Where to Stay in La Fortuna With Kids (3 Easy Picks)
Updated September 2025 • We haven’t stayed here yet, this is the shortlist we’d book today based on location, family amenities, and consistent parent reviews. We’ll update after our Costa Rica leg in 2026.
We’re a slightly overwhelmed family of four who care about two things: short walks and early bedtimes. La Fortuna, at the foot of Arenal Volcano, is Costa Rica’s family adventure capital: hot springs, waterfalls, zip-lines, and plenty of chocolate tours. Translation: amazing, but you’ll want a stay that balances energy-burning days with actual rest.
Our rhythm here would be mornings exploring (easy waterfall hikes, wildlife tours), afternoons at the pool or hot springs, and early dinners before crashing. The right hotel makes it easier: space for wet swimsuits, kid-friendly pools, and staff who don’t blink when you ask for extra towels for the third time.
These are the three stays we’d actually choose: a budget-friendly cabina with space, a mid-range hotel with pools and volcano views, and a splurge hot springs resort where everyone can recharge.
For a quick guide, here is a rundown of the best hotels in La Fortuna
➡️ Best Overall Hotel in La Fortuna: Book Hotel Secreto La Fortuna
➡️ Best Mid range Hotel in La Fortuna: Book Hotel Los Lagos
➡️ Best High range Hotel in La Fortuna: Book Tabacón Thermal Resort & Spa
La Fortuna neighborhoods at a glance (for families)
Town Center (La Fortuna)
Walkable, with restaurants, supermarkets, and tour pick-up points. Great for families who want convenience and don’t mind a bit of bustle. Downsides: not as scenic, fewer resort-style hotels.
Arenal Road (toward the volcano)
The stretch of road leading from town toward Arenal Volcano is lined with hotels, hot springs, and adventure parks. This is where most family resorts are pools, views, and space to spread out. Requires short drives or taxis to get into town.
Outside Town (rural lodges)
Scattered lodges in quieter spots with jungle settings, farm stays, or boutique eco-hotels. Best for families who want peace, wildlife, and don’t mind being a bit further from restaurants.
The 3 Easy Picks (we’d book one of these, no endless lists)
1) Best Value Stay: Hotel Secreto La Fortuna
Why we picked it: Hotel Secreto is one of the best bang-for-your-buck stays in La Fortuna. Rooms are modern, spotless, and surprisingly stylish for the price. Families love the pool (with a volcano view!) and the fact that it’s walking distance to restaurants and shops, so no rental car is strictly necessary.
Picture this: cooling off in the pool after a morning hike at Arenal, grabbing ice cream in town, then relaxing on your balcony with views of the volcano. Affordable, easy, and family-approved.
Good to know: Breakfast is included, the Wi-Fi is strong, and family rooms are available. It’s not luxury, but it feels like it should cost more than it does — which is exactly why it’s our top pick for value.
2) Mid-Range Balance: Hotel Los Lagos (Arenal Road)
Why we picked it: A family favorite with multiple pools, water slides, and on-site hot springs. Rooms are spread across a large property with volcano views, and families love the mix of fun (slides, pools) and convenience (restaurant, tour desk).
Parents consistently mention that the pools keep kids entertained for hours, making downtime easier while still feeling like part of the trip.
Good to know: The property is large, so you may need to walk uphill between rooms and pools. Rooms are basic in design but spacious. Location is outside town, so budget for taxis if you want to eat elsewhere.
3) Splurge Sanity Saver: Tabacón Thermal Resort & Spa (Arenal Road)
Why we picked it: The ultimate hot springs resort in Costa Rica. Natural thermal rivers, lush gardens, and spacious family-friendly rooms. Families rave about the service, the variety of pools (some shallow enough for kids), and the ability to unwind while still being surrounded by adventure.
Imagine ending a long day of zip-lining with kids floating in warm pools under the trees, no taxi rides required.
Good to know: It’s expensive, especially if you add meals. But if you’re looking for a splurge-worthy resort where parents can relax too, Tabacón is it.
How we choose (quickly, like parents do)
Walkability: to town or easy shuttle access
Room setup: family rooms or suites with space for wet gear
Cool-down: pools, hot springs, or shaded areas
Food: breakfast included, kid-friendly restaurants nearby
Reviews: consistent family mentions, not just couples on spa getaways
Safety & practical stuff for families
Heat & humidity: La Fortuna is tropical, so expect hot, sticky afternoons and rain showers. Pack light clothes, swimsuits, and ponchos.
Bugs: Mosquitoes are common, bring repellent. Hotels usually have screened windows.
Stroller-friendliness: Town is flat but the sidewalks uneven. Jungle lodges and resorts are often better with carriers.
Transport: Many tours include hotel pick-up. Taxis are easy between town and Arenal Road hotels. Rental cars offer flexibility but watch for potholes.
Water safety: Pools and hot springs vary in depth. Always check before letting kids jump in.
Airport transfer: La Fortuna is 2.5–3 hours from San José or Liberia airports. Shuttle vans and private transfers are easiest with kids.
Getting around & when to book
Getting around: If staying in town, you can walk to restaurants. For Arenal Road resorts, taxis or shuttles are necessary.
When to book: December–April is high season (dry, busy, and more expensive). Green season (May–Nov) brings rain but fewer crowds. Book resorts like Tabacón well in advance.
How long to stay: With kids, 3–4 nights is ideal. Enough time for hot springs, a waterfall, a farm or chocolate tour, and a chill pool day.
Family logistics near each area (quick hits)
Town Center
Supermarkets and pharmacies.
Pizza, bakeries, and ice cream shops.
Easy access to tour offices.
Noisy but convenient.
Arenal Road
Resorts with pools and hot springs.
Shuttles or taxis needed for town.
Volcano views from many hotels.
More space for kids to roam.
Outside Town
Jungle lodges with wildlife.
Quiet nights and starry skies.
Less walkable — bring snacks and plan meals.
FAQ (for parents, by parents)
Is La Fortuna safe with kids?
Yes. It’s one of Costa Rica’s most family-friendly hubs. Just watch traffic in town and supervise kids at pools and hot springs.
Which area is best with younger kids?
Hotels on Arenal Road, pools and on-site restaurants make life easier. Town is walkable but busier.
How many days in La Fortuna with kids?
Three to four nights is a good balance. Enough time for adventure, hot springs, and rest.
Are hot springs safe for kids?
Yes, but check water temperature. Most resorts have shallow or cooler pools for families.
Do we need a car?
Not necessarily. Tours pick up from most hotels, and taxis cover short distances. A car is useful if you want independence.
Wrap Up
Every family’s needs are different, but these three picks cover the bases: a budget-friendly cabina in town, a mid-range resort with pools and volcano views, and a splurge hot springs stay that doubles as relaxation for parents. La Fortuna is the heart of Costa Rica adventure, the right base makes it both exciting and manageable with kids.
👉 Check availability and book here:
For a quick guide, here is a rundown of the best hotels in La Fortuna
➡️ Best Overall Hotel in La Fortuna: Book Hotel Secreto La Fortuna
➡️ Best Mid range Hotel in La Fortuna: Book Hotel Los Lagos
➡️ Best High range Hotel in La Fortuna: Book Tabacón Thermal Resort & Spa
