While yet to be as popular as its southern neighbour, Costa Rica, Nicaragua is fast becoming one of Central America’s premier surf destinations. Its breaks are refreshingly uncrowded, providing a much more laid-back experience compared to the packed lineups found in more established surf hubs like Tamarindo or Santa Teresa. Add to that majestic volcanoes and captivating colonial towns and you have an incredible vacation in the making.
The allure of Nicaragua's surf scene lies in the exceptional quality of its waves, which benefit from a unique combination of almost constant offshore winds generated by the waters of Lake Managua and reliable southwest swell systems. This potent blend of natural forces creates world-class surfing conditions, with waves that are both powerful and consistent, making Nicaragua a standout destination in Latin America.
In recent years, Nicaragua’s Pacific coastline has seen a surge in high-quality surf camps, resorts and hostels, catering to the growing influx of wave-hungry travellers. Many of these are putting a high priority on sustainable practices, not only to appeal to eco-conscious surfers but to protect the spectacular natural environments they call “home”.
In this article, we’ll highlight five of the best places to surf in Nicaragua and eco-friendly surf resorts to help you plan a sustainable stay.
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Best places to surf in Nicaragua
The surf scene in Nicaragua has long been centred around the country's southwestern coastline, specifically a stretch of shore that runs from the Costa Rican border past the lively town of San Juan del Sur. Including Playa Maderas, his region is renowned for its diverse array of wave types, catering to surfers of all skill levels, including beginners
Further up the Nicaraguan coast, the Popoyo region is where the big-wave enthusiasts flock, while those seeking remote breaks venture to Playgrounds. This is the domain of surf boat tours, with intrepid wave hunters venturing out to seldom-crowded lineups to chase hollow barrels. Puerto Sandino (between Managua and Leon) lies even further north en route to the Honduran border for those travelling overland through Central America.
The following list includes five of the best surf spots in Nicaragua, from south to north.
San Juan del Sur
Best place to surf in Nicaragua for digital nomads
While San Juan del Sur has garnered a reputation for being the main surf town in Nicaragua, it doesn’t actually have a surf break on its doorstep. That being said, it lies at the heart of around 100 kilometres of prime surfing real estate, providing easy access to a wealth of wave-riding opportunities in either direction. Not only that but it’s incredibly popular with the digital nomad crowd (so if you’re all about connecting, this is the place to be), as well as boasting trendy yoga studios and a lively party scene that appeals to some.
Head north and you'll find yourself at Playa Maderas (read more on its waves below) with its classic A-frame break that’s the stuff of intermediate-level dreams. Venture south and you'll encounter the beginner-friendly waves of Remanso, a mid-tide oasis that serves as the perfect training ground for aspiring wave-riders. And these are just the tip of the iceberg - the coastline surrounding San Juan del Sur is dotted with countless other surf spots, each with its own unique character to satisfy surfers of every skill level.
Eco-friendly surf resorts in San Juan del Sur
Ideal for those travelling with kids who want a resort-like stay, TreeCasa is a place to bring your tribe and breathe easy. Take your pick from their family and canopy suites or enjoy room to move in the six-bedroom Garden House. At this eco-friendly resort in San Juan del Sur, you can take advantage of the swimming pool and the daily yoga classes, all while staying a signatory of 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)
While it might be a little way from the beach, this eco-friendly resort in San Juan del Sur makes up for it with its affordability. It’s a great place to learn to surf, with friendly instructions and sessions designed to complement your experience level. Daily practices are held in the bamboo yoga shala and there’s a refreshing swimming pool, plus a restaurant serving lots of vegan and vegetarian dishes.
“Exceeded my expectations.” - Billy (read more reviews here)
Best places to surf in Nicaragua
Playa Maderas
Best place to surf in Nicaragua for intermediate surfers
Just 20 minutes’ drive north of San Juan del Sur takes you to this laid-back beach, which offers a refreshing vibe if you’re looking to escape the digital nomads and party vibe. Its high-quality A-frame offers both peeling rights and fun lefts, with the waves ideal for intermediate surfers. More experienced surfers usually head out when things get bigger on powerful southeast swells.
But the allure of Playa Maderas extends far beyond its surf; it's the chilled-out atmosphere of the surrounding town that lures many to stay longer than they intended. Hidden amidst the jungle-clad bay are a handful of surf-yoga retreats where you can relax in between sessions. In many ways, Playa Maderas offers a less developed alternative to San Juan del Sur, although the word is truly out about how great it is!
Eco-friendly surf resorts in Playa Maderas
Featuring just a handful of thatched-roofed rooms, this intimate eco-lodge in Playa Maderas is surrounded by jungle just a short walk from the beach. It’s an affordable option for a sustainable surf vacation in Nicaragua, with delicious meals, yoga classes and massages all available at reasonable prices. In between surfs, you can relax on the sprawling sundeck before feasting with friends in the communal dining area.
“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)
With its rave reviews, this highly-rated surf hostel in Playa Maderas features duplex villas and dorms with kitchens, which are ideal for those who want to self-cater during their stay. Guests always comment on the homely atmosphere and the incredible staff, as well as the peaceful setting surrounded by jungle. The onsite skate bowl and yoga deck are added bonuses!
“This hostel is a hidden gem in paradise.” - Beatriz (read more reviews here)
Best places to surf in Nicaragua
Popoyo
Best place to surf in Nicaragua for advanced surfers
Popoyo is undoubtedly among the most renowned surf spots in Nicaragua, home to one of the country’s most consistent waves. It generally works on all tides and at all sizes, with the conditions best suited to surfers some experience. Added to that, Popoyo exudes a laid-back charm with its beachfront bars and palapas, from where you can watch all the action, not to mention an inspiring choice of eco-friendly stays.
