Our country stands out for its natural beauties and hidden treasures in every corner of the territory, which is why our Nativu Fincas team took on the task of looking for the best options so you can enjoy a weekend plan, surrounded by nature and near the city. At this summer time in Costa Rica, you can cool off in one of these natural pools, to have a good time with your family and with options for all tastes!

Benefits of fresh water

A natural pool is a cavity where water is stored naturally and is usually found in the deep part of a river. Its water is sweet and some of the main benefits of bathing in a natural pool are:

  • Provides moisture and nourishes the skin
  • Maintains hydration and shine of the body
  • Reduces nerves and stress
  • Helps cell regeneration
  • Reduces inflammation and redness of the skin
  • Reduces stress and improves mental health

6 incredible natural pools in Costa Rica

Poza el Cajón – Río San José – Puriscal

You should write it down on your “to-go” list if you don’t know it yet, and to get there you should go to San Juan de Puriscal, which is located about 20 minutes from the center of the canton. After passing that point, it is about 15 minutes to the San José River.

Then comes a 2-kilometer road where it is necessary to use a 4×4 car or walk until you reach the pool.

Pozas Celestes-Bajos del Toro Amarillo

These natural pools are located in Bajo del Toro in Sarchí and have a distance of 500 meters. The color of the water is light blue and it is completely clean to be able to bathe and it can be accessed with any type of vehicle since it is of low difficulty.

There is free parking and you can get there through Zarcero-Bajos del Toro or through Naranjo.

Poza La Cueva del Murciélago – Río Blanco – Guápiles

A surreal spot in the Caribbean, a region of humidity and rivers. The Rio Blanco rises in the foothills of the Turrialba volcano and in Guápiles becomes a passage of pure and transparent water. There is a small cavern, which gives home to bats and hence its name. In addition, adventurers jump into the hole from a wall of about 10 meters high.

Is located in La Marina de Guápiles, in the province of Limón. It will take a little over an hour from San José, 2 km south of the bridge over the Rio Blanco. The road conditions allow access to any type of vehicle.

Poza La Paila – Turrubares – Río Turrubares

It is known as “la paila” because of its shape of a large pot where the pork rinds are cooked. Turrubares is very hot, so the water will feel magical. There is a larger natural pool, which allows diving from a considerable height and other smaller pools, to enjoy safely.

On route 27 it takes just over 50 minutes, in the canton of Turrubares. You have to turn off at the intersection of Escobal to San Pedro de Turrubares, and from there they can locate you. You can enter in any vehicle, although you will have to walk a few meters.

Poza del río Las Juntas – Santo Domingo

The tour will be quick and very cheap, due to its proximity to the center of San José and Heredia. This natural pool of Santo Domingo de Heredia, is accessible from Route 32. It deviates at the intersection of San Luis to the east. From the center of this community it is a few kilometers and everyone loves it!

With clear water and in the middle of the forest, it is a true natural treasure, ready to surprise you with a relaxed day surrounded by trees.

Poza de la Arcilla – Río Machuca – San Mateo

It has the peculiarity that between its many rocks and earth, natural clays are formed and tourists can place it on their skin. It has several access entrances; one by the Monte del Aguacate, by Esparza or by the route to Caldera in Orotina.

As its name indicates, in addition to being a perfect place to bathe and take a dip, you can enjoy a natural exfoliant at no additional cost!

Take advantage of the high temperatures this summer and look for low-cost options near the city of San José, visit these natural pools and learn about the incredible options that Costa Rica offers. On each of the maps, there is the address of Waze so they can be better located!