Find hotels near Lake Arenal, from CA $99

Top reasons to visit Lake Arenal

• Stunning Natural Scenery: Lake Arenal offers breathtaking landscapes, including views of the majestic Arenal Volcano.
• Outdoor Adventures: Enjoy activities like hiking, birdwatching, and horseback riding amidst lush nature.
• Relaxing Hot Springs: Unwind in natural hot springs, a perfect way to relax after a day of exploration.
• Rich Wildlife: Experience diverse wildlife in the nearby reserves, ideal for nature enthusiasts.
• Cultural Experiences: Explore charming local towns and immerse yourself in the vibrant Costa Rican culture.

Find great hotels near Lake Arenal

Discover the beauty of Lake Arenal with a variety of accommodation options that cater to every type of traveller. From charming bed & breakfasts to adventurous hotels, you'll find the perfect spot to enjoy family-friendly activities and rejuvenating hot springs. Experience the warm hospitality of Arenal Costa Rica hotels, where comfort meets adventure, ensuring a memorable vacation in this picturesque setting.

• Lost Iguana Resort and Spa: Nestled 12.9km from Lake Arenal, Lost Iguana Resort and Spa is a delightful 3.5-star resort perfect for families seeking a relaxing getaway. This resort features a vibrant family-friendly atmosphere, complete with amenities like babysitting services, a children’s pool, and first aid kits to ensure peace of mind for parents. Guests can indulge in a full range of spa services, including treatment rooms and an inviting outdoor heated pool, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration.
• Tabacón Thermal Resort & Spa: A luxurious 4.5-star retreat located 16.1km from Lake Arenal, Tabacón Thermal Resort & Spa is a haven for those who seek a blend of luxury and natural wonders. With its onsite natural hot springs, guests can immerse themselves in the therapeutic waters, offering a unique experience that rejuvenates the body and soul. Families will appreciate the dedicated children’s amenities, including babysitting services and a children's pool, allowing for a perfect balance of relaxation and family fun.
• Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails: Situated 19.3km from Lake Arenal, Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails offers a unique 3-star lodge experience with stunning views and access to nearby hot springs. Ideal for those who appreciate the beauty of nature, this lodge features a range of spa services, including Swedish massages and aromatherapy treatments. The property is family-friendly, ensuring that children can enjoy the natural surroundings while parents relax. Discover numerous trails and the beauty of the Arenal Volcano while enjoying a serene retreat.

Where to stay near Lake Arenal

Lake Arenal, nestled in the heart of Costa Rica, offers a versatile destination for travellers seeking relaxation and adventure. With its beautiful gardens and acres of nature reserve, visitors can immerse themselves in the tranquil atmosphere. Ideal for a romantic getaway, the friendly locals and secluded spots make it a perfect retreat. Explore the nearby towns to experience the vibrant culture and stunning views that define this tropical paradise.

• Peñas Blancas: Nestled approximately 16.1km from the serene shores of Lake Arenal, Peñas Blancas is a vibrant city offering a perfect blend of adventure and natural beauty. Its steady flow of tourists year-round peaks during March and the festive December to January period, making it an ideal spot for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can indulge in various activities such as hiking, exploring the nearby national parks, or unwinding at local resorts and spas. The striking backdrop of volcanic landscapes and majestic mountains adds to its allure, making it a must-visit for those seeking scenic experiences.
• Arenal: Located a mere 4.8km from Lake Arenal, Arenal is renowned for its breathtaking scenery and outdoor adventures. The city experiences a steady influx of visitors year-round, with peak travel times in March and during the holiday season from December to January. Arenal is a hub for thrill-seekers, offering numerous adventure activities amidst the stunning backdrop of a national park and an active volcano. Relaxation is also on the menu, as this area features luxurious resorts and rejuvenating spas, ensuring a well-rounded experience for all types of travellers.
• Mata de Cana: Just 3.2km from the enchanting Lake Arenal lies the quaint village of Mata de Cana, a hidden gem for those looking to immerse themselves in nature. This charming village attracts visitors year-round, with a slight uptick during the busy months of March and December to January. With a focus on outdoor activities and stunning scenery, travellers can explore nearby volcanoes, mountains, and even local beaches. Mata de Cana’s peaceful atmosphere and intimate resorts provide a perfect retreat for adventurers and nature lovers alike.

