Lake Arenal
303 Votes Currently Open- Address: La Fortuna de San Carlos, Arenal Volcano National Park, Costa Rica Map
- Timings: 24-hrs Details
- Phone: +506-88074954
- Time Required: 02:30 Hrs
- Tags: Outdoors, Entertainment, Family And Kids, Lake, Picnic Spot
Lake Arenal is a marvellous lake that sits on the bottom of the Arenal Volcano near La Fortuna de San Carlos. At 33 miles wide, with a depth of 200 feet, it is a truly massive spectacle. The rolling hills surrounding the lake, coupled with the looming Arenal Volcano in the background, provides for perhaps one of the most breath-taking photo opportunities of the vacation.
In 1979, Lake Arenal was expanded as part of a massive hydroelectric project. As a result, two small towns were actually relocated further north to make way for the lake to be formed. Today, it forms a major part of Costa Rica’s economy, providing 12% of the country’s total electricity. However, that doesn’t deter scores of visitors from coming to the lake every day, which is popular for water sports due to the steady supply of strong winds. The lake is considered to be one of the world’s best locations for windsurfing and sailboarding, something you should totally consider during your time there.
For those who wish to have a little more of a relaxing time at the lake, they can simply have a picnic on the shore, which is surrounded by hills that are perfect for an idyllic evening getaway with the family or your significant other. You can even go fishing, as the lake is swarming with rainbow bass- large fighting fish- quite the conquest if you manage to snag one!
Before you go to Lake Arenal, there is one thing you must know. Whether you’re a photographer or not, don’t forget to bring your camera for this one. If, by any chance you don’t do so, chances are you’ll have a look around and highly regret it!
Lake Arenal Travel Tips
- The best time to go fishing for rainbow bass is at sunrise and sunset. You can opt for organised fishing trips for the same.
- The area surrounding the lake can be toured by horseback or mountain bike, and has trails that can be hiked along.
- For those traveling to the Monteverde Cloud Forest, taxi boats provide a quick and scenic shortcut across the lake.
- The Tilawa Windsurf Center provides high grade equipment and tutorials on windsurfing on the lake.
- Cafe y Galeria Casa Delagua
- Tree House
- Lava Lounge
- Restaurante Loma Linda
- Pizzeria Johnny
- Restaurante BBQ Tres Hermanas
Love this? Explore the entire list of places to visit in La Fortuna before you plan your trip.
Fancy a good night's sleep after a tiring day? Check out where to stay in La Fortuna and book an accommodation of your choice.
- Lake Arenal Address: La Fortuna de San Carlos, Arenal Volcano National Park, Costa Rica
- Lake Arenal Contact Number: +506-88074954
- Lake Arenal Timing: 24-hrs
- Best time to visit Lake Arenal(preferred time): 08:00 am - 05:00 pm
- Time required to visit Lake Arenal: 02:30 Hrs
- Try the best online travel planner to plan your travel itinerary!
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2.8/10
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27.5% of people who visit La Fortuna include Lake Arenal in their plan
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303 Times
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08 AM - 09 AM
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23.08% of people start their Lake Arenal visit around 08 AM - 09 AM
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2 Hrs 30 Minutes
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People usually take around 2 Hrs 30 Minutes to see Lake Arenal
95% of people prefer to travel by car while visiting Lake Arenal
People normally club together Wave Expeditions and Tabacon Hot Springs while planning their visit to Lake Arenal.