Arenal Dam Lookout (Presa Sangregado)

Tip

Stop only at the gravel pull-offs at either end, not on the dam itself. Coatis often beg at the roadside here: enjoy them, but don't feed them.

Be careful

Narrow road with traffic and no shoulder; keep kids close when you get out.

Places nearby

• Mistico Arenal Hanging Bridges ParkParks & Wildlife · from $1Mistico is a family-owned private reserve of mature rainforest on the Lake Arenal road, 25–30 minutes west of La Fortuna, and the busiest hanging-bridges park around Arenal.
• Sky Adventures ArenalTours & Adventure · from $46Family-run park at El Castillo on Lake Arenal with ziplines, hanging bridges and an aerial tram overlooking the volcano.
• Mirador El SilencioParks & WildlifePrivate reserve 1 km east of Tabacón on Route 142 with a long forest-and-lava hike, a green lagoon and open views of Arenal Volcano; booking ahead is recommended.
• Tabacón Thermal Resort & SpaDay Passes & Hot SpringsHot springs resort at the foot of Arenal Volcano, built around a natural thermal river with waterfalls and pools.
• Arenal Observatory Lodge & TrailsDay Passes & Hot Springs · takes 3 h–4 h · from $10The only lodge inside Arenal Volcano National Park, with a 350-hectare private reserve that day visitors can explore on 11 km of jungle trails.
• Restaurante La Mesa de MamáFood & CoffeeFriendly family kitchen in the village of El Castillo serving homemade Costa Rican food from breakfast to dinner.