Lake Arenal is to high wind bump and jump sailing what Hookipa is to wave sailing! The only difference is we don't have the reef and the rocks, so you're safe to concentrate on having fun...
From mid-November through April the easterly trade winds blowing across the Caribbean are reinforced by the strong north -easterly flow from the Gulf of Mexico. The winds are funneled through the mountains of northern Costa Rica and reach maximum strength at the western end of the lake, right where Tico Wind has its launch site. The wind is pretty much side shore and most ramps set up for port tack jumping with chop and swell reaching 1.5m (5') on the big days! December through February are guaranteed Gorge-like conditions while March and April offer a mixture of 4.0m² to 6.0m².
How consistently strong is the wind? I hear you ask. Well, most local sailors don't own a sail over 5.5m² or a board over 90 something liters. I weigh around 190 lbs (90kg) and sail more than 60% of the days 5.0m² or smaller on a sub 80 liter board. My wife weighs less and sails mainly 3.3m²/3.7m² on a 66 liter board !
The wind blows through Costa Rica with strength and consistency during the dry season, and this creates the best conditions to practice windsurfing in Lake Arenal, it has even been compared with Lake Garda in Italy and the River George in Columbia. During dry season the winds average speed is about 50 km, something that only expert surfers can handle. When the wind is even stronger, the surface of the lake gets abrupt and the expert surfers use the waves to jump higher in the air.
An excellent spot where the wind es even, from 6 a.m to 5 p.m. A good time to learn about this sport is rainy season, when the wind is not so strong.
KITE Equipment Rental
Kitesurf gear rental requires an internationaly recognized certificate (IKO, PASA, VDWS) or 1 hour supervision for US$ 30.00. Should the renter not require assistance after launching the fee will be refunded.
All renters are required to wear a helmet, if you do not have your own one will be provided for you.
Beginners kite courses are available, check out the “Kite classes” page for full details.
We can arange accommodations for you either at Mystica Lake Lodge or privat houses.
Wind Surfing can be booked directly at your hotel!
