The Best Hotels in La Fortuna, Costa Rica: Our Complete Guide!
Last update: 04/16/2026
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This time I’m back with a new article about Costa Rica. We were lucky enough to spend one month in Costa Rica in 2023 with the kids, and it was a fantastic experience! With its incredible biodiversity and volcanic landscapes, we made plenty of discoveries in this small Central American country. It was also our first time in this part of the world, and it turned out to be a truly enriching trip—both culturally and for the scenery.
During our month-long journey in Costa Rica, we stopped in La Fortuna/Arenal, a very popular and unmissable destination. To put it simply, La Fortuna is the starting point for most excursions in the region. That’s why I’ve put together a complete guide to the best hotels in La Fortuna, Costa Rica. Since it’s a tourist hotspot, the good news is that you’ll find plenty of accommodation options—and above all, something for every budget.
For us, La Fortuna offered amazing experiences, from hanging bridges to hot springs and tropical forests. That said, be careful: we also found that some activities felt more like tourist traps. I recommend staying alert when booking excursions. But then again, that’s often the case in highly touristy areas! In any case, I can assure you that La Fortuna and its surroundings are well worth the trip.
As you can tell, the purpose of this article is to help you plan your trip to Costa Rica. For us, it wasn’t very far from Guadeloupe, but depending on where you’re coming from, it could be quite a long journey. So, let me give you a hand in your search for accommodation in La Fortuna, Costa Rica.
The Best Hotels in La Fortuna, Costa Rica
As I mentioned, La Fortuna/Arenal was one of the stops on our one-month itinerary in Costa Rica. Since it’s the perfect base for exploring the surrounding area, you’ll find all kinds of hotels here. There are small, simple but well-loved places as well as luxury hotels—it all depends on what you’re looking for! In any case, I’ve put together a selection of hotels organized by category to make your search easier. You can go directly to the part that interests you, or if you’re unsure, just read through the full article! If you ask me, you’ll definitely find at least one hotel that suits you (if not more).
Luxury Hotels in La Fortuna: Between Opulence and Outstanding Ambiance
If you want to treat yourself during your stay in La Fortuna, you’ll be glad to know it offers some beautiful high-end properties. You’ll find stunning 4- and 5-star hotels with everything that goes with them: idyllic settings, spas, pools, fitness rooms, fine dining restaurants, and much more! That said, even though the selection is wide, I can tell you that the best hotels sell out quickly, especially during high season. So if I can give you one piece of advice: once you’ve made your choice, don’t wait too long to book.
The Springs Resort & Spa at Arenal
Located right across from Arenal Volcano, this resort is rated 5 stars. I’ll let you discover it for yourself, but everything here is designed to wow visitors! In concrete terms, it features 28 thermal-water pools surrounded by lush greenery, with an incredible view of Arenal’s cone. The rooms live up to the setting: they’re spacious, with a hot tub and a terrace. And the best part? They face the volcano—just wow!
Unsurprisingly, the facilities are top-notch, including the spa (sauna/steam room), gym, free parking, and five restaurants (buffet, grill, sushi bar—plenty to enjoy!). As for service, reviews are unanimous: the staff is warm and very attentive. Of course, this setting and these amenities come at a price. But if you’re looking for a luxurious escape in La Fortuna, The Springs Resort & Spa at Arenal is the perfect choice!
Tabacón Thermal Resort & Spa
At Tabacón Thermal Resort & Spa, you’ll be even closer to Arenal Volcano! You’ll literally be at the foot of the volcano while enjoying natural hot springs. To set the scene, you’ll find five pools hidden in the jungle, promising a truly nature-focused experience. As you can imagine, this is the property’s main highlight.
The rooms and suites are modern and extremely comfortable, featuring air conditioning, premium bedding, and stylish bathrooms. The difference between the rooms and suites comes down to the addition of a sitting area. To make your stay even more complete, you’ll also find a luxury spa, a sauna, a bar, and two restaurants serving both local and international cuisine. Add to that a few extras—free valet parking, a welcome cocktail, and unlimited access to the hot springs—and you’ve got a premium property for a full immersion in nature.
