If you're looking for one of the most spectacular luxury resorts in Costa Rica, The Springs Resort & Spa at Arenal should be at the top of your list.
Located in La Fortuna de San Carlos in the northern highlands of Costa Rica, this award-winning five-star resort offers breathtaking views of Arenal Volcano and the Arenal River while surrounding guests with rainforest, wildlife, and natural hot springs.
The property blends adventure, relaxation, and luxury into one unforgettable experience, making it one of the most popular destinations for travelers exploring Costa Rica’s Arenal region.
Where Is The Springs Resort & Spa at Arenal Located?
The resort sits just outside La Fortuna, one of Costa Rica’s most famous adventure destinations.
Surrounded by lush rainforest and volcanic landscapes, the property overlooks:
- Arenal Volcano
- The Arenal River Valley
- Protected rainforest
This location allows visitors to experience both luxury resort living and outdoor adventure in one place.
Getting to The Springs Resort & Spa at Arenal
One important thing to know before visiting is that getting to La Fortuna requires a drive.
From Costa Rica’s major international airports:
- San José International Airport (SJO) – about 2.5 to 3 hours
- Liberia International Airport (LIR) – about 3 to 3.5 hours
While rental cars are available, many visitors prefer taking a private taxi or shuttle.
Some of the roads heading toward the Arenal region include rural mountain routes and off-road sections, so if you're unfamiliar with the area, a professional driver is highly recommended.
The drive itself is scenic, passing through Costa Rican countryside, jungle landscapes, and small mountain towns.
What Makes The Springs Resort & Spa at Arenal Special?
What truly sets the resort apart is the combination of luxury and nature.
Guests enjoy panoramic volcano views while having access to a wide range of activities both on and off the property.
Highlights include:
- Natural hot springs overlooking the rainforest
- Wildlife sanctuary tour and wildcat feeding
- Adventure excursions throughout the Arenal region
- Luxury spa experiences
- Fine dining with volcano views
It's the kind of place where you can spend the morning zip-lining through the rainforest and the afternoon relaxing in mineral hot springs.
Resort Activities and Excursions
While many resort amenities are included with your stay, several excursions are available for an additional cost.
These guided experiences are some of the most popular activities guests book during their visit.
Horseback Riding Around Arenal
Horseback riding is one of the best ways to experience the rainforest landscapes surrounding the resort.
Trails wind through jungle terrain and scenic viewpoints where riders can see Arenal Volcano and the surrounding valley.
It's also a great opportunity to spot wildlife like monkeys and tropical birds.
ATV Adventures Through the Jungle
For travelers looking for something more adventurous, ATV tours are a popular option.
These excursions take guests along rugged jungle paths and scenic viewpoints that showcase Costa Rica’s diverse terrain.
Expect muddy trails, river crossings, waterfalls, and incredible rainforest scenery.
Kayaking the Arenal Region
Kayaking excursions allow visitors to explore Costa Rica’s waterways while surrounded by jungle landscapes.
Paddling through calm waters near the Arenal region offers a unique perspective of the rainforest and volcano views.
Popular Experiences at the Resort
Beyond traditional excursions, the resort also offers unique experiences that highlight Costa Rica’s wildlife and natural environment.
Wildlife Sanctuary Tour
Costa Rica is known for its incredible biodiversity, and guests have opportunities to see wildlife through a guided tour.
Seeing these animals in their natural habitat is often one of the most memorable parts of a trip to Arenal.
Bird Watching
This tour starts early! You'll depart from the lobby at 6am and will spend about 2 hours going through different environments viewing as many as 40 different bird species.
Binoculars are a must-have for this adventure as well as long pants and closed-toed shoes. Pro tip: bring rain gear and mosquito repellant.
Rock Wall Climbing & Rapelling
The Club Rio Adventure Center has a 50-foot high rock climbing wall. The wall offers multiple challenge options for different skill levels.
No experience is needed for this adventure and climbing shoes are provided.
Wildcat Feeding
This hour long unique experience is truly one-of-a-kind. Watch experts feed the tropical wild felines in unique ways while learning about their natural behaviors.
