Lake Arenal
Lake Arenal, lying adjacent to the Arenal Volcano in the Northern Lowlands of Costa Rica , is the country’s most spectacular lake. With the magnificent Arenal Volcano to the east and rolling hills and forested slopes all around, the scenery couldn’t be better. Add to that a number of activities that includes world-class windsurfing and sailboarding, fishing, kayaking, bird watching and more, and you have the makings for a spectacular destination.
Between 2 and 3 million years ago, tectonic shifts in the Earth created a small depression in the Arenal valley that then filled with water, resulting in a small lagoon that acted as the initial area for the lake. This was the state of Lake Arenal until 1973, when the Costa Rican Institute of Electricity enlarged the lake and built a dam on its eastern end. The lake of today is Costa Rica’s largest – a total area of 33 sq. miles (85.5 square km) – and has a hydroelectric project that produces 70% of the country’s energy. Water depth varies from 100-200 feet. The small town of Nuevo Arenal , which borders a section of the lake, was also created in 1973 when the initial site of the town was flooded from the expansion of the lake.
Year-round activities on Lake Arenal include fishing, boat tours, kayaking, sailboarding and windsurfing. The windsurfing is particularly good, as the lake has warm waters and strong winds – two ingredients that are indispensable for premier windsurfing locations. The fishing is superb as well. Rainbow bass, a member of the cichlid family, are especially prolific in the lake’s waters. Their tasty white meat and feisty nature make them a challenge – and a delight – to catch.
The area surrounding the lake is abundant with activity as well. There is great hiking and mountain biking, horseback riding and bird watching. Birds that can be spotted in the area include hummingbirds and woodpeckers, kingfishers, toucans, aricari and more.
Lake Arenal is 10 miles (17 km) from La Fortuna, 66 miles (106 km) from Monteverde , and 87 miles (140 km) from Liberia. Those heading from Arenal/La Fortuna to Monteverde can take boat taxis across the lake, a faster alternative to circumnavigating the lake on land.
Lake Arenal itineraries from local insiders
Explore hand-picked Lake Arenal itineraries designed by local insiders who know every hidden corner. Each trip is completely flexible, customized to your pace, travel style, and budget.
60th birthday jungle adventure
If you like the outside at all, Costa Rica is for you! It truly is a rich coast. The diversity of wildlife is mind blowing. It is spectacular.
Family Annual Adventure
It's a beautiful country and the rainforest, Arenal volcano, rafting safari and catamaran sail were all wonderful. We learned a lot,laughed a lot, and would go back.
Solo Exclusive Trip
An incredible country which went beyond expectations. Absolutely amazing & so many memorable experiences. The welcome from all the people & the hospitality everywhere is fantastic. I always felt safe
Family Fun in Costa Rica
This trip was perfect for our family of 4! It was full of adventure for EVERYONE! Usually our vacations consists of entertainment for the kids but on this vacation we all got to enjoy so much. We have a 5 and 9 year old and we did zip lining, safari boat tour, coffee/chocolate tour, hot springs, waterfall hike, manual Antonio national park and so much more!! We were here for 11 days (2 of them travel days) and it was just enough time! I can’t wait to come back!
Epic Mother‑Daughter Costa Rica Adventure
The flora and fauna are second to none. We saw and did so many incredible things The people are truly welcoming,, considerate and kind. The love for their country and their pleasure an pride in showing it to visitors shines through. The ease and safety of travelling around as s single mum with 2 daughters aged 12 and 15 without having to compromise on any experiences was s standout feature for me. Just a note: food and supermarkets are expensive - think US levels!
We Saw So Much of the Country
Everyone who helped us - especially Lester - was amazing and so kind! We loved our trip to CR, the ticos and all that the country had to offer. Highly recommended.
We'll Never Forget This Trip
Our family of six was looking forward to this Costa Rica getaway, hoping to rejuvenate from this vacation before heading back to work respectively. As we anticipated, this was a magical experience and I would go back in a heartbeat.
