Destinations Central & South America Costa Rica Best Hot Springs in Costa Rica Get a soak in at one of these natural thermal resorts. By Ashley Harrell Ashley Harrell Ashley Harrell is a Northern California-based journalist who writes about the sea, wildlife, travel, and more. As a Lonely Planet writer, she's co-authored 48 guidebooks in 15 countries and serves as an editor at SFGate. Travel + Leisure Editorial Guidelines Updated on November 7, 2023 Trending Videos Close this video player Photo: Jose Hernandez/Travel + Leisure For travelers looking to warm themselves in thermal waters heated by active volcanoes, there's no better destination than Costa Rica. One of the country's top spots for tourism, the area around the Arenal Volcano offers more than a dozen bathing facilities, many of which feature amenities like swim-up bars, water slides, and tropical cocktails. While a few of the hot springs are only open for day visits, others are incorporated into hotels that allow guests round-the-clock access. It doesn't get much better than a relaxing, after-dinner dip on a romantic getaway. While it might come as a surprise to some visitors, Arenal is not the only place to soak until your fingers turn to prunes. Newer outlets in Guanacaste surrounding the Rincón de la Vieja and Miravalles volcanoes are also worth a visit, and in this region, baths in volcanic mud are very popular. Guests slather themselves in the mineral-rich mud, which then hardens and can be washed off after yet another dip in the hot springs. There's nothing better than enjoying a hot soak and tropical surroundings at the same time, so we found the resorts where you can experience the best hot springs in Costa Rica. Tabacón Thermal Resort & Spa Jose Hernandez/Travel + Leisure Tabacón has been open since the early '90s before most of Costa Rica's commercial hot pools were even thought of, and it remains the most impressive. The river is divided into more than a dozen bathing areas, and if you wander around enough, you'll find secret bars and private spaces. Rio Perdido Courtesy of Rio Perdido Rio Perdido is tucked in the foothills between the little-explored mountain town of Bagaces and the Miravalles Volcano. The springs here are totally natural and the setting is wildly picturesque, with warm green water surrounded by dry forest and incredible rock formations. The Springs Resort & Spa Jose Hernandez/Travel + Leisure Set back from the Arenal Volcano, this magnificent hotel and its sprawling grounds are the mecca of hot springs. There are more than a dozen pools to choose from, some of which feature water slides and swim-up bars. Although the water is pumped in, these pools are as therapeutic as any. Eco Termales Hot Springs Jose Hernandez/Travel + Leisure For a more intimate hot springs experience, Eco Termales is a smaller facility in the Arenal area that is solely focused on its baths. The space around the pools teems with flora and fauna, so you can float on your back while watching toucans fly overhead. The on-site restaurant is also delicious. Vandará Courtesy of Vandará Hot Springs & Adventures Heated by Rincón de la Vieja, this hot springs and adventure facility includes zip-lining, horseback riding, and a giant waterslide. After you've finished with the activities, it's time for a dip in the hot springs, man-made pools filled with thermal waters heated by the nearby volcano. Mud baths and mineral treatments are also available.