You’ve probably seen the photos. That iconic view where the perfectly conical Arenal Volcano looms over a series of steaming, turquoise pools. Most of those shots are taken from The Springs Resort Costa Rica. It’s one of those places that feels almost too polished to be real, yet it sits right in the middle of a rugged, tropical jungle.
Honestly, it's a bit of a contradiction.
On one hand, you have five-star luxury—the kind that attracted The Bachelor to film an episode here and brings in celebrities who want privacy. On the other, it’s a massive playground for families who want to see pumas and go inner-tubing without leaving the property. If you're looking for a tiny, boutique eco-lodge where you eat dinner by candlelight with three other guests, this isn't it. But if you want a massive "choose your own adventure" resort where the water is heated by the earth itself, The Springs basically sets the gold standard in the region.
What makes the water so special?
Most people think "hot springs" and imagine a giant swimming pool that’s been slightly warmed up. That is not what’s happening here. The water at The Springs Resort Costa Rica is 100% natural, mineral-rich, and chemically untreated. It flows from the base of the volcano and is gravity-fed into various pools across the property.
There are two main areas to soak. Las Lagunas, located right under the main building, feels more like a traditional resort experience. It has about eight pools ranging from 83°F to 103°F. It's convenient because the bar is right there. However, the real magic happens down at Perdido Springs.
The Perdido Springs experience
Perdido means "lost," and while you aren't actually going to get lost, it feels way more secluded. It’s a maze of trails wrapped in heavy foliage. You’ll find little lagoons tucked away behind flowering ginger and heliconias. There’s even a water slide called the Monkey Slide. It sounds like something for kids, and it is, but watching grown adults fly into a thermal pool never gets old.
The mineral content here is a big draw. We're talking high levels of bicarbonates and chlorides. Locals will tell you it helps with arthritis or skin issues. Whether you believe in the medicinal properties or not, there is no denying that soaking in 100-degree water while watching a literal volcano is the ultimate stress killer.
Club Rio: The part of the resort nobody talks about enough
Most high-end resorts are just a room and a view. The Springs is different because of Club Rio. It's located about a mile down the hill on the banks of the Arenal River. You take a shuttle down there, and suddenly the vibe shifts from "luxury spa" to "outdoor adventure center."
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This is where the resort gets its "family-friendly" reputation. You can go river tubing, which is relatively mellow but exciting enough for a morning activity. There's also inflatable kayaking. But the standout feature is the Wildlife Sanctuary.
Let’s talk about the animals
It is important to be clear: this isn't a zoo. The resort works with the MINAE (Ministry of Environment and Energy) to house animals that have been confiscated from the illegal pet trade or were injured and cannot be released back into the wild.
- Pumas and Ocelots: They have several of these big cats in large enclosures.
- Capuchin Monkeys: These guys are endlessly entertaining, though usually quite loud.
- Sloths: Because you can't go to Costa Rica and not see a sloth.
- Toucans: Often found in the aviary section.
You can take a guided tour where the handlers explain the history of each animal. It’s an educational layer that most people don't expect from a luxury stay. It adds a bit of soul to the experience.
Room with a view (Literally every single one)
One of the most annoying things about booking a "volcano view" hotel is getting there and realizing your room faces a bush. That doesn't happen at The Springs Resort Costa Rica. The resort was designed so that every guest room has a direct, unobstructed view of the Arenal Volcano.
The architecture is heavy on wood and stone. It feels like a high-end mountain lodge that just happened to be dropped into the tropics. The vaulted ceilings are massive. The bathrooms are often bigger than most New York City apartments, featuring marble tubs and dual vanities.
If you’re traveling with a group, the villas are the way to go. The Falcon’s Nest or the Palm Bungalow options are sprawling. They feel less like hotel rooms and more like private estates. Is it expensive? Yes. But you’re paying for the fact that you can wake up, pull back the curtain, and see a volcano puffing steam while you drink your coffee in a robe.
Addressing the "Too Touristy" concern
Is The Springs authentic Costa Rica? That’s a tricky question.
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If your definition of authentic is a remote cabin with no electricity, then no. This is a high-volume, high-luxury operation. During peak season (late December through April), it can get busy. You’ll hear a lot of American accents.
However, the resort employs hundreds of locals. The food in their restaurants—like Mis Amores or Ginger Sushi—incorporates local ingredients like hearts of palm, fresh ceviche, and Lizano sauce. They also do a lot for the local La Fortuna community. So, while the experience is curated for luxury travelers, the roots of the operation are firmly planted in the region.
A quick note on the weather
Arenal is a rainforest. It rains. A lot.
Don't be the person who gets upset because the volcano is hidden behind clouds for two days. That’s just how it works. In fact, soaking in the hot springs while a cool tropical rain falls on your head is arguably the best way to experience the resort. The mist makes the jungle look like something out of Jurassic Park.
The logistical side of things
Getting to the resort is pretty straightforward but requires a bit of a drive. From San Jose (SJO), it’s about a 3 to 3.5-hour drive. From Liberia (LIR), it’s closer to 2.5 or 3 hours.
Pro Tip: Don't drive yourself at night if it's your first time. The roads around Lake Arenal and La Fortuna are windy and often unlit. Most people use a private shuttle service. Once you’re at the resort, you don't really need a car because they have internal shuttles that take you everywhere on the property.
Eating at The Springs
You have a few options.
- Mis Amores: The "fancy" spot. Great for wood-fired pizzas and more formal dinners.
- Ginger Sushi: Surprisingly good for being in the middle of a jungle.
- Treetops Grill: This is where you go for a burger and a beer while you're still in your swimsuit.
The prices are what you’d expect for a five-star resort. You aren't getting $2 street tacos here. You're paying resort prices. If you want to save a little, head into the town of La Fortuna (about 20 minutes away) for a "Soda," which is a small, family-owned restaurant serving traditional Casados.
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Actionable insights for your trip
Planning a trip to The Springs Resort Costa Rica requires a bit of strategy if you want to get the most out of your money.
Book your Club Rio activities in advance. Don't wait until you arrive to try and book the wildlife tour or the tubing. During the dry season, these slots fill up fast, especially the early morning ones when the animals are most active.
Pack for both extremes. You need a swimsuit (obviously), but you also need sturdy hiking boots or sneakers for the trails and Club Rio. A lightweight rain jacket is mandatory, regardless of the month you visit.
Use the multi-day pass if you aren't staying on-site. If the room rates are out of your budget, you can buy a two-day pass to the springs and Club Rio. It’s a great way to experience the amenities without the $600+ per night price tag.
Check the "Green Season" rates. If you visit in May, June, or November, you can often find significant discounts. Yes, it will rain more, but the resort is quieter, the jungle is greener, and the hot springs feel even better when the air is a bit cooler.
The reality is that this resort is a bucket-list destination for a reason. It manages to scale luxury without losing the raw, natural beauty of the Arenal region. Whether you're there for the pumas, the volcano views, or just to sit in a 100-degree pool with a cocktail, it's a place that usually lives up to the hype.
Plan your transport early, embrace the rain, and make sure you spend at least one sunset at the Perdido Springs bar. It’s worth every penny.