We Were in Paradise
The trip to Costa Rica was very memorable. My family and I enjoyed a lot. We did many things like rappelling, rafting for the first time. We saw lovely birds and animals. Anywhere team consisting of Leo Navarro did a great job of organizing and making the logistics part of travel as comfortable as possible. We did not have to worry about anything. Everything was taken care of. Costa Rica is beautiful place with great culture and very tourist friendly. Loved the place !
Honeymooning by The Beach
I am so happy that we had booked with Anywhere! You provided excellent service in both planning and during the trip. I loved that it was so easy to enjoy the trip as everything was booked and paid for in advance.
Caribbean, Cloud Forests, & Pacific Beaches
It was a beautiful holiday; we had a lot of fun and relaxation. There are a lot of things you can do in Costa Rica –– we never got tired. We saw amazing sights and animals, the 'Pura Vida' lifestyle is unforgettable!
Explore Costa Rica Relocation
Pura Vida!!! The people are very friendly the food is amazing the landscape is breathtaking.
Friends Adventurous Escape
Embark on a vibrant Costa Rican adventure that juxtaposes soaring volcanoes, misty cloud forests, and sun‑kissed Pacific beaches for an unforgettable eco‑escape. After trekking La Fortuna’s waterfall and Arenal volcano, you’ll zip through Monteverde’s canopy and suspension bridges before heading to Tamarindo’s surf‑ready waves and sunset catamaran cruise. Friendly locals and knowledgeable guides share rainforest lore, coffee traditions, and coastal flavors, leaving you with lasting memories of biodiversity, adventure, and relaxed Pura Vida spirit.
Friends Journey Together
Embark on a vibrant Costa Rican adventure that blends volcanic landscapes, mist‑covered cloud forests, and Pacific coast breezes into a seamless, budget‑friendly escape. From the thunderous Arenal volcano and La Fortuna waterfall, you’ll trek to Monteverde’s canopy bridges, then glide along the Pacific to Manuel Antonio’s national park and catamaran snorkeling. Friendly local guides and hosts share their culture, wildlife insights, and warm hospitality, leaving you with unforgettable memories of rain‑soaked trails, surf‑kissed bays, and vibrant Pura Vida spirit.
Costa Rica Getaway for Two
Discover Costa Rica’s vibrant mix of volcanic peaks, cloud forests, and Pacific surf in a compact adventure that balances adrenaline with relaxation for a budget‑friendly couples escape. Start with a hike at El Silencio volcano, then cross Lake Arenal to Monteverde for canopy bridges and zip‑lining, before ending on Tamarindo’s beaches for surf lessons and a catamaran cruise. Friendly locals and knowledgeable guides share coffee, wildlife stories, and surf tips, leaving you with unforgettable memories of volcanic vistas, misty forests, and Pacific waves.
Experiences in Lake Arenal
Explore hand-picked Lake Arenal tours and experiences led by local insiders, from wildlife encounters to cultural deep-dives.
Lake Arenal and El Castillo - Road Cycling Tour
Taxi Boat Taxi Arenal to Monteverde
PRIVATE Taxi Boat Taxi Arenal To Monteverde
Combo Biking and Kayaking at the Arenal Lake
Kayaking Arenal Lake
Sunset Cruise on Arenal Lake
Taxi Boat Taxi Monteverde to Arenal
PRIVATE Taxi Boat Taxi Monteverde to Arenal
Sport Fishing - Half Day
One Day Los Lagos Hot Springs
Where to stay in Lake Arenal
From boutique lodges to luxury resorts, every Lake Arenal accommodation is hand-picked by our local insiders for location, comfort, and character.
Arenal Lodge
The Arenal Lodge is situated in the Northern Lowlands of Costa Rica, just outside of the popular town of La Fortuna. This region is blessed with natural beauty and peaceful tranquility. Nature lovers will consider the area in and around Arenal and the quaint village of La Fortuna to be a slice of heaven.
