Tabacón Thermal Resort & Spa

La Fortuna, Costa Rica

A sanctuary of warmth and rainforest beauty

Nestled at the base of the majestic Arenal Volcano in La Fortuna, Costa Rica, Tabacón Thermal Resort & Spa is a sanctuary of wellness, nature and authentic Costa Rican hospitality. Spread across a 570-acre private rainforest reserve, the property is home to naturally flowing thermal springs, lush gardens and open-air spa experiences. Every element of the resort is powered by volcanic energy and designed to dissolve the boundary between comfort and nature. Guests come to Tabacón not only to relax, but to reconnect - surrounded by the forest, the warmth of water and the spirit of Pura Vida.

Key features

Immersed in nature – the entire resort is nestled within a 570-acre private rainforest reserve, offering guests a fully immersive experience in one of the most biodiverse regions in the world
Natural thermal river – a mineral-rich river flows freely through the forest, heated naturally by volcanic energy, with no pumps or artificial systems
Costa Rican culinary soul – two restaurants led by local chefs, celebrating authentic Costa Rican flavours through refined, elevated cuisine
Open-air spa – signature treatments take place in open-air bungalows surrounded by the sights, sounds, and scents of the rainforest
Authentic hospitality – personalised, heartfelt service inspired by the essence of Pura Vida, creating lasting connections and memorable stays

Standout features

The only resort in Arenal with direct access to a natural thermal river flowing through private rainforest grounds
Located within a 570-acre private rainforest reserve, home to incredible biodiversity and immersive nature at every turn
Open-air spa surrounded by lush jungle, where the natural environment enhances every treatment
Adults-only Shangri-La Gardens, a serene escape exclusively for hotel guests
Elevated dining experiences in two restaurants specialised in both gourmet international cuisine and fine dining Costa Rican cuisine (managed by a local chef true to his roots)
Four signature bars featuring craft cocktails and local ingredients
Strong commitment to regenerative sustainability and meaningful community partnerships
Perfect for honeymooners, couples, families and wellness-minded travellers

Number of rooms

105 guest rooms

2 Two-Bedroom Arenal Suite
4 Private Pool Suite
4 Volcano View Suite
12 Tabacón Suite
6 Rainforest Suite
37 Orchid Room – King Bed (for couples or solo travellers)
40 Orchid Room – Two Queen Beds (great for friends or families)

Price range

High-end

The property welcomes couples, honeymooners, solo travellers, families and wellness seekers. While it’s not adults-only, certain spaces like Shangri-La Gardens are exclusive to adult hotel guests seeking serenity and quiet.

Signature experiences

Relax in natural thermal springs flowing directly from the Arenal Volcano surrounded by untouched rainforest with no artificial systems
Indulge in open air spa treatments in private bungalows enhanced by forest sounds and flowing water
Take part in hands on cooking classes chefs table dinners and seasonal tastings celebrating Costa Rica’s ingredients and culinary traditions
Discover elevated Costa Rican cuisine crafted by a chef rooted in local traditions blending authentic flavors with refined technique
Explore Tabacón’s private rainforest trails on guided nature and cultural walks
Practice yoga surrounded by rainforest sights and sounds
Celebrate special moments with tailor made experiences such as private dinners
Enjoy access to La Fortuna’s best outdoor adventures

Where

Tabacón Thermal Resort & Spa is located in La Fortuna, at the base of the Arenal Volcano in Costa Rica’s lush northern region. Set within a private 570-acre rainforest reserve, it offers an immersive experience in one of the world’s most biodiverse landscapes, with natural hot springs, rich wildlife and stunning volcanic scenery.

What

Tabacón is a luxury thermal resort and spa nestled in the rainforest at the base of Costa Rica’s iconic Arenal Volcano. The property offers 105 elegant rooms and suites, natural hot springs, open-air spa bungalows and fine dining experiences. Guests enjoy direct access to mineral-rich thermal pools, lush trails and curated wellness and adventure activities.

When

Founded in 1991, Tabacón Thermal Resort & Spa was the first to offer guests access to Costa Rica’s natural hot springs in their original, untouched setting. Over time, it has grown into a celebrated luxury wellness destination, blending rainforest immersion with world-class hospitality. Its legacy stands out for offering an authentic connection to volcanic energy and nature in its purest form.

Why

Tabacón is the only resort in the Arenal region with a natural thermal river flowing directly through the property, heated by volcanic energy and untouched by artificial systems. Set within a private rainforest reserve, it offers an immersive experience where nature, wellness, and sustainability are deeply intertwined. Its blend of authentic thermal springs, open-air spa treatments and refined hospitality sets it apart as a truly unique destination in Costa Rica.

Who

Tabacón was founded by a team deeply connected to the land, inspired by the natural power of the Arenal Volcano and the healing energy of its thermal waters. From the beginning, the vision was to create a place where nature, wellness, and hospitality come together in harmony. Today, a dedicated team with decades of experience in luxury hospitality and sustainable tourism leads the resort with passion, ensuring every guest feels the soul of the rainforest in every detail of their stay.

Positive impact statement

Sustainability is at the core of Tabacón’s philosophy. The resort follows a regenerative model that emphasizes native reforestation, wildlife preservation, and responsible resource management — including the use of volcanically heated thermal waters without pumps or chemicals.

Tabacón actively supports the local economy by sourcing from nearby farmers and artisans and providing employment and educational opportunities. Strategic partnerships across all pillars of sustainability reinforce the resort’s long-term environmental and social commitment. Every guest experience is designed to reflect this deep respect for nature and community.