Tabacón Thermal Resort & Spa

Tabacón Thermal Resort & Spa sits at the foot of Arenal Volcano in Costa Rica, where a naturally heated thermal river flows through tropical gardens and rainforest. The water is the defining feature of the resort: rather than relying on conventional heated pools alone, guests move through a living river system with cascades and bathing areas formed around the volcanic landscape.

Why visit

The thermal river gives Tabacón a clear identity as a water-led wellness destination. Hotel guests have access to the river throughout their stay, while the adults-only Shangri-La Gardens provides a quieter thermal area reserved for resident guests.

The spa extends that connection with nature. Treatments take place in open-air bungalows surrounded by rainforest, so moving water, birdsong and tropical air form part of the experience rather than being screened out.

Treatments and approach

Tabacón’s treatment menu uses Costa Rican ingredients including volcanic mud, cacao, coffee, pineapple, aloe and other tropical botanicals. Massage, facials, wraps and signature rituals are designed to complement time in the thermal water rather than replace it.

An open-air yoga deck adds movement to the wellness offer, and the resort encourages guests to combine thermal bathing, treatment and time outdoors at an unhurried pace.

The thermal experience

The river is naturally heated by volcanic activity and flows continuously through landscaped rainforest. Temperatures vary across its pools and cascades, allowing guests to choose warmer or cooler bathing areas. This natural water system is the reason to choose Tabacón over a conventional resort spa in the Arenal region.

Who it suits

Tabacón works particularly well for couples, solo wellness travellers and nature-focused visitors who want thermal bathing to be central to the trip. It also suits travellers combining Arenal’s outdoor activities with a dedicated recovery day.

Good to know

Thermal-river access, day-visitor arrangements and spa-treatment inclusions differ, so check exactly what is included in your booking. Reserve treatments ahead at busy times and confirm any age restrictions that apply to particular spa or adults-only areas.