Things to do near Lake Arenal

Discover the natural beauty of Lake Arenal with a variety of activities such as hiking, birdwatching, and horseback riding. Adventure tours offer thrilling outdoor experiences, allowing you to explore the stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife. Whether you're seeking adrenaline-pumping adventures or a peaceful day in nature, Lake Arenal provides an unforgettable getaway filled with opportunities to connect with the great outdoors.

Shopping

If you're up for a drive, El Pilon Station is a shopping area located 27.4km away from Lake Arenal. Here, you can explore a variety of shops offering local crafts and souvenirs, all within a vibrant family-friendly atmosphere.

Recreation

Wellness Park Costa Rica, located 12.9km from Lake Arenal, offers a tranquil setting for relaxation and rejuvenation. Termales Los Laureles, 20.9km away, features soothing hot springs and serene landscapes. Go Adventure Park, 19.3km distant, combines wellness with an array of thrilling outdoor activities for the adventurous spirit.

Adventure

Costa Rica Sky Adventures offers an exhilarating zipline ropes course 17.7km from Lake Arenal, perfect for thrill-seekers amidst lush landscapes. Selvatura Adventure Park, located 19.3km away, promises another exciting ziplining experience surrounded by nature. For water sports enthusiasts, FlyZone Wakeboard School is a fantastic option just 11.3km away.

Nightlife

In Lake Arenal, the lively bars and laid-back lounges offer a mix of live music and vibrant atmospheres. Venues like La Fortuna’s local pubs provide a taste of Costa Rican culture, while the scenic lakeside spots create a perfect backdrop for relaxing evenings with friends.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Lake Arenal

To save money on your trip to Lake Arenal, consider visiting between September and November when prices are generally lower. Book your hotel about a month in advance for the best rates, or check for last-minute deals on Expedia. Saturdays tend to have the lowest accommodation prices, while Thursdays are the most expensive. Use Expedia’s filters to find eco-friendly options and sort by price to uncover the best deals. Additionally, bundling your hotel, flights, and activities can lead to significant savings.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Lake Arenal are September to November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to March to April and July, where prices are slightly higher.
• The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel around Lake Arenal is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay, though if you're late to the party, have a look at Expedia's last minute deals - the green banner below the hotel's price indicates a discounted rate.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Lake Arenal is Saturday. The most expensive day to stay around Lake Arenal is Thursday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia's search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and preferred type of accommodation. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels that are currently available. To find the best prices and deals, simply arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your Lake Arenal hotel reservation with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions near Lake Arenal

Lake Arenal in Tilaran, Guanacaste, offers a variety of attractions for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers. Visitors can explore the stunning volcano, relax in natural hot springs, and wander through beautiful reserves. Whether you're looking for a scenic getaway or nearby attractions, Lake Arenal provides an unforgettable experience filled with breathtaking landscapes and exciting activities for all types of travellers.

• Arenal Volcano National Park: Experience the majestic Arenal Volcano, a stunning natural landmark. With its lush surroundings, the park offers thrilling outdoor adventures like hiking and birdwatching, all while soaking in breathtaking scenery.
• Tabacon Hot Springs: Indulge in the soothing waters of Tabacon Hot Springs, a true wellness retreat. Nestled in nature, these thermal springs offer a serene escape where you can relax and rejuvenate amidst beautiful gardens and lush landscapes.
• Mistico Arenal Hanging Bridges Park: Stroll hand-in-hand on the scenic hanging bridges that weave through the treetops. This romantic experience allows you to connect with nature while enjoying breathtaking views of the rainforest and Arenal Volcano.

The nearest major airports for your trip to Lake Arenal

When visiting Lake Arenal, you can fly into three major airports. San José (SJO-Juan Santamaría Intl.) is 91.7km away, with nearby hotels like the 5-star InterContinental Costa Rica and the 4.5-star Costa Rica Marriott Hotel, both offering airport shuttle services. Liberia (LIR-Daniel Oduber Intl.) is 74.0km from Lake Arenal, with luxurious options such as Four Seasons Resort Peninsula Papagayo and Planet Hollywood Costa Rica, both providing accessible shuttle services. Lastly, La Fortuna (FON-Arenal) is only 25.7km away, featuring top-rated hotels like The Springs Resort and Spa, which also offers airport transportation. Each airport provides convenient access to the stunning Lake Arenal area.