Arenal Lake: Costa Rica's Hydroelectric Heart and Adventure Hub
Discover Costa Rica's largest lake: a hub for adventure, stunning views, and vital hydroelectric power at the base of the majestic Arenal Volcano.
Arenal Lake, Costa Rica's largest, is a man-made marvel nestled at the foot of the Arenal Volcano. Created in the 1970s for hydroelectric power, it's now a prime destination for water sports, fishing, and enjoying stunning natural scenery.
A brief summary to Represa del lago Arenal
- 142 Alajuela, San Carlos, Alajuela Province, CR
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 (November to April) offers the best weather for water sports.
Getting There
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Driving
From La Fortuna, take Route 142 west towards Arenal Lake. The drive is approximately 30 minutes. Parking is available at various points along the lake, including near the Arenal Boat Rental Association. Parking costs vary, but expect to pay around 2,000 CRC per hour. Be aware that roads in Costa Rica can be windy and hilly, so drive carefully.
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Public Transport
From La Fortuna, take the local bus that travels the highway around Lake Arenal. Buses depart from the La Fortuna bus station (one block south of the central park) twice a day, typically at 8 AM and 2 PM. The bus fare is approximately $5 USD. The bus can drop you off at various points along the lake.
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Taxi
Taxis are readily available in La Fortuna and can take you to Arenal Lake. A taxi ride from La Fortuna to the lake will cost approximately $20 - $30 USD. Negotiate the price before you get in.
Discover more about Represa del lago Arenal
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Represa del lago Arenal
0.0 km
Discover Costa Rica's largest lake, a hub for green energy, water sports, and breathtaking views of the Arenal Volcano.
Wellness Park Eco Lodge & Trekking trails
1.9 km
Discover Costa Rica's natural beauty at Wellness Park Eco Lodge: Trekking, bird watching, spa, and sustainable living near Arenal Lake.
The Peninsula, Arenal Volcano National Park
2.2 km
Discover tranquil trails, stunning volcano views, and abundant wildlife at Arenal Volcano National Park's serene Peninsula Sector.
Arenal Volcano Vista Point
2.8 km
Experience breathtaking views of Arenal Volcano, hike through lush rainforests, and immerse yourself in Costa Rica's natural beauty.
Tabacon Hot Springs
4.4 km
Experience the ultimate relaxation in naturally heated thermal waters surrounded by the lush rainforest at the foot of the majestic Arenal Volcano.
Volcan Arenal Ecological Park
5.1 km
Discover the natural beauty of Costa Rica at Volcan Arenal Ecological Park, offering stunning views and diverse wildlife.
Parque Ecologico Arenal
5.2 km
Discover adventure and nature at Arenal Volcano Ecological Park: Hike scenic trails, kayak on the lagoon, and witness stunning volcanic views.
Volcano Jungle Trails
6.2 km
Explore scenic jungle trails near Arenal Volcano. Perfect for families: hiking, picnics, and a playground in a natural Costa Rican setting.
Hotel Montana De Fuego All inclusive
7.1 km
Experience Costa Rica's natural beauty at Hotel Montana De Fuego: Arenal Volcano views, hot springs, adventure, and all-inclusive comfort.
Amor Arenal
7.4 km
Experience unparalleled luxury and immerse yourself in nature at Amor Arenal, an adults-only rainforest oasis near Arenal Volcano.
Catarata Danta
7.5 km
Discover the natural beauty of Catarata Danta in La Fortuna, Costa Rica – a hidden gem offering tranquility and adventure in a lush rainforest setting.
Hotel Arenal Paraíso Resort & Spa
7.8 km
Experience Costa Rica's beauty at Arenal Paraíso Resort: Volcano views, hot springs, spa, and adventure await in La Fortuna.
Horseback Riding In Arenal By Don Tobias Horses
8.2 km
Discover Arenal's beauty on horseback with Don Tobias Horses. Explore rainforests, see the volcano, and enjoy authentic Costa Rican hospitality.
Nayara Springs
8.4 km
An exclusive adults-only rainforest escape in Costa Rica's Arenal Volcano National Park, featuring luxurious villas and private hot springs.
Arenal Natura Ecological Park
8.4 km
Discover Costa Rica's biodiversity at Arenal Natura Ecological Park: Explore rainforest trails, spot exotic wildlife, and support conservation efforts.
Unmissable attractions to see
Místico Arenal Hanging Bridges
1.6 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Místico Arenal Hanging Bridges in La Fortuna, where nature meets adventure in a stunning rainforest setting.
Wellness Park Nature Reserve & Ecolodge
1.9 km
Explore the serene beauty of Wellness Park Nature Reserve & Ecolodge in La Fortuna, where nature meets relaxation in an eco-friendly paradise.
Original Arenal ATV
2.6 km
Explore Costa Rica's breathtaking landscapes with thrilling ATV tours at Original Arenal ATV in Alajuela Province.
