WHERE TO STAY IN LA FORTUNA AND ARENAL: COSTA RICA
If you’re in La Fortuna, chances are you are here to visit Arenal Volcano. Excellent choice. This is a must-see on any Costa Rica travel itinerary. But where to stay in this area is a big decision? Do you want to be in the town of La Fortuna, or find a spot with a volcano view? Here’s the Lotus Eaters guide to the 5 most vibey places to stay in La Fortuna and Arenal and why to stay in them.
Read on to find out where to stay in La Fortuna and Arenal.
Are La Fortuna and Arenal the same area?
La Fortuna is the nearest town to Arenal volcano. It is actually four miles away from the volcano area. When it comes to deciding where to stay in La Fortuna and Arenal, you will need to decide whether you would rather stay in the town or near to the volcano.
How many days to spend in La Fortuna?
La Fortuna is not a large place, we would recommend staying for at least two days, but more is not really necessary. However, if you wished to stay longer, you could definitely relax in a wonderful hotel in La Fortuna or Arenal. Especially if you pick one with access to the hot springs.
Where to stay in La Fortuna and Arenal: Costa Rica
1/ Selina La Fortuna
Selina is a well known hotel/ hostel brand across Costa Rica, with fab accommodation in every main town or city throughout the country. It is well known for good reason, the accommodation is a great standard and there are always great communal spaces and fast wifi! Selina is particularly popular with Digital Nomads.
The Selina in La Fortuna is no exception, with a swimming pool, restaurant and yoga space. The teepee tents for couples are a fun experience. Guest really love the vibe and ambience in this Selina hostel. Location wise, Selina is right in La Fortuna town, perfect for anyone looking to party the night away before visiting the volcano the next day.
Budget: Booking.com offers rates of around $130 for two for a teepee or $30 for a bed in a dorm for one
Best for: Solo travellers or groups of friends looking for a great place to stay in La Fortuna
2/ Casa Torre Eco Lodge
This place is very much all about the view of Arenal volcano. Location wise, it’s more or less equidistant between La Fortuna and Arenal.
We loved our stay here in a bungalow. Not only did it have a stunning view of the volcano, but the room was spacious and relaxing. From the balcony, we could spot hummingbirds and various other creatures. We loved the feeling of escapism here, but it is a walk into La Fortuna. If you want to go into town from this accommodation, you will need transport or a taxi.
Budget: Booking.com offers rates of around $30 for two with a shared bathroom or $80 for two for a Bungalow
Best For: Couples looking for peaceful and romantic place to stay in La Fortuna
3/ The springs resort and spa at Arenal
This hotel is in La Fortuna, but only 20 minutes drive from Arenal Volcano for anyone wishing to visit it. There is a pool and a restaurant, but the hotel also offers exclusive access to hot springs. The springs are not on the property (as they are with some of the more expensive hotels) but you will be given free transport to go and visit them.
Guests love the location, the service and the willingness of staff to go above and beyond to make their stay incredible.
Budget: At $300 approximately per night for two people on Booking.com
Best for: Anyone looking for pampering during their stay
4/ Arenal Sloth Hostel
This brightly lit and colourful hostel is perfect for any backpacking sloths looking for somewhere to lay their heads for a night. With a great location for sightseeing, yet close to La Fortuna town, guests love the location. You can walk into town to grab food or drinks and one of the buzzy restaurants and bars.
This hostel also has great communal areas, with a garden on site, making it perfect for any travellers wishing to meet other people on their trip.
Budget: Booking.com has rates of between $25 and $30 for a bunk bed in a dorm room
Best for: Backpackers and budget travellers looking to meet like minded people
5/ La Finca Lodge
La Finca Lodge is a unique place to stay, because the accommodation is located on a ranch! What could be more fun for families looking for a place to stay in La Fortuna. With such peaceful surroundings, it’s hard not to feel relaxed as you enjoy breakfast on your terrace overlooking the countryside.
For families driving around the area, this hotel has free parking. There are also board games, activities and a restaurant on site, meaning you don’t have to go too far for entertainment. The accommodation is in peaceful surroundings, but you will need to drive to the volcano or into town.
Budget: Booking.com has rates of $130 for two people per night
Best for: Couples or families with children
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