The hype
The hot springs are world-class and the grounds are immaculate, but the check-in process can be slow and bureaucratic.
Tabacon Thermal Resort & Spa
$450-850/ night
Book this if You want the ultimate 'Jurassic Park but make it luxury' experience with exclusive access to Costa Rica's best thermal river before the crowds arrive.
Why People Love It
- Exclusive 8am-10am guest-only access to the thermal river
- Adults-only Shangri-La Gardens hidden at the top of the springs
- Rooms that feel immersed in the rainforest with sounds of the river
Quick Take: You are paying a premium for the hot springs access, so if you aren't going to soak three times a day, stay somewhere cheaper.
Reviewed by @mariongrant8386672: I stayed at Tabacon with my family and the vibe was unmatched. Eating dinner in our bathrobes felt so rebellious and cozy, and the night swim in the thermal waterfalls was unforgettable. It's the perfect mix of fancy and chill.
Guest Who Stayed Here Said
Reality check
You will likely encounter insects (crickets, beetles) in your room—it's the middle of a rainforest, not a hygiene failure.
- You love soaking in natural hot water
- You want a romantic, secluded vibe
- You appreciate lush, manicured gardens
Cleanliness & Maintenance
9
- Housekeeping: Daily service is thorough, with evening turndown often including towel art.
- Bathroom hygiene: Bathrooms are generally spotless, though the humid climate can make grout tricky to keep perfect.
- Maintenance: Grounds are manicured to perfection. Rooms are well-maintained, especially the renovated ones.
- Linens & towels: High quality, plenty of towels provided (and robes for the springs).
- Odors & scents: Fresh rainforest air, sometimes a faint sulfur smell from the springs (natural).
Sleepability™
8SILENT
0-4LOUD
4-7.5MODERATE
7.5-10SILENT
- Natural river noise
- Rainforest wildlife (howler monkeys, insects)
Before you book
Good to know
- Hotel guests get exclusive access to the springs from 8am-10am—USE THIS TIME.
- The 'Shangri-La Gardens' is an adults-only area within the springs that is exclusive to hotel guests all day.
- Breakfast is included and is excellent, with a mix of local and international options.
What to pack
- Water shoes (the river rocks can be slippery and rough)
- Multiple swimsuits (nothing dries quickly in the humidity)
- Dry bag for your phone/book at the springs
Room Genie
Best picks
- Orchid Rooms (recently renovated, modern, near the lobby)
- Tabacon Suites (spacious, huge bathrooms, often have sofa beds)
Rooms to avoid
- Standard rooms near the road if you are extremely sensitive to traffic noise (though rare)
Room Request Genie – copy & paste
“I would love to request a recently renovated Orchid Room or a Tabacon Suite on a higher floor for the best rainforest views and privacy.”
FAQ & Hidden tips
Everything you actually want to know before you book.
Is the resort all-inclusive?
No. Breakfast is usually included, but lunch, dinner, and alcohol are a la carte and pricey.
Can I walk from the hotel to the springs?
Yes, it's a 10-15 minute walk downhill, but there is a free shuttle running constantly if you don't want to walk back up.
Are the hot springs natural?
Yes, 100% natural thermal river fed by the volcano, with varying temperatures and waterfalls.
Is it kid-friendly?
Yes, families are welcome, but the vibe is quiet luxury. There is no 'kids club' or loud entertainment.
Do I need a car?
Not strictly necessary if you plan to stay on property or take tours, but helpful for exploring La Fortuna town (15 mins away).
Is there a resort fee?
No specific daily 'resort fee', but expect ~13% VAT and 10% service charge on everything.
Insider Tips
- ✨
Visit the springs at night (after 7pm) when the day-trippers leave; it's magical with the steam and lighting.
- ✨
The 'Shangri-La' bar has the best cocktails and is far quieter than the main swim-up bar.
- ✨
Order the 'Casado' for lunch—it's the best value and most authentic dish on the menu.
5 things to know before you go
💡The humidity is intense; your swimsuit will never fully dry on the balcony.
💡The 'cold' pools are actually just 'less hot'—don't expect an ice bath.
💡You might see coatis (raccoon-like animals) stealing food near the pool bar.
💡The walk from the lobby to the furthest rooms can be steep and winding.
💡The wifi is surprisingly good for the middle of the jungle, even at the springs.
Local Playbook
Map
See where Tabacon Thermal Resort & Spa is located and what's nearby.