Arenal Lake Area Attractions

This artificial lake was created when a dam was built (flooding small towns) for hydroelectric purposes in 1793. Today, it is Costa Rica's largest lake and provides the region and the Guanacaste province with water.

Strong, steady winds provide good sailing and windsurfing opportunities. The lake is also a prime sportfishing location, and huge rainbow bass have been reported by anglers.

Tilarán is an attractive and pleasant mountain village lying on the northern end of the Cordillera de Tilarán. The town is found at 550m/1,804km above sea level and is only 5km/3mi away from Lake Arenal, the area's principle attraction.

As in other towns and villages in the Guanacaste province, cattle farming is the most important industry. A popular rodeo and festival (Días Cívicas) takes place annually on the last weekend in April. The climate is Tilarán is pleasant and comfortable.