Los Lagos Hotel: Hot Springs and Fun for Families

A Recap of Our Stay at Hotel Los Lagos
When I first started planning our family vacation to Costa Rica, I knew I wanted to spend at least a few days in La Fortuna. This area of Costa Rica is full of rainforest, animals, and the Arenal Volcano. And there is a ton of fun stuff to see and to there.
There were quite a few hotel options in that area that had accommodations that would fit our family of 5. But the price points were all over the place.
When I stumbled across Hotel Los Lagos, it sounded too good it be true. Not only did the pictures look amazing, but there were multiple natural hot springs on site, fun pools with waterslides, and rooms that would accommodate our entire family. It was perfect for us!
Check out our entire Costa Rica travel itinerary to see where else we stayed and what we did.

Below, I’ll break down more information about the amenities and activities at this resort. But in a nutshell, our favorite parts of this hotel were the amount of on-site hot springs, the waterslides at the pools and the volcano views. The pool bar was also a huge hit–the food and drinks there are extremely reasonable! Most mixed drinks were about $5. And the food items were about $8 to $12. Overall, it’s definitely one of the best family resorts in Costa Rica.
This hotel does book up months out, especially during the busier seasons. Book early if you know you’d like to stay there.
Los Lagos Hot Springs Reviews: Accommodations at Hotel Los Lagos

Hotel Los Lagos has a variety of room styles to choose from that can accommodate up to 8 people. The Standard rooms provide a cozy setting with views of the lush gardens. And the Superior rooms are huge, offering more space and enhanced views of the Arenal Volcano.
Our Superior room had two queen beds with two rollaway beds and could comfortably sleep 6 people. The spacious bathroom featured a walk-in shower and double sinks, making it practical and comfortable for families. Each room is equipped with air conditioning, cable TV, a mini-fridge, and a safe to ensure a comfortable stay. Some rooms are just a short walk from the pools and main facilities, adding extra convenience. Plus, the patios include outdoor seating with chairs. It was perfect for relaxing and enjoying the view.
Amenities at Hotel Los Lagos

One of the biggest amenities at this resort is the access to multiple thermal hot spring pools, naturally heated by the geothermal activity of the Arenal Volcano. These amazing pools vary in temperature and size, providing a soothing experience for guests. The pool area is well-equipped with plenty of chairs for relaxing. There are also two thrilling waterslides, and let me tell you–they are FAST! My kids had a blast riding over and over again. I went down a couple of times and couldn’t believe how fast they are.
This is a large property with extensive grounds, offering a resort-like atmosphere and plenty of space to explore. Because the property is large, many guests appreciate the convenient parking available on-site. There are close parking spots to each building.

The superior and standard rooms include free breakfast daily. This is a breakfast buffet that consists of several hot breakfast options along with made-to-order eggs. My kids loved the french toast! There are also cold cuts and pastries.
The on-site restaurant serves a variety of local and international dishes for both lunch and dinner. There’s also a casual restaurant and bar by the pools. We enjoyed items like tacos, pizza, nachos and chicken strips there. Additionally, the swim-up Lemnos Wet Bar allows guests to enjoy cocktails without leaving the pool. Some meals or activities may come at an extra cost, so be sure to check what’s included in your booking. That being said, the food and drinks were super reasonably priced.
Other amenities include a souvenir shop with a great selection of Costa Rica-themed gifts, clothing, and travel essentials, making it easy to pick up a memento or anything you might need during your stay.
Hot Springs and Relaxation

One of the standout features of Hotel Los Lagos is its incredible selection of hot springs pools. Each offers a unique atmosphere for relaxation and fun. These hot springs are naturally heated by the geothermal energy of the majestic Arenal Volcano, creating a soothing retreat for guests of all ages. Whether you’re looking to unwind after a day of adventure or simply soak up the pura vida lifestyle, the hot springs pools at Los Lagos are the perfect place to do it.
Surrounded by lush gardens and beautiful landscaping, the hot springs area feels like a tropical oasis. Families can enjoy the larger pools together, while couples or those seeking a quieter moment will appreciate the more private, secluded pools and Jacuzzis tucked away among the greenery. Plus, the swim-up bar is a favorite spot for adults to sip a refreshing cocktail or a local fruit smoothie without ever leaving the warm water. Kids loved splashing around in the shallower pools, and there’s plenty of space for everyone to relax. It truly never felt crowded in any of the pools.
The naturally heated waters are not only relaxing but are also said to have therapeutic benefits. They are a highlight of any family vacation at Hotel Los Lagos. Whether you’re visiting for a romantic getaway or a fun-filled family trip, the hot springs and relaxation facilities at this hotel offer a memorable and rejuvenating experience for all guests.
Dining and Restaurants