Arenal Wilberth Stable
2.6 km
Discover the beauty of Costa Rica at Arenal Wilberth Stable with horseback riding, ATV rentals, and breathtaking views of Arenal Volcano.
Arenal Volcano National Park Visitor Center
2.7 km
Discover Costa Rica's natural beauty at Arenal Volcano National Park, offering hiking, wildlife, and stunning views of the iconic volcano and Lake Arenal.
Arenal Volcano View and Lava Trails
2.7 km
Hike through historic lava fields with breathtaking views of Arenal Volcano and Lake Arenal. Experience Costa Rica's natural beauty and volcanic history.
Arenal Canopy Adventure (Athica)
3.4 km
Soar through the stunning rainforest of Arenal with Arenal Canopy Adventure, where thrilling zip lines meet breathtaking views in Costa Rica's natural paradise.
Mirador el Silencio
3.5 km
Experience the serene beauty of Costa Rica at Mirador el Silencio, a nature preserve offering breathtaking views and diverse wildlife.
Parque Nacional Volcán Arenal
3.8 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes and rich biodiversity of Parque Nacional Volcán Arenal, an iconic Costa Rican national park with thrilling adventures and serene hot springs.
El Choyin
4.3 km
Discover relaxation in the heart of La Fortuna at El Choyin, a public bath oasis surrounded by stunning tropical landscapes.
Tabacon Thermal Resort & Spa
4.6 km
Experience Costa Rica's largest network of natural hot springs at the foot of the Arenal Volcano. A luxurious and sustainable rainforest retreat.
Paddleboarding La Fortuna- Lake Arenal
4.9 km
Discover the serene beauty and adventure of paddleboarding on Lake Arenal, a must-visit destination in Costa Rica's stunning landscape.
Arenal Water Sports- La Fortuna
4.9 km
Experience thrilling water sports at Arenal Water Sports in La Fortuna, surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of Lake Arenal and volcanoes.
Point de vue volcan Arenal
5.2 km
Experience the stunning views of Arenal Volcano at this picturesque lookout, a must-visit destination for nature lovers and photographers alike.
Butterfly Conservatory
5.7 km
Discover Costa Rica's largest butterfly exhibit: a vibrant rainforest sanctuary near Arenal Volcano, dedicated to nature and education.
Essential places to dine
Restaurante La Roca Bistró
1.7 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine at Restaurante La Roca Bistró with stunning views of Arenal Lake in beautiful La Fortuna.
Lava'68 Cafetería
2.8 km
Discover the flavors of Costa Rica at Lava'68 Cafetería with stunning views and a commitment to local ingredients.
Tucanes Restaurant
4.5 km
Discover authentic Costa Rican cuisine amidst stunning landscapes at Tucanes Restaurant in Nuevo Arenal.
Ave del Paraiso Restaurant at Tabacon Thermal Resort & Spa
4.5 km
Experience culinary excellence at Ave del Paraiso Restaurant amidst the breathtaking beauty of Tabacon Thermal Resort & Spa.
Fusion Arenal Mirador Restaurante, El Castillo Costa Rica.
4.9 km
Experience exquisite dining with breathtaking views at Fusion Arenal Mirador Restaurante in El Castillo, Costa Rica - where nature meets culinary art.
Restaurante El Novillo del Arenal
5.4 km
Discover the flavors of Costa Rica at Restaurante El Novillo del Arenal - where tradition meets taste in La Fortuna.
Heliconias Restaurant by Kioro
5.6 km
Experience exquisite Costa Rican cuisine with breathtaking views at Heliconias Restaurant by Kioro in Alajuela Province.
La Ventanita
5.6 km
Discover the flavors of Costa Rica at La Ventanita - an inviting restaurant in El Castillo known for its fresh ingredients and warm hospitality.
Soda La Palma
6.0 km
Discover authentic Costa Rican flavors at Soda La Palma in La Fortuna – where delicious food meets warm hospitality.
Chillout Restaurant
6.1 km
Experience local flavors amidst stunning views at Chillout Restaurant near Sky Trek in San Carlos.
Mirador Arenal Steakhouse
6.7 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine at Mirador Arenal Steakhouse - where every meal is accompanied by breathtaking views.
El Jilguero Restaurant
6.8 km
Discover authentic Costa Rican flavors at El Jilguero Restaurant in San Ramón—where every dish tells a story.
Benedictus
7.5 km
Experience mouthwatering steaks amidst the natural beauty of La Fortuna at Benedictus Steak House.
Oscar's
7.8 km
Discover the flavors of Costa Rica at Oscar's in La Fortuna—where every meal is a celebration of local ingredients and culinary creativity.
Que Rico Arenal Restaurante
8.3 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors amidst breathtaking views at Que Rico Arenal Restaurante in La Fortuna.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Britt Shop Místico Park Arenal
1.6 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
4.4 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
4.5 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
6.1 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.
