Lake Arenal: Costa Rica's Scenic Powerhouse
Costa Rica's largest lake offers stunning volcano views, world-class windsurfing, abundant wildlife, and a commitment to green energy.
Lake Arenal, Costa Rica's largest lake, is a man-made marvel nestled beneath the Arenal Volcano. Created in the 1970s for hydroelectric power, it now generates a significant portion of the country's electricity while offering stunning scenery and a wide array of water activities.
A brief summary to Lake Arenal
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Local tips
- Visit early in the morning for the most tranquil waters, perfect for photography or a peaceful kayak trip.
- Check with local fishermen for secret spots to glimpse exotic birds and wildlife.
- The dry season (December to April) offers ideal conditions for water sports and clear volcano views.
- Consider multi-activity packages to save money on tours and excursions.
- Book accommodations on the western shore for better volcano views, especially during peak season, and do so well in advance.
Getting There
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Driving
If arriving from La Fortuna, take Route 142 west towards Lake Arenal. The drive is approximately 30 minutes to the lake's eastern end. Route 142 offers scenic views of the volcano and surrounding landscape. Parking is available at various points along the lake, including near the dam and boat rental areas. Parking costs range from ₡1,000-₡2,000 per hour. Be aware that parking can be limited during peak season.
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Public Transport
From La Fortuna, a bus leaves twice daily (8:00 AM and 2:00 PM) from the bus station, heading along the highway around Lake Arenal. The bus fare is approximately $5 USD. This bus can drop you off at various points around the lake. Check the bus schedule in advance, as it can be infrequent and not always on time.
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Shuttle
Shared shuttle services are available from popular destinations like San Jose and Monteverde. These shuttles offer door-to-door service to hotels around Lake Arenal. Expect to pay around $45-$60 per person from San Jose. From Monteverde, a 'Jeep-Boat-Jeep' service combines ground transportation with a scenic boat ride across the lake, costing around $35 per person.
Discover more about Lake Arenal
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Restaurante La Tortuga Arenal
1.5 km
Savor authentic Costa Rican flavors at Restaurante La Tortuga Arenal, a culinary gem in Guanacaste with stunning views and a welcoming atmosphere.
Ceiba Tree
1.7 km
Discover the ancient Ceiba Tree in Tilarán, Costa Rica, a majestic landmark embodying the region's rich natural and cultural heritage.
Pacific Trade Winds
5.0 km
Discover unparalleled travel experiences in Costa Rica with Pacific Trade Winds, your trusted travel agency in Nuevo Arenal, Guanacaste Province.
Monte Terras
5.4 km
Escape to Monte Terras in Tronadora: Lakeside serenity, volcano views, and Costa Rican hospitality await your tranquil getaway.
Camping La Tronadora
5.7 km
Escape to nature at Camping La Tronadora on Lake Arenal: stunning views, wildlife, and outdoor adventures await in Costa Rica.
Restaurante Brisas del Lago
7.7 km
Enjoy authentic Costa Rican cuisine with breathtaking views of Lake Arenal at Restaurante Brisas del Lago in Tilarán.
Tilawa Windsurf Center
10.3 km
Experience world-class windsurfing on Lake Arenal at Tilawa Windsurf Center, surrounded by Costa Rica's stunning natural beauty.
Hotel Cielo Azul Resort
10.5 km
Experience comfort and convenience in the heart of Tilarán, Costa Rica, with easy access to Lake Arenal and other natural attractions.
Colono Construcción Tilarán
10.8 km
Explore Colono Construcción Tilarán for the best selection of building materials and home goods in Costa Rica's beautiful Guanacaste Province.
Playa Tila
10.8 km
Experience a unique beach vibe in the mountains of Tilarán, Costa Rica, with delicious food, drinks, and a relaxed atmosphere near Lake Arenal.
Sea Salt , Sea Food Restaurant and bar
11.0 km
Experience fresh seafood and vibrant coastal dining at Sea Salt in El Aguacate, Guanacaste. Enjoy local flavors and tropical cocktails!
Hotel Naralit
11.1 km
Experience Costa Rican hospitality in the heart of Tilarán, your gateway to Lake Arenal and adventure.
Centro Turístico Tilaran
11.1 km
Experience relaxation and adventure at Centro Turístico Tilaran, your gateway to the stunning landscapes of Guanacaste Province.
Hotel y cabinas el sueño
11.1 km
Experience comfort and convenience at Hotel y Cabinas El Sueño in Tilarán, your perfect base for exploring Costa Rica's Lake Arenal region.
Domingo Flaqué Montull Park
11.2 km
Discover tranquility in Tilarán's central park, a green escape with vibrant flora, family-friendly spaces, and local charm.
Unmissable attractions to see
Iglesia de La Unión
3.1 km
Discover the serene beauty and cultural richness of Iglesia de La Unión, a tranquil Catholic church nestled in the heart of Guanacaste, Costa Rica.
Parque del Lago de Nuevo Arenal
4.2 km
Discover peace and natural beauty at Parque del Lago de Nuevo Arenal, a serene park perfect for swimming, picnicking, and exploring Costa Rica's lush landscapes.
