8 best Nicaragua eco-resorts for surfers
Looking for the best Nicaragua eco-resorts for surfers? Discover 8 inspiring places to stay if you’re planning a sustainable surf trip to Central America.
As a surf destination, Nicaragua might not be as famous as Costa Rica (not yet anyway). But it’s quickly establishing a reputation as one of the best surf spots in Central America.
Compared to its southern neighbour, Nicaragua’s waves tend to be less crowded. The vibe is slightly more relaxed after the busy surf scenes of Tamarindo and Santa Teresa.
Added to that, Nicaragua boasts stunning volcanoes and charming colonial towns to explore away from the water.
In recent years, the Pacific coast has seen an increase in surf camps, resorts and hostels, catering to the steady demand of wave riders visiting the area.
A lot of these Nicaragua eco-resorts are focusing on sustainability, aiming to attract eco-conscious travellers while also preserving the stunning natural surroundings in which they operate.
In this article, we’ll introduce 8 of the best Nicaragua eco-resorts to help you plan a sustainable surf trip to Central America.
To learn more about surfing in Nicaragua, check out some of the best spots here.
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Playgrounds Surf Camp
Best eco-friendly surf camp at Playgrounds, Nicaragua
Tucked away in the remote Chacocente Wildlife Refuge is Playgrounds Surf Camp. It offers an unmatched experience for surfers looking to ride uncrowded waves in Nicaragua.
As the sole land-based resort in the area, it accommodates just 11 guests at a time. It also runs almost entirely on solar energy.
Guests can hop on 4×4 buggies or pangas to reach the surf spots. After your session, you can refuel on the filling meals dished out at the on-site restaurant.
“Phenomenal experience. Top notch accommodations from the surf guide to the food.” – Dan (read more reviews here)
TreeCasa Hotel & Resort
Best eco-friendly surf resort in San Juan del Sur for families
If you’re heading to Nicaragua with the family and looking for a sustainable surf resort in San Juan del Sur, TreeCasa is the perfect spot. You can choose from one of the spacious family suites or spread out in the six-bedroom Garden House.
This eco-friendly Nicaragua surf resort also offers a swimming pool and daily yoga classes to stretch out after your session.
As part of its sustainability goals, TreeCasa is committed to the Global Tourism Plastics Initiative.
“This is a great place to hang out with the family for a few days.” Keir (read more reviews here)
Miramar Surf Camp
Best eco-friendly surf camp in Puerto Sandino
This eco-friendly resort in Puerto Sandino boasts a gorgeous beachfront location and is committed to increasing its sustainability every day.
Not only does it utilise solar energy and have a water filtration system, but much of the restaurant food is grown on-site.
Besides the stylishly designed rooms, surfers can enjoy a wave right out front. What more do you want?
The meals at Miramar Surf Camp are more than enough to satisfy post-session appetites.
“Fun spot right overlooking the beach with welcoming staff and great food.” – Tim (read more reviews here)
Dreamsea Surf Resort
Best eco-friendly surf resort in San Juan del Sur for solo travellers
This eco-friendly surf resort in San Juan del Sur may not be right on the beach. But its budget-friendly prices make up for it.
It’s an awesome spot for beginners wanting to learn to surf, with lessons available tailored to your skill level.
Additionally, you can join daily yoga sessions in the bamboo shala or take a dip in the refreshing pool. A good choice of vegan and vegetarian meals are available at the on-site restaurant.
“Exceeded my expectations.” – Billy (read more reviews here)
Buena Vista Surf Club
Best budget-friendly eco-lodge in Playa Maderas
Nestled in the jungle, this sustainable eco-lodge in Playa Maderas has just a handful of thatched-roof rooms located just a quick stroll from the beach.
Buena Vista is a budget-friendly choice for an eco-friendly surf vacation in Nicaragua. It offers tasty meals, yoga sessions and massages at great prices.
When you’re not catching waves, you can chill on the spacious sundeck or enjoy meals with newfound friends in the shared dining space.
“This little hidden paradise is so peaceful with only good vibes, and the view from the deck is just incredible.” – Stephanie (read more reviews here)
Malibu Popoyo
Best eco-friendly boutique resort in Popoyo
Exuding a boutique hotel vibe, this atmospheric Nicaragua eco-resort in Popoyo provides all-inclusive stays with a strong focus on sustainability.
