Tabacon Thermal Resort & Spa Costa Rica
Tabacon Thermal Resort & Spa
13 Km. North-West of La Fortuna de San Carlos, Arenal, Alajuela
Costa Rica
www.tabacon.com
HOTEL INFORMATION
Date of Creation
April 13, 1993. Tabacon opened as a day destination. Finally, in late 1997, the hotel was inaugurated.
Hotel General Manager
Mr. Andrey Gomez.
Gomez brings over 25 years of experience in hotel management and operations across Central America. His vision, attention to detail, and ability to deliver luxurious, immersive, and adventurous experiences make him well-placed to ensure Tabacon’s natural ‘welcome home’ mantra is evident at every guest and employee touchpoint.
Hotel Positioning
The hotel is a member of Small Luxury Hotel of the World and has a five-star designation from the Costa Rican Tourism Institute. It has also been certified with 5 leaves (out of 5) in the Costa Rica Sustainability in Tourism Program (CST)
TABACON THERMAL RESORT & SPA
History & Story
Our story begins with water.
At the base of the Arenal Volcano flows the only 100% natural thermal river in the region—a living river of warm mineral water that has shaped this landscape long before Tabacón existed. Rather than containing it, the vision was always to preserve its natural course and allow the river to define the experience.
The thermal waters flow freely through lush gardens and rainforest, forming cascading waterfalls, naturally sculpted pools, and secluded bathing areas that invite guests to slow down and reconnect with the rhythms of nature. The land surrounding the river has been carefully reforested, transforming former open fields into a thriving tropical reserve that feels both wild and intentional.
From the beginning, Tabacón was conceived as a place where nature leads and design follows. Every element of the resort was created to coexist with the environment, enhancing the sensory experience without interrupting it. The sound of flowing water, the warmth of stone, and the presence of the forest are integral parts of the stay.
Originally welcoming guests as a day destination centered on the thermal river, Tabacón later evolved into a full resort as Arenal emerged on the global travel map. Today, Tabacón remains deeply connected to its origins while offering a refined expression of hospitality rooted in place.
Set within an expansive tropical reserve, Tabacón is home to the region’s largest network of naturally flowing hot springs and offers 105 elegantly appointed guest rooms and suites, two signature restaurants, four bars, and a world-class spa—each designed to celebrate the rare privilege of staying where nature is the true luxury.
Date Renewal
Tabacón is continuously evolving. In addition to ongoing enhancements across the property, the main pool and arrival experience were recently renovated in 2025, further elevating the guest journey.
Main Strengths, Special Touch
Tabacon Thermal Experience (Costa Rica largest network of naturally flowing hot springs)
The Tabacón experience is shaped by its naturally flowing thermo-mineral river, which emerges at the base of the Arenal Volcano and winds through the heart of the forest. The thermal waters are thoughtfully guided to form cascading waterfalls and naturally sculpted pools, all immersed within lush tropical gardens home to more than 200 species of plants and flowers.
The main sunbathing and swimming area features temperature-controlled pools ranging from 25 to 50 degrees Celsius (77 to 122°F), including the main pool with a swim-up bar, recently enhanced as part of the resort’s ongoing evolution. Beyond this area, a series of secluded natural pools are nestled along forest pathways, offering quiet moments of relaxation and restoration after a walk through the gardens and trails.
• Shangri-La Gardens
Shangri-La Gardens is an exclusive, adults-only area reserved for hotel guests, thoughtfully set in a secluded upper section of the thermal river complex. Surrounded by lush vegetation, this private retreat features six naturally heated thermal mineral pools, warmed by the geothermal energy of the nearby Arenal Volcano.
Designed for privacy and deep relaxation, Shangri-La Gardens offers cocoon-style loungers and day beds, along with attentive service from a dedicated private bar. This serene space invites guests to unwind at a slower pace, immersed in nature and tranquility.
Exclusive for guests 18 years and older.
• The Spa at Tabacon
The Spa at Tabacón offers deeply restorative treatments in open-air bungalows nestled among the forest, gardens, and naturally flowing thermal waters. Thoughtfully designed to blend into the surrounding landscape, each space provides a sense of seclusion and calm, allowing guests to fully disconnect and unwind.
The setting fosters privacy and tranquility—essential elements for achieving a state of balance, renewal, and lasting well-being.
Location
Set at the base of the Arenal Volcano in northern Costa Rica, Tabacón is immersed in the heart of the rainforest. The resort is home to the renowned Tabacón Thermal River—the only naturally flowing thermal river in the region—and is surrounded by more than 570 acres of primary and secondary rainforest.
Key sites/activities in the area
At Tabacón, the experience begins within the property itself. Guests are invited to discover the resort’s deep connection to its surroundings through the Nature & History Tabacón Trail, a guided walk that explores the natural environment, the thermal river, and the history of Tabacón at the base of the Arenal Volcano.
Well-being is a central part of the stay, with The Spa at Tabacón offering one of the most distinctive spa experiences in the region. Treatments and massages are delivered in open-air bungalows set among tropical gardens and naturally flowing thermal waters, providing privacy, tranquility, and a true sense of renewal in harmony with nature.
