Best Hotels and Places to Stay in Arenal
Why visit?
Arenal in Costa Rica offers an exhilarating experience for tourists with its stunning natural landscapes and exciting adventure activities. Visitors can explore the majestic Arenal Volcano, relax in the hot springs, embark on thrilling hikes, and enjoy various water sports in the nearby Lake Arenal. Whether you seek adventure, relaxation, or a combination of both, Arenal has something for everyone.
Where to stay?
La Fortuna: Located at the base of the Arenal Volcano, La Fortuna is the main tourist hub of the Arenal region. This vibrant town offers a wide range of accommodation options, including luxury resorts, boutique hotels, and budget-friendly hostels. La Fortuna provides easy access to the Arenal Volcano National Park, hot springs, waterfalls, and other adventure activities. With its lively atmosphere and abundant dining and shopping options, La Fortuna is a popular choice among tourists.
El Castillo: For a more secluded and nature-focused experience, El Castillo is an excellent choice. This small village is situated on the southern side of Lake Arenal, offering breathtaking views of the lake and the volcano. Accommodation options in El Castillo range from eco-lodges and rustic cabins to boutique hotels nestled in the lush rainforest. Visitors can enjoy activities like hiking, birdwatching, and kayaking while experiencing the tranquility of the natural surroundings.
Nuevo Arenal: Located on the northwest side of Lake Arenal, Nuevo Arenal is ideal for those seeking a peaceful retreat. This laid-back village offers a serene atmosphere and stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountains. Accommodation options in Nuevo Arenal include charming bed and breakfasts, lakeside hotels, and eco-friendly resorts. Visitors can indulge in activities like fishing, boating, or simply relaxing by the lakeshore.
What is the price per hotel room per night?
3-star hotels: The average price per night is around $70 to $130.
4-star hotels: The average price per night is around $130 to $250.
5-star hotels: The average price per night is around $250 to $500.
Best Value for Money:
Hotel Arenal Manoa: This charming 4-star hotel offers spacious and comfortable rooms with volcano views. Guests can relax in the hot springs or enjoy the outdoor swimming pool amidst beautiful tropical gardens. With its great amenities and reasonable prices, Hotel Arenal Manoa provides excellent value for money.
Hotel Los Lagos Spa & Resort: Nestled amidst lush gardens, this 5-star resort offers a range of affordable accommodations, including comfortable rooms and rustic cabins. The hotel boasts multiple hot springs, waterfalls, and a waterslide complex, providing endless entertainment for families and adventure-seekers without breaking the bank.
Arenal Hostel Resort: For budget-conscious travelers, this hostel resort offers cozy dormitories and affordable private rooms. Located near La Fortuna, it provides easy access to local attractions and features a vibrant communal area, a pool, a jacuzzi, and even a rock climbing wall. Arenal Hostel Resort offers a wallet-friendly option with a fun and social atmosphere.
Best Kids-Friendly Hotels:
The Springs Resort and Spa: This luxurious 5-star resort offers spacious suites and villas with stunning volcano views. Families will appreciate the resorts expansive hot spring complex, where kids can enjoy water slides, pools of various temperatures, and a separate childrens area. The Springs Resort also offers a kids club, adventure center, and zip-lining tours, ensuring an unforgettable family vacation.
Hotel Arenal Kioro Suites & Spa: With its spacious suites and breathtaking views, this 4-star hotel provides an ideal setting for a family getaway. The hotel features multiple hot spring pools, a childrens pool area, and a playground. Younger guests will love the on-site butterfly garden and the chance to spot exotic wildlife in the hotels expansive grounds.
Best Hotels for Romantic Getaway:
Nayara Springs: This exclusive adults-only resort offers luxurious villas with private plunge pools and stunning rainforest views. Guests can indulge in couples spa treatments, dine in gourmet restaurants, and relax in the hot springs surrounded by lush greenery. Nayara Springs provides an intimate and romantic escape for couples.
Tabacon Thermal Resort & Spa: Tucked within the rainforest, this 5-star resort offers elegant rooms and suites with natural hot spring-fed Jacuzzis. Couples can enjoy rejuvenating spa treatments together, take refreshing dips in thermally heated pools, and savor romantic candlelit dinners amidst the beautiful tropical surroundings.
Best for Location:
Arenal Observatory Lodge & Spa: Situated within Arenal Volcano National Park, this unique lodge offers comfortable rooms with volcano and lake views. Guests can explore various hiking trails directly from the lodge, relax in natural hot springs, and enjoy exceptional birdwatching opportunities.
Arenal Springs Resort & Spa: Nestled amidst gardens with views of the volcano, this 4-star resort provides easy access to La Fortuna and offers spacious rooms and villas. The resort features multiple pools, including mineral-rich hot springs, providing guests with a relaxing and picturesque environment.
Hotel Royal Corin: With its contemporary design, this luxury hotel offers rooms and suites with volcano views. Guests can unwind in the hot springs, enjoy a cocktail at the swim-up bar, and take advantage of the hotels convenient location near La Fortuna and various adventure activities.
Best for a Short City Break:
Hotel Magic Mountain: Located in La Fortuna, this modern hotel offers comfortable rooms, a swimming pool, and stunning views of Arenal Volcano. It provides easy access to the towns restaurants, shops, and nightlife, making it an ideal choice for a short city break.
Hotel Arenal Green: Situated near La Fortuna, this budget-friendly hotel offers simple yet cozy rooms surrounded by tropical gardens. It provides a peaceful atmosphere while being conveniently close to the towns amenities, making it a great option for a quick getaway.
