Lake Arenal (Lago Arenal), the largest lake in Costa Rica, lies in the Northern Highlands near La Fortuna and the Arenal Volcano. This man-made lake is crucial for hydroelectric power and serves as a scenic spot for various water activities and recreation.
Popular Activities Include:
Mountain biking
Highlighted Excursions:
Stand-up paddle boarding
Kayaking
Fishing
Boat cruises
Water biking
Kite surfing
Horseback riding
Mountain biking
Arenal Volcano National Park Peninsula Sector Hike and Boat Cruise: A half-day adventure that combines a nature walk through a rainforest peninsula with a scenic boat cruise on the lake, offering stunning views of the area.
Rental Rates:
Boat Rental: 35,000 CRC per hour (approximately $52 USD), accommodating 10-15 people. Ideal for group photos with the lake and volcano in the background.
Kayak and SUP Rental: 10,000 CRC for one hour (around $15 USD). This rate covers equipment only; caution is advised if venturing out independently, and life jackets are included.
Other Activities:
Companies like Water Bike Tours, Volcano Watersports, and Catamaran Tucan Arenal offer unique experiences. Contact them directly for bookings as they are not part of the standard boat association.
Accommodation:
If you prefer staying near the lake rather than in La Fortuna, there are several options including small hotels and Airbnbs along the lake's shores in towns like Nuevo Arenal. Notable places include:
Hotel La Mansion Inn Arenal
Lake Arenal Hotel and Brewery
Lucky Bug
Ceiba Tree Lodge
Los Heroes
In El Castillo at the lake's southeastern end, find accommodations like:
Hotel Linda Vista
Arenal Vista Lodge
Rancho Margot
Getting Around:
Renting a car is recommended for ease of movement around Lake Arenal. If you're flying into Liberia International Airport and seeking a midpoint between Guanacaste and La Fortuna, the lake area is perfect.
Note that tour companies in La Fortuna do not offer free transportation from hotels around the lake; additional fees apply unless you drive yourself.
There's a convenient taxi-boat-taxi service connecting La Fortuna to Monteverde. You can be picked up from your hotel, take a boat across Lake Arenal, and then be driven to your destination on the Monteverde side.
