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There’s something magical about sitting waist-deep in steamy, volcanic water while howler monkeys echo in the trees and your only decision is: “Do I move to the hotter pool or stay here until I turn into a raisin?”
Welcome to the joy of natural hot springs in Costa Rica—where the geothermal activity is as real as the pura vida vibes. Whether you’re after a jungle river, a boutique eco-spa, or a family-friendly soak, Costa Rica delivers. And it delivers hot.
Here’s my personal guide to the best hot springs around the country—from wild rivers to romantic spas. I’ve tested most of these personally (all in the name of research, of course).
Tabacón Hot Springs – The Famous One
If hot springs in Costa Rica had an A-list, Tabacón would be on the red carpet. Located in La Fortuna at the base of Arenal Volcano, this is more than just a soak—it’s an experience.
A real thermal river flows through lush tropical gardens, forming a string of natural pools that look like something out of a dream. You can wander barefoot between pools of different temperatures, and half expect to bump into a sloth sipping on a piña colada.
- Vibe: Romantic, luxurious, and totally unforgettable
- Good for: Couples, honeymooners, spa lovers
- Pro tip: Book early—they limit entry and it gets booked out fast
Ecotermales Hot Springs – The Chill One
Looking for something smaller and quieter? Ecotermales is a family-run spot that feels more like a hidden jungle sanctuary than a resort. You’ll find elegant stone pools tucked among palms, plus a great little bar where you can sip cocktails in your towel. Heaven.
- Vibe: Relaxed, intimate, never crowded
- Good for: Date night, introverts, calm evenings
- Pro tip: Try the evening session—steaming pools under the stars are magical
Natural Hot Springs in Costa Rica – Río Chollín
Want the hot spring experience without the $90 price tag? Río Chollín is your place. It’s a natural hot river that flows right past the fancy resorts. No entry fee, no lifeguards, no frills—just hot water, rocks, and the occasional local sipping beer in a hammock.
- Vibe: Wild, DIY, fun and muddy
- Good for: Backpackers, locals, spontaneous adventurers
- Pro tip: Visit in daylight, bring sandals and a dry bag
Baldi Hot Springs – The Resort Party
Baldi is where hot springs meet tropical waterpark. With over 20 pools (yes, 20!), waterslides, bars, and even a nightclub vibe after dark, it’s more splashy than serene—but definitely fun if that’s your scene.
- Vibe: Big, flashy, party-friendly
- Good for: Groups, families, fun-lovers
- Pro tip: Day passes include dinner—come hungry and stay late
Natural Hot Springs in Costa Rica – Los Laureles
Not every hot spring in Costa Rica has to be Instagram-perfect. Termales Los Laureles is where Ticos go to relax on weekends. It’s affordable, unfussy, and full of real local flavor. Think picnic tables, simple pools, and kids splashing with floaties.
- Vibe: Casual, family-style, no pretensions
- Good for: Budget travelers, families, culture-seekers
- Pro tip: Bring your own snacks and a good attitude
Río Negro Hot Springs – The Jungle Spa (Rincón de la Vieja)
Northwest of Liberia, at the edge of Rincón de la Vieja National Park, lies a steamy little wonderland called Río Negro. Picture this: crossing a hanging bridge into the jungle, rubbing volcanic mud on your arms, and soaking in a pool while toucans fly overhead.
- Vibe: Earthy, rustic, connected to nature
- Good for: Couples, wellness junkies, volcano chasers
- Pro tip: Combine it with a morning hike or canopy tour nearby
Orosi Valley Hot Springs – The Underrated Escape
Most tourists don’t make it to the Orosi Valley, and that’s exactly why you should. Just outside Cartago, this misty highland area offers thermal springs surrounded by mountains, coffee farms, and total tranquility.
Places like Hacienda Orosi and Balneario Aguas Termales are charming, chill, and feel worlds away from the busy tourist trail.
- Vibe: Quiet, scenic, hidden gem
- Good for: Road trippers, couples, solo wanderers
- Pro tip: Visit midweek—locals take over on weekends
Need Help Planning Your Hot Springs Adventure?
At GoExploreWith.me, we help you ditch the tourist traps and dive into the best real experiences Costa Rica has to offer—yes, even if they’re warm, steamy, and smell faintly of sulfur.
Whether you’re after luxury or lava mud, we’ll help you find it.
Bonus: Free eBook – 10 Hidden Gems in Costa Rica You’ve Never Heard Of
Love the idea of secret spots, local favorites, and under-the-radar magic? Then grab our free eBook: “10 Hidden Gems in Costa Rica You’ve Never Heard Of.”
Inside, you’ll find real places we recommend to our own friends—like jungle waterfalls with no one around, small mountain towns with hot springs and no crowds, and beaches that don’t even show up on Google Maps.
Now go grab your swimsuit and a towel. Your inner spa explorer is waiting.
