Nayara Springs is the romantic choice among Arenal’s luxury hotels: an adults-only property of private villas set among tropical gardens on the road leading to Arenal Volcano National Park. Guests are welcomed into a quiet world of hot springs, pools, spa treatments and fine dining, with the volcano as a backdrop whenever the clouds allow. The hotel offers on-site hot springs fed by volcano-warmed water, two outdoor pools with sun loungers and a swim-up bar, and a spa with massages, body treatments and nail services, so a day here can be spent entirely without leaving the grounds. Four restaurants, plus a cafe and a poolside bar, cover everything from casual lunches to dinner, and a cooked-to-order breakfast is included. Villas are designed for privacy, and in this style of property they typically come with large terraces and private plunge pools, so check the room category you choose. The setting is rural but not remote: the Natura Eco Park is a two-minute walk away, the Los Lagos hot springs complex is a short drive, and La Fortuna Waterfall and the Mistico hanging bridges are about twenty minutes by car.
Location and getting around
The hotel sits on the road toward Arenal Volcano National Park, well placed for most sights, though La Fortuna town is a drive away, so a rental car, taxi or hotel shuttle is useful. Free self-parking and valet parking are available, and an airport shuttle can be arranged for a fee, although the drive from the airport takes close to three hours, so many guests break the trip or take a private transfer.
The rooms
The accommodation is made up of villas and suites with generous space, lush surroundings and a focus on privacy. Some categories include private pools, and others offer a view of the volcano from the terrace. Ask when you reserve which category has the best view and whether your villa has a private plunge pool, since this makes a big difference to the experience.
Who it suits
Honeymooners, couples celebrating an anniversary, and any adult travellers who want a quiet, indulgent stay. The adults-only policy means no children are at the pools or restaurants, which is a major attraction for some travellers and a limitation for families. For families, the Springs Resort or Arenal Manoa are better options.
Good to know
A free breakfast cooked to order is included, Wi-Fi is free, and there is a small gym with yoga classes. Concierge staff arrange guided tours, such as hikes, rafting and hanging bridges, with transport from the hotel. Book spa treatments and dinner at the more formal restaurants in advance.
Why stay here
- ✓Adults-only villas
- ✓On-site hot springs
- ✓Two outdoor pools
- ✓Swim-up bar
- ✓Full-service spa
- ✓Four restaurants
- ✓Free cooked-to-order breakfast
- ✓Free self-parking and valet
Good questions
Is Nayara Springs adults only?+
Yes, the property is adults only, so it suits couples and solo travellers rather than families with children.
Is breakfast included at Nayara Springs?+
A free breakfast cooked to order is offered, but confirm that it is part of your rate when you book.
How far is Nayara Springs from La Fortuna Waterfall?+
The waterfall is about twenty minutes away by car, and the Mistico hanging bridges are a similar distance.
