Carrillo, Guanacaste
1 / 151 / 15# The Property
Imagine waking to mist rising off Lake Arenal, your private lakefront sanctuary unfolding across a tranquil peninsula where water views embrace you from every angle. This executive residence delivers a rare combination: direct lake access, resort-caliber outdoor living, and construction standards that answer to North American expectations for quality and longevity.
Spanning over 4,700 square feet of thoughtfully conceived living space, the home sits on nearly one acre of landscaped grounds behind gated entry walls. Four bedrooms and three-and-a-half bathrooms provide generous accommodation, while a walk-out basement stands ready for future expansion according to your vision. Though Arenal's mountain breezes and year-round temperate climate rarely demand cooling, air conditioning and ceiling fans throughout ensure comfort on your terms.
The heart of the main level unfolds as a seamless open-plan environment where kitchen, dining, and living areas flow together beneath soaring ceilings. The chef's kitchen commands approximately 21 by 17 feet, outfitted with custom cabinetry, expansive black stone countertops, a generous center island with seating, gas range and oven, double sink with under-counter filtration, garbage disposal, walk-in pantry, and premium appliances. Natural light floods every corner, transforming meal preparation into a social experience.
Outside, the lakefront pool and thoughtfully designed outdoor spaces extend your living environment into the landscape, where privacy and serenity define every moment. Offered at USD $1,300,000, this turnkey estate awaits discerning buyers seeking permanent luxury or an exceptional future retreat.
Built to rigorous North American construction standards, this executive residence showcases meticulous craftsmanship throughout its 437 square meters of living space. The home features perimeter security walls with a gated entrance, leading to a beautifully landscaped brick-paved driveway and covered main entry.
The heart of the main level is an expansive chef's kitchen measuring approximately 6.4 by 5.3 meters. Custom cabinetry, extensive black stone countertops, and a large center island with seating anchor the space. Professional-grade appointments include a gas cooktop and oven, double sink with under-sink filtration system, garbage disposal, walk-in pantry, and premium appliances. High ceilings and abundant natural light enhance the open-plan design connecting kitchen, dining, and living areas.
While Lake Arenal's cool mountain breezes rarely necessitate climate control, every room includes air conditioning and ceiling fans for year-round comfort. The property sits on 4,000 square meters of landscaped grounds with direct lake access and enjoys dual water views from both front and rear. A walk-out basement has been thoughtfully prepared for future expansion according to owner vision. The peninsula location along a quiet private cul-de-sac ensures exceptional privacy and tranquility.
# Location & Lifestyle
Nestled in the serene lakeside community of Tronadora in Tilarán canton, this executive residence occupies one of Guanacaste's most distinctive microclimates. Unlike the sun-drenched Pacific beaches that define much of the province, the Lake Arenal region offers year-round mountain breezes and refreshingly cool temperatures—a rare climate in tropical Costa Rica that eliminates the need for constant air conditioning. For those looking to buy property in Costa Rica with an emphasis on natural comfort and outdoor living, this location delivers a lifestyle centered on tranquility, natural beauty, and direct lake access.
Tronadora sits along the shores of Costa Rica's largest lake, a haven for windsurfing, fishing, kayaking, and nature observation. The area attracts retirees, remote workers, and investors seeking privacy without isolation. Tilarán town center lies a short drive away, offering supermarkets, medical services, banking, and local dining. For international travel, Liberia's Daniel Oduber International Airport is accessible within approximately 90 minutes, connecting residents to North American hubs. Those drawn to Guanacaste real estate for beach proximity will find Tamarindo, Flamingo, and other Pacific Coast destinations reachable for weekend excursions, while enjoying a cooler, more temperate home base.
This micro-location appeals to buyers prioritizing wellness, sustainability, and a slower pace. The peninsula setting on a private cul-de-sac ensures exceptional privacy, while the surrounding region supports organic farming, eco-tourism, and adventure sports. Whether you're considering Flamingo Costa Rica homes for beach living or Tamarindo property for rental income, the Lake Arenal area offers a compelling alternative—ideal for permanent residence, future retirement, or a luxury retreat. In Tronadora, Tilarán, Guanacaste, Costa Rica, you're investing in a lifestyle defined by natural elegance, year-round comfort, and unmatched tranquility within one of Central America's most coveted regions.
Explore more about this area on our regional guide page.
# Investment Perspective
This property represents a compelling opportunity in one of Costa Rica's most stable luxury markets. At $1,300,000 for 437 square meters of living space on nearly one acre with direct lake access, the price point positions it competitively within the Lake Arenal region, where comparable waterfront estates typically range from $2,500 to $3,500 per square meter. The US-standard construction quality and turnkey condition reduce typical renovation risk associated with Central American real estate acquisitions.
Rental income potential exists through both channels: short-term vacation rentals targeting adventure tourists and retirees exploring the area can generate seasonal cash flow, while long-term leases to expatriate professionals offer more predictable returns, though precise yield projections depend heavily on management approach and occupancy commitment. The four-bedroom configuration and resort-style amenities support either strategy.
The ideal buyer is a North American seeking a primary or future retirement residence with optional income offset, rather than a pure investment play. Costa Rica's political stability, established expat infrastructure, and proximity to North American markets continue to drive steady demand. For exit strategy, the lakefront scarcity and quality construction support long-term value retention, though liquidity in this price tier typically requires six to eighteen months. No guaranteed appreciation or returns are implied.
Model rental income for this property with our rental income calculator.
# Legal & Practical
This property is held under Fee Simple title—full, unrestricted ownership with no lease term or concession limitations. U.S. and Canadian buyers enjoy the same ownership rights as Costa Rican nationals, with no residency requirement to complete the purchase. Estimated closing costs typically range from 2 to 4 percent of the purchase price, covering transfer tax, legal fees, notary services, and registration. Annual property tax is approximately 0.25 percent of the registered municipal value, which is often lower than market price. At this price level, the acquisition qualifies the buyer for Costa Rica's investor residency program, which requires a minimum real estate investment of $150,000 USD. Title insurance is available and recommended. Our team works with experienced bilingual attorneys who guide foreign buyers through every step, ensuring a secure, transparent, and professionally managed closing process.
Review title types and due diligence in our fee simple vs concession guide.
Carrillo, Guanacaste
Tronadora, Tilarán, Guanacaste