Nayara Gardens
Very close to Arenal Volcano, Nayara Gardens is a luxurious boutique hotel tucked away in the rainforest. Here, you’ll stay in independent bungalow-style casitas, beautifully decorated with wood, featuring a private terrace and, very often, a small pool or hot tub—all surrounded by lush greenery.
At this property, the key words are luxury and relaxation, with pools, hot springs, a high-end spa (with volcanic mud), three restaurants, and a wine bar. As for dining, you can enjoy breakfast with a stunning view of Arenal—what better way to start the day! In the end, this hotel fully lives up to its reputation: flawless and luxurious, set in a 100% natural environment.
The Royal Corin Thermal Water Spa & Resort
On the road to Arenal Volcano, The Royal Corin Thermal Water Spa & Resort is a peaceful haven where you can fully enjoy calm and hot waters without moderation! The property offers modern, spotless rooms with views of Arenal and hydromassage showers. You can alternate between thermal pools, waterfalls, a swim-up bar, and the spa. For meals, the restaurants are excellent and located on the 5th floor, offering breathtaking views.
Travelers clearly appreciate the warm welcome from the staff, the peaceful atmosphere, and the hot pools (pleasant even in the rain!). One last bonus: its location—just minutes from the town center, as well as the hanging bridges and Arenal Volcano. For your information, this is an adults-only property. Definitely something to keep in mind for a luxury stay as a couple or with friends!
Lost Iguana Resort and Spa
Near Lake Arenal and the Mistico hanging bridges, Lost Iguana Resort & Spa is a high-end jungle retreat with an incredible view of the volcano. Guests can stay in spacious rooms with balconies, or opt for luxury suites and villas. Whatever you choose, the accommodations are set in a lush environment typical of Costa Rica.
To help you picture it better, there are flower-filled paths, a small maze, and an outdoor pool with a bar—perfect for relaxing after a day of excursions. For dining, there’s a buffet breakfast and a restaurant serving international cuisine. Although it’s a slight step down in range compared to the previous hotels and doesn’t have hot springs, this property offers a true immersion in nature, complete with wildlife like hummingbirds and frogs. A real treat!
Hotel Lomas del Volcan
This 4-star hotel combines the charm of wooden cabins with the comfort of a resort. You can choose between several bungalows accommodating 2 to 4 people. They’re independent, with a terrace overlooking the gardens, and some even come with a private hot tub!
The property is designed to be very green and natural, while still offering excellent services such as a pool with a swim-up bar, a hot tub, two restaurants, and even a private 1.5 km trail. Not to mention the included buffet breakfast, the spa with massages, and the organization of excursions. In short, you come here for peace, independence, natural surroundings, local wildlife, and high-quality amenities. In my opinion, you won’t be disappointed!
As you’ve seen, each of these hotels offers a different experience with its own set of luxury amenities. I understand that choosing can be tricky, so to help you out, don’t hesitate to check the table below.