Culinary experiences also play a key role, from refined dining to relaxed moments by the thermal river, highlighting fresh ingredients and flavors inspired by the region.
Beyond the resort, guests have access to a wide range of activities in the Arenal area, including rainforest hikes, hanging bridges, whitewater rafting, zip lines, waterfall rappelling, volcano trails, lake activities, nature cruises, and other adventure and nature-based experiences, all easily arranged from the hotel.
Fun Facts
With four bars across the property, guests can enjoy everything from handcrafted cocktails to Costa Rican coffee—some just steps away from the thermal waters.
Children’s Corner
Tabacón does not offer a traditional kids club. However, babysitting services are available upon request for an additional fee. The naturally flowing thermal river, originating at the base of the Arenal Volcano, offers a memorable and enriching experience for children, allowing families to enjoy the surroundings at their own pace.
Please note that Shangri-La Gardens is an adults-only area, exclusively reserved for guests aged 18 and over.
HOTEL FEATURES
Accommodation
Tabacón offers 105 thoughtfully designed guest rooms and suites, each blending contemporary comfort with natural materials inspired by Costa Rica’s rainforest. Interiors feature rich Costa Rican woods and furnishings handcrafted by local artisans, creating a warm and authentic sense of place. Rooms overlook tropical gardens, forest surroundings, or natural landscapes.
All accommodations are equipped with air conditioning, complimentary Wi-Fi, flat-screen Smart TVs (42”–50”), minibar, in-room safe, coffee and tea selection, and either one king bed or two queen beds. Bathrooms include plush bathrobes, premium bath amenities, and hair dryers. Connecting rooms are available upon request.
• Number of suites: 22
• Number of regular rooms: 83
• Number of rooms, (keys) in all: 105
Orchid Room:
Spacious and light-filled, the Orchid Room offers an open layout with views of the surrounding tropical environment. Modern interiors are complemented by colorful accents and a cozy sitting area designed for relaxation. Available with one king bed or two queen beds.
Rainforest Room:
Spacious and light-filled, the Orchid Room offers an open layout with views of the surrounding tropical environment. Modern interiors are complemented by colorful accents and a cozy sitting area designed for relaxation. Available with one king bed or two queen beds.
Tabacon Suite:
The Tabacón Suites are the resort’s largest single-room category. These spacious suites offer a modern design and expansive views of the rainforest. They feature one king bed, a sofa bed, an extensive terrace or balcony, and an in-room jacuzzi paired with a separate glass-enclosed hot spring shower.
Volcano View Suite
Designed for couples seeking privacy and meaningful connection, the Volcano View Suite offers a serene and intimate setting surrounded by nature. The suite features one king-size bed, a bathtub, and a dual rain shower, along with a private balcony ideal for quiet moments together. Amenities include a 50” Smart TV, complimentary Wi-Fi, and a coffee and tea selection.
Adults-only suite.
Private Pool Suite
Created for couples looking to slow down and reconnect, the adults-only Private Pool Suite offers a secluded retreat with a private thermal water plunge pool on the terrace. The suite features one king-size bed, a dual rain shower, and a private lounge area designed for uninterrupted relaxation. Amenities include a 50” Smart TV, complimentary Wi-Fi, and coffee and tea service.
Adults-only suite.
Two Bedroom Arenal Suites:
Perfect for families or extended stays, the Two Bedroom Arenal Suite combines generous space with refined modern design. The suite features a separate living and dining area, a primary bedroom with a king bed and terrace overlooking the rainforest, and a second bedroom with two queen beds. The main bathroom includes an in-room jacuzzi and a separate glass-enclosed shower, complemented by a second full bathroom and a spacious walk-in closet for added comfort and privacy.
Restaurants & Bars
Tabacón’s culinary offering is deeply connected to Costa Rica’s flavors, landscapes, and traditions, expressed through refined techniques, local ingredients, and a thoughtful sense of place. Dining at Tabacón is designed as an extension of the natural experience—honest, sensory, and rooted in origin.
• Ave Restaurant:
Ave Restaurant presents a contemporary fine dining experience inspired by Costa Rican culinary heritage. The menu highlights locally sourced ingredients and traditional flavors, reinterpreted with modern techniques and a refined approach. Both lunch and dinner are designed to feel light, expressive, and connected to the surrounding environment.
• Tucanes Restaurant:
Set in an open-air setting on the hotel grounds, Tucanes Restaurant offers an elegant yet relaxed dining experience. Daily breakfast, included with the room rate, features a thoughtful selection of local flavors and seasonal ingredients. In the evening, the à la carte dinner menu blends Costa Rican culinary traditions with international influences, always grounded in fresh, regional products.
• Agua Ardiente Pool Bar:
Located at the main pool within the thermal springs area, Agua Ardiente is Tabacón’s original swim-up bar. The menu features handcrafted cocktails inspired by tropical fruits, native ingredients, and Costa Rican spirits, creating a lively yet natural atmosphere that flows seamlessly from day into evening.
