El Choyin

"Once you get to the hot river, even though it is technically free, there are people that you will see on the side of the road in orange vests flagging you down to park and they asked for 5,000 Colóns. We negotiated down to 3,000 Colóns (~$5.5). Supposedly, they are there to watch your car and make sure no one breaks in, but others say they are just trying to make money. We simply paid the 3,000 Colóns and went down to explore the hot river. It is important to never leave any valuables in your car. Take everything with you and keep it on your person. We always left everything where we were staying and only brought the essentials. We felt very safe everywhere we went, but just keep your guard up because you never know. The river in most places was shin deep to waist deep. Along the right side of the river is a walking path to get further upstream to various pools that you can soak in. People say if you walk up that path, or even up the river, past the overhead pipe, it is more secluded if you want some more privacy. Over time, people have created the pools by piling up rocks and there are even mini waterfalls in some pools you can lean back against for a gentle massage. The river is not boiling hot like some hot springs, but it was definitely bath-water-warm and relaxing. If you have time to squeeze in this little gem that is only 100 feet from the roadside, be sure to stop! This location can get very crowded, so it is best to visit on a weekday if possible (or go early or late in the day). It’s best to wear water shoes so you can wade further upriver where there are less people. This hot river is open 24 hours a day and if you come during off-hours there will likely be no “parking officials”. We only stayed for 45 minutes because we wanted to have time to check out a local recommended restaurant. So we dried off, changed in the car, and left for San Jose. On your way back to San Jose, make sure you keep your eye out on the right side, as there is a gorgeous spot to pull off and gaze up at Arenal Volcano! Picture-worthy moment!"

"If you save anything from this guide let it be THIS! La Fortuna is best known for its pricey luxury resorts featuring natural hot springs heated by the nearby Arenal Volcano. But did you know this not-so-secret local favorite is completely natural and the best part--- ABSOLUTELY FREE! To get there, go to the yellow gate next to Tabacon Springs. You can park on the road shoulder and you will see signs that say "El Choyin". Walk down the path behind the gate and in a very short walk you will arrive at a bubbling hot creek. You can go 24 hrs a day but keep your items in your site. Leave your valuables at your hotel and just bring a towel and prepare to relax! TIP: I highly recommend going at night and grabbing a few candle sticks (I found some at a nearby gas station) not only is there less crowds but the candle lit hot springs is an experience you can't miss!  "

"If you're on a budget, this is the free hot springs option open to all. The crowds can get pretty bad here. Technically parking is free, but if you go during the high times of day, you find opportunistic people asking you up to 10$ USD to keep your car safe."