Lake Arenal: Jet Ski Rental with Gear & Flexible Start

Summary

Jet ski across Lake Arenal with gear included and flexible timing

You’ll feel the wind and spray as you zip across Lake Arenal on your own jet ski rental near La Fortuna. With all safety gear provided (life vest, dry bag for your phone), plus bottled water and flexible start times, it’s easy to focus on having fun — or just drifting for a while if you want. Expect laughter, maybe some friendly competition, and plenty of space to roam.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t think I’d ever see so much open water in Costa Rica — Lake Arenal just kind of sprawls out in every direction once you’re standing at the edge. When we pulled up to the little office (Arenal Water Sports, right on Maps), I was mostly worried I’d embarrass myself trying to steer the thing. But the staff were patient, even when I fumbled with my ID and asked twice about the deposit. They handed over a dry bag for my phone, which felt oddly reassuring — like they knew exactly what I was nervous about.

Our guide ran through a quick tutorial, making sure we understood how to handle the jet ski before letting us loose. The engine’s hum was louder than I expected at first, but then it faded into background noise as wind whipped past my ears. There’s this smell — not quite fresh water, not quite gasoline — that clings to your skin after a few minutes out there. At one point, we slowed down just to watch a heron pick its way along the shore. I probably should’ve been paying more attention to steering than birdwatching, but it’s hard not to get distracted by all that green.

We had an hour (timed from when you actually start on the lake), and honestly, it went faster than I thought. My friend tried to race me and lost spectacularly — she blamed “the current,” but we both know she just likes to coast and look around. Li from the office waved when we came back in; he laughed at our windswept hair and said something about “serious fun.” It was nice not having to worry about bringing water or where to stash my stuff since they gave us everything right there.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Jet ski rental and water adventure

• Find Arenal Water Sports office
• Fill rental agreement and show ID
• Watch jet ski tutorial
• Pay $200 deposit
• Start jet ski hour on water
• Enjoy jet skiing on Lake Arenal

Top questions

How do I rent a jet ski at Lake Arenal?

You need to visit Arenal Water Sports near La Fortuna, show valid ID, fill out an agreement, pay a refundable $200 deposit, and watch a short tutorial before starting.

Is gas included in the jet ski rental price?

Yes, gas is included in the hourly price for each jet ski rental.

How long does each rental last?

The standard rental period is one hour per jet ski; timing starts when you begin on the lake.

Do I need prior experience to rent a jet ski?

No experience is necessary; staff provide instructions and safety equipment before you go out.

What is included with my Lake Arenal jet ski rental?

You get a life vest, bottled water, dry bag for electronics, entrance fee for the lake, and use of the jet ski itself.

Is there an age requirement for renting?

The renter must be 18 years or older with valid ID.

Are there accessibility options?

The location is wheelchair accessible and service animals are allowed.

What’s included

Your hour on Lake Arenal includes use of a jet ski for two people with all fuel covered; they’ll hand you bottled water and a dry bag for your electronics at check-in. Life vests are provided for everyone’s safety and your entrance fee to the lake is already taken care of—just show up at their office near La Fortuna whenever works for you.