Hotels in Arenal

Awaken Your Spirit: Arenal's Enchantment of Volcanoes and Rainforest Wonders

Nestled in the heart of Costa Rica, Arenal, Guanacaste, is a nature lover's paradise defined by the majestic Arenal Volcano. This enchanting destination offers breathtaking views, lush rainforests, and thrilling adventures. Explore Arenal Volcano National Park's diverse trails, soak in rejuvenating thermal springs, and encounter vibrant wildlife in the surrounding jungles. Whether you’re hiking through scenic landscapes, zip-lining above the canopy, or indulging in luxury spa treatments, Arenal promises unforgettable experiences. With its perfect blend of adventure and relaxation, Arenal is an ideal getaway for couples, families, and adventure enthusiasts alike. For our best hotel rates in Arenal and to enhance your stay, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Discover great hotels in Arenal

In Arenal, Guanacaste, you'll find a range of accommodations, from luxury hotels with stunning views of the Arenal Volcano to cozy boutique properties. Many hotels feature spacious rooms, beautiful pools, and excellent dining options, making it easy to relax and enjoy the region's natural beauty. These are some of the hotels preferred by our travelers in Arenal:

1. Amor Arenal Adults FriendlyOpens in a new window: Amor Arenal Adults Friendly is a luxurious 4.5-star hotel that offers an exceptional experience for leisure travelers seeking relaxation and comfort. With a focus on hot spring amenities, this property features a natural hot spring within reach, providing a unique wellness experience. The hotel boasts beautifully designed villas and stunning views of the Arenal volcano, making it a picturesque retreat. Review sentiments highlight the gorgeous property, the incredible staff, and the delicious dining options available on-site, ensuring a memorable stay.
2. Arenal Kioro Suites & SpaOpens in a new window: Arenal Kioro Suites & Spa is a stylish 4.5-star hotel tailored for adventure seekers and leisure travelers alike. This property features a natural hot spring on-site and offers a range of adventure sports and recreation activities nearby, including hiking, kayaking, and mountain biking. Guests appreciate the breathtaking views, spacious rooms, and the lush grounds rich with wildlife. The complimentary access to the nearby Titoku hot springs and a diverse breakfast selection further enhance the luxurious experience, making it a popular choice among travelers looking for both comfort and excitement.
3. Tabacón Thermal Resort & SpaOpens in a new window: Tabacón Thermal Resort & Spa is a premium 4.5-star resort, ideal for leisure travelers who desire a blend of relaxation and adventure. This property features an extraordinary hot spring experience at the renowned Tabacon hot springs, accessible via convenient shuttles. Guests enjoy renovated rooms with magnificent views of the Arenal volcano and upscale dining options at the on-site restaurant. Review sentiments emphasize the impeccable service, exquisite food, and beautifully designed facilities, creating a serene and luxurious atmosphere that promises an unforgettable getaway.

Top locations to stay in Arenal

When visiting Arenal, Guanacaste, Costa Rica, standout areas to stay in include Tronadora, Tilaran, and Sabalito. Tronadora is ideal for nature lovers with its lush forests and volcano views. Tilaran offers stunning sights of Lake Arenal and adventure activities. Sabalito is noted for its tranquil surroundings, making it a peaceful escape. For first-time visitors, Tilaran is best suited due to its diverse attractions.

1. TilaranOpens in a new window: Tilaran is a fantastic base for your adventure in Costa Rica, especially if you love nature and breathtaking views. Nestled near Lake Arenal, it offers stunning scenery and opportunities for outdoor activities. You can explore the Wildlife Refuge Monteverde and the Monteverde Butterfly Gardens, where you can witness the beauty of local wildlife up close. If you're looking for some fun, check out Sky Adventures Monteverde Park for zip-lining or the FlyZone Wakeboard School for some water sports. Plus, you can grab some local goods at El Pilon Station, making it a well-rounded choice for your stay.
2. TronadoraOpens in a new window: Tronadora is a hidden gem for those who appreciate lush forests and the serenity of nature. This tranquil village offers a peaceful retreat amidst the beauty of volcanoes and rainforests. It's a perfect spot for hiking and exploring the surrounding natural landscapes. The nearby Arenal Volcano adds an exhilarating backdrop, and the area is ideal for bird-watching and other wildlife experiences. Staying here allows you to enjoy the rich biodiversity and engage with the friendly local community.
3. SabalitoOpens in a new window: Sabalito is a quaint destination that provides a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle. While not as well-known, its charm lies in its lush greenery and the surrounding jungle. It's a great place for those looking to unwind in nature or embark on scenic walks. Although smaller in scale, Sabalito offers a genuine Costa Rican experience, allowing you to connect with the vibrant culture and stunning landscapes without the crowds.

