Tabacón Thermal Resort & Spa

Naturaleza's Own Spa

Real volcanic hot springs flowing through lush tropical gardens at the base of Arenal Volcano—naturaleza's most powerful wellness experiencia, where the earth itself heals you.

Imagine soaking in naturally heated mineral waters while gazing at an active volcano, surrounded by tropical gardens so lush they feel primordial, like the earth itself just woke up. That's Tabacon, where the planet provides the wellness experiencia. The hot springs here aren't pumped or artificially heated—they flow directly from the volcanic activity of Arenal, emerging from the ground at temperatures ranging from warm to very hot, creating natural pools throughout the property that feel like naturaleza's own spa.

The resort has transformed this natural phenomenon into an elegante wellness destination without losing any of its raw power. Multiple pools cascade through tropical gardens, from gently warm wading pools to deliciously hot soaking spots surrounded by flowering heliconias and towering trees. The spa uses volcanic mud and thermal waters in its treatments. The rainforest setting provides a constant soundtrack of exotic birds, rushing water, and the misterioso calls of howler monkeys. This is Costa Rica's "pura vida" philosophy made tangible—pure la vida, lived in harmony with naturaleza's increíble power. There's something deeply humbling about being warmed by volcanic energy, reminded that the earth beneath us is alive and generous.

Las Habitaciones

The rooms and suites at Tabacon are designed to complement the natural surroundings rather than compete with them. Nestled into the tropical landscape, each accommodation offers private terraces or balconies, many with views of Arenal Volcano looming majestically in the distance. The design uses natural materials—wood, stone, earth tones—that feel of a piece with the rainforest setting. The beds are deeply comfortable, essential after long soaks in the thermal waters. Some suites feature private outdoor whirlpool tubs fed by the same volcanic springs, allowing you to experiencia the magia without leaving your room. The Grand Suites offer the ultimate experiencia with outdoor showers and direct hot spring access. Every room prioritizes connection to naturaleza through floor-to-ceiling windows and seamless indoor-outdoor design.

Las Aguas Termales y el Spa

The thermal waters are el alma of Tabacon, and experiencing them fully requires unhurried time. The resort features multiple pools at varying temperatures, connected by stone paths winding through impeccably maintained tropical gardens. Waterfalls cascade into pools where you can position yourself under the warm flow for a natural hydromassage. The adults-only Shangri-La Gardens offers a more serene experiencia for those seeking paz. At the Grand Spa, treatments incorporate volcanic mud packed with minerals, thermal waters, and local botanicals. The signature volcanic mud wrap detoxifies while you gaze at the volcano that provided the clay. Couples' treatments are particularly romántico, combining hot springs, massage, and the mágico setting. At night, the pools are lit by subtle lighting, creating an ethereal atmosphere as you soak under star-filled skies.

Gastronomía Rodeada de Naturaleza

Dining at Tabacon embraces the rainforest setting with open-air restaurants that bring you as close to naturaleza as possible while delivering refined cuisine. The main restaurant offers views of Arenal Volcano, particularly mágico at sunset when the clouds often clear to reveal the perfecto cone. The menu celebrates Costa Rican ingredients—fresh fish, tropical fruits, locally grown vegetables—prepared with international technique. The breakfast buffet is substantial, fueling you for aventuras or long days in the springs. For romance, private dining experiences can be arranged in secluded spots throughout the property. And there's something uniquely maravilloso about enjoying dinner while tree frogs sing and the volcano looms above.

Aventuras Más Allá de las Aguas Termales

While the hot springs could happily occupy your entire stay, the Arenal region offers increíble aventuras for active travelers. Zip-line through the rainforest canopy with volcano views, an exhilarating way to experiencia la selva from above. Walk the hanging bridges at Mistico, suspended high in el bosque where you can spot toucans, monkeys, and sloths at eye level. Hike to La Fortuna Waterfall, a impresionante 70-meter cascade with a swimming hole at its base. White water rafting on the Pacuare River offers world-class rapids through pristine rainforest. Kayak on Lake Arenal with the volcano reflected in calm waters. The resort can arrange all these adventures, and returning to those hot springs after a day of activity feels absolutely earned.

Tips de Sofía

Book a room on property for 24-hour hot springs access—day visitors leave at 10pm, and the nighttime soaking under stars is mágico. The adults-only Shangri-La Gardens area is more peaceful; head there for serenity. Visit the quieter pools early morning or late evening for maximum tranquilidad. La Fortuna town nearby has great local restaurants for casado (the traditional Costa Rican meal of rice, beans, meat, and plantains). The hanging bridges at Mistico are espectacular for wildlife spotting. Arenal isn't actively erupting now but the volcano remains impressive. Bring water shoes for the rocky pool bottoms—your feet will thank you. Stay very hydrated; it's easy to lose track of time in those warm waters and dehydration sneaks up. December through April is dry season, but the green season (May-November) has fewer crowds and dramatic afternoon storms that clear quickly. Pura vida, chica!

Costa Rica is where nature does the healing.
Embrace pura vida—con gratitud