La Fortuna: Baldi Hot Springs Entry with Volcano Views

Summary

Soak in natural pools near Arenal volcano after exploring

You’ll slip into warm mineral pools surrounded by tropical forest at Baldi Hot Springs in La Fortuna, with views of Arenal Volcano rising nearby. Float beneath palm trees, listen to birdsong and waterfalls, and let your muscles unwind after exploring the national park trails. It’s an easygoing day where you can just be present — no rush, no schedule.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t expect the first thing I’d notice at Baldi Hot Springs to be the sound — not just water splashing, but birds somewhere up in the thick green above us, and this low hum of people just… unwinding. We’d come straight from a muddy walk in Arenal Volcano National Park, shoes still damp, and honestly I was a little skeptical about “relaxing” in a place with 25 pools. But the steam hit my face as soon as we walked in and I felt my shoulders drop for the first time all day.

The pools are all different temperatures (I lost count after six), and some have these little waterfalls that feel like warm rain on your back. There’s this faint mineral smell — not unpleasant, more like earth after rain — that sticks to your skin in a good way. At one point I tried to ask a staff member which pool was their favorite; she smiled and pointed to one tucked behind some palms, said it’s quieter there when families head for the bigger ones. She was right. It’s easy to lose track of time floating under those trees, watching clouds drift over the volcano. I kept thinking how wild it is that this water comes straight from deep inside the earth.

We didn’t rush. Some folks had drinks balanced on the edge of their pool (there’s a bar if you want it), others just closed their eyes and let the heat do its thing. The air felt heavy but clean, almost like you could taste the humidity mixed with something metallic from the springs. My skin felt weirdly soft afterward — or maybe that’s just what happens when you soak for hours and forget about your phone for once.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Relax at Baldi Hot Springs

• Arrive at Baldi Hot Springs
• Enjoy 25 thermal water pools
• Relax amid tropical forest
• Listen to birds and waterfalls

Top questions

How many pools are at Baldi Hot Springs?

There are 25 thermal water pools at Baldi Hot Springs.

Is Baldi Hot Springs accessible for wheelchairs?

Yes, all areas and surfaces at Baldi Hot Springs are wheelchair accessible.

Are entry fees included with admission?

Yes, all fees and taxes are included with your ticket.

Where is Baldi Hot Springs located?

It’s located at the base of Arenal Volcano in La Fortuna, San Carlos.

Is public transportation available to Baldi Hot Springs?

Yes, there are public transportation options nearby.

Is lunch or food included?

No meals are included; only entry fees and taxes are covered.

Can people with heart conditions visit?

The hot springs are not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health.

What’s included

Your day includes full access to all 25 thermal pools at Baldi Hot Springs in La Fortuna, plus all entry fees and taxes taken care of so you can just show up and relax without worrying about extra costs or logistics.