The rooms are tastefully decorated and really spacious. Daily yoga classes are on offer to enhance your surfing experience.
Malibu Popoyo’s restaurant uses organic produce sourced from the nearby La Quinta farm.
“A peaceful paradise.” – Lucinda (read more reviews here)
Hostel Clandestino Maderas
Best eco-friendly hostel in Playa Maderas for surfers
Offering both private rooms and dorms, this popular surf hostel in Playa Maderas has received fantastic reviews. It’s perfect for guests who prefer to cook for themselves thanks to its self-catering kitchen.
Surfers often rave about the laid-back vibe and amazing staff, along with the tranquil jungle surroundings. Plus, the onsite skate bowl and yoga deck are great extras!
“This hostel is a hidden gem in paradise.” – Beatriz (read more reviews here)
Hide and Seek Resort
Best eco-friendly surf resort in Popoyo with a spa
This Nicaragua eco-resort has an enticingly relaxed ambiance, thanks to its whitewashed look and wooden details.
Nestled among tropical plants and just a short walk from the beach, Hide and Seek focuses on marrying adventure with comfort.
In addition to roomy accommodations, there is a spa and a restaurant that offers delicious gourmet dishes.
“Perfect stay for surfing and relaxing.” – Janika (read more reviews here)
Best time to surf in Nicaragua
Nicaragua’s best surf usually arrives between April and November, aligning with the wet season. The peak swell hits in July and August, combining with moderate offshore winds from the Caribbean.
This period also coincides with the summer vacation periods in North America and Europe, making it a busy time in the water.
Autumn brings in more southerly swells. While the waves remain solid and the offshore winds stay steady, the crowds lessen as kids head back to school.
Winter shifts the conditions again, with stronger side-shore winds and cooler water temperatures.
Spring brings early south swells to the beach and reef breaks, though the winds can still be a bit gusty.
FAQs about surfing in Nicaragua
Does Nicaragua have good surf?
Yes! Nicaragua has fantastic surf, with a diverse range of breaks catering to all skill levels.
The Pacific coast, in particular, is home to some of the best surf spots in the country. These include San Juan del Sur, Puerto Sandino and Popoyo, all of which are exposed to consistent swells.
Nicaragua’s natural scenery and culturally rich cities add to its allure as one of Central America’s best destinations for a surf vacation.
When to go surfing in Nicaragua?
Nicaragua’s best surfing conditions typically occur from April to November, coinciding with the rainy season. The most significant swells are seen in July and August. However, this coincides with summer breaks in North America and Europe, resulting in crowds.
As autumn arrives, more southerly swells come in, and while the offshore winds remain consistent, the number of surfers usually decreases. Winter alters the conditions once more, bringing in stronger side-shore winds and cooler water temperatures.
Where is the best place to learn to surf in Nicaragua?
One of the best places to learn to surf is San Juan del Sur, a lively beach town that offers consistent waves and a welcoming atmosphere. The warm waters and gentle swells of Playa Maderas are particularly suitable for beginners.
There are numerous surf schools in the area offering lessons tailored to all skill levels, along with board rentals.
Other popular places to learn to surf in Nicaragua are Playa Santana in Popoyo and Playa Tesoro near Leon.
Do you need a wetsuit to surf in Nicaragua?
Nicaragua boasts a tropical climate and the warm water temperatures mean that for most surfers, a wetsuit is not necessary. However, if you plan to surf during the rainy season, you might find a light wetsuit or a shorty brings added comfort.
If you are particularly sensitive to cooler water or plan to spend extended periods in the ocean, a wetsuit will provide warmth and protection against the reef and rocks.
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About the authors
We are a team of passionate divers and surfers with decades of combined experience in the water and travelling to all corners of the globe. After years of chasing waves and descending into the deep blue, we’ve created this resource to highlight sustainably run surf camps, eco-friendly dive resorts and conservation-focused ocean trips to help inspire your next adventure.
Eco Ocean Escapes was born out of a love of the ocean, an obsession with travel and a concern about the impacts of our adventures on the environments we explore. Despite the benefits that surf and dive tourism can bring to local communities, we recognised that ocean-based adventures are not always managed in a sustainable manner.
Through our articles, we hope to inspire those seeking a responsible surf or dive trip that is all about supporting local communities, preserving our coastal environments and the incredible marine species that inhabit our oceans.
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