Tabacon - Thermal Resort & Spa
When you have 2 or more days for an adventure, head Northeast toward Arenal Volcano to experience thermal hot springs among the lush tropical gardens of Tabacon Resort & Spa. A Conde Nast Reader’s choice destination 7 times over, this is a bucket-list experience I recommend to all of my friends. It’s a wonderful getaway any time of year.
18 hot springs feed this once in a lifetime experience at the foot of Arenal Volcano
Hot springs in 90+ Fahrenheit weather? You ask. Absolutely.
None of the pools are the searing 110 degree cauldrons that you’ll find in the coldest climates (think Iceland and Yellowstone country in the USA). Pools range from a cool 72 up to 105 degrees. So you can find that perfect relaxing temp to suit you. There are several lounge areas with warm pools for sunbathers and children. A cold plunge is also about halfway up the trail if you need to cool off quickly. The swim up bar plays hip beats while the bartender serves up refreshing cocktails.
Basilisk Lizard
This emerald reptile can literally walk on water aka “Jesus Lizard”. He came out to people watch as we sipped drinks at the pool bar.
Tabacon’s cascading waterfalls
The waterfalls and pools are made of irregular volcanic rock, so I advise wearing sandals if you plan to climb and explore. There are walkways with steps down to the pools for the more casual visitor.
Day passes are available (but if you have more than 2 people it may be more economical to get a room which includes complimentary hot springs entry)
The town of La Fortuna is considered the gateway to adventure around Arenal Volcano. It is just 20 minutes away. If you have the time, it is worth exploring this village which caters to tourists.
Tabacon makes a great launching point for tours.
Jacamar tours host adventures with knowledgeable bilingual guides that leave from the reception area daily.
Tours available:
Hiking (Waterfalls or Volcanoes)
Wildlife tours
Rafting
Ziplining
Horseback Riding
ATVs
Our family enjoyed the hiking around Arenal volcano. There were multiple trail options perfect for hikers of every skill and fitness levels. While La Fortuna waterfall is an iconic location, it’s popularity and the crowds makes it a less desirable option for our family’s taste.
Our guide from Jacamar Tours spotted this fella in a tree. We were able to view it from a safe distant. Thankfully.
An Oropel, golden eye-lash snake, coiled in a tree at the base of Arenal.
The resort is a favorite for honeymooners and couples celebrating romantic getaways. There is a fine dining restaurant for those that desire more intimate evening meals.
Our biggest complaint would be that the food while very good, does not live up to the epic location and other amenities. At these prices world-class dining would be welcome and make visits even more memorable.
PROS
Epic Landscaping with natural waterfalls and streams
5-star service
Wildlife sightings on property (bird, insects, reptiles)
Romance rating 5/5
CONS
$$$$ (especially in the high season/weekends)
Food is solid, but for the price not great
Water temp only up to 105F which is cool by Western standards
Getting there…
From Liberia or Las Palmitas have you navigation program direct you to the town of Tilaran (just south of Lake Arenal). Note - near Tilaran, some apps may re-direct you to a “short cut” passed the Wind Farm (PESA Planta Eolica Tilaran), but this will drop you down a steep unpaved jeep road that is dangerous in wet weather. Stay on the main highway to Tilaran and once you arrive in the quaint Tico village, then get your directions to Tabacon, which should wrap around Lake Arenal in the clockwise direction.