| Name | Location | Features | Reviews | Price | Booking |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| The Springs Resort & Spa at Arenal | La Fortuna / Arenal | 5-star resort facing the volcano, 28 thermal pools, spa, gym, 5 restaurants & bars, free Wi-Fi & parking. | You’ll love the vast tropical estate, the multiple hot pools, and the direct view of Arenal from your terrace. | €460 – €2,900 | Book |
| Tabacón Thermal Resort & Spa | Arenal, La Fortuna | Natural thermal river, 5 pools, luxury spa, sauna/steam room, 2 restaurants & bars, unlimited access to the springs for guests. | You’ll be delighted by the unique hot springs experience in the heart of the jungle, with high-end service and a zen vibe. | €380 – €700 | Book |
| Nayara Gardens | La Fortuna | 5-star boutique hotel in the rainforest, private casitas/bungalows with terrace and often pool/jacuzzi, hot springs, spa, 3 restaurants & wine bar. | You’ll be enchanted by the privacy of the casitas, the refined decor, and the impeccable service with Arenal views. | €400 – €1,400 | Book |
| The Royal Corin Thermal Water Spa & Resort | La Fortuna | 5-star adults-only hotel, thermal pools & waterfalls, swim-up bar, spa, panoramic restaurants, hydromassage showers. | You’ll appreciate the peaceful atmosphere, the hot pools even in the rain, and the stunning views from the rooms. | €210 – €780 | Book |
| Lost Iguana Resort & Spa | El Castillo de La Fortuna | Rooms, suites & villas with balcony and volcano view, large outdoor pool, tropical gardens with trails, restaurant & buffet breakfast. | You’ll be charmed by the total jungle immersion, private trails, and spotting wildlife like hummingbirds and frogs. | €340 – €1,100 | Book |
| Hotel Lomas del Volcan | La Fortuna | Independent wooden bungalows (2–4 people) with terrace, pool & hot tub, 2 restaurants, breakfast included, private 1.5 km trail, spa. | You’ll love the estate’s tranquility, the lush setting, and the proximity to activities (hanging bridges, waterfall, volcano). | €260 – €370 | Book |
Mid-range Hotels in La Fortuna: Combining Comfort and Fair Prices
If you’d rather find a good balance in La Fortuna, this is the place! I’ve put together a selection of five comfortable, family-friendly hotels. Most of them feature a pool and stunning views of Arenal—without breaking the bank. I won’t say more: you’ll see that most offer great value for money.
Hotel Monte Real
Just 200 meters from La Fortuna’s central park, Hotel Monte Real is a convenient and pleasant choice. The hotel sits beside a small river, with a patch of forest and a “frog garden.” In this garden, you’ll likely spot sloths, hummingbirds, and toucans—a rare treat for a property right in the town center.
As for the rooms, they’re simple and clean, equipped with air conditioning, a TV, and a safe. Some even come with a balcony overlooking the volcano. In terms of facilities, you’ll enjoy a large pool and a bar-restaurant serving excellent breakfasts by the water. To sum it up, with its central yet peaceful location and its services, I’d say Hotel Monte Real is well worth it!
La Fortuna Lodge by Treebu Hotels
We’re staying in the center of La Fortuna with this three-star hotel! Don’t worry—it may be a small central hotel, but it’s very peaceful. Here, you can choose between several double rooms with varying levels of comfort and corresponding prices. The rooms are modern and comfortable, with air conditioning, a private bathroom, and sometimes a balcony overlooking the volcano.
Breakfast is included and generous, perfect to start your adventures! There are also pleasant common areas, with a terrace and a lounge corner. What stands out about Fortuna Lodge by Treebu Hotels is simply the warm welcome, impeccable cleanliness, tranquility, and proximity to amenities. One last detail: this is an adults-only property, ideal for couples or friends.
Hotel Arenal Country Inn
A little outside the center, Hotel Arenal Country offers a quieter stay while still being close to a tropical garden (great for a walk!). Rooms can accommodate two to five people and are set in individual houses, each with a terrace and private bathroom. This time, you won’t get a breathtaking view, but the calm and the outlook over the garden or pool are very pleasant. The pool is surrounded by greenery, with a snack bar for light bites, and a good breakfast is included.
On the practical side, parking is free, the reception is open 24/7, and there’s an airport shuttle service if needed. Overall, what stands out here is the peaceful atmosphere, the flower-filled gardens, and the excellent value for money. It really checks a lot of boxes, doesn’t it?
Hotel La Pradera del Arenal
Just 2 km from the center, Hotel La Pradera del Arenal offers volcano views and pools! I mention this because that’s usually what travelers are looking for in La Fortuna. The hotel is set in a large tropical garden and features simple, clean rooms or bungalows with all the necessary amenities. The bonus: most of them offer panoramic views of the volcano!
