Tabacón Thermal Resort & Spa

Arenal, Costa Rica

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A sanctuary of warmth and rainforest beauty

Tabacón Thermal Resort & Spa is a regenerative luxury retreat at the base of Costa Rica’s iconic Arenal Volcano, where a naturally heated, mineral-rich river flows through lush rainforest gardens. Guided by a philosophy that nurtures both guest wellbeing and the land, Tabacón blends elevated comfort with deep immersion in nature. Its cascading springs, open-air spa rituals and cuisine inspired by Costa Rica’s rich culinary heritage create a serene, restorative escape for conscious travellers seeking harmony, authenticity and renewal.

Key features

Natural thermal-spring river and cascading mineral-rich hot springs throughout the resort, heated by volcanic activity
Accommodations set in rainforest surroundings, many with views of the forest, volcano or gardens and access to private terraces or pool areas
A renowned open-air spa set in the jungle, offering massages, holistic and wellness treatments using local ingredients and integrating the natural surroundings
On-site gastronomy blending international and Costa Rican cuisine, using fresh local ingredients; includes fine dining, casual meals and cooking / mixology / tasting experiences
The resort sits in a large private rainforest reserve at the base of Arenal Volcano

Number of rooms

105 guest rooms:

22 suites

83 regular rooms

Price range

High-end

The resort is ideal for couples, wellness seekers, nature lovers, luxury travellers, adventure enthusiasts and small families looking for a rainforest experience at the base of Arenal Volcano

Standout features

The largest network of naturally flowing thermal springs in Costa Rica, forming rivers, waterfalls and multiple hot-spring pools
Thermal water running within the room premises
Spa treatments in open-air jungle bungalows, combining healing hot springs, rainforest sounds and natural ingredients for deeply immersive wellness
An adults-only area (the “Shangri-La Gardens”) offering exclusive adult-only thermal pools and relaxation zones for a more tranquil or romantic stay
A variety of experiences beyond spa — with culinary workshops, rainforest nature walks and adventure-style options nearby blending comfort, nature and activity

Signature experiences

Soak in the resort’s extensive natural thermal river, hot-spring pools and waterfalls, enjoying a range of temperatures and settings from seclusion to cascading falls
Experience a spa treatment in open-air jungle bungalows, where rainforest ambience, volcanic-heated water and local natural ingredients combine for holistic relaxation
Dine at resort restaurants with fresh, locally-sourced cuisine, or taking part in cooking / mixology classes to learn Costa Rican culinary flavours
Exploring the resort’s private rainforest reserve on a guided nature tour to admire flora and fauna and connect with the natural surroundings at the base of Arenal Volcano
Enjoy the adults-only Shangri-La Gardens — a serene zone of thermal pools and relaxation, ideal for couples or guests seeking peace and privacy

Where

Tabacón Thermal Resort & Spa is set in Costa Rica’s Northern Highlands, at the foot of the Arenal Volcano and minutes from La Fortuna. Surrounded by 570 acres of protected rainforest, it is built along a natural thermal river whose volcanic, mineral-rich waters flow through lush gardens and secluded hot-spring pools.

Why

As the only resort built around a natural thermal river, Tabacón offers a rare blend of geothermal energy, rainforest immersion and regenerative luxury. From volcanic-inspired spa rituals to nature-led design and community partnerships, it delivers authentic, restorative experiences for travellers seeking meaningful connection and wellbeing.

What

A luxury wellness retreat centered on Costa Rica’s only fully natural thermal river, Tabacón features 105 rooms and suites, open-air spa bungalows, multiple hot-spring pools, yoga spaces and authentic Costa Rican dining. With adults-only areas like the Shangri-La Gardens and immersive nature settings, it blends elevated comfort with deep relaxation.

Who

Alejandra has worked in tourism since 2011 and spent the past nine years in Tabacón’s sales department, managing relationships with travel agencies and advisors. With solid expertise in luxury hospitality sales and partner engagement, she is passionate about representing Costa Rica and ensuring Tabacón’s partners have what they need to promote the property successfully.

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When

Since opening in 1993, Tabacón has grown into one of Costa Rica’s leading wellness resorts, continually refining its experience while advancing sustainability programs. Its Legacy of Regeneration, spanning reforestation, renewable energy and community initiatives, underpins its place in the SLH Considerate Collection.

How

To learn more and get a personal introduction please contact The Adventure Connection directly here.

Positive impact statement

At Tabacón Thermal Resort & Spa, sustainability is central to our mission. We care for 570 acres of rainforest, restore habitats, plant native trees and monitor wildlife along our natural thermal river.

Our regenerative approach extends to the community, employing and training local staff, sourcing ingredients and materials locally and supporting environmental education initiatives.

As part of the Small Luxury Hotels of the World Considerate Collection, we operate in line with global sustainable tourism standards while continually enhancing our positive impact on people and the planet.