As a surf destination, Nicaragua might not be as famous as Costa Rica (not yet anyway) but it's quickly rising as an incredible place to ride waves in Central America. Compared to its southern neighbour, Nicaragua's waves tend to be less crowded, offering a relaxed vibe that's welcome after the busy surf scenes of Tamarindo and Santa Teresa. Added to that, there are stunning volcanoes and charming colonial towns to explore away from the water.
In recent years, Nicaragua's 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 places are focusing on sustainability, aiming to attract eco-friendly travellers while also preserving the stunning natural surroundings in which they operate.
In this article, we'll introduce 8 eco-friendly surf resorts and hotels in Nicaragua to help you plan a sustainable vacation in this Central American paradise.
To learn more about surfing in Nicaragua, check out some of the best spots here.
This article contains affiliate links, which means when you make a purchase through that link, we earn a small commission. Affiliate links come at no cost to you and ensure our content remains free!
Best eco-friendly surf camp at Playgrounds, Nicaragua
Tucked away in the remote Chacocente Wildlife Refuge, Playgrounds Surf Camp 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 and runs almost entirely on solar energy. Guests can hop on 4x4 buggies or pangas to reach the surf spots before refuelling 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)
Eco-friendly surf resorts and hotels in Nicaragua
One of the spacious bungalows at TreeCasa Hotel & Resort in San Juan del Sur, Nicaragua (photo courtesy of Expedia)
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 offers a swimming pool and daily yoga classes, all while being 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)
Eco-friendly surf hotels and resorts in Nicaragua
The bungalows of TreeCasa Hotel & Resort in San Juan del Sur, Nicaragua (photo courtesy of Expedia)
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 and the meals 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)
Eco-friendly surf resorts and hotels in Nicaragua
One of the stylish twin rooms at Dreamsea Surf Resort in San Juan del Sur, Nicaragua (photo courtesy of Expedia)
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, take a dip in the refreshing pool and feast on vegan and vegetarian meals at the on-site restaurant.
“Exceeded my expectations.” - Billy (read more reviews here)
Eco-friendly surf hotels and resorts in Nicaragua
A circular pool at Dreamsea Surf Resort in San Juan del Sur, Nicaragua (photo courtesy of Expedia)
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. It's a budget-friendly choice for an eco-friendly surf vacation in Nicaragua, offering 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)
Eco-friendly surf resorts and hotels in Nicaragua
An outdoor pool surrounded by greenery at Malibu Popoyo in Nicaragua (photo courtesy of Expedia)
Best eco-friendly boutique resort in Popoyo
Exuding a boutique hotel vibe, this atmospheric surf resort in Popoyo provides all-inclusive stays with a strong focus on sustainability. The rooms are tastefully decorated and daily yoga classes are on offer to enhance your surfing experience. The restaurant uses organic produce sourced from the nearby La Quinta farm.
“A peaceful paradise.” - Lucinda (read more reviews here)
Eco-friendly surf camps and resorts in Nicaragua
One of the design-focused rooms at Malibu Popoyo (photo courtesy of Expedia)
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 and is perfect for guests who prefer to cook for themselves thanks to its self-catering kitchen. Guests 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)
Eco-friendly surf resorts and hotels in Nicaragua
Best eco-friendly surf resort in Popoyo with a spa
This sustainable surf resort in Nicaragua has an enticingly relaxed ambiance, thanks to its whitewashed look and wooden details. Nestled among lush tropical plants and just a short walk from the beach, it 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)
Eco-friendly surf resorts and camps in Nicaragua
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 and 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.
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 highlighting 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.