Looking for the best places to stay in La Fortuna, Costa Rica? This is the only guide you’ll need!
La Fortuna is a little slice of paradise in the north of the country where every turn brings a new adventure. That said, knowing where to stay in La Fortuna Costa Rica is essential to enjoying your time in the region as much as possible.
In this post, we’ll go through the best hotels in La Fortuna for all interests and budgets. Whether you’re here to chill, explore, or just escape the daily grind, I guarantee you’ll find the perfect property to suit your needs.
QUICK PICKS: 3 BEST PLACES TO STAY IN LA FORTUNA
If you don’t have time to read this full guide on where to stay in La Fortuna Costa Rica, here are the 3 best hotels in La Fortuna that I recommend for the perfect holiday!
Best Luxury Hotel in La Fortuna
Nayara Gardens ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
- Stunning, clean, modern rooms
- Excellent location near Arenal volcano
- On-site pool, wine bar, and restaurant
Best Mid-Range Hotel in La Fortuna
San Bosco Inn ⭐️⭐️⭐️
- Clean, beautiful rooms and swimming pool
- Bars, restaurants, and shops within walking distance
- Located in La Fortuna Town
Best Budget Hotel in La Fortuna
Lumbres Arenal
- Affordable rooms
- Near hot springs, waterfalls, and the national park
- On-site pool with volcano views and restaurant
WHERE TO STAY IN LA FORTUNA – FAQ
Let’s start with some quick answers to the most frequently asked questions from first-time visitors searching for where to stay in La Fortuna Costa Rica.
WHAT IS THE BEST PLACE TO STAY IN LA FORTUNA FOR FIRST-TIMERS?
La Fortuna Town is the go-to spot for first-timers. It’s buzzing with nightlife and offers a real taste of local life.
On the other hand, the area near Lake Arenal caters to all budgets and is perfect for nature lovers, with its close proximity to hot springs and Arenal Volcano National Park.
WHERE TO STAY IN LA FORTUNA FOR HOT SPRINGS?
Palma is the best area to stay in La Forunta Costa Rica if hot springs are what you’re after. This area is well-known for its natural thermal waters, offering a unique and relaxing experience amidst stunning natural scenery.
There are plenty of great La Fortuna hotels for all budgets in Palma and around La Fortuna Town as a whole, so make sure to read on to discover the best ones.
WHERE TO STAY IN LA FORTUNA FOR NIGHTLIFE?
La Fortuna Town is unbeatable for nightlife. With its vibrant atmosphere, it’s filled with bars, restaurants, and local events, making it a lively spot for evening entertainment.
WHERE TO STAY IN ARENAL COSTA RICA?
For a luxurious stay, Tabacón Thermal Resort & Spa is a fantastic choice, offering top-notch facilities and thermal waters.
If you’re looking for something more moderately priced, Hotel Arenal Lodge provides comfortable accommodation with stunning views, making it a great value option.
BEST PLACES TO STAY IN LA FORTUNA
Before going through the best hotels in La Fortuna, let me elaborate on the three best areas you should consider:
- La Fortuna Town: Best place to stay in La Fortuna for first-timers
- Outside La Fortuna Town: Best area to stay in La Fortuna for hot springs
- Lake Arenal Area: Where to stay in La Fortuna for wildlife
Now, let’s go through all the best hotels in each of these areas to make the most of your time in town.
LA FORTUNA TOWN: WHERE TO STAY FOR FIRST-TIMERS & NIGHTLIFE
La Fortuna Town is a beautiful spot for first-time visitors. It’s a bustling hub that offers a lively introduction to the local culture, with streets peppered with charming shops, cafes, and markets.
Here, you can easily access the iconic La Fortuna Waterfall and the renowned Arenal Volcano National Park, which are just a stone’s throw away.
While the town’s central location is perfect for those looking to be in the middle of everything, it’s important to note that it can get a bit crowded and noisy, especially during peak tourist seasons.
Nonetheless, La Fortuna Town remains a great choice for those who wish to experience the energetic pulse of Costa Rican town life.
Want to know more? Here are the best hotels in La Fortuna Town for each budget!
BEST LUXURY HOTEL IN LA FORTUNA TOWN: La Fortuna Lodge
✔️ Rating: 9.1/10 | Reviews: 500+ | Class: ⭐️⭐️⭐️
While this isn’t a 5-star hotel, La Fortuna Lodge is one of the most top-rated hotels in town!
At La Fortuna Lodge, you’re greeted with a warm, local vibe, and you’ll stay just a hop away from La Fortuna Park.
The rooms are beautiful, modern, and comfortable, featuring a flat-screen TV, air conditioning, and a cozy seating area.
They also feature private bathrooms, memory foam mattresses, and high-quality linen, guaranteeing a good night’s sleep!
If your budget allows, I recommend getting the Premium Suite with Volcano View, which is more spacious and you’ll have stunning views, of course!