Linda Vista del Norte
Linda Vista del Norte is situated in El Castillo, just outside of La Fortuna, which is home to the Arenal Volcano. Endless, lush, green scenery and abounding nature and wildlife is why visitors flock to the Arenal area. It is truly an eco-touris's dream destination.
Tabacon Thermal Resort and Spa
At Tabacon Resort, you can enjoy the natural heat of the Tabacon Hot Springs, the purity of the surrounding rainforest, and rooms decorated with locally crafted furnishings. Treat yourself to a divine combination of amenities and simple luxury located outside of La Fortuna and Arenal Volcano National Park.
Arenal Kioro Suites and Spa
Arenal Kioro Suites and Spa is located in the northern lowland region of Costa Rica, near the majestic Arenal Volcano. Nature lovers will find themselves surrounded by unparalleled beauty that includes tropical rainforests, rolling green pastures, volcano views, and the grand Arenal Lake. The quaint, yet bustling town of La Fortuna is a great location to find tasty restaurants, do some shopping and marvel at the spectacular views.
Hotel Campo Verde
Hotel Campo Verde is located right at the base of Arenal Volcano, just minutes northwest of La Fortuna. This paradise is surrounded by beautiful, lush flora and fauna. The picturesque town of La Fortuna is a wonderful place to do some shopping, dining and bird watching.
Hotel Lavas Tacotal
Hotel Lavas Tacotal is situated near the town of La Fortuna, in the northern lowland region of Costa Rica, this region is home to the cone shaped Arenal Volcano. La Fortuna is frequented by eco-travelers and those who want to spend a memorable vacation cloaked in natural beauty. Rolling countryside, green mountains, lush rainforest and endless outdoor activities await you.
Montana de Fuego Mountain Resort and Spa
Montana de Fuego is situated in the province of Alajuela, near the Arenal Volcano. This is a paradise for nature lovers and eco-tourists who long to be surrounded by beautiful vegetation, lush primary forests and tropical gardens. Though situated in the mountains and surrounded by extreme natural beauty, visitors will find all the modern conveniences in the town of La Fortuna.
Arenal Paraiso Resort and Spa
Arenal Paraiso is located in the northern region of Costa Rica, near the town of La Fortuna. Here you'll discover the natural beauty of the rain forest with its great variety of exotic plants, animals and birds, merged with the magnificence of Arenal Volcano. This is a superb place for outdoor adventure and for those seeking solitude amongst the nature.
Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails
The Arenal Observatory Lodge is situated just outside of La Fortuna, at the foot of the Arenal Volcano. Drawing excited tourists from around the world, this majestic volcano, surrounded on all sides by tropical rainforest, puts on an outstanding view. La Fortuna is a quaint, yet bustling town offering an assortment of restaurants, shops and attractions.
The Springs Resort and Spa
The Springs Resort and Spa has such a stunning view of the Arenal Volcano, so much so that location scouts chose it for filming “Keeping up with the Kardashians” and “The Bachelor.” Visitors come here for the views as well as the stunning series of mineral pools where visitors can soak up the tropical rainforest.
Volcano Lodge Hotel and Thermal Experience
Volcano Lodge Hotel and Thermal Experience sits onthe foothills of Arenal Volcano, just a short drive from the town of La Fortuna in the northern highlands of Costa Rica. The property is positioned on a gently sloping lot that overlooks the volcano’s forested slopes, allowing guests to see the occasional plume of steam rising from the crater while remaining within easy reach of the region’s main attractions.
Arenal Volcano Inn
Escape to the tranquil beauty of Arenal Volcano Inn, a family‑friendly haven nestled in the heart of La Fortuna. Unwind in one of our 25 luxurious air‑conditioned guestrooms, featuring plush pillowtop beds, private balconies, and modern amenities including complimentary wireless internet and cable television.
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Insider-led Costa Rica Design & Concierge
Your insider team designs the trip around what you care about, then supports you in-country with private logistics, vetted partners, and concierge help when plans change.
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