Things to do in Arenal

Arenal beckons with its stunning volcanoes and lush rainforests, offering exhilarating hiking trails and thrilling ziplining adventures through the treetops. Unwind in natural hot springs while surrounded by vibrant wildlife, and explore serene lakes perfect for kayaking. This destination is a paradise for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts alike!

• Tabacon Hot SpringsOpens in a new window – Dive into relaxation at Tabacon Hot Springs, where the warm, mineral-rich waters flow through lush tropical gardens. Enjoy the soothing ambiance created by the surrounding volcanoes and vibrant rainforest, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration.
• Mistico Arenal Hanging Bridges ParkOpens in a new window – Experience nature from a unique perspective at Mistico Arenal Hanging Bridges Park. Walk along suspended bridges high above the forest floor, offering stunning views of the canopy and opportunities to spot diverse wildlife in their natural habitat.
• Tronadora ArenaOpens in a new window – Feel the thrill of excitement at Tronadora Arena, a lively stadium that hosts various events. Whether it's a local sports game or a cultural performance, the energy and enthusiasm here are contagious, making it a memorable stop.
• Rio Celeste WaterfallOpens in a new window – Hike to the breathtaking Rio Celeste Waterfall, where the vibrant turquoise waters cascade down amidst a lush jungle backdrop. Capture the beauty of this natural wonder, a perfect spot for stunning photos and a refreshing dip.
• Cavernas de VenadoOpens in a new window – Explore the mysterious Cavernas de Venado, an intriguing cave system that showcases fascinating rock formations and underground rivers. Guided tours will lead you through this natural wonder, revealing the secrets hidden within the depths of the earth.

5 tips for savvy savings when booking a hotel in Arenal

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most affordable time to visit Arenal is from September to November, when hotel prices are lower. For those on a budget, planning to stay for at least 2 to 3 days is ideal for discovering the region's significant landmarks, historical sites, and cultural experiences. During your visit, you can explore impressive volcanoes, lush rainforests, and rejuvenating hot springs, all of which offer great value for money and enriching experiences. With the potential for prices to drop during this period, it's a perfect opportunity to enjoy Arenal's natural beauty without breaking the bank.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: To discover last-minute deals to Arenal, visit the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window sections on Hotels.com, where you may find discounted hotel rates as your travel date approaches. Additionally, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications to stay informed about flash sales and special promotions, ensuring you stay updated on potential savings. The Smart ShoppingOpens in a new window tool available in the app allows you to compare hotel prices and amenities, helping you make informed decisions. With these features, you're more likely to be notified if prices drop or rooms become available for that spontaneous getaway.
3. Be flexible with dates: Prices can fluctuate based on factors like the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year, so being flexible with your travel dates may help you save on your stay at an Arenal hotel. If you're interested in a unique experience, boutique hotels can provide a more personalized touch and sometimes better value. When you book through Hotels.com, we’ll inform you if the price for your chosen dates is above or below the average. If the price is on the higher side, we’ll recommend more budget-friendly dates, which could help you secure a better deal.
4. Consider your location: Hotels near the city center usually tend to be more expensive, but thanks to Arenal's excellent public transportation options, you might discover a more affordable independent hotel a bit further away that still has great connections. If you're interested in exploring alternative, less crowded neighborhoods or even nearby lesser-known cities, you can often find excellent value for your money. Opting for these alternative destinations could provide a more authentic and budget-friendly experience.
5. Join One Key™: Become a One Key MemberOpens in a new window for free and book your next stay in Arenal. Save on over 100,000 hotels worldwide with exclusive member prices. As a member, you can quickly progress through the tiers and enjoy perks, like free room upgrades when available and food and beverage discounts at select VIP Access properties.

Best time to go to Arenal

Arenal experiences its lowest average temperatures in January and December, at 72.9°F (22.7°C), while May is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 78.3°F (25.7°C). July tends to be the wettest month. The peak travel months to visit Arenal are January, March, and December, which see a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly cloudy, accompanied by light to moderate rainfall. In contrast, May, September, and October are ideal if you're looking for a calmer vacation, marked by moderate to frequent rainfall and mostly cloudy conditions.