Nuevo Arenal Park
5.1 km
Experience the tranquil beauty of Nuevo Arenal Park, a perfect escape for nature lovers with stunning views of Lake Arenal in Costa Rica.
CRParaiso
5.6 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife at CRParaiso, an adventure haven in Guanacaste, Costa Rica.
Catamarán Tucán Arenal
7.0 km
Explore the stunning waters of Guanacaste Province with Catamarán Tucán Arenal, a top-rated boat tour agency offering memorable sailing experiences.
Mirador Tilarán
8.6 km
Experience breathtaking panoramic views of Lake Arenal and the Guanacaste landscape from this must-visit scenic spot in Tilarán, Costa Rica.
Iglesia Católica La Ciudadela
10.8 km
Explore the serene beauty and rich cultural heritage of Iglesia Católica La Ciudadela in Tilarán, a spiritual haven in Costa Rica's Guanacaste Province.
Viento Fresco Waterfall
10.9 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Viento Fresco Waterfall in Guanacaste, Costa Rica, a serene escape into nature's wonderland.
Iglesia Linda Vista
11.4 km
Discover the tranquility and cultural richness of Iglesia Linda Vista, a hidden gem in Guanacaste's serene landscapes.
Quebrada Grande de Tilarán Park
11.5 km
Discover the enchanting beauty of Quebrada Grande de Tilarán Park, a must-visit green haven in Guanacaste, Costa Rica.
La Piedra del Indio Waterfalls
12.0 km
Explore cascading waterfalls, swim in natural pools, and discover ancient petroglyphs in Guanacaste's hidden paradise.
Cerro Tovar, Parque del Viento
12.1 km
Discover the breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife at Cerro Tovar, Parque del Viento in Guanacaste, Costa Rica, a perfect escape for nature lovers.
Cavernas de Venado
12.6 km
Explore the breathtaking limestone caves of Cavernas de Venado, a natural wonder in Alajuela Province, Costa Rica, rich in stunning rock formations and wildlife.
Lago Arenal
12.9 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Lago Arenal, Costa Rica’s scenic treasure, offering adventure and tranquility amidst lush landscapes.
Puente colgante Vista Arenal
13.0 km
Experience breathtaking views and the thrill of nature at the Puente Colgante Vista Arenal, a must-visit suspension bridge in La Fortuna, Costa Rica.
Essential places to dine
Restaurante Linda Vista
4.2 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine amidst breathtaking views at Restaurante Linda Vista in Guanacaste Province.
Restaurante La Mansion
4.3 km
Experience exquisite French cuisine in Guanacaste at Restaurante La Mansion - where gourmet flavors meet charming ambiance.
Bar restaurante paellas La Oropendola
4.4 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine at Bar Restaurante Paellas La Oropendola – home of exquisite paellas amidst beautiful surroundings.
Tinajas Arenal
4.8 km
Discover authentic Costa Rican flavors at Tinajas Arenal - a must-visit restaurant in Nuevo Arenal's stunning landscape.
Moya's Place
5.0 km
Discover authentic Costa Rican flavors at Moya's Place in Nuevo Arenal - a delightful dining experience amidst stunning natural beauty.
Los Platillos Voladores
5.2 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Los Platillos Voladores in Nuevo Arenal - where flavor meets charm in Costa Rica's stunning landscape.
Restaurante Caballo Negro
6.9 km
Experience the authentic flavors of Costa Rica at Restaurante Caballo Negro, where exquisite cuisine meets breathtaking scenery.
Chafis Restaurante
9.4 km
Savor authentic Costa Rican cuisine at Chafis Restaurante in Tilaran - where every dish tells a story.
La Pradera
9.7 km
Discover La Pradera: A Grill Haven Offering Authentic Costa Rican Flavors Amidst Lush Scenery.
Full House
10.8 km
Savor authentic Costa Rican flavors and international cuisine at Full House in Tilarán – a culinary delight in Guanacaste.
Restaurante Florida
10.8 km
Discover authentic Costa Rican cuisine at Restaurante Florida in Tilarán - where local flavors meet warm hospitality.
Pizzería Tsunami Tilarán
10.8 km
Experience the best pizza in Tilarán at Pizzería Tsunami - where flavor meets freshness in every slice.
Marisqueria Guayo
10.9 km
Discover authentic Costa Rican seafood at Marisqueria Guayo, where fresh flavors meet local charm in Tilarán's vibrant Barrio Bonanza.
The Lake Chinese Restaurant
11.0 km
Discover authentic Chinese cuisine in Tilarán at The Lake Chinese Restaurant - a culinary haven amidst Costa Rica's beautiful landscapes.
Donde Lukas, Restaurante.
11.1 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican flavors at Donde Lukas in Tilarán - a must-visit culinary destination for every tourist.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
la fortuna, costa rica
4.3 km
Explore La Fortuna's vibrant shopping scene, where local crafts meet culinary delights in the heart of Costa Rica's stunning landscapes.
