Tabacón Thermal Resort & Spa is a luxury eco-resort in the Arenal Volcano region of Costa Rica. It is famous for its natural hot springs, lush rainforest setting, and world-class spa. Recently, we stayed there for three nights after completing a four-night stay at the Andaz Peninsula Papagayo Resort.  

This hotel is part of the Small Luxury Hotels of the World brand, and it can be booked with Hilton Honors points or a free-night certificate.  Free-night certificates are an annual benefit of the American Express Hilton Honors Aspire card and are sometimes included as part of welcome offers with other Hilton cards.

All information about the American Express Hilton Honors Aspire has been collected independently by Travel Mom Squad. The American Express Hilton Honors Aspire is no longer available through Travel Mom Squad.

 

The Redemption

This hotel’s nightly rate is usually around $600, but you don’t have to spend that if you use Hilton points! Each stay includes breakfast, as well, so that’s even more value.

 

Our room was quite large with views of the lush green jungle from our back window. The rooms fit at least three; our room had a king and another single bed. Alex got a king room and a two-queen room that connected. The rooms have a minimalist, modern design with tropical touches, featuring large windows that bring in natural light.

 

 

The bathroom was average in size, and there was a complimentary coffee station, complimentary water, and a mini bar. The furniture was primarily wood and, while not fancy, added to the general jungle feel. 

 

 

Jungle Life in Costa Rica

Tabacón Thermal Resort & Spa really feels like stepping into a tropical jungle. It’s set in the rainforest at the base of Arenal Volcano, surrounded by tall trees, dense greenery, and colorful tropical flowers. The scenery was even more beautiful than we expected.

 

 

One of the best things about Tabacón is its 100% natural thermal river, which flows through the jungle, creating waterfalls and warm pools. Unlike man-made hot springs, these are naturally heated by the volcano—and there’s no sulfur smell! It’s a really unique experience.

 

 

The sounds of nature are everywhere. From the moment we arrived, we could hear birds, rustling leaves, and the steady flow of the river. At night, the jungle got even louder with all kinds of noises—some we could recognize, others we had no idea what they were. It definitely added to the experience!

 

Restaurants

Restaurants at the resort include:

Tucanes Restaurant – Fine dining with a Costa Rican influence. It’s also the restaurant where the breakfast buffet is served. The buffet includes made-to-order eggs and crepes as well as an extensive buffet. My only complaint is that it was very dark in this restaurant.

 

 

Ave Restaurant – Casual dining in an open-air setting near the hot springs, featuring fresh salads, grilled meats, and tropical drinks. We ate there one night and for casual dining like hamburgers, and it was good.

Shangri-La Gardens Bar (Adults Only) – This is described as a cocktail lounge with light bites and premium drinks in a peaceful, jungle-like setting. We never went there.

In-Room Dining – Enjoy meals in the comfort of your suite, with options ranging from breakfast to dinner. A full menu is available from the resort restaurants. I ordered Noah and I food from there one day and it was fine.

 

Thermal Hot Springs and Pool Areas

Tabacón Thermal Resort & Spa features over 20 thermal pools and waterfalls, all naturally heated by the Arenal Volcano. And they are breathtaking! When we were there, there were plenty of seating areas and room in all the pools. Admittance is free to guests of the hotel, but people who aren’t staying at the hotel can pay an admission fee and enjoy the pools, too. You can purchase a day pass for $90 and $45 for children if you aren’t staying at the resort.

 

 

Bottom Line

A stay at Tabacón Thermal Resort & Spa is a perfect mix of nature, relaxation, and luxury. Set at the base of the Arenal Volcano, it invites you to soak in natural hot springs surrounded by lush rainforest. Whether you’re after adventure, romance, or peace, Tabacón offers an unforgettable Costa Rican getaway—pura vida!

 

Related Posts

Costa Rica on Points: Girls’ Trip

Reader Success Story: Mother/Son Trip to Costa Rica

Review of Rio Perdido, an SLH Hotel

Small Luxury Hotels of the World