Just outside the busiest tourist routes of La Fortuna, Costa Rica, there’s a new gem that’s been quietly earning fans among locals and visitors alike. If you’re heading to La Fortuna and want to enjoy a relaxing, affordable hot springs experience, there’s one spot you should absolutely have on your list, Hot Springs Pura Vida.
When most people think of La Fortuna, Costa Rica, their minds jump straight to the Arenal Volcano, epic rainforest adventures, and the iconic hot springs tucked away in lush jungle settings. The area is known worldwide as one of the best places to experience natural thermal waters, but travelers are often surprised by how expensive many of the well-known resorts can be.
Hot Springs Pura Vida
Only about two years into its existence, this locally operated hot spring destination has already become a must-visit location for its chill vibe, great pricing, friendly staff, and access to one of La Fortuna’s most loved thermal rivers, El Chollín (popularly known as El Choyin).
If you’re backpacking, traveling solo, visiting with family, or exploring Costa Rica as a couple, Hot Springs Pura Vida offers one of the best day-pass experiences in the area without draining your wallet.
Here’s everything you need to know.
A New Hot Springs Destination With Real Costa Rican Flavor
Hot Springs Pura Vida is a refreshing change from the high-end, resort-style hot springs La Fortuna is known for. The space feels warm, local, and welcoming right from the moment you arrive. There’s a sense of simplicity here, not basic, but natural, unpretentious, and rooted in the authentic Costa Rican “pura vida” lifestyle.
Instead of massive resort complexes, you’ll find:
- A thermal-water swimming pool
- A full bar
- A family-friendly restaurant
- Clean bathrooms and changing rooms
- Lockers
- Outdoor showers
- Direct, private access to the famous El Choyin thermal river
Even though El Choyin has a public entrance, it’s widely known that parking can be chaotic and often feels unsafe if you leave your car on the roadside. One of the underrated perks of entering via Hot Springs Pura Vida is secure parking, your car stays on-site, inside the property, giving you the peace of mind to fully relax.
This detail alone makes a huge difference for many locals and tourists who want to enjoy the river without the stress of worrying about their vehicle or belongings.
The Thermal River: El Choyin
The highlight of the experience for many visitors is the access to El Choyin, one of La Fortuna’s beloved natural thermal rivers. Warm, mineral-rich waters flow gently through a jungle setting, creating a natural oasis where you can sit, soak, and unwind while listening to the sound of the river.
Because the property offers a private access point, the area near Hot Springs Pura Vida tends to feel more relaxed and slightly less crowded than the public entrance, especially on weekdays.
Locals love bringing their families here, and travelers often share that the natural river makes the visit feel more adventurous and connected to nature than resort pools. It’s also a great place to take photos, float around, and enjoy the warm volcanic waters flowing directly from the Arenal region.
Affordable Pricing: Especially for the Experience
One of the reasons Hot Springs Pura Vida is becoming so popular is because the day-pass prices are incredibly budget-friendly, even for international travelers. Compared to many hot springs in La Fortuna that charge $60–$100 per person, this place feels like a steal.
Here’s the breakdown of their foreign visitor day-pass prices:
- $28.25 USD per person — Day Pass without food
- $40.55 USD per person — Day Pass with a delicious full meal included
The food option is 100% worth it. Not only is the price extremely fair for La Fortuna, but the meal includes:
- A main dish
- A natural juice
- A small dessert
- Several choices of entrees to pick from
Most visitors mention that the food is genuinely delicious, fresh, flavorful, and prepared with Costa Rican home-style warmth. It’s a big plus, especially for travelers spending the whole day soaking in warm water and enjoying drinks from the bar.
One of the biggest surprises at Hot Springs Pura Vida is the drink pricing, extremely affordable compared to many restaurants and hotels in the area.
The vibe is relaxed and inviting, making it easy to stay for hours, and many guests do exactly that.
While the river is the star, the thermal pool is also a huge highlight. It’s spacious, warm, and perfect for anyone who prefers a more controlled environment than the natural river currents.
If you’re taking a break from exploring Arenal, recovering from hiking, or simply looking to unwind, the pool gives you a comfortable space to float, talk with friends, sip a drink, or simply enjoy the warm mineral water.
A Chill, Local Atmosphere, Not a Crowded Resort
Travelers often mention that Hot Springs Pura Vida feels more intimate and relaxed compared to the bigger hot springs resorts. There’s music, but not too loud. People are enjoying themselves, but it doesn’t feel crowded or chaotic. The property also has a few small walking trails that let you explore the area and enjoy the natural surroundings.
This makes it ideal for:
- Couples looking for a relaxing day
- Solo travelers wanting a safe, comfortable environment
- Backpackers who want a great experience without luxury prices
It strikes the perfect balance between being social and peaceful. If you’re planning a trip to La Fortuna, Hot Springs Pura Vida fits perfectly into almost any kind of travel agenda. It works great as.
Even if you already booked a resort hot spring visit, this is still a great place to enjoy a more natural, local experience, especially the river access.
Hot Springs Pura Vida Is One of La Fortuna’s Best Affordable Gems
La Fortuna has no shortage of hot springs, but few offer the combination of value, amenities, natural beauty, and chill atmosphere that Hot Springs Pura Vida does.
For travelers who want a true Costa Rican thermal experience without the resort price tag, this spot is absolutely worth the visit. With a thermal pool, bar, restaurant, clean facilities, lockers, showers, and access to the iconic El Choyin river, it’s one of the best places to enjoy a peaceful day surrounded by nature.
Add in the friendly staff, safe parking, great drink prices, and delicious meal options, and Hot Springs Pura Vida becomes an easy recommendation for anyone visiting La Fortuna.
If your Costa Rica plans include hot springs, and they definitely should, make sure this place is on your list.
