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Nestled in the heart of lush rainforests and surrounded by breathtaking natural wonders, it’s easy to see why La Fortuna is a bucketlist destination for people traveling to Costa Rica. Home to the majestic Arenal Volcano, hot springs, and an abundance of outdoor adventures, this picturesque town offers an unforgettable experience for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike. One crucial aspect of planning a trip to La Fortuna is choosing the right accommodation. Let’s explore the best places to stay in La Fortuna, ensuring that your visit to this tropical paradise is nothing short of extraordinary.
Table of Contents
What to consider before booking your stay in La Fortuna Costa Rica:
LOCATION:
Within La Fortuna, there are different regions including the Arenal Volcano area, downtown La Fortuna, or Lake Arenal. Each of these offer a different vibe. Near the volcano you’ll find beautiful resorts or eco-lodges with spectacular views of Arenal Volcano. Downtown La Fortuna is small, but is filled with bustling restaurants and bars that come alive at night. Lake Arenal is more tranquil and off-the-beaten-path for those who prefer a serene getaway with outdoor adventures such as kayaking or fishing. Be sure to consider what fits your Costa Rica itinerary best before deciding where to stay in La Fortuna!
BUDGET:
Luckily La Fortuna is filled with many different accommodations in a wide array of prices. You’ll find anything from cheap backpacker hostels to elaborate luxurious five star resorts! Typically, the closer the accommodation is to the volcano, the higher the cost.
AMENITIES:
Consider what amenities you’ll take advantage of at your La Fortuna accommodation. Pools, hot springs, or free breakfast? Or maybe you’re looking for something as simple as just a bed to sleep on. I always think about it this way, the more amenities, the pricier the place. If you won’t be taking advantage of any amenities, might as well save some money and find a location that doesn’t offer them! Many places in La Fortuna offer everything from basic necessities to multiple on-site restaurants with full spa packages.
TRANSPORTATION:
If you need transportation to activities, tours, or airports, consider where you’ll be staying in advance. Some tour companies only pick up within downtown La Fortuna, so you’ll need a way to get to the pick up location. Other hotels may offer their own transportation service (which I can say first hand, comes in clutch!) If you are renting a vrbo or staying outside the main area of La Fortuna, you may want to consider renting a car. Most tour groups will not pick up from airbnbs or vrbos.
Looking for adventurous activities for your La Fortuna itinerary? Book tours and activities here!
WHERE TO BOOK YOUR ACCOMMODATIONS IN LA FORTUNA & ARENAL
90% of the time I book hotels through hotels.com. I absolutely love this platform. It’s informative, easy to digest, and has lots of photos. With that being said, I always look directly on the website of the hotel as well. Sometimes the price may be cheaper when booking direct!
If you want to rent a house, airbnb or VRBO are very popular throughout Costa Rica. Just keep in mind, when renting one you’ll want to also book a rental car for your trip.
Now that you have this in mind, it’s time to consider where to stay in La Fortuna Costa Rica. Let’s dive in!
BEST LUXURY LA FORTUNA HOTELS
The Springs Resort & Spa at Arenal-
BEST FOR: couples, families | 5 Stars| 19 minute drive from downtown La Fortuna
Considered one of the most sought-after resorts in Costa Rica, the Springs Resort & Spa at Arenal boasts 167 acres of incredible landscape. Not only does this resort have one of the best views of Arenal Volcano, but it was rated top seven best views in the WORLD by CNN! It’s no wonder TV programs such as The Bachelor and Keeping Up With The Kardashians have filmed here.
Learn more & book your room at The Springs Resort!
AMENITIES:
The resort amenities include three different hot spring pools, a kids center, spa retreat, animal sanctuary, restaurants, bars, and an adventure club. There is no shortage of fun or relaxation at The Springs Resort & Spa.
Tabacon Thermal Resort & Spa-
BEST FOR: couples | 5 Stars| 14 minute drive from downtown La Fortuna
Tabacon Thermal Resort & Spa is one of the only hotels in La Fortuna with natural hot springs from the Tabacon river. Their stunning property includes a network of hot springs with cascading waterfalls. With two restaurants and four bars, your time in Costa Rica will be filled with spectacular meals and fruity cocktails. Winning awards from Travel & Leisure, Conde Nast, and TripAdvisor, Tabacon is noted as one of the best properties in Central America.