And that’s not all! On the property, you’ll have access to three pools with views, heated jacuzzis, an à la carte restaurant, a bar, a game room, free parking, and a tour desk. Honestly, when you look at the price, it’s clear that considering all these facilities, this hotel is one of the best deals in the area!
La Fortuna Downtown Hotel Boutique
Located in the center of La Fortuna, La Fortuna Downtown Hotel Boutique is a great starting point to explore everything on foot. The rooms are simple and clean, equipped with air conditioning, a private bathroom, and a balcony. At the heart of the hotel, you’ll find a nice pool and a restaurant well known for its delicious dishes! On top of that, breakfast is included, parking is free, and the staff can help arrange your excursions if you wish.
Once again, the location is super central and the atmosphere is friendly. Plus, you’ll be just 5 minutes by car from the hot springs and 20 minutes from Arenal Volcano. In a few words, I’d say this is a solid option for combining outdoor adventures with evenings in town.
As before, you’ll find a summary table below. It brings together all the key features of the hotels to help you make your choice!
| Name | Location | Features | Reviews | Price | Booking |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hotel Monte Real | La Fortuna town center | Outdoor pool, riverside garden, air-conditioned rooms, breakfast, parking. | You’ll enjoy the calm right in town, the wildlife (sloths, hummingbirds), and in some rooms, the view of Arenal. | €70 – €150 | Book |
| La Fortuna Lodge by Treebu Hotels | La Fortuna town center | Adults-only property, air-conditioned rooms, terrace & common areas, breakfast. | You’ll love the warm welcome, spotless cleanliness, and the very central yet quiet location. | €55 – €130 | Book |
| Hotel Arenal Country Inn | La Fortuna (quiet area) | Family rooms in bungalows with terrace, large pool, tropical gardens, breakfast included, parking. | You’ll be charmed by the peaceful atmosphere, the flower-filled gardens, and the great value for money. | €120 – €200 | Book |
| Hotel La Pradera del Arenal | 2 km from La Fortuna town | Rooms & bungalows, 3 pools with views, heated jacuzzis, restaurant & bar, large garden, tour desk. | You’ll appreciate the volcano view from many rooms and the complete facilities for the price. | €110 – €150 | Book |
| La Fortuna Downtown Hotel Boutique | Downtown La Fortuna | Central pool, on-site restaurant, air-conditioned rooms with balcony, free breakfast & parking. | You’ll love the ideal location to explore on foot and the easy organization of excursions. | €100 – €180 | Book |
Affordable Hotels in La Fortuna: For Smaller Budgets
Rest assured, you don’t need to break the bank to enjoy Arenal Volcano and La Fortuna! In fact, you’ll find small, simple places here: family-run hotels and hostels that provide the essentials—a functional room, a fan, air conditioning, and maybe even a small pool or a shared kitchen. Perfect for keeping your food and lodging budget light!
Hotel La Choza Inn
Just 300 meters from the center, La Choza Inn is a simple and friendly option for travelers on a budget. Even though it’s centrally located, it sits on a very quiet street, which makes it quite pleasant. This small hotel offers both private rooms and shared dorms, all equipped with a bathroom, Wi-Fi, and views of the garden or the mountains. You’ll also enjoy a large tropical garden, a shared kitchen, and lounge areas.
The little bonus: breakfast is included, and there’s even a free daily shuttle to the natural hot river. The staff are friendly too and can help you book activities at good rates. I think you’ll agree that it’s a great spot for backpackers.
Arenal Poshpacker
Right in the heart of La Fortuna, just across from the Lava Lounge, Arenal Poshpacker is a friendly hostel for exploring La Fortuna and its surroundings. Even though it’s a hostel, you can choose between private rooms and dorms. They’re arranged around an outdoor pool with a bar, a garden, and a large terrace.
You’ll also have access to a shared kitchen, 24/7 reception, airport transfers, as well as bike and car rentals. And if you don’t feel like cooking, there’s an on-site restaurant serving pizzas and American-style dishes for a quick bite (not the healthiest, but it does the job!). In my opinion, you’ll appreciate the social, laid-back vibe, the attentive staff, and the location close to everything!