Mini Market El Mirador
7.1 km
Explore local flavors and essentials at Mini Market El Mirador, your one-stop grocery store in scenic La Fortuna, Costa Rica.
SLOFFEE BEST COFFEE IN LA FORTUNA
7.9 km
Discover SLOFFEE in La Fortuna for the finest Costa Rican coffee experience, blending quality brews with local farming insights.
la fortuna, costa rica
8.5 km
Explore La Fortuna's vibrant shopping scene, where local crafts meet culinary delights in the heart of Costa Rica's stunning landscapes.
Britt Shop Baldi
8.8 km
Discover the best of Costa Rica at Britt Shop Baldi, where unique souvenirs, artisanal chocolates, and local crafts await.
Britt Shop The Springs Resort & Spa
9.3 km
Explore the vibrant culture of Costa Rica through unique gifts and artisan crafts at Britt Shop The Springs Resort & Spa.
The Springs Resort & Spa at Arenal
9.3 km
Experience unparalleled luxury and adventure at The Springs Resort & Spa, nestled in the heart of Arenal's breathtaking landscapes.
Souvenir store
10.3 km
Explore the vibrant culture of Costa Rica at this charming souvenir store in San Carlos, where unique treasures await every traveler.
Arte Natura, Boutique Hotel in La Fortuna - Costa Rica Vacations, Book it Now
10.5 km
Experience the perfect blend of comfort and nature at Arte Natura Boutique Hotel in La Fortuna, your gateway to Costa Rica's breathtaking landscapes.
Original Grand Gallery
10.6 km
Explore authentic Costa Rican art and unique souvenirs at Original Grand Gallery in La Fortuna, a cultural haven for every visitor.
Red Frog Coffee Roasters
10.7 km
Discover the rich flavors of Costa Rican coffee at Red Frog Coffee Roasters, a charming espresso bar in La Fortuna, perfect for every coffee lover.
Biosfera Skincare (Experience Store)
10.8 km
Explore sustainable beauty at Biosfera Skincare, where Costa Rican nature meets skincare innovation for an eco-friendly experience.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Shangri La Gardens. Tabacon Resort Club área
4.4 km
Discover the serene escape of Shangri La Gardens, where exquisite drinks meet breathtaking natural beauty in Costa Rica's Alajuela Province.
Howlers Bar & Grill
5.1 km
Experience the vibrant flavors and lively atmosphere at Howlers Bar & Grill in El Fosforo, Costa Rica's hidden culinary treasure.
Terra bar
8.0 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Terra Bar in La Fortuna, where exceptional drinks and a lively atmosphere await every visitor.
Lemnnos WetBar
8.1 km
Discover the vibrant Lemnnos WetBar in La Fortuna, where tropical drinks meet stunning views and unforgettable experiences.
Nostalgia Wine Bar
8.6 km
Discover the enchanting Nostalgia Wine Bar, a serene oasis in Arenal, offering exquisite wines and a captivating atmosphere for relaxation.
Volcán Look Disco
8.9 km
Discover the lively nightlife at Volcán Look Disco – a vibrant bar in San Carlos, perfect for dancing and enjoying refreshing cocktails.
Restaurante Relax
9.5 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Costa Rica at Restaurante Relax, a charming bar in La Fortuna offering local cuisine and stunning views.
MAGIC SPORT BAR, Magic Mountain Hotel
10.4 km
Discover the lively Magic Sport Bar at Magic Mountain Hotel, where great drinks and vibrant atmosphere meet in La Fortuna, Costa Rica.
Tamarindo Chill
11.9 km
Discover the serene vibe of Tamarindo Chill in La Fortuna, offering refreshing cocktails and a perfect escape in Costa Rica's lush landscapes.
Cha
12.0 km
Experience the vibrant flavors and welcoming atmosphere at Cha, La Fortuna's beloved bar, perfect for unwinding after exploring Costa Rica's natural wonders.
Bar Patrón Costa Rica
12.0 km
Experience a vibrant cocktail bar in La Fortuna, Costa Rica, with exotic flavors, stunning views, and a lively atmosphere perfect for tourists.
Voodoo Bar & Cocktails
12.1 km
Discover the vibrant Voodoo Bar & Cocktails in La Fortuna, where enchanting drinks and a lively atmosphere await every traveler.
La Fortuna Pub
12.2 km
Discover La Fortuna Pub, a lively destination for delicious food, refreshing drinks, and an unforgettable atmosphere in the heart of Costa Rica.
Tropical Lounge Bar
12.5 km
Experience the flavors of Costa Rica at Tropical Lounge Bar, a vibrant grill bar in La Fortuna offering delicious food and refreshing tropical drinks.
Voodoo Mixology
12.5 km
Experience vibrant nightlife in La Fortuna at Voodoo Mixology, where innovative cocktails meet a tropical atmosphere for unforgettable evenings.
