The 7 Best Bars of La Fortuna

La Fortuna, Costa Rica is a nature lover’s dream destination, with an abundance of outdoor activities such as waterfalls, hot springs, hiking trails and volcano tours. However, not only does La Fortuna offer a paradise for adventurers, but also for those who are fond of exploring the nightlife.

The town has a vibrant culture when it comes to nightlife, with bars and clubs located in every corner. From small, cozy bars to more extravagant ones, La Fortuna has something to offer for everyone. Here are the 7 best bars in La Fortuna that you should visit:

1. The Red Frog

The Red Frog bar is a cozy tropical-themed bar in the center of La Fortuna. Known for their impressive cocktail menu and live music, this place will surely make a great night out. They also have an outdoor area where you can sit and enjoy your drinks while watching the stars.

2. La Fábrica Cervecería

La Fábrica Cervecería is a beer lover’s haven. They have their own microbrewery where they produce a wide variety of craft beers. The atmosphere inside is also unique, with industrial decor that creates a chill vibe. They also serve delicious bar snacks to pair with your beer.

3. Lava Lounge

Located at the base of Arenal Volcano, the Lava Lounge is a bar with breathtaking views of the volcano. The ambiance inside is a mix of modern and tropical, with a fusion of international and Costa Rican drinks on their menu. The perfect spot to unwind after an adventurous day.

4. Kappa Lounge

The Kappa Lounge is a Japanese-inspired bar that offers a unique atmosphere. The bartenders are dressed in traditional kimonos and they serve Japanese-inspired cocktails and snacks. They also have a selection of board games which makes it a perfect spot to hang out.

5. Vertigo Bar

The Vertigo Bar offers a truly unique experience. This bar is located on the rooftop of a hotel and offers incredible views of Arenal Volcano at night. They serve cocktails and drinks with a varied menu of dishes. A must-visit spot for those who love incredible views.

6. La Rana Roja

La Rana Roja is a unique nighttime spot in La Fortuna. Known for their unconventional decor, they serve up a variety of traditional Costa Rican drinks such as guaro sour and other artisanal cocktails. They also offer karaoke on some nights, which creates a vibrant atmosphere.

7. La Taberna de la Langosta

A hangout spot for locals, La Taberna de la Langosta is known for their lively atmosphere, friendly bartenders and cheap drinks. They have different drink specials every night which makes it a perfect spot to visit on a budget.

Conclusion

With so many unique and incredible bars to choose from, La Fortuna is an amazing place to experience the vibrant nightlife of Costa Rica. From cozy bars with tropical ambiance to modern rooftop lounges, La Fortuna has something to offer for everyone. Don’t hesitate to visit these 7 best bars we mentioned and enjoy every moment of your stay.

The Ultimate Insider’s Guide to La Fortuna

Located in the north of Costa Rica, La Fortuna is known for its stunning natural beauty, including the picturesque Arenal Volcano and the hot springs that are scattered throughout the area. While tourism is the main industry here, La Fortuna has managed to maintain its small-town charm. In this insider’s guide, we’ll take a look at the best bars of La Fortuna, as well as other must-visit attractions, dining spots, cultural experiences, local history, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions.

Attractions

La Fortuna boasts a wide range of attractions for visitors, including:

– Arenal Volcano National Park: The Arenal Volcano National Park is home to the famous Arenal Volcano, which last erupted in 2010. Visitors can hike the trails to the base of the volcano or take a guided tour.
– La Fortuna Waterfall: This 230-foot waterfall is one of the most popular attractions in La Fortuna. Visitors can swim in the natural pool at the base of the waterfall, but be prepared for a steep hike back up to the top.
– Hot Springs: La Fortuna has several natural hot springs that are perfect for relaxing after a long day of exploring. Some of the most popular hot springs include Tabacon, Ecotermales, and Baldi.

Dining Spots

La Fortuna has a vibrant food scene, with plenty of options to suit all tastes and budgets. Some of the best dining spots in the city include:

– Don Rufino: This upscale restaurant is known for its delicious fusion cuisine and beautiful outdoor seating.
– Lava Lounge: Located at The Springs Resort and Spa, the Lava Lounge offers stunning views of the Arenal Volcano and a menu full of delicious tapas.
– Soda Viquez: This local eatery serves up traditional Costa Rican dishes at affordable prices. Don’t miss the casado, a typical Costa Rican meal of rice, beans, plantains, salad, and a choice of meat.

Cultural Experiences

La Fortuna is steeped in culture and history, with several cultural experiences that are not to be missed. Some of the best include:

– Maleku Indigenous Reserve: The Maleku Indigenous Reserve is located a short drive from La Fortuna and offers visitors the chance to learn about the culture and history of the Maleku people.
– La Fortuna Museum: This small museum offers a glimpse into the history of La Fortuna and the surrounding area, with exhibits on the local indigenous tribes, the Arenal Volcano, and the impact of tourism on the region.
– Farmers’ Market: Held every Friday afternoon in downtown La Fortuna, the farmers’ market is a great place to sample local produce and crafts.

Local History

La Fortuna has a rich history that is worth exploring during your visit. Some of the most interesting historical sites in the area include:

– Old Arenal Cemetery: This cemetery was buried under ash from the Arenal Volcano’s eruption in 1968 and has since been excavated and turned into a memorial.
– Fortuna Catholic Church: This beautiful church was built in 1969 and is one of the most recognizable landmarks in La Fortuna.
– El Salto Cave: This cave was once used as a shelter by indigenous tribes and features ancient petroglyphs.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

While La Fortuna is a popular tourist destination, there are still plenty of off-the-beaten-path places to explore. Some suggestions include:

– Chato Volcano: This lesser-known volcano in Arenal Volcano National Park offers a quieter hiking experience and stunning views of the surrounding area.
– Catarata del Toro: Located about an hour from La Fortuna, this hidden waterfall is one of the most beautiful in Costa Rica.
– Caño Negro Wildlife Refuge: This remote wildlife refuge is home to a wide range of birds, mammals, and reptiles, including toucans, monkeys, and caimans.

The 7 Best Bars of La Fortuna

Finally, let’s talk about the reason you’re really here: the best bars in La Fortuna. Here are some of the top recommendations for enjoying a drink while taking in the scenery:

– Volcano Lounge: Located at the base of the Arenal Volcano, the Volcano Lounge offers stunning views and a variety of cocktails.
– Vagabond: This funky bar has a laid-back atmosphere and live music on the weekends.
– Los Tucanes: This bar and restaurant has a rooftop terrace with views of the Arenal Volcano and a great happy hour.
– Kappa Sushi: Not technically a bar, but this sushi restaurant has a wide variety of cocktails and a beautiful outdoor seating area.
– Café Mediterraneo: This cozy café serves up delicious coffee and cocktails and has a beautiful garden seating area.
– Mystico Arenal Hanging Bridges Park: This nature reserve has a bar with stunning views of Arenal Volcano and is a great place to enjoy a drink while exploring the park.
– Nostalgia Wine & Tapas Bar: This small bar has a great selection of wines and tapas and a cozy atmosphere.

Final Thoughts

La Fortuna is a beautiful city with plenty to see and do. Whether you’re interested in natural wonders, cultural experiences, or just relaxing with a drink, La Fortuna has something for everyone. Be sure to check out the best bars of La Fortuna during your visit and experience the local nightlife.