Arenal: Tabacon Hot Springs Day Pass & Thermal Pools

Summary

Tabacon’s flowing hot springs and rainforest pools near Arenal

You’ll slip into naturally heated pools surrounded by rainforest at Tabacon Hot Springs in Arenal. Drift between different temperatures, listen to rushing waterfalls, and share quiet moments with locals or fellow travelers. Entry is included — just show up ready to relax and let yourself sink in.

What’s the experience like?

We rolled up to Tabacon Hot Springs just after noon, still a bit sticky from the drive out of La Fortuna. The air smelled like wet leaves — not the sharp kind, but that heavy, green smell you only get after rain. Our local driver grinned when he saw me gawking at the steam rising over the river; he said something about “el corazón del volcán” and pointed toward Arenal Volcano, which was half-hiding behind clouds. I didn’t expect it to feel so alive here — birds yelling somewhere above us, water rushing under little bridges, everything just buzzing.

I wandered barefoot between pools for a while, letting my feet sink into the warm sand at the bottom. Some spots were almost too hot (I dipped a toe first, learned my lesson), but then there’d be a cooler stream right next to it. There were families splashing around, couples tucked into corners under waterfalls, and this older couple from San José who showed me how to find the “perfect” temperature by moving upstream. I tried to ask their secret in Spanish — probably butchered it — but they laughed and waved me along anyway.

Lunch was simple but good; I can still taste the sweet pineapple juice they served with it. At one point I just lay back on a stone ledge with my eyes closed and listened to all the different water sounds mixing together. It’s funny — you think you’ll want to do everything, try every pool, but after an hour or two you just sort of melt into it. The sun came out for maybe ten minutes before disappearing again behind thick clouds. That little patch of light on the water stuck with me for some reason.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Visit Tabacon Hot Springs in Arenal

• Arrive at Tabacon Hot Springs
• Explore natural thermal mineral springs
• Walk through lush rainforest reserve
• Enjoy warm pools and waterfalls
• Relax amid native flora and fauna

Top questions

How do I get to Tabacon Hot Springs from La Fortuna?

Tabacon is a short drive from La Fortuna; public transportation options are available nearby.

Are children allowed at Tabacon Hot Springs?

Yes, infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller at Tabacon.

Is lunch included with the day pass?

No mention of lunch being included; food is available onsite for purchase.

Are the hot springs natural?

Yes, Tabacon features Costa Rica's largest network of naturally flowing thermal mineral springs heated by Arenal Volcano’s magma.

Is Tabacon accessible for wheelchairs?

Yes, Tabacon is wheelchair accessible according to provided information.

Is this suitable for all fitness levels?

The experience is suitable for all physical fitness levels except pregnant travelers or those with poor cardiovascular health.

What should I bring for my day trip to Tabacon Hot Springs?

You should bring swimwear and anything you need for comfort; entry fees are included with your pass.

What’s included

Your day includes all entry fees and taxes so you can spend as long as you like moving between Tabacon’s natural thermal pools and waterfalls without worry—just arrive ready to soak it all in at your own pace.