Lake Arenal: Costa Rica's Scenic Gem
Discover Lake Arenal: Costa Rica's largest lake, offering stunning views, water sports, and abundant wildlife in a breathtaking natural setting.
Lake Arenal, nestled in the lush highlands of Costa Rica, is the country's largest lake and a haven for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Formed by a dam in 1979, it offers stunning views of the Arenal Volcano and surrounding rainforest, making it a must-visit destination.
A brief summary to Lake Arenal
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Local tips
- Bring binoculars for optimal wildlife viewing around the lake's perimeter.
- Pack rain gear, as the weather in the rainforest can change quickly.
- Consider visiting during the dry season (December to April) for the best weather conditions.
- Book tours and activities in advance, especially during peak season.
Getting There
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Walking
From the town of Nuevo Arenal, the lakefront is easily accessible by foot. The walk is generally flat and takes about 10-15 minutes from the center of town. Follow the main road towards the lake, and you'll find several access points along the shore.
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Public Transport
Buses run regularly from La Fortuna and Tilarán to Nuevo Arenal. From the Nuevo Arenal bus stop, the lake is a short 10-15 minute walk. Bus fares typically range from ₡1,000 to ₡2,000 depending on the distance.
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Taxi
Taxis are readily available in Nuevo Arenal and can take you to various points around the lake. A short taxi ride from the town center to a specific lakeside location will cost approximately ₡2,000 to ₡3,000.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Plaza Paseo del Viento
11.2 km
Experience local culture, shopping, and dining at Plaza Paseo del Viento in Tilarán, Guanacaste. A vibrant hub for tourists and locals alike.
Cerro Tovar, Parque del Viento
12.1 km
Discover Cerro Tovar in Parque del Viento: panoramic views, refreshing breezes, and a tranquil escape near Tilarán, Costa Rica.
Cabinas El Tunel
12.4 km
Experience comfort and convenience at Cabinas El Tunel, your gateway to the natural wonders of Tilarán, Costa Rica.
Unmissable attractions to see
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.
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.
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.
Cavernas de Venado
12.6 km
Discover Costa Rica's hidden depths: Explore the mesmerizing Venado Caves with stunning rock formations, underground rivers, and unique wildlife encounters.
Místico Arenal Hanging Bridges
13.1 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
13.5 km
Explore the serene beauty of Wellness Park Nature Reserve & Ecolodge in La Fortuna, where nature meets relaxation in an eco-friendly paradise.
Volcan Arenal National Park, Peninsula area
13.9 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty and adventure of Volcan Arenal National Park, a must-visit destination for nature lovers and thrill-seekers in Costa Rica.
Paddleboarding La Fortuna- Lake Arenal
15.0 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
15.0 km
Experience thrilling water sports at Arenal Water Sports in La Fortuna, surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of Lake Arenal and volcanoes.
El Tigre Waterfalls Monteverde
15.2 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of El Tigre Waterfalls in Costa Rica's Guanacaste Province, where adventure meets tranquility in nature's embrace.
Original Arenal ATV
15.3 km
Explore Costa Rica's breathtaking landscapes with thrilling ATV tours at Original Arenal ATV in Alajuela Province.
Arenal Wilberth Stable
15.3 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
15.3 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.
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.
Colono Construcción Tilarán
10.8 km
Explore Colono Construcción in Tilarán for all your building materials, home goods, and expert advice on construction projects.
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.
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.
Britt Shop The Springs Resort & Spa
20.2 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
20.2 km
Experience unparalleled luxury and adventure at The Springs Resort & Spa, nestled in the heart of Arenal's breathtaking landscapes.
Don Juan Tours Monteverde
20.3 km
Discover the breathtaking biodiversity of Monteverde with Don Juan Tours, where adventure and coffee culture meet in the heart of Costa Rica.
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.
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.
Volcán Look Disco
21.3 km
Discover the lively nightlife at Volcán Look Disco – a vibrant bar in San Carlos, perfect for dancing and enjoying refreshing cocktails.
Beer Garden Monteverde
21.5 km
Experience the lively ambiance and diverse flavors at Beer Garden Monteverde, your go-to spot for craft beers and delicious food in Santa Elena.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Monteverde Night Tour
20.3 km
Discover the magical nocturnal world of Monteverde's cloud forest on an unforgettable night tour filled with wildlife and enchanting sights.
Night Walk Santamaria´s
20.5 km
Experience the enchantment of nocturnal wildlife at Night Walk Santamaria's, a premier nature preserve and campground in Monteverde, Costa Rica.
Monteverde Night Tour Don Rodolfo
21.1 km
Discover the magic of the cloud forest at Monteverde Night Tour Don Rodolfo, where nocturnal wildlife and breathtaking views await.
Night Walk Tour
21.6 km
Discover the magic of the cloud forest at night with the Monteverde Night Walk Tour - a must-do for nature lovers and adventurers!
Monteverde Gastroclub
21.8 km
Experience the vibrant culinary scene of Monteverde at Gastroclub, where local flavors meet a lively atmosphere for an unforgettable dining experience.
La Taberna
24.0 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and local flavors at La Taberna, a cozy bar perfect for unwinding in the heart of Monteverde.
The Lodge Bar&Restaurant
24.0 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Monteverde at The Lodge Bar & Restaurant, where culinary delights meet the beauty of Costa Rica's cloud forests.
Tamarindo Chill
24.5 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of La Fortuna at Tamarindo Chill, where delicious drinks and a laid-back atmosphere await.
Cha
24.6 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of La Fortuna at Cha, a lively bar offering delightful cocktails and a welcoming atmosphere for tourists.
Bar Patrón Costa Rica
24.6 km
Experience the vibrant cocktail culture of La Fortuna at Bar Patrón, where expertly crafted drinks meet a lively atmosphere.
Magma Club
24.6 km
Magma Club: The heart of La Fortuna's nightlife, where vibrant beats and electrifying atmosphere create unforgettable nights.
Voodoo Bar & Cocktails
24.6 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at Voodoo Bar & Cocktails in La Fortuna, Costa Rica, where creative cocktails and a lively atmosphere await.
La Fortuna Pub
24.7 km
Discover La Fortuna Pub, a vibrant local hotspot in Costa Rica offering a wide selection of beers, live music, and a lively atmosphere perfect for unwinding.
Amsterdan The Club
24.8 km
Discover the dynamic nightlife of La Fortuna at Amsterdam The Club, where dining meets dancing in a vibrant atmosphere.
Fusion & Club
24.9 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of La Fortuna at Fusion & Club, where Latin American cuisine meets an electrifying dance floor.