Cabinas La Catarata
Just a 5-minute drive from La Fortuna Waterfall, Cabinas La Catarata is a lovely spot surrounded by a tropical garden full of birds, featuring an outdoor pool and several terraces. For accommodations, you’ll find rustic-style cabinas—like little wooden houses, fully equipped with a kitchen or kitchenette, dining area, and living room.
On-site, you’ll also have access to a pool, free private parking, room service, and car rentals if needed. For foodies, there’s an à la carte breakfast served every morning! In short, this hotel strikes the perfect balance between a “jungle” feel and proximity to town.
Hotel Villas Vilma
On the road to the volcano, just 10 minutes from the national park, Hotel Villas Villama is a small, well-kept hotel with a pool, a hot tub, and beautiful gardens. As for the rooms and bungalows, they have everything you need: a view of the garden or the volcano, a fridge, and a coffee/tea area. On the practical side, you’ll be less than 50 meters from restaurants and shops. Plus, the welcome comes with a smile—you’ll feel right at home from the start. Everything is designed that way! You can book here with total confidence.
Alojamientos N&S
Alojamientos N&S is located just a 5–7 minute walk from La Fortuna’s town center. It offers studios and apartments so you can be fully independent. They’re all functional and well equipped, with a kitchen or kitchenette and Wi-Fi. Right in front, you’ll also find free parking. One thing that often comes up in reviews is the warm welcome from the host, Reyna, who also helps guests book excursions and transfers. That’s always a plus and makes planning easier!
For reference, most units have air conditioning, but if that’s essential for you, make sure to double-check when booking. If you’re looking for simple accommodation for traveling solo, as a couple, or as a family, this is a great choice to cook your own meals, enjoy peace and quiet, while still being close to shops and activities around Arenal.
To wrap up, here’s the summary table of the best affordable hotels in La Fortuna.
| Name | Location | Features | Reviews | Price | Booking |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hotel La Choza Inn | 300 m from La Fortuna town center | Private rooms & dorms, breakfast included, large garden, shared kitchen, Wi-Fi, shuttle to hot river, parking. | You’ll enjoy the friendly vibe, the quiet street, and the great activity deals offered by the staff. | €15 – €60 | Book |
| Arenal Poshpacker | Downtown La Fortuna | Outdoor pool, restaurant & bar, shared kitchen, terrace, 24/7 reception, bike/car rentals, Wi-Fi. | You’ll love the social atmosphere, the attentive staff, and the location close to everything. | €18 – €95 | Book |
| Cabinas La Catarata | 5 min from La Fortuna Waterfall | Wooden cabinas with kitchen/kitchenette, outdoor pool, gardens & terraces, breakfast (optional), private parking. | You’ll be enchanted by the jungle vibe, the birds in the garden, and the proximity to natural sites. | €50 – €100 | Book |
| Hotel Villas Vilma | Volcano road, La Fortuna | Small well-kept property, pool & hot tub, bungalows/rooms with terrace, Arenal views, fridge, Wi-Fi, restaurants 50 m away. | You’ll appreciate the tropical gardens, the peaceful pool, and the convenient location near restaurants and hot springs. | €80 – €120 | Book |
| Alojamientos N&S | 5–7 min walk from town center | Studios & apartments with kitchen/kitchenette, some air-conditioned, Wi-Fi, free parking, excursion planning assistance. | You’ll love Reyna’s warm welcome, the independence of the units, and the convenient location for exploring. | €45 – €110 | Book |
That’s it—we’ve taken a good tour of the best hotels in La Fortuna, Costa Rica. As you’ve seen, options range from small family hotels to five-star resorts with hot springs. The hardest part might just be choosing!
To learn more about La Fortuna and its surroundings, I invite you to check out our article on the Mistico Arenal Hanging Bridges Park. It’s definitely worth a visit!
See you soon for more accommodation guides!