Amaias Shop
10.8 km
Discover unique souvenirs and local crafts at Amaias Shop in Tilarán, Guanacaste, where every item tells a story of Costa Rican culture.
Gollo Tilarán
10.9 km
Discover Gollo Tilarán, a vibrant appliance and home goods store in Guanacaste, offering a wide selection of quality products and local treasures.
Palí Tilarán
10.9 km
Explore the flavors of Costa Rica at Palí Tilarán, where local produce meets international favorites in a vibrant supermarket experience.
Britt Shop Místico Park Arenal
13.1 km
Explore Britt Shop Místico Park Arenal, where Costa Rican craftsmanship meets breathtaking nature, offering unique gifts and gourmet delights.
Rumbo Shop Tabacon Las Fuentes
16.4 km
Explore Rumbo Shop Tabacon Las Fuentes for the best selection of local crafts, chocolates, and souvenirs in La Fortuna, Costa Rica.
Britt Shop Tabacon
16.4 km
Discover the essence of Costa Rica at Britt Shop Tabacon, where local crafts, gourmet chocolates, and unique souvenirs await every traveler.
Britt Shop Sky Trek La Fortuna
17.4 km
Explore Britt Shop Sky Trek in La Fortuna for unique Costa Rican gifts, artisan crafts, and delicious local treats in a vibrant shopping experience.
Finca El Paraiso Cheese Farm Tour Monteverde
18.5 km
Explore Finca El Paraiso in Monteverde for a delightful cheese tour and experience the essence of organic farming in Costa Rica.
Mini Market El Mirador
18.5 km
Explore local flavors and essentials at Mini Market El Mirador, your one-stop grocery store in scenic La Fortuna, Costa Rica.
100% Aventura
19.3 km
Immerse yourself in adventure and nature at 100% Aventura, Costa Rica's premier destination for zip-lining and outdoor excitement in the cloud forests.
SLOFFEE BEST COFFEE IN LA FORTUNA
19.6 km
Discover SLOFFEE in La Fortuna for the finest Costa Rican coffee experience, blending quality brews with local farming insights.
La Reserva Bosque Nuboso Santa Elena
19.8 km
Experience the breathtaking biodiversity of La Reserva Bosque Nuboso Santa Elena, a premier destination for nature lovers in Costa Rica's cloud forests.
Selvatura Adventure Park
19.8 km
Discover the thrill of zip-lining and the beauty of nature at Selvatura Adventure Park in Tilarán, Costa Rica.
Treetopia Park
19.9 km
Explore the thrilling rides and breathtaking nature at Treetopia Park, a premier theme park in Monteverde's stunning cloud forests.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
La finca del abuelo
5.0 km
Discover the essence of Costa Rican cuisine at La Finca del Abuelo in Tilaran, Guanacaste, where local flavors meet stunning natural beauty.
Restaurante La Troja
10.8 km
Experience the authentic taste of Costa Rica at Restaurante La Troja, where local flavors and warm hospitality await.
Bar Tilawa
11.0 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Tilarán at Bar Tilawa, where local flavors and friendly vibes create the perfect escape.
Drink King
11.3 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Drink King in Tilarán, a local bar offering refreshing drinks and a taste of Costa Rican nightlife.
Cheny's Restaurant
11.4 km
Discover the authentic flavors of Costa Rica at Cheny's Restaurant in Quebrada Grande, a culinary gem in Guanacaste Province.
Café & Macadamia
11.6 km
Experience the rich flavors of Costa Rica at Café & Macadamia, a culinary jewel in Tilarán, perfect for relaxation and delightful dining.
Hostal Casa Delagua
12.1 km
Discover the warmth of Costa Rican culture at Hostal Casa Delagua, your cozy retreat in the heart of Guanacaste.
Howlers Bar & Grill
15.3 km
Experience the vibrant flavors and lively atmosphere at Howlers Bar & Grill in El Fosforo, Costa Rica's hidden culinary treasure.
Shangri La Gardens. Tabacon Resort Club área
16.6 km
Discover the serene escape of Shangri La Gardens, where exquisite drinks meet breathtaking natural beauty in Costa Rica's Alajuela Province.
Arenal Volcano
19.1 km
Discover the awe-inspiring Arenal Volcano, a must-visit natural wonder in Costa Rica, surrounded by lush landscapes and thrilling adventures.
Terra bar
20.2 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Terra Bar in La Fortuna, where exceptional drinks and a lively atmosphere await every visitor.
Nostalgia Wine Bar
20.3 km
Discover the enchanting Nostalgia Wine Bar, a serene oasis in Arenal, offering exquisite wines and a captivating atmosphere for relaxation.
Lemnnos WetBar
20.3 km
Discover the vibrant Lemnnos WetBar in La Fortuna, where tropical drinks meet stunning views and unforgettable experiences.
Monteverde Brewing Company
20.6 km
Experience the essence of Costa Rica at Monteverde Brewing Company, where craft beer and local cuisine unite in a breathtaking setting.
Kinkajou Night Walk
20.6 km
Explore the enchanting nocturnal wildlife of Costa Rica at Kinkajou Night Walk, a unique nature preserve experience in Monteverde.
