A SHORT GUIDE TO TABACON HOT SPRINGS DAY PASS
A Short guide to tabacon hot springs
In this guide, weβll explore everything you need to know about the Tabacon Hot Springs Day Pass, from the various pools and amenities to dining options and tips on making the most of your visit.
Nestled in the lush rainforests of Costa Rica, Tabacon Hot Springs is a hidden gem for travelers seeking a blend of adventure and relaxation. Known for its natural hot springs heated by the Arenal Volcano and its stunning tropical setting, it has become a must-visit for travel enthusiasts and wellness seekers alike. The geothermal waters are rich in minerals, offering therapeutic benefits that soothe the body and mind. Surrounded by vibrant flora and fauna, visitors can immerse themselves in the tranquil ambiance while enjoying more than 20 cascading thermal waterfalls, scenic view and even some wildlife.
Whether youβre looking to unwind in the serene surroundings or embark on an adventurous journey through the rainforest, Tabacon Hot Springs provides an unforgettable experience that rejuvenates and inspires. Keep reading for tips on making the most of your visit as well as our personal review.
Tickets + Opening times
Tabacon hot springs offer two types of day passes. It is also important to mention that the Tabacon hot springs day pass price varies between peak and low seasons. Day passes to the park are limited and require a prior reservation. You can book and purchase Tabacon hot springs tickets on their website. However, these passes get booked quickly, so I recommend reserving as soon as you have your travel dates.
Peak Season | December 18th β January 7th + Easter week
The hot springs offer a truly unique, once-in-a-lifetime experience, and the Tabacon hot springs day pass cost reflects this. However, with a day pass lasting from 10 AM to 10 PM, you have ample time to explore, relax, and enjoy all that Tabacon has to offer, making the cost well worth it in our opinion.
Day Pass Only | Starts at $89USD
Day Pass + Culinary Experience (Lunch or Dinner) | Starts at $158USD
TIP | If you decide to not indulge in the culinary experience, they allow for re-entry the day of your visit. So, this gives you the chance to go a get a bite to eat somewhere near by and come back.
How to get to Tabacon Hot Springs
You will likely be staying nearby in the La Fortuna or Arenal area, which we highly recommend. Tabacon is situated at the base of the Arenal Volcano, approximately 13KM northwest of La Fortuna town. If youβre driving from San Jose, anticipate a 3-hour journey, though traffic can affect this.
Best time to visit Tabacon
The ideal time to visit Tabacon is ANYTIME. There is truly no bad time; weβve experienced both rain and sunshine here. Each visit was unique and amazing in its own way.
The hot springs are naturally heated underground by geothermal energy from the Arenal volcano, so even with occasional showers, the experience is magical. When the sun reappears, expect delightful surprises from the local wildlife, including frogs, iguanas, and lizards.
In Costa Rica, the wet season kicks off around April or May and runs until late November. The dry season lasts from November to April or May. However, we have been here in both seasons and each time we got a little showers on and off throughout the day in La Fortuna.
TIP | Take your time and explore the gardens. Many visitors focus solely on the hot springs and miss the animals hidden within the lush greenery.
Best way to experience Tabacon
Most travelers visit Tabacon hot springs with a day pass, but for those desiring an extended stay, Tabacon Resort & Spa offers an unparalleled experience. Conveniently located in the heart of Arenal Volcano National Park, this luxury resort is just across the street from Tabacon hot springs. Guests can enjoy the therapeutic waters at their leisure, making it an ideal romantic getaway for honeymooners.
You definitely want to get there early, as it starts to get pretty busy by mid-day. Since you are allowed re-entry if you decide to buy the day pass only option you can go for lunch and come back. Just keep in mind that if you donβt have a car La Fortuna town is around 15-20min drive one way.
Is Tabacon day pass worth it?
Tabacon Thermal Resort & Spa stands out as one of the most enriching experiences weβve had in Costa Rica. Having visited twice, we would with out a doubt we would run back time and time again.
Everything from their committed sustainability plan, beautifully manicured gardens and wildlife to their luxury suites really make Tabacon the most unique experience in La Fortuna. Tabacon hot spring day pass experience is definitely one of a kind.
Additionally, the Costa Rica Tourism Institute has honored Tabacon with a prestigious 5-leaf rating. The resort is committed to sustainability, utilizing only organic and biodegradable products, implementing water and electricity conservation initiatives (including solar roofing), tagging environmental species around the property, and employing an integrated water management system.
So, if youβre wondering if itβs worth it, let me assure you: this tops our list for making any visit to La Fortuna truly memorable.
What to pack for Tabacon Hot Springs
Consider this a very wet day trip rain or shine. Donβt bring a suitcase but a small backpack for each guest is perfect. The Tabacon hot springs day pass includes a small locker for each guest. The lockers are in the restrooms, so I would recommend everyone get their own. There are also showers and dressing rooms which will be your best friends once itβs departure time.
Itβs also good to know, they give you towel cards. These can be exchanged for towels as many times you need/want. There is a little nook in between the restrooms where you give in your cards and get your towels. We would recommend packing the following per person for your day at Tabacon:
- 1 x change of clothing (it will be great to get out of the wet clothes when dining or leaving)
- 1 x swimwear
- 1 x water shoes or closed sandals (no flip flops)
- 1 x waterproof bag for (camera, phones, keys to lockers, wallet, etc)
Where to stay near Tabacon
f you really want to soak in the experience, consider staying in the area! La Fortuna has loads of places to stay, no matter your budget. Plus, if you opt for TabacΓ³n Thermal Resort & Spa, youβll get access to over 22 hot springs right on site.
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