Find hotels in Arenal from £29

Top reasons to visit Arenal

• Stunning Arenal Volcano: Witness the majestic Arenal Volcano, a must-see natural landmark that offers breathtaking views and hiking opportunities.
• Enchanting Hot Springs: Relax in the rejuvenating hot springs, providing a perfect blend of relaxation and natural beauty.
• Adventure Activities: Engage in thrilling outdoor pursuits such as zip-lining, white-water rafting, and hiking along scenic trails.
• Beautiful Waterfalls: Explore stunning waterfalls, ideal for photography and refreshing swims.
• Charming Accommodation: Enjoy unique stays with options featuring hot springs and picturesque views, catering to every traveller's taste.

Find great hotels near Arenal

For an unforgettable getaway in Arenal, Guanacaste, Costa Rica, you'll discover a variety of accommodation options, including hotels and charming bed & breakfasts. Ideal for adventure seekers and families alike, many lodgings offer unique amenities, such as hot springs and breathtaking views. Whether you're searching for the best hotels or seeking a cozy lodge, Arenal has something to cater to every traveller's needs and preferences.

• Hotel Los Lagos Spa & Resort: Nestled 24.1km from Arenal, this charming 3.5-star hotel, rated 9.4, offers a delightful family-friendly retreat with a strong emphasis on relaxation. The hot spring theme is beautifully integrated into the resort, featuring natural hot springs onsite. Families can enjoy amenities such as a children's pool and a dedicated First Aid kit, ensuring peace of mind for parents. For adults, the full-service spa provides a range of treatments, including body scrubs and aromatherapy, allowing for a truly rejuvenating experience amidst lush surroundings.
• Volcano Lodge Hotel & Thermal Experience: Located 22.5km from Arenal, this 4-star lodge, also rated 9.4, is perfect for families and adventure seekers alike. The onsite natural hot springs provide a soothing escape after a day of excitement. Guests can partake in various adventure sports, such as kayaking, mountain biking, and rafting, all conveniently nearby. The property caters to families with amenities like a shared playground and arcade game room, ensuring fun for children while parents relax in the serene thermal waters.
• The Springs Resort and Spa at Arenal: Just 22.5km from Arenal, this luxurious 5-star resort boasts an impressive guest rating of 9.8. With a focus on adventure and relaxation, it features natural hot springs and a plethora of activities, such as fishing and hiking, right on the property. Guests can indulge in the onsite spa for personalised treatments or enjoy thrilling boat tours and parasailing nearby. The Springs creates a perfect blend of excitement and serenity, making it an exceptional choice for discerning travellers seeking a memorable vacation experience.

Where to stay in and around Arenal

Arenal, nestled in the lush landscapes of Guanacaste, Costa Rica, is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking relaxation alike. With its breathtaking scenery and fresh air, visitors can indulge in thrilling adventures or unwind in charming small resorts. Nearby, Palma Beach offers a romantic and secluded atmosphere, perfect for a tranquil getaway. Whether you're after adventure or serenity, Arenal and its surrounding regions promise an unforgettable experience for every traveller.

• Nuevo Arenal: Nestled in the picturesque Arenal area, Nuevo Arenal is a charming village that attracts outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers year-round. While visitor numbers reach their peak between January and April, the village remains a serene destination throughout the year. With its breathtaking scenery, surrounding mountains, and proximity to Arenal Volcano, Nuevo Arenal offers a variety of activities including spa retreats and thrilling adventures. Nature lovers will appreciate the nearby national park, making it an ideal base for exploration and relaxation.
• Aguacate: Located a mere 4.8km from Arenal, Aguacate is a quaint village that offers a slightly more intimate experience for visitors. With travel peaks in March and December to January, Aguacate invites those seeking outdoor adventures and stunning scenic views. The village is renowned for its exhilarating zipline ropes course, providing an adrenaline rush amidst lush landscapes. Close to key natural landmarks like the majestic volcano and serene lake, Aguacate serves as a perfect spot for both adventure seekers and nature lovers.
• Mata de Cana: Situated in the enchanting Arenal region, Mata de Cana is a delightful village that draws visitors looking for outdoor activities and breathtaking scenery. With peak visitor times in March and December to January, it offers a vibrant atmosphere while still maintaining a laid-back charm. The area is well-known for its adventure activities, including thrilling zipline experiences. Close to national parks and the stunning Arenal Volcano, Mata de Cana provides travellers with ample opportunities to immerse themselves in Costa Rica's natural beauty.

