Some more desirable areas with registered springs have been turned into resorts, transforming them into opulent outdoor spas with swim-up bars. In contrast, others maintain a more rustic, natural ambience. If you're looking for a resort-style experience without the hassle of a day pass, staying overnight is your best bet.

When it comes to day passes, booking beforehand is highly recommended. Most natural hot springs are on private property or in protected areas, so those who harbour romantic notions about visiting one will have to investigate.

Make friends with a resident and solicit insider information; you'll need an invitation or permission from the property's owners or authorities to enter. Please don't assume that the more remote the location, the better it is. Hot mineral water can be tempered with cold water during the rainy season;

Arenal Volcano

The most well-known volcano in Costa Rica is also the source of the country's most plentiful hot springs because of the extensive system of rivers and streams that flow beneath the surface and make their way to the surrounding jungles and grasslands using gravity.

A rising number of high-end hotels in and around Arenal feature on-site mineral springs with multiple pools of varying temperatures and depths for guests to enjoy.

The greatest day tickets are for the adults-only Tabacón Grand Spa Thermal Resort and the Springs Resort & Spa's Los Perdidos, which features hidden streams and waterfalls in the jungle.

Rincón de la Vieja Volcano

The thermal hot springs of Rincón de La Vieja, the largest and most active volcano in Guanacaste, are only 90 minutes from Liberia International Airport. They may not be as well-known as those in the Arenal area so you may encounter fewer crowds.

Near the Hotel Hacienda Gauchipelin, you'll find the Rio Negro hot springs, where a crystal-clear river winds through 10 pools of varying temperatures. The cash payment covers the cost of a locker and a towel, and the option is exquisite and low-priced.

A mud bath, lounge chairs, and a suspension bridge await you at the bottom of a short hike along a well-kept route that spans the river. Please feel free to bring your lunch in the absence of a nearby eatery. The Tizate hot springs are a natural attraction of Rincon de la Vieja National Park.

The basin that the hot spring flows into is artificial and filled with volcanic thermal waters. In addition to the mud baths, visitors can choose from various guided trips (including horseback riding and zip lining) to fill a whole day.

Miravalles Volcano

Miravalles Volcano, located close to the little communities of Fortuna and Guayabal, is wilder and more secluded than Rincon de la Vieja and is just about an hour's drive away. This is your best bet if you want to go somewhere that few other people visit.

Near Fortuna, on a 600-acre property, you'll find the luxurious Rio Perdido resort, where you can enjoy yoga sessions, 20 private bungalows, and 16 miles of trails. There are eight official springs in the area, and the river water mixes with these springs to produce a succession of mineral pools at varying temperatures.

Located on the slopes of a volcano, Colinas de Miravalles is a family-run resort with hot spring pools and five rustic cabins dotted over the property's picturesque grounds. Bring a picnic, or stop for lunch at one of the area's establishments that highlights the utilization of fresh, regional produce.

EcoTermales Hot Springs

I can't imagine a more relaxing activity than soaking in Costa Rica's mineral hot springs. A visit to EcoTermales is like a private paradise in the middle of the wilderness, where you may relax and rejuvenate in the healing waters of a natural spa.

One of the few hot springs on our list that isn't part of a larger hotel or resort, but you should check it out because it's family-owned and runs! Since EcoTermales only allows a certain number of guests each day, they go above and above to ensure everyone has a private, relaxing location in the rainforest to soak in the thermal waters.

More than just the warm mineral pools, this La Fortuna hidden gem is worth a visit. There are hundreds of yards of routes through the rainforest where visitors can walk, observe local species, and take photographs.

Summary

Volcanoes are abundant in Costa Rica; thus, hot springs are not hard to find. After a long day of travel or a difficult walk, this is the best way to unwind in Costa Rica.

Whether you're interested in spending time on the beach, in the mountains, or the hot springs, we'd be happy to assist you in planning the perfect Costa Rican trip.