The 74 accommodations range from standard rooms to multi-bedroom villas, all blending rustic charm with modern comforts like air conditioning and minifridges.
The grounds are a masterpiece, spanning 165 acres with 28 hot springs pools of varying temperatures, some kid-friendly with shallow areas. The main pool, with its swim-up bar, draws the most buzz, but the sheer number of options ensures you’ll never feel crowded.
Dining is equally impressive, with five on-site restaurants offering everything from casual bites at Las Ventanas to upscale fare at Tres Cascadas, all with views of the forest and occasional howler monkey sightings. While pricier than local eateries in La Fortuna, the convenience and atmosphere justify the cost.
For adventure, the resort’s Club Rio Outdoor Center, just down the road, offers rafting, horseback riding, and wildlife tours. I have a soft spot for The Springs—years ago, I was part of a group that helped scout this land, never dreaming it would become such a gem. It’s still a top pick in 2025, often ranked among Central America’s best for relaxation and views.
3. Volcano Lodge, Hotel & Thermal Experience
If your hotel checklist includes hot springs, cocktails, and a killer volcano view, Volcano Lodge delivers—all at a price that won’t break the bank. Located just 10-15 minutes from La Fortuna (a $10 cab ride), this lodge strikes a balance between accessibility and immersion in nature. Its lush landscaping, dotted with fruit trees that attract wild turkeys and colorful birds, adds to the charm.
The property features two large hot spring pools and a standard swimming pool, perfect for a refreshing dip. Rooms vary from standard doubles to larger suites, all with private patios offering volcano views—on a clear night, it’s a front-row seat to Arenal’s grandeur. Breakfast is included, a hearty buffet with an omelet station (pro tip: the omelets are a must-try), setting you up for a day of exploration.
Activities abound, with the hotel offering a roster of tours like hanging bridges walks and waterfall hikes. The 24-hour front desk is a bonus for late-night needs. While not as flashy as some newer resorts, Volcano Lodge’s value and laid-back vibe keep it a favorite in 2025, especially for budget-conscious travelers who still want luxury touches.
4. Arenal Observatory Lodge & Spa
Arenal Observatory Lodge holds a special place as one of the area’s oldest and most iconic stays, originally built in 1987 as a Smithsonian research station. Its proximity to the volcano—closer than most competitors—offers unparalleled views and a sense of timeless adventure. The journey here, about 30 minutes from La Fortuna on occasionally bumpy gravel roads, is part of the experience, though a 4×4 is recommended.
The lodge’s rooms are simple but cozy, lacking TVs to encourage disconnection (Wi-Fi is available for streaming). Each opens to a volcano-facing porch, where the sounds of howler monkeys and rustling forest create a natural symphony. The grounds are a nature lover’s dream: extensive trails, a sun deck for birdwatching, a swimming pool, and a frog pond. A free guided morning walk is a highlight, revealing the area’s biodiversity.
Breakfast, included in the rate, is a feast of eggs, pancakes, fresh fruit, and homemade breads—a perfect fuel for horseback riding, hiking, or lounging by the pool. While it may not boast the modern flair of newer resorts, its authenticity and location make it a perennial top choice in 2025.
5. Nayara Resort, Spa & Gardens
Rounding out our list is Nayara Resort, Spa & Gardens, a luxurious retreat consistently voted among the best in Central America. Perched amid tropical gardens, it’s a 15-minute drive from La Fortuna and offers stunning volcano views from its casitas and villas. Each room feels like a private bungalow, complete with outdoor showers, jacuzzis, and decks overlooking Arenal.
The resort’s amenities are top-tier: a spa with indulgent treatments, a wine bar, and dining options like Mis Amores, serving gourmet Costa Rican cuisine. The hot springs here are smaller than Tabacon’s or The Springs’, but the intimate setting and personalized service elevate the experience. Nayara’s eco-friendly ethos and accolades (it’s often ranked in global top hotel lists) cement its status as a 2025 must-stay for luxury seekers.
Getting to Arenal
Arenal remains a 3-hour drive from San José’s Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO), with no direct domestic flights currently available. Check with Sansa Airlines for updates, but renting a 4×4 is the way to go—roads can be rugged, and the flexibility is worth the modest price bump over a sedan. From Liberia’s Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport (LIR), it’s also about 3 hours, making either gateway viable depending on your itinerary.