I’ve visited Costa Rica more than once and each time I return I’m filled with a rush of warmth and excitement. Whether you love the beach, the mountains, or the jungle, Costa Rica has something incredible to discover in each of its distinctly different regions. Among the many gems I’ve discovered in Costa Rica, La Fortuna holds a special place in my heart.

This small town right outside of Arenal Volcano National Park has some of the most gorgeous views you’ve ever seen. Surrounded by lush Costa Rican jungle, this is one spot that will make even the least outdoorsy person swoon.

While the town is small, the amount of hotels, hostels, and villas is off the charts. From gorgeous thermal spas to backpacker hangouts, choosing where to stay in La Fortuna isn’t the easiest, but that’s why I’m here.

Instead of scrolling for days through booking.com, I’ve compiled a list of the ABSOLUTE BEST places to stay in La Fortuna based on what type of traveler you are and what you want out of your Costa Rican vacation.

Ready? Let’s go!

tamarindo coconut trees
Pura Vida babyyyy.
Photo: @amandaadraper

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Where is the Best Place to Stay in La Fortuna?

Looking for the best place to stay in La Fortuna? Or are you embarking on an even bigger journey across Costa Rica? Anyway, I’ve rated the top three picks for accommodation in La Fortuna below!

Hotel Campo Verde

Essence Arenal Spa & Yoga La Fortuna Costa Rica

Hotel Campo Verde offers the best of everything. Individual bungalows are spread out throughout the property giving guests privacy and a sense of seclusion.

From your terrace enjoy stunning views of Arenal Volcano and rent bikes to explore nearby waterfalls and grab some local food in town.

Arenal Poshpacker

Arenal Poshpacker La Fortuna Costa Rica

A social hostel that is perfect for solo travelers. Arenal Poshpackers is right in the center of town and is an excellent stay for meeting others.

The open garden and pool area is always full of travelers swapping stories and planning their gringo route through Central America. Choose from a bunk bed in the dorm or have your own room with a private bathroom.

Essence Arenal Spa & Yoga

Essence Arenal Spa & Yoga La Fortuna Costa Rica

A luxurious stay near Arenal Lake, the Essence Arenal Spa & Yoga is the perfect place to connect with your partner and focus on wellness and relaxation.

Enjoy daily yoga classes, spa treatments, and healthy meals made from locally sourced ingredients.

The property also has a swimming pool, a hot tub, and hammocks scattered throughout to help you unwind.

La Fortuna Neighborhood Guide – Best Places to Stay in La Fortuna

FIRST TIME IN LA FORTUNA
Arenal Volcano Costa Rica
FIRST TIME IN LA FORTUNA

Arenal Volcano Area

Arenal Volcano is probably the main reason for heading to La Fortuna. The National Park has two volcanos and one of them is still active, how sweet is that? So staying near the foot of the entrance is primo.

ON A BUDGET
Provincia de Alajuela, La Fortuna, Costa Rica
ON A BUDGET

La Fortuna Center

Solo travelers will absolutely love staying in La Fortuna Center. Not only is this area budget-friendly, but there are so many different hostels that meeting people and making friends is almost guaranteed.

FOR COUPLES
Lake Arenal La Fortuna Costa Rica
FOR COUPLES

Lake Arenal

La Fortuna is the perfect escape for some love birds looking to spend some quality time together. Just outside of town is the beautiful Lake Arenal where you can stay in a romantic cabin or resort and enjoy breathtaking views of the lake and Arenal Volcano.

Typically, the first stop after San Jose, La Fortuna is a lush green town near the base of Arenal Volcano. Personally, I think it’s the dream of every backpacker traveling through Central America. It’s surrounded by a gorgeous green jungle with rushing waterfalls, relaxing hot springs, and more hiking trails than you could count.

You can spend your days hiking through the Arenal Volcano National Park, zip-lining through the jungle canopy, or just sipping coffee in town. The slow pace of life that Costa Rica is known to truly start here. The birds are chirping, the monkeys are howling, and everything just feels like it’s in harmony.

But being in the jungle, means there are all kinds of nooks and crannies for different stays. So, where is the best place to stay in La Fortuna?

For first-timers in La Fortuna, I don’t think it gets better than staying right around the base of Arenal Volcano. The views are unbeatable, and you’ll never tire of seeing a smoking volcano from your window. Plus, it’s the closest you can get to the national park entrance, allowing you to beat any big tour groups.

To book the cheapest stays in Costa Rica, you’ll want to head to the town center. Full of hostels and budget-friendly hotels, this is the spot for backpackers and those looking to save some money. And just because it’s budget-friendly doesn’t mean you’ll skimp on views. Many places in the town center still give you those epic volcano glimpses

For a more secluded and luxurious stay, you gotta head out to Lake Arenal. With lake views on one side, volcanos on the other, and heaps of hot springs all around, this is the perfect place in La Fortuna to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of Costa Rica.