The lodge offers free WiFi, and you can unwind at the on-site spa or soak in the hot spring bath. If you’re up for exploring, the Arenal Volcano National Park is just a 25-minute drive away.
In short, it’s one of the best places to stay in La Fortuna, and you’ll want to book in advance as they always sell out!
BEST MID-RANGE HOTEL IN LA FORTUNA TOWN: San Bosco Inn
✔️ Rating: 9.1/10 | Reviews: 1,000+ | Class: ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Nestled in the heart of La Fortuna town, San Bosco Inn is a fantastic place for a getaway, perfect for soaking up the local atmosphere.
Here, you’re treated to an outdoor pool and lush gardens, ideal for relaxing in the afternoon, and a good alternative to hot springs.
The rooms are bright and functional, offering garden views, cable TV, and a private bathroom with free towels.
San Bosco Inn is all about convenience – free WiFi in public areas, and you’re just a two-minute walk from local restaurants and shops.
The famous La Fortuna Waterfall is only a 5-minute drive away. Plus, there’s no hassle with parking as the hotel provides it for free.
All in all, it’s one of the best hotels in La Fortuna Costa Rica, and you definitely won’t regret staying here.
BEST BUDGET HOTEL IN LA FORTUNA TOWN: Le Petit Hotel
✔️ Rating: 8.5/10 | Reviews: 70+ | Class: Budget Hotel
Le Petit Hotel offers a cozy and intimate setting in La Fortuna while staying affordable, with rooms for less than $50 per night.
This charming inn provides air-conditioned rooms, each with a flat-screen TV, cable channels, and a private bathroom. The outdoor swimming pool is a highlight, where you can relax and unwind.
Enjoy the convenience of free WiFi throughout the property and a shared kitchen for cooking your own meals.
The hotel offers services like private check-in/out, baggage storage, and a tour desk to help you make the most of your stay.
OUTSIDE LA FORTUNA TOWN: BEST AREA FOR HOT SPRINGS
Right outside La Fortuna Town, there’s a quiet spot famous for its amazing hot springs. It’s like a peaceful hideaway, perfect for chilling out and enjoying some quiet time.
You can soak in warm, soothing waters surrounded by beautiful green plants and trees. It’s really relaxing and feels like a special treat.
While you can stay in any area around La Fortuna Town, I particularly recommend the “Palma” area.
In fact, it is peaceful and has nice spa resorts around, which are great if you’re looking to pamper yourself a bit more.
Although it’s a bit away from the busy center of town, this area is a top choice if you’re after a calm and nature-filled break. Here are the best properties outside of La Fortuna Town.
BEST LUXURY HOTEL OUTSIDE LA FORTUNA: Nayara Gardens
✔️ Rating: 9.7/10 | Reviews: 400+ | Class: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Nayara Gardens is your luxury hideaway set against the stunning Arenal Volcano and nestled within the Costa Rican Rainforest.
Here, you get your own private bungalow with a terrace and a plunge pool, all equipped with local hand-woven fabrics and handcrafted wood furniture.
If you’re feeling adventurous, book a safari through the Caño Negro Wildlife Refuge or a horseback ride to La Fortuna Waterfall.
For some relaxation, you’ll get to indulge in spa treatments like coffee scrubs and volcanic mud treatments.
The outdoor pool and wet bar are perfect for unwinding with a cocktail in hand, and dining is a treat too, with the bamboo-decked restaurant offering 360-degree garden views and delicious Costa Rican cuisine!
Plus, the wine bar’s selection of South American and Spanish wines is a must-try. And for a great night’s sleep, the beds here are super comfy.
What to say, while this is a pretty expensive property, it will easily tick off all your boxes.
BEST MID-RANGE HOTEL OUTSIDE LA FORTUNA: Hotel Campo Verde
✔️ Rating: 9/10 | Reviews: 500+ | Class: ⭐️⭐️⭐️
At Hotel Campo Verde, you’re in for an eco-friendly stay right at the foot of the Arenal Volcano.
Each room offers breathtaking volcano views and comes with air conditioning, a balcony, two queen-size beds, and a living room with cable TV.
For your convenience, there’s a fridge, coffee maker, and a private bathroom with a hairdryer and shower.
Start your day with one of three types of free breakfasts – continental, tropical fruit, or typical Costa Rican.
When hungry, the rustic Steak House Mirador Arenal Restaurant serves delicious steak, seafood, chicken, and local dishes, all with panoramic views.
The hotel also offers a massage service, free Wi-Fi in the rooms, and free parking.
For exploring, you can rent a car or bike from the tour desk, and let me tell you, this is a massive bonus in this part of the country!
All in all, it’s one of the best places to stay in La Fortuna Costa Rica, and you’ll love your time here.
BEST BUDGET HOTEL OUTSIDE LA FORTUNA: Encanto Arenal lodge
✔️ Rating: 9/10 | Reviews: 60+ | Class: Lodge
Encanto Arenal Lodge is one of the best hotels in La Fortuna for budget travelers, surrounded by beautiful nature and close to waterfalls and Kalambu Hot Springs.
