Laguna de Arenal

Our experience & things to know

We heard in Bahia Salinas about kiting on lake Arenal and decided to have a look. We arrived on a weekend and it was quite busy which was good as during the week no one was around. Wind was strong and even the occasional shower did not disturb the locals. We stayed for a few days only as we didn't really felt welcome at the spot all by ourselves but enjoyed the riding with our 6 and 9 kites for the first time on a lake.

Wind & conditions

Winds are mostly thermal and can be quite strong. Bring small kites (6 to 9 maybe). As it is a small lake the water is rather flat.

Season

Best season is between December and April with winds from December through May. Depending on rain the launch area (mostly grassy) can become a bit muddy.

Where to stay

We camped right on the spot with our rig but it wasn't very well received (so nobody really said anything). There are plenty of guest houses and hotels in the area.

Crowds & infrastructure

During the we we were mostly alone, the weekends can become quite busy with surfers, wingers and kiters sharing the lake.

Access

It seems that access to the launch area is disputed from time to time. The school (Tico Wind Windsurf, Kitesurf and SUP Center) has no infrastructure there anymore so make sure to contact them before heading there.