Nestled in the lush green heart of Costa Rica, Lake Arenal is a place that feels like it's been pulled straight out of a dream. Whether you’re the adventure-loving traveler, a nature enthusiast, or just looking for a peaceful escape, Lake Arenal has something that’ll leave you wowed. With a massive volcano as its backdrop and the kind of landscape that makes your jaw drop, it's no surprise this spot is one of Costa Rica’s favorites.

In this blog, we’ll walk you through the best things to do Arenal, some lesser-known spots only locals talk about, and all the little details to make your trip unforgettable. Let's dive into the magic of Lake Arenal and its surrounding wonders!

Start Your Day with Arenal Volcano National Park

Let’s kick off with the obvious—but absolutely unmissable—highlight: Arenal Volcano National Park. This towering volcano is the main show in town. Although it’s currently in a resting phase, its beauty is anything but quiet. You can hike along old lava flows, explore thick forests, and catch glimpses of wildlife like howler monkeys, toucans, and coatis.

Trails like Las Coladas and El Ceibo are perfect for first-timers. They’re relatively easy, and you’ll get views that make every step worth it. And if you’re into photography, the volcano peeking through the clouds is a shot you won’t want to miss.

Soak in the Hot Springs

After a morning of exploring, there's nothing better than slipping into one of the area’s natural hot springs. Thanks to the volcano’s underground activity, Lake Arenal is surrounded by geothermally heated pools. Some are part of resorts with waterfall-fed pools, swim-up bars, and lush landscaping, while others are free and tucked into the jungle.

Eco Termales and Tabacón are well-known and for good reason—they’re stunning. But there’s also Río Chollín, a local favorite that’s hidden in the woods near Tabacón. It’s a bit rugged, but it's warm, free, and surrounded by nature. Just how we like it.

Explore Arenal Hanging Bridges

Midway through your adventure, be sure to walk the Arenal Hanging Bridges. Set deep in a private rainforest reserve, this place gives you a new perspective—literally. The bridges hang high above the jungle floor, and walking them feels like floating through the trees.

This is where you’ll find toucans calling from the treetops and maybe even a sloth or two lazily hanging around. It’s one of the most peaceful and surreal experiences around and a must for anyone who loves nature and a bit of wonder. This is also a perfect spot to experience unique Arenal activities that mix adventure and serenity in one go.

Hit the Waters: Kayaking and Paddleboarding on Lake Arenal

The lake itself is a giant playground. Calm waters and epic views of the volcano make it ideal for kayaking or paddleboarding. Rent some gear and glide across the water at sunrise or sunset. It's quiet, peaceful, and you’ll feel like you have the whole lake to yourself.

Local operators offer guided tours too, often stopping at little inlets and islets you’d never find on your own. Keep an eye out for birds like herons and kingfishers as you paddle around. And if you’re lucky, you might even spot an otter popping up to say hello.

Venture to La Fortuna Waterfall

If there's one place that’ll make your jaw drop in the best way possible, it’s La Fortuna Waterfall. A short drive from Lake Arenal, this 70-meter-tall beauty crashes into a sparkling blue pool below. The hike down takes around 15–20 minutes through a series of well-maintained stairs, but the sight at the bottom is worth every step.

Swimming isn’t officially recommended near the falls due to the strong currents, but the surrounding river offers plenty of spots to dip your feet and relax. Plus, the view? Unreal.

Discover the hidden gems Lake Arenal Has to Offer

Now let’s get into the fun stuff—the hidden corners most tourists skip.

1. El Castillo Village
Just west of the lake sits El Castillo, a tiny village with big personality. It’s quiet, charming, and gives you that “secret escape” vibe. Here, you can visit the Butterfly Conservatory, walk local trails, or just chill with a view of the volcano minus the crowds.

2. Peninsula Sector of Arenal National Park
Less crowded than the main entrance, this spot has paved trails and observation towers with killer views of the lake and volcano. Plus, it’s a great place for birdwatching and photography.

3. Viento Fresco Waterfalls
Located a bit off the main path in Tilarán, this series of cascading waterfalls is a hidden treasure. It’s not as well-known as La Fortuna, which means you might have them all to yourself. The hike includes multiple falls, each more beautiful than the last.

Don’t Miss These Nearby Attractions

While Lake Arenal is the main attraction, a few nearby gems are totally worth the detour:

1. Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve

Just a couple of hours away, this is one of Costa Rica’s most unique ecosystems. Shrouded in mist and filled with rare wildlife, it’s like stepping into another world.

2. Cano Negro Wildlife Refuge

For nature lovers, this is a top spot for seeing rare birds, reptiles, and mammals. It’s about a 2-hour drive from Lake Arenal but perfect for a day trip.

3. Arenal 1968 Trail

This trail gives you a close look at the historic 1968 lava flow and some of the best volcano views in the area. It’s scenic, slightly challenging, and a great spot for a sunset hike.

Wrap It Up with Some Local Flavor

End your adventure by diving into some local cuisine. Try casado (a typical Costa Rican meal with rice, beans, salad, and meat), or sip a freshly blended tropical smoothie while watching the sun set over the lake. The local restaurants in La Fortuna and around El Castillo are cozy, welcoming, and often have views you’ll remember forever.

Whether you're into adrenaline-pumping adventures, nature walks, or finding peaceful spots to relax, Lake Arenal has it all. You don’t have to plan every minute. Let the vibe of the area guide you—you’ll always find something amazing.

In short, the region is packed with beautiful, and lesser-known treasures just waiting for you to uncover them. Don’t rush—Lake Arenal rewards those who wander slowly.

So, if you’re looking for unforgettable views, soul-refreshing moments, and a touch of wild adventure, this is the spot. From waterfalls to volcanoes, the mix of excitement and peace is hard to beat. One thing's for sure: the list of hidden gems Lake Arenal offers will surprise you at every turn.