Costa Rica’s Tabacón Hot Springs: What to Expect
- Dr. K.
- 4 days ago
- 4 min read
La Fortuna’s landscape is shaped by Arenal Volcano, and the presence of natural hot springs is one of its most immediate expressions. Warm, mineral-rich water rises through the earth here, creating a thermal environment that hotels and thermal parks have spent decades learning how to shape, protect, and present.
When I planned my trip, I wanted a hot spring that still felt connected to this landscape.
A day pass at the Tabacón Thermal Resort & Spa emerged as the obvious choice.
A Thermal Region Built by Geology
The hot springs in La Fortuna exist because groundwater is naturally heated beneath Arenal and returns to the surface through a network of channels. Resort properties differ in how they guide that water—some expand it into large, multi-pool complexes; others keep it intimate and understated. But the underlying source is the same: geothermal heat, steady mineral content, and a warmth that maintains itself in every season.
Why I Chose Tabacón
I visited Tabacón through a day pass, which grants access to the thermal area without requiring an overnight stay. The check-in process is efficient: a locker, shower access, and a wristband that functions as your payment method inside the springs. It’s a small detail, but one that makes moving through water and pathways easier.
What stood out immediately was the level of upkeep. The grounds are immaculate—clean pathways, dense tropical planting, and a layout that feels both intentional and connected to the surrounding forest. The thermal river that runs through the property feeds a series of pools and cascades, creating different temperatures, depths, and flows. I found myself moving naturally from one pool to the next rather than settling into a single spot.
The surfaces under the water are mostly natural stone, which retains a sense of place but requires attention while walking. Water shoes aren’t optional here; they are what allow you to explore comfortably, especially around the waterfalls where the flow is stronger and footing can shift.
The Experience Inside the Springs
The variety within the thermal area is what makes Tabacón distinct. Some pools are quiet, shaded, and suited for long soaks. Others have more movement—warm currents, soft cascades, or stronger falls where people stand for a natural hydrotherapy effect. There are minor temperature changes as you move through the river-fed system.
The main pool includes a swim-up bar, which manages to feel social without overwhelming the setting. I ordered coconut water and fresh pineapple—simple, hydrating, and exactly what my body wanted after several hours in warm mineral water. Food is available here as well, and the service matches the overall tone of the property: attentive without being intrusive.
Although the resort has hotel-only areas, they never disrupted the experience. As a day visitor, I felt the freedom to explore most of the thermal river and its pools without limitation. Photography is common, and many guests bring waterproof phone cases or GoPros, but the general etiquette is respectful. I took photos as well, mindful of others’ space.
How It Fits Into the Larger La Fortuna Landscape
Most travelers visiting La Fortuna will choose a single hot spring for their trip, making the choice feel more like selecting an experience rather than simply buying access to warm water. Tabacón appeals to travelers who want polished surroundings, natural features, and a sense of quiet even when the property is moderately busy.
Other hot spring complexes in the region serve different preferences—some are more family-oriented, some are more affordable, and some keep attendance low to maintain a subdued atmosphere. But if your goal is to combine volcanic geology, thoughtful design, and reliable service, Tabacón stands out.
Preparation That Makes a Difference
My visit reaffirmed a few practical details worth noting:
Hydration matters. Warm water and humidity are a quick route to dehydration. Coconut water or fresh juice is a smart choice over alcohol.
Water shoes are essential, not optional. Natural stone underfoot can be beautiful and unforgiving at the same time.
A secure swimsuit and a light cover-up make transitions between pools, bars, and pathways easy.
A waterproof phone pouch is useful for photos, though respecting privacy should remain the default.
Advance booking is necessary between late November and April, especially around holiday periods.
My Takeaway
What I remember most about Tabacón isn’t a single pool or waterfall but the overall rhythm of the place: moving through warm water under a canopy of green, resting under a natural cascade, walking along stone paths, and pausing for fruit and coconut water.
For travelers visiting La Fortuna, choosing a hot spring becomes a way of engaging with the landscape, not just relaxing in it. Tabacón offers that connection with a level of comfort and care that makes the day feel unhurried, easy, and deeply restorative. If you plan to visit only one hot spring on your trip—as most travelers do—this is a place where the setting does much of the work for you, and the experience stands genuinely on its own.
The best way to buy your day pass is via the Tabacon website. If you are able to stay overnight at Tabacon, you certainly won't be disappointed. Book your stay here.
