Arenal Hotels

Top reasons to visit Arenal

• Stunning Natural Scenery: Arenal boasts breathtaking views, including majestic volcanoes, lush forests, and picturesque Lake Arenal.
• Adventure Activities: Thrill-seekers can enjoy zip-lining, hiking, and exciting nature tours amidst the stunning landscapes.
• Relaxing Hot Springs: After a day of exploration, unwind in natural hot springs, perfect for rejuvenation.
• Family-Friendly Resorts: A range of accommodations, from charming bed and breakfasts to luxurious hotels, cater to families and adventurers alike.
• Welcoming Local Culture: Experience the warmth of friendly locals and immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of Arenal.

Find great hotels near Arenal

Arenal, Guanacaste, Costa Rica, offers a delightful selection of accommodations, from charming bed and breakfasts to luxurious hotels. Ideal for adventurers and families alike, many establishments feature hot spring themes, ensuring a relaxing retreat after a day of exploration. With a variety of options, including highly-rated lodges and star-rated hotels, you’re sure to find the perfect base to enjoy the stunning natural beauty and thrilling activities that Arenal has to offer.

• Hotel Los Lagos Spa & Resort: This charming 3.5-star hotel boasts a family-friendly atmosphere, making it a delightful choice for those seeking a hot spring-themed getaway. Located 24km from Arenal, the resort features natural hot springs onsite, providing a serene environment for relaxation. Guests can indulge in various spa services, including body scrubs and daily spa access. Family amenities, such as a children’s pool and first aid kit, ensure a comfortable stay for families. The accessibility features, including a pool access ramp, make it an inviting destination for all guests looking to unwind in a picturesque setting.
• Volcano Lodge Hotel & Thermal Experience: This 4-star lodge, situated 23km from Arenal, is ideal for adventurous families seeking both relaxation and thrill. The property features natural hot springs onsite, allowing guests to rejuvenate after a day of exploring. Adventure enthusiasts can partake in nearby activities such as mountain biking, cave exploring, horse riding, kayaking, and rafting. The hotel also caters to families with a shared playground and arcade game room, making it a fun environment for children. With its unique blend of adventure and comfort, Volcano Lodge promises an exciting escape in the heart of Costa Rica.
• The Springs Resort and Spa at Arenal: A luxurious 5-star resort located 23km from Arenal, The Springs Resort and Spa offers an unparalleled experience for those seeking adventure and relaxation. With onsite hot springs, guests can unwind while enjoying stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The resort provides a range of adventure activities, including horse riding, fishing, and hiking, ensuring an exciting stay for outdoor lovers. Known for its exceptional service and high-quality amenities, this resort is a standout choice for travellers looking to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of Costa Rica while enjoying a pampered experience.

Where to stay in and around Arenal

Arenal, Guanacaste, is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking adventure amidst stunning scenery. With its small resorts and fresh air, visitors can immerse themselves in a tranquil atmosphere, perfect for relaxation and romance. Explore the captivating landscapes, indulge in outdoor pursuits, and unwind on the beautiful Palma Beach. Arenal promises an unforgettable experience, combining thrilling activities with the warmth of friendly locals in a tropical setting.

• Nuevo Arenal: Nestled in the scenic Arenal region, Nuevo Arenal is a charming village known for its relaxed atmosphere and stunning views. This area is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a plethora of activities such as hiking, birdwatching, and exploring the nearby national parks. The local highlights include the majestic Arenal Volcano and lush mountains, which provide breathtaking backdrops for any adventure. Visitors can also indulge in luxury at local resorts and spas, making it an ideal spot for both thrill-seekers and those looking to unwind.
• Aguacate: Located a mere 5km from Arenal, Aguacate is a vibrant village that attracts visitors with its exhilarating outdoor experiences. Known for its zipline ropes course, this area is perfect for those seeking an adrenaline rush amidst the beautiful Costa Rican landscape. The village offers a unique blend of natural beauty, with proximity to stunning volcanoes, mountains, and a serene lake. The moderate seasonal flow of tourists ensures a pleasant experience, especially during peak times in March and December, when the outdoor activities are in full swing.
• Mata de Cana: Also situated in the Arenal region, Mata de Cana is a quaint village that draws adventurers and nature lovers alike. The area is renowned for its zipline courses and various adventure activities, making it a hotspot for thrill-seekers. Surrounded by natural wonders, including a national park and the iconic Arenal Volcano, Mata de Cana offers an immersive experience in the heart of Costa Rica's stunning landscapes. Visitors can expect a vibrant atmosphere, especially during peak travel months, while enjoying the beauty of this enchanting village.