La Fortuna’s Three Best Neighborhoods to Stay in

I know, I know. I’ve given you the appetizer of where to stay in La Fortuna, but you want the main meal. Ha, don’t worry—I’ve got the goods.

These are the best stays in each area of La Fortuna and a deeper dive into what they can offer you on your trip.

1. Arenal Volcano Area- Where to Stay in La Fortuna for Your First Time

Visiting the Arenal Volcano is probably the main reason for heading to La Fortuna. The National Park has two volcanos and one of them is still active, how sweet is that? So staying near the foot of the entrance is primo.

Arenal Volcano rises amidst lush green forests and colorful wildflowers.
Behold Arenal Volcano.

You can be the first one to the trails, beat all the crowds, and see the wildlife in the early hours when they are most active. There is a range of stays around the national park, from budget to luxury so it’s an option for all types of travelers. And regardless of what I say about the other two areas, the views don’t get better than here.

Hotel Campo Verde | Best Hotel at the Arenal Volcano

Essence Arenal Spa & Yoga La Fortuna Costa Rica

This eco-friendly hotel is out of this world cool. The individual bungalows at Hotel Campo Verde are the perfect sweet escape from reality.

You’ll wake up each morning to a stunning view of the Arenal Volcano and be surrounded by lush tropical gardens. The hotel offers a free breakfast every morning and offers bike rentals to explore the area.

Los Lagos Spa & Thermal Resort Experience | Best Resort at the Arenal Volcano

Los Lagos Spa & Thermal Resort Experience La Fortuna Costa Rica

The views from the pool are reason enough to stay at the Los Lagos Spa & Thermal Resort.

This resort is a luxurious place to stay in La Fortuna for those who want to relax and enjoy the surroundings.

With multiple thermal pools and an on-site spa, all of your aching muscles from hiking will just melt away.

Hotel Arenal Kioro | Best Suite at the Arenal Volcano

Hotel Arenal Kioro Suites & Spa La Fortuna Costa Rica

Everywhere you look at Hotel Arenal Kioro is more beautiful than the last. With hot springs surrounded by palm trees and tropical flowers and the Arenal Volcano right outside your bedroom window, you’ll never want to leave.

With an onsite booking service, you can schedule hikes, horseback riding, and other adventures without having to leave the hotel.

Things to See and Do around the Arenal Volcano

Man with a black backpack traverses Arenal hanging bridges amidst the lush landscape of La Fortuna, Costa Rica.
Bridge to Terabithia?
  1. Hike across the Arenal hanging bridges
  2. Explore the Arenal Volcano National Park
  3. Take a dip in one of the many thermal hot springs
  4. Go on a zip line tour through the rainforest canopy
  5. Horseback ride to nearby waterfalls or through rural villages
  6. White-water rafting on the Rio Toro or Rio Balsa rivers
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Aether Backpack

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2. La Fortuna Center – Best Place to Stay in La Fortuna on a Budget

Solo travelers in Costa Rica will absolutely love staying in La Fortuna Center. Not only is this area budget-friendly, but there are so many different hostels that meeting people and making friends is almost guaranteed.

Black and white street scene of Provincia de Alajuela in La Fortuna, Costa Rica
If you don’t know where to go, La Fortuna Center is a fantastic option.

The town is a cute little area surrounded by lush, green mountains and has everything a traveler needs. You’ll find all the best local spots here and can even book your day trips for cheap. And because the volcano is so massive, you’ll be able to see it on clear days from any point in the town.

Arenal Poshpacker | Best Hotel in La Fortuna

Arenal Poshpacker La Fortuna Costa Rica

Just a two-minute walk from the square, Arenal Poshpacker is the perfect place to stay in La Fortuna to be in the middle of everything.

I found this hostel to be the most lively and social of all the hostels in La Fortuna.

Stay in and enjoy the pool, garden, and bar, or take advantage of the location and pop out on your bike and explore the town with new friends or join a hiking tour.

Pura Vibra Hostel | Best Hostel in La Fortuna

Pura Vibra Hostel La Fortuna Costa Rica

Tucked away in a corner of town, Pura Vibra will have you feeling like you’re out in the jungle with city center prices.

With amazing communal areas, you’ll quickly make travel buddies, and the beautiful garden is always full of travelers planning their next adventure.

If you’re not sure about what tours to take the volunteers are always happy to give advice and narrow down your options.

Arenal Backpackers Resort | Best Resort in La Fortuna

Arenal Backpackers Resort La Fortuna Costa Rica

A resort that’s affordable, sign me up! Arenal Backpackers Resort is a unique stay in La Fortuna with hobit-looking rooms (with AC) and a huge ass pool that is perfect for sipping margaritas and beers during the day.

You can also book all of your tours through their onsite travel desk, which makes planning your adventure-filled days a breeze.