Learn more & book your room at Tabacon Thermal Resort & Spa!
AMENITIES:
This resort’s amenities include a large network of hot springs with waterfalls, spa sanctuary, high-end rooms, four bars, and two restaurants.
Nayara Springs-
BEST FOR: couples | ADULT ONLY | 5 Stars| 12 minute drive from downtown La Fortuna
When you think about luxury, these stats speak for themselves. Nayara Springs was named the number one luxury hotel in the world by TripAdvisor, and the best Spa Hotel in the world by Conde Nast. This adult only resort is nestled in Arenal Volcano National Park. Fall asleep to the sound of cooing frogs, spot colorful birds and even sloths without even leaving the resort!
Nayara Springs only offers 1500 square foot villas with secluded private plunge pools and terraces.
Learn more and book your private villa-style room at Nayara Springs!
AMENITIES:
The amenities at Nayara Springs include an award winning spa, sloth sanctuary, private pools in every room, three on-site restaurants, swim up bar, wine bar, two outdoor pools, hot springs and an espresso bar.
Hotel Arenal Kioro Suites & Spa-
BEST FOR: couples, families | 5 Stars| 14 minute drive from downtown La Fortuna
With couples or family suites, Hotel Arenal Kioro Suites & Spa is the perfect place to stay for both a relaxing getaway or fun filled family adventure. This enchanting hotel is surrounded by nature with comfortable rooms, on-site dining and a kid’s play area.
Learn more and book your room at Hotel Arenal Kioro Suites & Spas!
AMENITIES:
This resort’s amenities include a spa, kid’s pool, hot spring pools, three on-site restaurants, two bars, and even has a babysitting service if you need some relaxing time away from the kiddos.
BEST MID-RANGE LA FORTUNA HOTELS
Arenal Manoa Hotel & Hot Springs-
BEST FOR: couples, families| 4 Stars| 11 minute drive from downtown La Fortuna
I just got back from staying at Arenal Manoa Hotel & Hot Springs and I am already dying to go back! The entire resort is secluded and surrounded by the incredible flora and fauna of Costa Rica. With two hot spring pools, many jacuzzis, and top notch dining options, it was the perfect spot to get a comfortable nights sleep after a long day of exploring. Not to mention, the two for one happy hour deals at the swim up bar offered some of the freshest pina coladas I’ve ever tasted!
Book your stay at Arenal Manoa Hotel & Hot Springs!
AMENITIES:
Arenal Manoa Hotel & Hot Springs has many amenities including 2 hot spring pools with swim up bars, multiple jacuzzis, on-site restaurant, sushi restaurant, wood-fired pizza restaurant, airport transfers, sauna, children’s pool, full-service spa.
Baldi Hot Springs Hotel & Spa-
BEST FOR: couples| 4 Stars| 11 minute drive from downtown La Fortuna
Tourists flock to Baldi Hot Springs because they claim to be the purest and largest hot springs in the world! Although many pay for just a day pass, why not stay and be able to enjoy the amenities whenever you feel like it? The resort includes 25 different thermal water pools along with comfortable rooms, a children’s playground and an on-site restaurant with dining room views of Arenal Volcano.
Prefer just a day pass to one of Costa Rica’s best hot springs? Book a day pass to Baldi Hot Springs here!
Book your room at Baldi Hot Springs Hotel & Spa!
AMENITIES:
Baldi Hot Springs Hotel & Spa’s amenities include 10 indoor pools, 15 outdoor pools, a large children’s playground, waterslide, two on-site restaurants, full-service spa, 5 bars/lounges, a coffee shop and swim up bar.
Hotel Arenal Springs Resort & Spa-
BEST FOR: couples, families| 3 Stars| 7minute drive from downtown La Fortuna
Perfect for family-friendly activities or relaxing as a couple, Hotel Arenal Springs Resort has so much to offer it’s guests. While visiting, learn more about Costa Rica’s environment by visiting the bird sanctuary or vegetable garden. Just imagine indulging in the stunning hot springs, all within the enchanting embrace of the rainforest’s natural wonders!
Claim your room now at Hotel Arenal Springs Resort & Spa!
AMENITIES:
Hotel Arenal Springs Resort & Spa has a variety of amenities including three restaurants and bars, two outdoor pools, hot springs, pool bar, a children’s pool, yoga deck and full service spa.
