Lake Arenal

The majestic Lake Arenal is Costa Rica’s largest lake. Surrounded by rolling hills of pastured and forested land, the imposing cone of Volcan Arenal dominates its eastern vista.

Following the 1968 eruption, Lake Arenal was enlarged to 3 times its original size, an area of 85.5 km (33 sq. miles). Now its basin forms a hydroelectric project that produces 9% of Costa Rica's electricity.

The lake offers many year-round activities: windsurfing, fishing, boat tours, and kayaking. For those traveling to the Monteverde Cloud Forest, taxi boats provide a quick and scenic shortcut across the lake. The surrounding area offers land tours by horseback, mountain biking, and hiking.

Arenal Hotel and Lava Flow Map La Fortuna Map Driving Map to Arenal Costa Rica Maps

Perhaps the lake’s biggest claim to fame is Rainbow Bass sport fishing. These large, fighting fish are called “guapote,” and they are members of the cichlid family. Their meat is white & tasty, but their sharp teeth and feisty nature make catching them a real challenge. The best times for fishing are around sunrise or sunset, and organized fishing trips begin with a hotel pickup at 5:30 am or 2:00 pm.

Lake Arenal also enjoys a world-class reputation amongst windsurfers and sailboarders. In addition to the lake’s spectacular scenery, its unique combination of fresh warm water and strong steady wind provides excellent windsurfing conditions.

See pictures of the Lake Arenal Dam (Sangregado Dam)

Lake Arenal Hotels: Puerto San Luis Hotel Tilawa

Map Driving to Arenal Monteverde Cloud Forest San Jose, Hotel Santo Tomas San Jose, Hotel Santo Tomas Quepos/ Manuel Antonio Hotel