Things to see and do in La Fortuna

Dani and Samantha in Tibumana waterfall in Ubud.
Even better if you can’t find a pool villa.
Photo: Samantha Shea
  1. Bike to the La Fortuna Waterfall to go for a swim
  2. Visit a coffee and chocolate farm
  3. Join a walking tour of La Fortuna
  4. Walk along the sloth-watching trail
  5. Visit the hidden swimming spot and swing from El Salto
  6. Explore the best hiking trails in Costa Rica and see creepy crawlies

3. Lake Arenal – Best Place to Stay in La Fortuna for Couples

La Fortuna is the perfect escape for traveling couples looking to spend some quality time together. Just outside of town is the beautiful Lake Arenal where you can stay in a romantic cabin or resort and enjoy breathtaking views of the lake and Arenal Volcano.

View of Lake Arenal surrounded by mountains in La Fortuna, Costa Rica.
BTW, La Fortuna’ translates to ‘luck’ in Italian…

The area is much more secluded with gorgeous views, plenty of hot springs to take a dip in, and, of course, go on some cute little nature walks hand in hand. The hotels out this way are going to be a little more luxurious and come with a higher price tag, but the experience is just magical.

Hotel Arenal Lodge | Best Hotel at Lake Arenal

Hotel Arenal Lodge La Fortuna Costa Rica

The chalets at Hotel Arenal Lodge are spacious and cozy, perfect for a romantic getaway. The property is out in the middle of the jungle giving you 360 views of the lush greenery and wildlife around you.

Wake up to the sound of birds chirping and enjoy your coffee on your private enclosed balcony, taking in the Costa Rican scenery.

Essence Arenal Spa & Yoga | Best Spa at Lake Arenal

Essence Arenal Spa & Yoga La Fortuna Costa Rica

Connect with your partner at the Essence Arenal Spa & Yoga, where you can relax to the max with different couples massages and spa treatments.

Take a yoga class together or simply relax in the natural hot springs located on the property. This peaceful oasis is perfect for couples looking to unwind and rejuvenate.

Villas Paradise | Best Villas at Lake Arenal

Villa Paradise La Fortuna Costa Rica

Experience epic views at Villas Paradise. Located on the hills surrounding Lake Arenal, these vacation rentals in Costa Rica offer a romantic and peaceful setting for couples.

The villas are individual homes that face Arenal Volcano, meaning no matter which one you get, you will wake up to mind-blowing views.

Things to see and do at Lake Arenal

  1. Soak in the Baldi Hot Springs
  2. Try your hand at windsurfing on Lake Arenal
  3. Grab some binoculars and go birding
  4. Enjoy a cup of coffee at North Fields Cafe
  5. Go on a canyoning tour through the rainforest
  6. Join a private tour of walking the lava trails
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Active Roots Security Belt

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FAQs About Where to Stay in La Fortuna

Curious about La Fortuna? Here are some of the most commonly asked questions. If you have any of your own, feel free to drop it in the comments below.

What To Pack For La Fortuna

Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for a hostel stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.

Product
Description
Don’t Let Snorers Keep You Awake!
Don’t Let Snorers Keep You Awake!

Ear Plugs

Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.

Keep your laundry organized and stink free
Keep your laundry organized and stink free

Hanging Laundry Bag

Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.

Stay Dry With a Micro Towel
Stay Dry With a Micro Towel

Sea To Summit Micro Towel

Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.

Make Some New Buddies…
Make Some New Buddies…

Monopoly Deal

Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.

Reduce Plastic – Bring a Water Bottle!
Reduce Plastic – Bring a Water Bottle!

Grayl Geopress Water Bottle

Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!

Check out my definitive Hotel Packing list for even more top packing tips!

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for La Fortuna

When backpacking, you never know what can happen. I’ve had several unfortunate accidents where travel insurance would have saved me so much anxiety and trouble.

Take it from me, make your Costa Rica trip anxiety-free and get solid travel insurance.

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in La Fortuna

La Fortuna is a luscious destination, especially if you are trying to get out and explore the natural beauty of Costa Rica. And regardless of where you stay, you’ll most likely still end up doing all the same things. So the question is, what’s important to you?

Personally, staying near Arenal volcano is a must for me—it’s the biggest (and most iconic) draw to La Fortuna and gives you easy access to everything.

But if you prefer a more sociable environment and are looking for some friends to join a hike with then skip the secluded stays and head straight for the hostels in the center. For steamy days with your boo, the lake could be the hot and heavy destination you want.

As for my top picks? Pura Vibra Hostel is my fav hostel and Hotel Campo Verde is my top pick hotel, especially for first-timers. Regardless of where you stay in La Fortuna, I can assure you that you’ll be blown away by the natural beauty and adventure of this town.

Monteverde hanging tree roots
Gentle reminder: Your place is here.
Photo: @joemiddlehurst
Looking for more info on travelling to La Fortuna and Costa Rica?

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the broke backpacker team at the water temple in bali
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