Volcano Lodge Hotel & Thermal Experience-
BEST FOR: couples, families| 3 Stars| 10 minute drive from downtown La Fortuna
Immerse yourself in nature at the Volcano Lodge Hotel! This magnificent rainforest resort boasts an array of exceptional amenities perfect for a couples getaway or family adventure. From bird-watching opportunities to a refreshing swimming pool with a swim up bar, this resort offers a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation amidst the breathtaking beauty of the rainforest.
Book your room at the Volcano Lodge Hotel!
AMENITIES:
The Volcano Lodge Hotel amenities include a sauna, kid’s pool, four outdoor pools, a swim up bar, on-site restaurant, two bars, and a children’s playground.
BEST BUDGET-FRIENDLY LA FORTUNA HOTELS
Hotel Magic Mountain Spa & Conference Center-
BEST FOR: couples| 3 Stars| 4 minute drive from downtown La Fortuna
When looking at photos, you’d never know Hotel Magic Mountain is as affordable as it is! With lots of amenities and incredible views, this place gives you a lot of bang for your buck! Although there are upgrade options for rooms, spa packages and more, with a basic room, you’ll have a great price with access to all the important amenities such as pools and restaurants.
Learn more and book at room at Hotel Magic Mountain Spa & Conference Center!
AMENITIES:
Hotel Magic Mountain Spa & Conference Center’s amenities include a pool with view of Arenal volcano, jacuzzi’s, on-site restaurant, two bars (including a margarita bar), and spa.
San Bosco Inn-
BEST FOR: couples, friends, families| 3 Stars| located in La Fortuna
San Bosco Inn is in an ideal location downtown while still having views of Arenal Volcano. Unwind in the on-site pool or relax and watch the sunset from the rooftop terrace.
Book your room at San Bosco Inn in La Fortuna!
AMENITIES:
San Bosco Inn includes a pool with view of the volcano, kid’s pool, on-site restaurant, a rooftop terrace, and gardens.
Hotel Rancho Cerro Azul-
BEST FOR: couples, friends| 3 Stars| 4 minute drive from downtown La Fortuna
Hotel Rancho Cerro Azul offers wooden cabins surrounded by nature yet close to downtown. Each cabin has a balcony with a hammock perfect for relaxing. The hotel also includes private walking trails, and has an on-site restaurant and bar.
Book your room and learn more about Hotel Rancho Cerro Azul!
AMENITIES:
This resort’s amenities include an on-site restaurant, bar, private walking trails, and free parking.
OTHER ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS IN LA FORTUNA COSTA RICA
If you’re staying with a large group or would prefer to rent a home, I highly recommend VRBO. There are many homes listed on VRBO within the La Fortuna region. Just a reminder, you will also want to rent a car.
Check out VRBO for house and villa rentals here.
There are also many hostels available in La Fortuna for budget friendly backpackers or digital nomads. I’ve heard so many great things particularly about Arenal Poshpacker. It sounds like the best place to stay if you’re looking to connect with other travelers, have a tight budget, and love a fun atmosphere with poolside drinks and hammocks.
The best place to book hostels is hostelworld. There you will find variety of options in La Fortuna, Costa Rica.
***
Choosing the right place to stay in La Fortuna, Costa Rica, is essential to make the most of your visit. Whether you prefer the proximity to the Arenal Volcano, the convenience of the town center, the relaxation of hot springs resorts, the immersion in nature at eco-lodges, or peace of mind of staying in budget, there is a perfect accommodation option to suit every traveler’s preferences. Embrace the magic of La Fortuna by selecting a place to stay that suits you perfectly. Now all you have to do is sit back and enjoy those hot springs.
TOP COSTA RICA TRAVEL RESOURCES
Need help planning your trip to Costa Rica? Visit my travel resources page for my favorite travel companies that will ALWAYS save you money, time, and headaches!
1. BOOK FLIGHTS WITH SKYSCANNER
2. BOOK ACCOMMODATION WITH BOOKING.COM or HOTELS.COM
3. BOOK ACTIVITIES AND TOURS WITH GET YOUR GUIDE or VIATOR.COM
4. BOOK TRAVEL INSURANCE WITH WORLD NOMADS.
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