Dining at Hotel Los Lagos is a treat for the whole family, with a variety of options to suit every taste and schedule. The main restaurant, Las Palmas, is the heart of the hotel’s culinary scene, serving up a generous breakfast buffet each morning. Guests can start their day with a selection of hot and cold dishes, including Costa Rican specialties, fresh fruit, pastries, and made-to-order eggs—perfect fuel for a day of exploring. I loved the variety of flavors (included some delicious salsas) there were each morning.
For lunch and dinner, Las Palmas offers a menu that blends Costa Rican flavors with international favorites, ensuring there’s something for everyone. If you’re looking for a more laid-back meal, the casual restaurant near the pool area is ideal for grabbing snacks, light lunches, or a quick bite between swims. The pool bar is a popular hangout, serving up tropical cocktails, local beers, and fresh juices—great for relaxing by the water or enjoying a drink at the swim-up bar.
There were plenty of kid-friendly food options, so if you’re worried about your kids not trying anything new, they won’t have to. Pizzas and chicken strips were aplenty. And as I mentioned above, it was all so reasonably priced.
Room service is available for those evenings when you just want to unwind in your spacious room after a busy day. Whether you’re craving a family dinner, a poolside snack, or a leisurely breakfast, Hotel Los Lagos makes it easy to enjoy delicious food and drinks throughout your stay.
Activities at the Hotel Los Lagos

Hotel Los Lagos has lots to do throughout the property and within the vicinity. We watched multiple families do the on-site zip-lining experience through the forest canopy. The resort also offers horseback riding tours which guide guests on rainforest trails with panoramic views of the volcano. And, there are a number of walking trails throughout the property, including a scenic nature trail that features a turtle pond—a highlight for families and children.
For those looking for a more relaxing experience, there’s an onsite spa, the Fangus Spa, which offers a range of treatments designed for relaxation and rejuvenation.
Nearby Attractions

La Fortuna is one of the best places to go in Costa Rica. It offers cultural experiences, local cuisine, and shopping opportunities. And Hotel Los Lagos Spa & Resort is known for its good location, with close proximity to Arenal Volcano National Park, downtown La Fortuna, and other key attractions. The resort’s proximity to the Arenal Volcano National Park allows for easy exploration of hiking trails and wildlife observation. Lake Arenal, located nearby, is popular for water sports such as kayaking and fishing. Check out this list of the best things to do in Costa Rica to help plan your activities.
Many positive reviews highlight the hotel’s location and convenient access to attractions. The hotel is also easily accessible from San Jose, with options for shuttle service or rental car, making travel logistics simple for visitors arriving from San Jose Airport (SJO).
We stayed three nights at this hotel before venturing over to Manuel Antonio. During our stay, we did a night tour of the rainforest, we went zip-lining and we visited the La Fortuna waterfall. We had dinner in town one of the nights, and I tried out a few of the different local coffee shops. Everything was a short drive away (anywhere from 5 to 15 minutes) from the hotel.
Wondering where to zip-line? We did one that was family friendly (we had a 5-year-old), but it also had a thrilling (and terrifying!) Tarzan swing. If age wasn’t a factor, we might have booked the AMA zip-line that goes over the La Fortuna waterfall or the Sky Adventures Park zip-lining–those are a bit more thrilling. But the one we did was so much fun and perfect for what we were looking for.

Guest Reviews
I am extremely happy with our choice to book the Los Lagos Hotel for our family vacation in Costa Rica. And I’m not alone. Guests consistently rave about their experiences at Hotel Los Lagos, making it one of the best hotels in Costa Rica for families and travelers seeking both adventure and relaxation. Many reviews highlight the spacious rooms, which provide plenty of comfort and privacy for families or groups. The amenities, from the hot springs pools to the on-site spa and pool bar, receive high marks for both quality and variety.
The hotel’s beautiful landscaping and lush gardens create a serene atmosphere that guests love, with many mentioning how the views of Arenal Volcano and the surrounding greenery add to the sense of escape. The location is another major plus—just a short drive from downtown La Fortuna and close to top nearby attractions, making it easy to explore the area while enjoying a peaceful retreat.
Families especially appreciate the family-friendly vibe, the fun pool area, and the range of activities available on site. The staff at Hotel Los Lagos are frequently praised for their warm hospitality and helpfulness, making guests feel welcome from check-in to check-out. Whether you’re planning a family vacation, a romantic getaway, or a group adventure, Hotel Los Lagos stands out for its combination of comfort, natural beauty, and exceptional service.
Sustainability and Eco-Friendliness
Hotel Los Lagos is dedicated to preserving the natural beauty of Costa Rica and the Arenal Volcano region through a strong commitment to sustainability and eco-friendly practices. The hotel uses solar panels to generate a significant portion of its electricity. This reduces its carbon footprint and reliance on traditional energy sources. Guests can feel good knowing their stay supports these green initiatives.
Recycling is a priority at Los Lagos, with comprehensive programs for composting food waste and recycling materials like paper, plastic, and glass. The lush gardens and expansive grounds are maintained using natural fertilizers and environmentally friendly pest control methods, ensuring that the property remains vibrant and healthy without harming the local ecosystem.
Additionally, Hotel Los Lagos actively supports conservation efforts in the area, including the protection of Arenal Volcano National Park and its diverse wildlife. By choosing to stay at this hotel, guests are not only enjoying a memorable vacation but are also contributing to the preservation of Costa Rica’s incredible natural resources for future generations.
Hotel Los Lagos Spa & Resort seamlessly blends comfort, adventure, and natural beauty, making it an ideal destination for travelers seeking a memorable Costa Rican experience.
Looking for more options? Check out these other hotels in Costa Rica with hot springs or these family all-inclusive resorts in Costa Rica.
Note: Affiliate links on this page may earn me commission if used to make purchases. This doesn’t cost you a penny extra, and it helps to keep my website up and running for free.
Discover more from
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.