Things to do in Arenal

Arenal, Guanacaste, offers a thrilling vacation filled with outdoor adventures and stunning scenery. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, including exhilarating adventure tours, an exciting adventure park, and serene nature trails. Don't miss out on captivating night tours and family-friendly fun as you explore this beautiful region. With its excellent resorts and spas, Arenal is perfect for those seeking relaxation alongside adventure.

Shopping

In Arenal, explore local shops for unique gifts and souvenirs, including artisan crafts and traditional Costa Rican products. If you're up for a drive, visit the La Fortuna Market, around 11.3km away, where you can find fresh produce, handmade items, and vibrant local culture.

Recreation

Experience the rejuvenating atmosphere at The Springs Resort & Spa, where you can indulge in natural hot springs and luxurious spa treatments. Enjoy yoga sessions with breathtaking views of the volcano, and explore the surrounding rainforest through guided hikes or horseback riding adventures.

Adventure

In Arenal, experience the thrill of zip-lining through lush canopies at Arenal Mundo Aventura, where breathtaking views await. Explore the Arenal Volcano National Park’s hiking trails, showcasing diverse wildlife and stunning landscapes. Relax in the natural hot springs at Tabacón, surrounded by vibrant flora and soothing waters.

Nightlife

Arenal boasts a vibrant nightlife, with venues like La Fortuna's Lava Lounge offering lively music and cocktails. Nearby, the Arenal Observatory Lodge provides a unique setting for star-gazing evenings. Enjoy local bars and restaurants, where the atmosphere is friendly and the rhythm of Costa Rican life comes alive after dark.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Arenal

• 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: The cheapest time to book a hotel in Arenal is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals which could secure you a cheaper stay. Look out for the green banner below the price to spot the deals.
• 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: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, preferred location, and type of accommodation you desire. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified option will reveal sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels currently available. To find the most affordable rates and offers, sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
• Consider bundling your trip: You might find it beneficial to save some money by combining your hotel stay in Arenal with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.

Find the best attractions near Arenal

Arenal in Guanacaste, Costa Rica, is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts seeking adventure and stunning scenery. Visitors can explore enchanting hot springs, breathtaking waterfalls, and the majestic Arenal Volcano. The area caters to those seeking romance and outdoor experiences alike. Don’t miss a visit to Lake Arenal, and consider staying in some of the best hotels in the region for a memorable getaway.

• Lake Arenal: Nestled just 4.8km from Arenal, Lake Arenal offers stunning scenery and a range of outdoor activities. Whether you're kayaking, fishing, or simply enjoying a romantic picnic by the shore, the lake's tranquil atmosphere is perfect for relaxation and adventure alike.
• Tabacon Hot Springs: Located 19.3km from Arenal, Tabacon Hot Springs is a luxurious retreat featuring natural thermal waters. Surrounded by lush rainforest, this wellness oasis provides a serene environment where you can unwind and rejuvenate while soaking in the warm, mineral-rich waters.
• Mistico Arenal Hanging Bridges Park: About 16.1km from Arenal, this enchanting reserve features a series of hanging bridges that allow you to explore the forest canopy. With its romantic vibe, Mistico offers breathtaking views and an immersive experience in Costa Rica's rich biodiversity.

Best time to go to Arenal

The best time to visit Arenal is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. May is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are moderately low and weather is mostly cloudy with moderate rain. January and December are its coolest month on average. At the time of December, visitor numbers are moderately high and weather is mostly cloudy.

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	Moderately Low	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	Average	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

For your visit to Arenal, Guanacaste, Costa Rica, the major airports to consider are San José (SJO-Juan Santamaría Intl.), Liberia (LIR-Daniel Oduber Intl.), and Quepos (XQP). San José is located 96.6km from Arenal, with nearby hotels like the 5-star InterContinental Costa Rica and the 4.5-star Hilton San Jose La Sabana, both providing airport shuttle services. Liberia, situated 70.8km away, features hotels such as the 5-star Four Seasons Resort and 4.5-star Planet Hollywood Costa Rica, offering scheduled shuttles. Lastly, Quepos is 148.1km from Arenal, with luxurious options like the 5-star Makanda by the Sea, also offering transportation services.