Hotels near Lake Arenal

Top reasons to visit Lake Arenal

• Adventure Activities: Lake Arenal is renowned as the adventure capital of Costa Rica, offering thrilling activities like zip-lining, water sports, and invigorating hikes.
• Stunning Natural Beauty: The area is surrounded by breathtaking landscapes, including the majestic Arenal Volcano and lush nature reserves.
• Relaxing Hot Springs: Unwind in the soothing hot springs, providing a perfect contrast to the adventurous pursuits.
• Vibrant Local Culture: Experience the lively nightlife and local cuisine in Nuevo Arenal, immersing yourself in Costa Rican culture.
• Diverse Accommodation Options: From charming bed and breakfasts to adventurous hotels, there’s a variety of lodging to suit every traveller's needs.

Find great hotels near Lake Arenal

Discover the enchanting Lake Arenal, where a variety of accommodation options await, from charming bed and breakfasts to adventurous hotels. Ideal for families and thrill-seekers alike, many properties offer exciting amenities such as rooftop pools and hot spring experiences. With accessible parking and easy access to the picturesque town of Nuevo Arenal, your stay promises comfort and adventure amidst stunning natural beauty.

• Tabacón Thermal Resort & Spa: Nestled in the lush landscapes of Guanacaste, Tabacón Thermal Resort & Spa offers a luxurious escape for those seeking a blend of adventure and relaxation. This 4.5-star resort is renowned for its comprehensive spa services, including Ayurvedic treatments and couple’s treatment rooms, catering to guests looking for rejuvenation. Adventure enthusiasts can indulge in various activities such as ziplining, rafting, and hiking. With picturesque thermal pools surrounded by vibrant flora, this resort provides an extraordinary experience for both business and leisure travellers.
• Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails: A tranquil retreat located 19.3km from Lake Arenal, Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails is a charming 3-star lodge perfect for nature lovers and spa enthusiasts. The property features natural hot springs that invite guests to unwind in a serene environment. With massage treatment rooms and easy access to the hot springs, relaxation is at the forefront of their offerings. This lodge also provides an array of trails for hiking, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the breathtaking natural surroundings, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a peaceful getaway.
• Arenal Kioro Suites & Spa: Situated 17.7km from Lake Arenal, Arenal Kioro Suites & Spa is a stunning 4.5-star hotel that combines the wonders of nature with luxury amenities. Guests can enjoy onsite hot springs and a variety of adventure activities, including kayaking and horse riding. The hotel provides spacious suites with spectacular views of the surrounding landscape, ensuring a memorable stay. With its focus on both relaxation and adventure, this hotel is perfect for travellers who wish to experience the best of Costa Rica's natural beauty.

Where to stay near Lake Arenal

Lake Arenal, nestled in the Alajuela province, offers an enchanting blend of adventure and tranquillity. As the adventure capital of Costa Rica, it invites thrill-seekers to explore its acres of nature reserves while providing a relaxed atmosphere for those seeking solitude. Wander through friendly local neighbourhoods, indulge in tropical delights, and discover amazing places that showcase the region's stunning landscapes. Whether you’re after excitement or a peaceful retreat, Lake Arenal is the perfect destination.

• Arenal: Nestled a mere 4.8km from the picturesque Lake Arenal, the city of Arenal is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers. With visitor numbers peaking in March and from December to January, it offers a vibrant atmosphere year-round. Arenal is renowned for its stunning scenery, featuring lush landscapes, a majestic volcano, and the nearby national parks. Activities abound, including relaxing at luxurious resorts and indulging in rejuvenating spa experiences. Whether you’re hiking through the national park or unwinding by the lake, Arenal is an ideal base for exploring the natural wonders of Costa Rica.
• Mata de Cana: Just 3.2km from Lake Arenal, the charming village of Mata de Cana invites visitors to immerse themselves in its outdoor adventures and breathtaking scenery. Like Arenal, Mata de Cana experiences peak tourist numbers in March and during the holiday season. This village is perfect for thrill-seekers, featuring exhilarating zipline courses and various adventure activities. With its proximity to the stunning national parks and volcano, Mata de Cana offers a delightful blend of relaxation and excitement, making it an excellent spot for both families and solo travellers.
• Nuevo Arenal: Located 4.8km from Lake Arenal, Nuevo Arenal is a tranquil village that balances outdoor adventure with serene surroundings. With peak visitation in January and March to April, it attracts a diverse crowd seeking scenic beauty and thrilling experiences. Nuevo Arenal offers a variety of activities, including luxurious resorts, rejuvenating spas, and adrenaline-pumping zipline courses. The village is surrounded by captivating national parks and breathtaking volcanic landscapes, ensuring that visitors can fully appreciate the stunning natural environment while enjoying a peaceful retreat.

