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The hot springs around Arenal are definitely one of the highlights of going to Arenal. We spent a couple hours at Baldi’s … The Baldi Hot Springs are easily the most expansive hot spring facilities in the Arenal Volcano area. There are many different walking paths and gardens, and there is a combination of large and small pools with cascading waterfalls. They’re located a short way from La Fortuna (less than 10 minutes by car), was definitely quite the fun excursion. It cost $25 per person for entry, plus drinks/food.
It is made up of 20-plus pools of differering temperatures, from 93 to 150+ degrees! Since there are so many pools you can be with a lot of people in the main pools or find a secluded little spot for yourself or a small group. This is not Tabacon so don’t expect luxury (Tabacon is also at least triple the price). But the springs itself are great, very relaxing, some with waterfalls falling down on you.
The only negative was that the food/drinks was really expensive. Cocktails are $10; beers are $6; sodas $5. You can give your credit card before you get in the water and get a tab. The buffet restaurant was $9 but the food was not at all appealing – in fact looking at it, I think it looked pretty disgusting actually.
We didn’t stay in hotel or ate at the buffet … the service was poor, but if you walk up to the bars … you can walk and demand your drinks 🙂
I would recommend Baldi to those looking for the experience of hot springs and a variety of pools, but not to those who need a luxurious environment.