Things to do near Arenal

Shopping

In Arenal, enjoy local shops offering handmade crafts and souvenirs. If you're up for a drive, visit the Liberia Mall, approximately 48km away, featuring a range of international brands and dining options for a more extensive shopping experience.

Recreation

Arenal Volcano National Park offers breathtaking landscapes with hiking trails winding through lush rainforests and stunning views of the volcano. Nearby, the Tabacón Thermal Resort features natural hot springs surrounded by tropical gardens, providing a relaxing atmosphere for rejuvenation and wellness treatments.

Adventure

At Vista Golfo Adventure Park, 50km from Arenal, immerse yourself in the thrill of ziplining through lush canopies and navigating an exciting ropes course. Costa Rica Sky Adventures, located 23km away, offers a breathtaking aerial experience. Meanwhile, Selvatura Adventure Park, 24km from Arenal, promises exhilarating ziplining through stunning landscapes.

Nightlife

Experience the vibrant nightlife at La Fortuna's El Establo, where you can enjoy live music and dance the night away. For a more laid-back atmosphere, visit Café Mono Congo for cocktails and conversation, all while soaking in the local charm.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Arenal

Arenal, Costa Rica, provides numerous ways to save on your visit. Enjoy free attractions like Lake Arenal and the lush landscapes around. For transport, consider using the bus, which is economical compared to taxis. Plan your trip in May or September to October for lower accommodation rates, and book about a month in advance for the best deals. Use Expedia to compare room rates, look for last-minute offers, and combine bookings for flights and activities to maximise savings. Remember that Saturdays are the cheapest days to stay, while Thursdays tend to be the priciest.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Arenal are May and September to October, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to March to April and July, where prices are slightly higher.
• The best time to book a hotel: Booking a hotel in Arenal about 1 month out from when you are planning to stay is usually when prices are lowest. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals for hotels, look out for the green banner below the price, as this indicates a cheaper deal.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Arenal is Saturday. The most expensive day to stay in Arenal is Thursday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia’s search tool enables you to specify your budget, desired location, and additional preferences. You can arrange your search results to display prices from lowest to highest, allowing you to view the most affordable hotels first. Furthermore, you have the option to narrow your choices by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels available for booking.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your Arenal hotel reservation with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions near Arenal

Arenal, Guanacaste, Costa Rica, is perfect for outdoor and adventure enthusiasts, offering stunning scenery and attractions like hot springs, waterfalls, and national parks. Visitors can indulge in a romantic experience while exploring these natural wonders. For a comfortable stay, consider the best hotels in Arenal, and don’t miss the opportunity to visit Lake Arenal for some breathtaking views and activities.

• Tabacon Hot Springs: Immerse yourself in the therapeutic waters of Tabacon Hot Springs, located 19km from Arenal. Surrounded by lush gardens and natural beauty, these springs provide a serene atmosphere for relaxation and wellness, making it an ideal spot to unwind after a day of exploration.
• Peace Tree: Situated 19km from Arenal, Peace Tree is a historic site that reflects the rich cultural heritage of the region. Visitors can appreciate the profound significance of this landmark while enjoying the tranquil environment that fosters reflection and connection with local history.
• Lake Arenal: Just 5km from Arenal, Lake Arenal offers stunning scenery and outdoor activities. With its romantic setting, it's perfect for picnics, water sports, or simply soaking in the breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

Best time to go to Arenal

The best time to visit Arenal can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Arenal falls in May, when visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with moderate rain. The coolest average temperature in Arenal falls in January and December. December has moderately high visitor numbers and mostly cloudy weather.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	72.9°F (22.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately High	Average
February	73.9°F (23.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
March	75.2°F (24.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately High	Slightly High
April	77.5°F (25.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
May	78.3°F (25.7°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
June	77.4°F (25.2°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
July	76.5°F (24.7°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly High
August	77.4°F (25.2°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately Low	Average
September	77.7°F (25.4°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately Low	Slightly Low
October	76.1°F (24.5°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately Low	Slightly Low
November	74.1°F (23.4°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
December	72.9°F (22.7°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately High	Average

The nearest major airports for your trip to Arenal

Reaching Arenal, Guanacaste, Costa Rica is convenient via its major airports. San José (SJO-Juan Santamaría Intl.) is approximately 97km away, with nearby hotels such as the 5-star InterContinental Costa Rica and the 4.5-star Costa Rica Marriott Hotel, both offering shuttle services. Liberia (LIR-Daniel Oduber Intl.) is closer at 71km, featuring luxurious options like the Four Seasons Resort and Planet Hollywood, with scheduled airport shuttles available. Meanwhile, Cóbano Airport (ACO) is 98km from Arenal, with elegant accommodations like the 5-star LALOON Luxury Suites nearby. Each airport provides various transportation services, ensuring a smooth journey to your destination.