• Caña Brava Bar:
Situated in the hotel lobby overlooking tropical gardens, Caña Brava Bar offers a curated selection of cocktails, Costa Rican coffees, light dishes, and snacks. It is an inviting space to pause, connect, and enjoy the rhythm of the resort throughout the day.
• Shangri-La Gardens Bar:
Exclusively for adults, the Shangri-La Gardens Bar offers a discreet setting to enjoy a cocktail or light refreshment while immersed in nature. This private hideaway complements the serene atmosphere of the gardens, inviting guests to slow down and savor the moment.
Wellness
Wellness at Tabacón is shaped by water, nature, and thoughtful experiences designed to restore balance at a natural pace. The resort is home to Costa Rica’s largest network of naturally flowing hot springs, centered around the only 100% natural thermal river in the Arenal region, emerging at the base of the volcano and flowing freely through the rainforest.
More than 20 naturally formed thermal pools and cascading waterfalls are immersed within lush tropical gardens, creating a setting that feels organic, expansive, and deeply connected to the landscape. The main sunbathing and swimming area features temperature-controlled pools ranging from 25 to 50 degrees Celsius (77 to 122°F), including a main pool with a swim-up bar and a thermal water slide.
For guests seeking greater privacy, Shangri-La Gardens offers an adults-only retreat reserved exclusively for hotel guests. Located in a secluded upper section of the thermal complex, this serene area features six naturally heated mineral pools surrounded by dense vegetation.
The Spa at Tabacón, internationally recognized for its setting and approach, offers treatments in open-air bungalows nestled among the forest and thermal waters. Each experience is designed to encourage deep relaxation and reconnection with nature. Spa guests are invited to arrive early and enjoy the spa’s relaxation areas before their treatment, enhancing the overall sense of calm.
Wellness continues beyond the water and spa. Complimentary yoga sessions are offered regularly for hotel guests, providing a gentle way to begin the day surrounded by nature. The Fitness Center is equipped with LifeFitness cardio machines, circuit training equipment, free weights, and exercise balls, supporting guests who wish to maintain their routine during their stay.
Together, these elements create a holistic wellness experience—unhurried, natural, and deeply rooted in the environment.
Corporate & Celebration Events
Celebrate your elopement with us, contact our team at events@tabacon.com or send us your details by filling out our request form.
Hotel and Restaurant Awards
2025
• Oprah Daily Hotel O-Wards
• The best Destination Spas in Central & South America
TripAdvisor Traveler’s Choice Awards
• #10 de 25 Luxury Central America
• #9 de 15 Luxury Costa Rica
• #4 de 10 Top Costa Rica
• #5 de 20 Top Central America
2024
• The Luxury Spa Edit Awards 2024 – Best Spa Retreat South America
• Organic Spa Wellness Travel Awards – Best Hot Springs
TripAdvisor Traveler’s Choice Awards
• Luxury – Central America #9
• Luxury – Costa Rica #8
• Top – Costa Rica #6
• Top – Central America #7
Travel + Leisure
• International Spa
Condé Nast:
• The best resorts in Central & South America 2024
Tripadvisor Travelers’ Choice Awards Best of the Best 2024
• Top – Central America
• Top – Costa Rica, Luxury – Central America , Luxury – Costa Rica
Travel & Leisure:
• Top 3 Worldwide Destination Spas 2024
2023
Condé Nast Traveler – Readers’ Choice Awards 2023
• Top 20 Resorts in Central America (#7)
Tripadvisor Travelers’ Choice Awards 2023
• Thermal Resort: Top 10% of the world’s best attractions
• Top 25 Hotels in Costa Rica (#10)
• Top 25 Luxury Hotels in Central America (#11)
• Top 25 Luxury Hotels in Costa Rica (#9)
2022
Spa & Wellness Mexicaribe
• The Best Spas of Mexico, The Caribbean & Latin American
Tripadvisor
• GreenLeaders Gold Level
Tripadvisor, Traveler’s Choice Awards – Best of the Best 2022
• Top 25 Hotels in Costa Rica (#13)
• Top 10 Luxury Hotels in Costa Rica (#9)
2021
Small Luxury Hotels of the World
• Considerate Collection
Condé Nast Traveler – Readers’ Choice Awards 2021
• Top 15 Resorts in Central America (#15)
Travel + Leisure 2021
• The Top 5 International Destination Spas (#4)
Tripadvisor, Traveler’s Choice Awards – Best of the Best 2021
• Top 25 Hotels in Costa Rica (#5)
• Top 25 Hotels in Central America (#13)
2020
SLH Awards 2020 – Highly Commended
• Stay Small, Stay Considerate category
Organic Spa Media – Wellness Travel Awards 2020
• Best mineral/bathing hot springs
Tripadvisor, Traveler’s Choice Awards 2020
• Top 25 Hotels in Costa Rica (#10)
• Top 10 Luxury Hotels in Costa Rica (#9)
• Top 25 Luxury Hotels in Central America (#12)
Number of employees
Aprox. 378