Within the immediate vicinity of Popoyo, surfers can choose from around five or six distinct breaks, but the primary focus is usually the classic A-frame wave that unfurls at the main beach. In addition to barrelling right-hand walls, there are powerful left-handers that break just offshore. For big-wave enthusiasts, the aptly named Outer Reef offers XXL conditions suitable only for the most experienced chargers. Another highlight is Stoney’s, a classic point break with long, winding left-hand walls.
Eco-friendly surf resorts in Popoyo
This boutique surf resort in Popoyo offers all-inclusive experiences with sustainability at the forefront of any stay. Aside from the stylishly decorated rooms, there’s a cantina serving healthy food and daily yoga classes to complement your surf sessions. Organic produce for the restaurant is grown at the neighbouring farm, La Quinta.
“A peaceful paradise.” - Lucinda (read more reviews here)
This eco-friendly Nicaraguan surf resort radiates a calming vibe with its whitewashed aesthetic and wooden accents. It’s surrounded by tropical vegetation just steps from the beach and has been designed with sustainability in mind. Aside from its spacious rooms, there’s an onsite spa and a restaurant serving gourmet fare.
"Perfect stay for surfing and relaxing.” - Janika (read more reviews here)
Eco-friendly surf resorts in Nicaragua
Playgrounds
Best place to surf in Nicaragua for uncrowded waves
Just south of El Mogote Nature Reserve lies an undiscovered surfing paradise known as Playgrounds. This remote and largely uncharted stretch of Nicaragua's Pacific coastline has become a mecca for adventurous wave riders seeking an off-the-beaten-path surfing experience. Due to the remote, jungle-fringed location, most surfers access Playgrounds by boat, although there is one surf resort in the area.
Boasting something like 10-12 individual surf spots, Playgrounds offers an incredible variety of wave quality and conditions to explore. The standout features are the hollow, powerful waves of Playground Left and Right, which captivate surfers with their barrelling sections and rippable faces. Also of note is Chococente - a more sectional, punchier wave that provides an adrenalin-fuelled tube-riding experience.
Eco-friendly surf resorts in Playgrounds
Set amidst the isolation of Chacocente Wildlife Refuge is Playgrounds Surf Camp, which provides visitors with unparalleled access to the area's diverse array of breaks and breaks. It’s the only land-based resort in the area and is all-inclusive, with a maximum of 11 guests staying at any one time. The resort’s 4x4 buggies and pangas will shuttle you to the waves while the restaurant serves up hearty meals to keep you fuelled up.
"Phenomenal experience. Top notch accommodations from the surf guide to the food.” - Dan (read more reviews here)
Puerto Sandino
Best place to surf in Nicaragua's north
Far from the famous waves of San Juan del Sur and Playa Maderas, this remote coastal town sits at the mouth of a river in the Nicaraguan department of Leon. It was originally established as a petrochemical port and it has a gritty, industrial vibe to it (that isn’t for everyone) but that doesn’t detract from its incredible waves. The lineups here are far less busy than those further south and there are some great surf resorts in the area.
In recent years, Puerto Sandino has started to gain attention among intermediate and advanced surfers seeking out uncrowded Central American surf destinations. It delivers an epic sandbank wave - one that can hold serious size and offers what is perhaps the longest ride in the country. The surrounding stretches of black sand beaches are dotted with multiple surf breaks that cater to intermediate and advanced surfers, although we wouldn’t say it’s ideal for beginners.
Eco-friendly places to stay in Puerto Sandino
With its stunning beachfront setting, this eco-friendly resort in Puerto Sandino is striving to become more sustainable each and every day. In addition to solar power and a water filtration system, it’s growing a lot of its own produce onsite. Aside from the beautifully designed rooms, there’s a wave right out front and the meals are plentiful for surfer appetites.
“Fun spot right overlooking the beach with welcoming staff and great food.” - Tim (read more reviews here)
With just six beachfront rooms, this intimate surf resort near Puerto Sandino is a standout. Aside from offering easy access to the surf, there’s an onsite restaurant serving delicious meals and a billiards table where you can socialise with other guests. Bicycles can also be rented for getting around the area.
"Great food, people, surf, vibe. I would not hesitate to stay here again.” - Jeff (read more reviews here)
Eco-friendly surf resorts in Nicaragua
Best time to surf in Nicaragua
Nicaragua’s best surf conditions can usually be found between April and November, coinciding with the country’s wet season. The swell reaches its peak intensity during the months of July and August, with a combination of moderate southwesterly to westerly offshore winds blowing in from the Caribbean. As this coincides with the summer vacation period in North America and Europe, it’s also one of the busiest times to surf in Nicaragua.
As autumn arrives, the surf scene shifts somewhat, with the region collecting more southerly swells that tend to bypass the Californian coast further north. While the swell remains respectable, the winds maintain a consistently offshore pattern and the crowds typically thin out as the kids return to school.
Winter brings a change in conditions, as the winds transition to a stronger side-shore pattern, which can at times trigger upwelling and a corresponding drop in water temperatures. As spring arrives, the early season south swells begin to make their way into the beach breaks and reef breaks of the region, although the winds can still be quite gusty. By early to mid-March, the winds start to calm and the swell picks up, signalling the return of prime surfing conditions.
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