La Fortuna is one of the most romantic destinations in Costa Rica — and honestly, in all of Latin America. With a picturesque volcano as your backdrop, lush rainforests, waterfalls and world-class hotels, it's a place that makes every proposal feel like a movie scene. As a local photographer who has captured dozens of proposals and engagement sessions here, these are my absolute favorite spots.
1-La Fortuna Waterfall
If there's one place in La Fortuna that never fails to take your breath away, it's this waterfall. Surrounded by dense tropical green, the cascade creates a backdrop that is simply unlike anything else in the country. One of the best things about this spot — unlike the volcano, the waterfall is always there. Rain or shine, cloudy or clear, La Fortuna Waterfall delivers every single time. Magical, unique and completely unforgettable.
2. Arenal Observatory Lodge
This place has everything. The best view of Arenal Volcano, beautiful gardens, a hanging bridge, views of Lake Arenal, a trail through the mountain, a waterfall, and one truly spectacular spot where you have a small lake, pine trees and the volcano all in one frame. I've photographed proposals here multiple times and the results are always stunning. If you want variety in your proposal photos, this is your place.
3. Ruins of Hotel Los Lagos
This hidden gem has a romantic, almost otherworldly feel to it. The old ruins surrounded by green mountains give it a unique character you won't find anywhere else. When the volcano is clear you get an incredible green backdrop — and even when it's not, the slopes of Arenal still make for a dramatic setting. There's also a lake on the property where the reflections make photos look like they were taken on another planet.
4. Parque 1968
Named after the year of Arenal's famous eruption, this park offers one of the best direct views of the volcano in the entire region. Surrounded by volcanic rocks and peaceful lakes, it's a powerful and dramatic setting for a proposal. If seeing the volcano up close is important to you, this is the spot.
5. The Springs Resort & Spa
The Springs is simply magical. Romantic, luxurious and with three specific spots perfectly suited for a proposal — all with stunning volcano views. One important note: to access these spots you do need to be a guest of the hotel. But trust me — booking one night here to propose is absolutely worth it. The setting, the service and the memories will last a lifetime.
6. Amor Arenal
Amor Arenal has a yoga deck that is absolutely perfect for a proposal. You'll feel like you're floating above the treetops with an incredible green canopy all around you. They also offer a private chef dinner — which makes for the perfect final touch after the big moment. A proposal here feels intimate, unique and completely surrounded by nature.
7. Nayara Tented Camp
One of the most romantic hotels in La Fortuna — and honestly, in all of Costa Rica. Nayara Tented Camp combines luxury with nature in a way that very few places in the world can. If your partner dreams of a proposal that feels like an adventure and a fairy tale at the same time, this is where it happens.
Bonus: El Salto
This one has a special story. I once had a proposal scheduled at La Fortuna Waterfall — but that day it was closed for maintenance. I had to improvise. We headed to El Salto, a natural river spot right on the side of the road, completely public and completely free. What I found there was one of the most raw and beautiful natural settings I've ever photographed. My only recommendation: go before 7am. Early morning light here is something else entirely — pure magic with nobody around.