Ultimate Surfing Guide to Nicaragua

 

Nicaragua is still a fairly underrated surfing destination in Central America, mostly due to the increasing media exposure of destinations like Costa Rica and Mexico.

However, Nicaragua has some of the world’s most consistent waves and surfing conditions with 300+ years of offshore wind on an annual basis.

Not only are waves great in Nicaragua, cost of traveling is extremely low and weather is perfect for surfers.

 

Best Places to Surf in Nicaragua

Popoyo

Popoyo is a small, yet quickly expanding surf town near Las Salinas, on the Nicaraguan west coast.

With a great laidback vibe, empty black sand beaches and awesome surf, Popoyo is great hidden gem in Central America.

Perfect for surfers of all levels, Popoyo has multiple surf spots within walking distance that work almost every day.

Read our Complete Surfing Guide to Playa Popoyo

Although Popoyo is a small and charming surf town, many surf camps, hotels and restaurants are ready to welcome surf enthusiasts and it won’t be hard to rent surfing equipment.

 

San Juan Del Sur

San Juan Del Sur is Nicaragua’s most popular surf town, surrounded by many of the country’s best surf spots like Playa Maderas, Playa Hermosa and El Yanke.

Not Only does San Juan Del Sur have great surfing potential, it also is a great place to meet fellow travelers, party, eat out and enjoy a lively surf town.

Read our surfing guide to San Juan Del Sur

 

In fact, San Juan Del Sur has many great beach bars and clubs as well as the famous Sunday Funday pub crawl, organized by two of best hostels in town. Fun guaranteed!

 

Playa Colorado

Playa Colorado is probably Nicaragua’s best surfing playground for intermediate to advanced surfers. The whole beach is known for being a barreling machine, day in, day out.

Beginners can also enjoy some waves on smaller days or by walking down to playa El Gigante which is sometimes more sheltered from bigger waves.

 

El Transito

El Transito is further up the coast and could be considered as one of the best places for beginners to learn how to surf in Nicaragua. 

Playa El Transito is a wide beach with plenty of different peaks, breaking on a sandy bottom, perfect for learners. Waves never get too radical, unless a big swell hits the coast.

Best Surf Camps in Nicaragua

Popoyo 7-day All Inclusive Surf Camp for $739

• 2 surfing trips
• 2 amazing boat trips
• A tour to the Las Salinas
• Professional surfing guide
• 6 nights’ accommodation
• Daily delicious breakfast
• Airport transfers

 

San Juan Del Sur Surf and Yoga Surf Camp for $1,785

• 1 massage in the jungle spa
• 4 surf classes + private session
• Surf excursions
• Yoga program
• Visit to Sea Turtle Hatchery 
• 1 happy hour with tapas and drinks
• 7 nights in luxury accommodation
• 4 healthy, organic meals a day

 

8-day Learn How to Surf in San Juan Del Sur

• Surf clinic
• Daily surf instruction and guidance
• Bonfire, guided jungle / waterfall tour
• Intro to turtle conservation project 
• Fresh fruit juices and smoothies
• 4 delicious meals per day
• 7 nights accommodation

 

What to do on flat days?

Nicaraguan is a great country to visit even for non surfers. Therefore, on flat days, you can still find some amazing things to day and not waste a single day on your trip.

Hop over to Isla Ometepe, a lush island in the middle of Lake Nicaragua, where you can climb one of the two volcanoes on the island as well as spot some amazing wildlife.

Cities of Leon and Granada are also great places to visit and explore the Nicaraguan culture via museums and landmarks.