PointsWellTaken

I am in the beginning stages of planning a trip to Costa Rica with husband and 3 boys, ages 9, 11, 14). Plan to be in Arenal area probably 4 nights. Hotels get expensive for us because most require us to get 2 rooms for 5 people.

I came across the Tree House Hotel. My kids would love the idea of a tree house, and they have ones big enough for whole family. Has anyone stayed here? It does not appear to have a pool. While we will be plenty busy doing activities and don't anticipate spending hours by the pool, it is nice to be able to take a swim at your hotel once in a while.

I would really appreciate any input on this hotel. If you have any recommendations for a different hotel in the area that would be especially good for a family of 5, I"m open to suggestions. Have also been looking at the Springs and Lost Iguana.

volcanogirl

The Tree House Hotel gets good reviews, but it is very far from things if you want to do any tours or go to town. The Springs is fantastic. We loved staying there, but if you want inexpensive, that's probably the priciest place in town. The Lost Iguana is great if you want to be out by the lake. It's away from town so has a very jungly feeling to it. We liked staying there too. Probably the most popular spots for young families are Los Lagos and Silencio del Campo because they're budget friendly. All good spots - just depends on what you're looking for. With kids, I would stay somewhere with a pool.

sylvia3

close to the Skytrek zip/hangingbridge/ etc. with great grounds for hiking and wonderful pool/hot tub area is Volcano Observatory Lodge (now the Arenal Observatory Lodge: http://www.arenalobservatorylodge.com/lodge/about-lodge)
Not convenient to town, but kids would love it.

MichelleY

Arenal Observatory Lodge may have some other options for your larger family. Nice grounds, pool .