This tour isn't just limited to spotting wildcats in their natural environment. You'll see toucans, sloths, caimans, and more!
Sample 7-Day Itinerary at The Springs Resort & Spa at Arenal
If you're planning a trip to Costa Rica, here’s a sample 7-day itinerary inspired by a typical N2 Getaway experience.
Just like our guide to Lunch Spots Near Wailea Beach Resort, planning meals and activities ahead of time helps maximize your experience.
Planning more in Costa Rica? Explore our full Costa Rica Travel Guide for more tips and recommendations.
Day 1 – Arrival in Costa Rica
Arrive at San José or Liberia International Airport and begin the scenic drive to La Fortuna.
After arriving at the resort:
- Check into your room
- Explore the resort grounds
- Enjoy dinner with views of Arenal Volcano
End the evening relaxing in the resort’s natural hot springs pools.
Day 2 – Hot Springs and Wildlife
Spend the morning enjoying the resort’s famous hot springs.
In the afternoon:
- Take a wildlife viewing tour
- Watch the wildcat feeding
- Walk through rainforest trails
Finish the evening with sunset views of Arenal Volcano.
Day 3 – Horseback Riding Adventure
Experience the surrounding landscape with a guided horseback riding excursion.
This is one of the best ways to see the valley and rainforest from a unique perspective.
Before heading back to spend the afternoon relaxing at the resort spa or pools, test your skills by climbing the rock wall.
Day 4 – ATV Jungle Tour
Today is all about adventure.
Take an ATV tour through the jungle, exploring rugged trails and scenic viewpoints around the Arenal region.
Later in the evening, return to the resort for dinner and another soak in the hot springs.
Day 5 – Kayaking and River Views
Head out for a kayaking excursion in the Arenal region.
Paddling through Costa Rica’s tropical landscape offers incredible views of the surrounding jungle and volcano.
Spend the afternoon enjoying the resort amenities.
Day 6 – Bird Watching
Remember this tour starts early. Depending on how you want to schedule your itinerary, you can opt to go bird watching on day 3 or day 4 based on your preference.
Since you depart the next day, spend the remainder of the your time relaxing.
Day 7 – Departure
Spend your final morning enjoying breakfast with volcano views before beginning the return drive to the airport.
Why The Springs Resort & Spa at Arenal Is One of Costa Rica’s Best Resorts
Between the volcano views, luxury accommodations, hot springs, and adventure excursions, The Springs Resort & Spa at Arenal offers one of the most complete travel experiences in Costa Rica.
Whether you're planning a honeymoon, adventure vacation, or relaxing escape, the combination of nature and luxury makes it one of the most memorable places to stay in the Arenal region.
For travelers visiting La Fortuna and Arenal Volcano, it’s easy to see why this resort continues to rank among the top luxury resorts in Costa Rica.
FAQ: Visiting The Springs Resort & Spa at Arenal
Before planning your stay at The Springs Resort & Spa at Arenal, here are answers to some of the most common questions travelers ask about visiting La Fortuna and Arenal Volcano.
How far is The Springs Resort & Spa at Arenal from the airport?
The Springs Resort & Spa at Arenal is approximately 2.5 to 3 hours from San José International Airport (SJO) and 3 to 3.5 hours from Liberia International Airport (LIR). Because the route includes rural mountain roads and occasional off-road sections, many visitors choose to book a private driver or taxi service instead of renting a car.
Is The Springs Resort & Spa at Arenal worth it?
Yes. The resort is widely considered one of the best luxury resorts in Costa Rica thanks to its views of Arenal Volcano, natural hot springs pools, wildlife experiences, and adventure excursions like horseback riding, kayaking, and ATV tours.
What activities are available at The Springs Resort & Spa at Arenal?
Popular activities include:
- Horseback riding near Arenal Volcano
- ATV jungle tours
- Kayaking excursions
- Rock wall climbing
- Wildcat feeding
- Bird watching
Many of these activities can be arranged directly through the resort.
When is the best time to visit Arenal and La Fortuna?
The best time to visit La Fortuna and Arenal Volcano is typically December through April, during Costa Rica’s dry season. Visitors during this time often experience clearer volcano views and better weather for outdoor activities.