The Springs Resort & Spa at Arenal

I visited this resort while on a trip backpacking throughout Costa Rica. This property is amazing! I purchased the day pass, which gave me access to the hot springs on the property. The staff were amazing and provided excellent customer service. specifically, Carolina, a bartender at the pool bar - she was PHENOMENAL! She served be both days for my visit and remembered who I was. Her drinks were also amazing, which added to the experience. If you’re visiting, please request her! Her customer service is out of this world and she is very attentive to her guest! I can’t wait for my next visit, I plan to visit the resort for a couple of days. Carolina, YOU ARE THE BEST! Thank you for your hospitality during my brief visit.

There’s no denying that The Springs Resort & Spa offers some of the most breathtaking views in Costa Rica. Perched high above the jungle with direct views of the Arenal Volcano, the setting is absolutely stunning. The property itself is expansive and packed with features — the on-site hot springs are beautifully designed, and Club Rio, with its animal sanctuary and adventure activities, is a standout offering, especially for families or active travelers. That said, our stay was a bit of a mixed experience. While the amenities are impressive, there’s a noticeable “nickel-and-dime” mentality throughout the resort. From subtle upcharges to the constant upselling by staff, it often felt like we were being marketed to more than welcomed. Even at breakfast, where you’d expect a taste of local flavor, we were surprised to see imported jelly from France — a small detail that felt symbolic of a broader disconnect. Instead of embracing the beauty and richness of Costa Rican culture, the resort leans heavily into an international luxury template. The staff were courteous, but interactions often felt scripted and sales-oriented, as though they were instructed to present upgrades at every opportunity rather than focusing on guest comfort and relaxation. Overall, it’s a solid property with world-class views and facilities, and we did enjoy our time. But if you’re choosing between The Springs and Nayara Gardens — I would wholeheartedly recommend Nayara. It offers a more seamless, soulful, and authentically welcoming experience without the feeling that every moment is part of a sales pitch.

We had the best time at The Springs. We enjoyed the hotel tremendously - the springs, Club Rio, the rooms - all great. The staff were all friendly and nice but Bayron was incredibly kind and welcoming. He really made our arrival and departure special, which cemented memories of a really great stay and vacation. Bayron - thanks!!

Amazing property. Felt like we were in Jurassic Park! Tons of activities on site and nearby. There are probably 20 different types of warm springs hot tubs/pools onsite. The monkey slide is very fun! Food options are enough to feed your family as all three menus available at each restaurant (including pool bar). So if kids want pizza and tenders while you want sushi and tacos, you can get that without leaving the pool. Pura vida!

We absolutely loved every moment spent at the Springs Resort & Spa. Every single member of the staff was incredibly helpful and cheerful with every interaction, especially Bayron! The location, view, springs, food, cleanliness was all absolute perfection.