Each room in the lodge features a fully equipped private bathroom with shower and free toiletries, and while they’re basic, they’re clean and have everything you need.
The views over the Arenal volcano are another great feature, and you’ll want to book the Double Room with Mountain View!
You’re also just a short drive from Cavernas de Venado and Mistico Arenal Hanging Bridges Park.
If you’re arriving from far away, they provide an airport shuttle service, which is great if you don’t plan to rent a car.
For relaxation, there’s a hot tub/Jacuzzi on site, and that totally complements the balcony in the room to take in the views.
While it’s not a luxurious property, they have all the essentials and more for a pleasant stay.
LAKE ARENAL: WHERE TO STAY IN LA FORTUNA FOR WILDLIFE
Lake Arenal is a fantastic spot for people who love nature and wildlife. It’s really peaceful and full of beautiful sights.
You can see lots of different birds, maybe even some cool animals if you’re lucky while walking around or taking a boat ride on the lake.
It’s a great place to go for a walk, ride a bike, and just enjoy being outdoors. The lake is a bit away from the busy town, so it’s quieter and more relaxed.
Of course, you’ll be near the Arenal National Park too, which is a massive bonus. If you like spending time in nature and want a calm place to stay, Lake Arenal is a great choice.
BEST LUXURY HOTEL IN LAKE ARENAL: Tabacón Thermal Resort & Spa
✔️ Rating: 9.4/10 | Reviews: 900+ | Class: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
At Tabacón Thermal Resort & Spa, you’re stepping into a world of luxury and relaxation, surrounded by the Arenal Volcano, which is the reason why you’re in La Fortuna after all!
The resort features hot spring baths, a sauna, massage services, and not one but five swimming pools for you to enjoy.
Each room and suite is modernly decorated with garden views, air conditioning, flat-screen TV, coffee maker, and mini-bar.
The bathrooms are cozy with bathrobes, slippers, and free toiletries, and suites come with a living area.
Indulge in local dishes and international cuisine at the resort’s restaurants, and don’t miss the chance to try some exotic cocktails at the swim-up bar.
For your convenience, there’s free valet parking, a welcome cocktail, and unlimited access to the on-site hot springs.
Can you think of better places where to stay in Arenal Costa Rica?
BEST MID-RANGE HOTEL IN LAKE ARENAL: Hotel Arenal Lodge
✔️ Rating: 8.1/10 | Reviews: 1,000+ | Class: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Hotel Arenal Lodge offers a unique experience nestled within 2,000 acres of rainforest, home to exotic birds, wild animals, and tropical vegetation.
The hotel boasts panoramic views of both Arenal Volcano and Arenal Lake. Doesn’t it sound like a great place to stay in La Fortuna Costa Rica?
The rooms here are modern and spacious, and for your comfort, there’s free Wi-Fi, room service, and a bar.
The hotel has a bird-watching garden, a fitness room with a sauna, a children’s games room, and an outdoor play area.
The restaurant serves fresh seafood, meat, pasta, and local dishes all day, with some ingredients sourced locally. The dining room provides stunning views of the volcano, adding to the unique ambiance of your meals.
To summarize, it’s one of these places to stay in La Fortuna that you don’t want to leave, so make sure to consider Hotel Arenal Lodge for your trip!
BEST BUDGET HOTEL IN LAKE ARENAL: Lumbres Arenal
✔️ Rating: 8.3/10 | Reviews: 500+ | Class: Lodge
Lumbres Arenal is a cozy retreat in Fortuna, offering a tranquil experience with splendid mountain views.
The lodge features both an indoor and an outdoor swimming pool, where you can soak in the natural beauty, and that is priceless once you’ve explored the national park.
Each unit comes with a private bathroom, air conditioning, a flat-screen TV, and a fridge. Some units also have a kitchen equipped with a microwave.
The property is conveniently located near La Fortuna Waterfall and Kalambu Hot Springs. The lodge offers free Wi-Fi throughout, free private parking, and an on-site restaurant for your dining needs.
For added convenience, there’s a paid airport shuttle service available. The best part? A night here will only cost you about $50!
Don’t wait any longer and book your room now before it’s too late!
LA FORTUNA ACCOMMODATION MAP
For all other places to stay in La Fortuna Costa Rica, here is an interactive map of all the available La Fortuna hotels in the region.
Simply enter your dates of stay below and hit the search button!
THINGS TO DO IN LA FORTUNA
Now that you know where to stay in La Fortuna Costa Rica, check out this full guide before you go so you don’t miss the most awesome things to do in town!
Full Blog Post: 15 BEST Things To Do In La Fortuna
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FINAL THOUGHTS – BEST PLACES TO STAY IN LA FORTUNA COSTA RICA
I hope you enjoyed reading this article and if you have any questions about La Fortuna hotels, please leave a comment below this post and I will get back to you as soon as I can.
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