Things to do near Lake Arenal

Lake Arenal offers a delightful array of activities for adventurers and nature lovers alike. Enjoy invigorating hikes and exceptional birdwatching opportunities, while adrenaline seekers can indulge in thrilling pursuits nearby, including water sports and zip-lining. Experience the vibrant nightlife in Nuevo Arenal, where local culture comes alive through lively entertainment and dining, making it a perfect destination for those seeking both relaxation and an adrenaline fix.

Shopping

The nearest shopping area is El Pilon Station, located 27.4km from Lake Arenal. This vibrant spot offers a mix of city, family, and business vibes, perfect for finding unique gifts and souvenirs.

Recreation

At Wellness Park Costa Rica, indulge in serene yoga sessions and rejuvenating spa treatments amidst lush greenery, merely 12.9km from Lake Arenal. Termales Los Laureles offers natural hot springs for relaxation, located 20.9km away, while Go Adventure Park provides thrilling outdoor activities, just 19.3km from the lake.

Adventure

Experience the thrill of ziplining at Costa Rica Sky Adventures, located 17.7km from Lake Arenal, where you can soar through the treetops. At FlyZone Wakeboard School, 11.3km away, embrace exhilarating water sports. Don’t miss 100% Aventura Adventure Park, 19.3km away, for an array of exciting activities.

Nightlife

Experience the vibrant nightlife at Arenal Beach, where you can enjoy cocktails at local bars and dance to lively music. For a more laid-back evening, visit a lakeside café to unwind and take in the stunning views of the sunset over Lake Arenal.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Lake Arenal

To save money on your trip to Lake Arenal, consider visiting during the cheaper months of May and September to October, avoiding the peak seasons of March to April and July. Book your accommodation about a month in advance or look for last-minute deals on Expedia, especially on Saturdays, which offer the best rates. Utilise Expedia’s search tools to filter by budget and combine your hotel with flights and activities for added savings. Explore free activities around the lake to enjoy the natural beauty without spending extra.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Lake Arenal are May and September to October, 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. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals which could secure you a cheaper stay. Look out for the green banner below the price to spot the deals.
• 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: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, including your budget, desired location, and preferred type of accommodation. To discover the most affordable prices and offers, arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can potentially 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, nestled in Tilaran, Guanacaste, offers a plethora of attractions for the adventurous traveller. Explore the majestic volcano, unwind in the soothing hot springs, and discover the lush reserves nearby. Whether you seek outdoor thrills, wellness retreats, or a serene escape, the area provides an ideal blend of adventure and relaxation, catering to every visitor's desires.

• Tabacon Hot Springs: Experience ultimate wellness and relaxation at Tabacon Hot Springs, located 16.1km from Lake Arenal. Immerse yourself in natural thermal pools surrounded by lush tropical gardens, providing a serene outdoor atmosphere perfect for unwinding.
• Arenal Volcano National Park: Discover adventure and breathtaking scenery at Arenal Volcano National Park, situated 19.3km away. Explore diverse trails, spot unique wildlife, and enjoy stunning views of the active volcano, offering an exhilarating outdoor experience.
• Mistico Arenal Hanging Bridges Park: Embrace the romantic vibes at Mistico Arenal Hanging Bridges Park, just 12.9km from Lake Arenal. Wander through a lush reserve on hanging bridges, taking in spectacular views of the rainforest and its vibrant flora and fauna.

The nearest major airports for your trip to Lake Arenal

To reach Lake Arenal in Costa Rica, you have several airport options. San José (SJO-Juan Santamaría Intl.) is 91.7km away, with nearby hotels like the 4.5-star Costa Rica Marriott Hotel Hacienda Belen, just 3.2km from the airport, offering free airport transfers. Liberia (LIR-Daniel Oduber Intl.) is 74.0km away, featuring the luxurious 5-star Four Seasons Resort Peninsula Papagayo, 16.1km from the airport, with scheduled shuttles. Finally, Cóbano Airport (ACO) is 93.3km from Lake Arenal, close to options like the 5-star Hotel Nantipa, 9.7km away, providing a Tico beach experience.