Lake Arenal is Costa Rica's largest lake and is the basin for 7% of Costa Rica's electricity. The lovely lake is surrounded by hills, pastures and forested land. In addition to producing electricity, Lake Arenal is a great destination for outdoor activities such as windsurfing, kite surfing, fishing, kayaking and boating. In the area surrounding Lake Arenal, there's hiking, mountain biking and horseback riding.

Lake Arenal activities are as follows:

• Dam to Nuevo Arenal is a beautiful stretch of road lined by cloud forest and offers some great accommodation options.
• Hotel Los Heroes is an alpine chalet 14-km (9 mi) west of the dam and has charming accommodation but also a miniature train that brings visitors up a hill to an underground station beneath a restaurant. There's also a hiking trail leading to the restaurant.
• Nuevo Arenal is located 29-km (46.5 mi) west of the dam and is the only good-sized town between La Fortuna and Tilaran.
• Tilaran is located at the southwestern end of Laguna de Arenal and is the regional ranching center. A pit-stop, one can look at the windmills or relax at the local cafe.

Lake Arenal Travel & Visitor Info

• Lake Arenal boating tours gets visitors up close to Arenal Volcano.
• Lake Arenal hiking is offered by a number of outfitters but it's also possible to head out on one's own. Local hotels and lodges can get you going to trail heads. Be sure to prepare for wet conditions.
• Lake Arenal fishing: set out with a fishing guide or rent a boat. Anglers will find rainbow bass called guapote in Lake Arenal in Costa Rica. It's a good spot to try fly fishing.
• Lake Arenal wind & kite surfing are popular sports because of the strong winds in Arenal. There are a couple of public launch sites on Lake Arenal and a few spots to rent gear.
• Lake Arenal ATV rentals are also an option for viewing Arenal Volcano and enjoying some outdoor activities.
• Lake Arenal horseback riding is a simple and enjoyable way to view the Lake Arenal area and explore the gorgeous country side.
• Lake Arenal nearby rafting is offered by local outfitters and a variety of tour options are available.

Lake Arenal vacation planning resources are as follows:

• Arenal Volcano eruptions are the main attraction.
• Arenal travel ideas and options to plan the perfect trip.
• Arenal Observatory Lodge is located near La Fortuna and offers accommodation and a deck to view the volcano.
• Arenal Springs at Tabacon is located west of La Fortuna and is on the spot where the volcanic eruption of 1975 passed. There are other springs located nearby.
• Arenal Observatory Lodge provides terrific views of Arenal Volcano.
• Sights near Arenal National Park such as hot springs will make your travels more enjoyable.
• Hiking in Arenal National Park is a worthy undertaking and lets you get close to the fabulous scenery.
• Arenal Butterfly Conservatory is a great place to check out this frail creature.
• Arenal Snake Garden gets you up and close to this creature without being vulnerable.
• Arenal National Park activities will help you plan activities.
• Arenal Volcano hotels and lodges has a comprehenisve list with links to descriptions and photos.
• Monteverde Arenal trip describes the trip from Monteverde through the cloud forests to the explosive Arenal Volcano.