The hype
Travelers universally praise the stunning landscaping and the massive breakfast buffet.
Arenal Manoa Resort & Hot Springs
$170-280/ night
Book this if You want a guaranteed Arenal Volcano view from your bed and a resort that feels like a tropical village.
Why People Love It
- Every single room has a direct, unobstructed view of the volcano
- On-site hot springs complex with swim-up bars (no need to pay for day passes elsewhere)
- The complimentary farm tour where kids can milk cows is a surprising highlight
Quick Take: A sprawling, manicured resort that nails the 'tropical paradise' vibe but requires a golf cart or a long walk to get anywhere on the property.
Reviewed by @Blondyinsider: I stayed in a Junior Suite here and the morning views were unreal. Opening those curtains to the mist and lush gardens was the highlight of my trip. The private terrace is huge—perfect for coffee. Highly recommend for a recharge.
Guest Who Stayed Here Said
Reality check
The 'hot springs' are man-made pools fed by thermal water, not natural riverbeds, which some purists find less authentic.
- You are traveling with kids who need pool time and space to run
- You want the 'resort' experience where you don't *have* to leave the property
- A view of the volcano is your #1 priority
Cleanliness & Maintenance
9.2
- Housekeeping: Daily and meticulous. They even fold your toilet paper into shapes.
- Bathroom hygiene: Immaculate. Large rainfall showers with river stones are kept mold-free.
- Maintenance: Grounds are manicured like a golf course. Rooms are well-maintained, though some furniture shows tropical wear.
- Linens & towels: Fresh and crisp, though pool towels can be a bit worn from heavy use.
- Odors & scents: Fresh rainforest air. No musty smells reported in recent reviews.
Sleepability™
7.5SILENT
0-4LOUD
4-7.5MODERATE
7.5-10SILENT
- Neighbors in the adjoining duplex unit
- Early morning nature sounds (birds/howler monkeys)
- AC units in some older bungalows
Before you book
Good to know
- The hot springs are open until 10pm—perfect for a post-dinner soak
- Happy hour at the pool bars runs from 4pm-6pm (2-for-1 cocktails)
- The on-site pizza restaurant 'Alambique' is surprisingly excellent if you don't want to leave
What to pack
- Water shoes (the pool decks can get slippery)
- Binoculars (you can spot toucans and sloths right from your patio)
- A light rain jacket (La Fortuna weather is unpredictable even in dry season)
Room Genie
Best picks
- Chato Suites: The newest category with private plunge pools and better privacy
- Premium Suites: Standalone units (no shared walls) with the best volcano views
Rooms to avoid
- Standard Junior Suites near the main road entrance (potential road noise)
- Rooms far from the lobby if you hate waiting for golf carts
Room Request Genie – copy & paste
“I would love to request a room in the upper part of the property for the best volcano elevation. If possible, a unit that is not a connecting duplex would be preferred for privacy.”
FAQ & Hidden tips
Everything you actually want to know before you book.
Is the breakfast actually free?
Yes, and it's a massive buffet with omelet stations, local fruits, and traditional gallo pinto.
Do I need a 4x4 to get there?
No, the entrance is right off the main paved road (Route 142). Any car can make it.
Are the hot springs natural?
The water is natural thermal water pumped into man-made pools. It's not a 'river' setting like Tabacón.
Is there a resort fee?
No hidden resort fee, but standard Costa Rican taxes (13%) apply.
Can I walk to the La Fortuna waterfall?
No, it's about a 15-minute drive. You need a car or taxi.
Is the wifi good enough for Zoom?
Generally yes (fiber optic), but it can be spotty in the furthest bungalows during rainstorms.
Insider Tips
- ✨
Take the free 'Finca Manoa' farm tour in the morning—you can milk cows and see the resort's sustainability in action.
- ✨
The 'adults-only' pool is often empty because everyone goes to the swim-up bar pool; use it for reading.
- ✨
Order the 'Volcano' cocktail at the bar—it comes with dry ice smoke.
5 things to know before you go
💡The 'duplex' design means your patio privacy is limited by a small plant barrier.
💡You will see iguanas and agoutis roaming the lawns like squirrels.
💡The AC units in older rooms can be a bit rattly.
💡Room service stops at 10pm, so don't plan on a midnight snack.
💡The lighting on the pathways is dim to protect wildlife—use your phone flashlight at night.
Local Playbook
Map
See where Arenal Manoa Resort & Hot Springs is located and what's nearby.