BEST SURF SPOTS IN NICARAGUA

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Playa Maderas

Playa Maderas - Nicaragua Playa Maderas features a consistent beach break with a sandy bottom and occasional rocky sections. Located approximately 15 minutes by car from San Juan Del Sur, it accommodates both right and left-hand waves, holding up to double-overhead swells. The best conditions typically occur at mid-incoming tide, but it can also work well at high tide down to mid-outgoing. As the closest surf spot to San Juan del Sur, Playa Maderas is a cultural hub for the Nicaraguan surfing scene, attracting a mix of local surfers and tourists. The vibe can range from mellow to crowded, especially on weekends, with around 30 surfers in the water at peak times. While the wave quality may vary, it can surprise surfers with fun sessions, particularly from April to September. Access is straightforward, and the beach is known for its friendly atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for both beginners and seasoned surfers looking to enjoy the waves.

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Padangs

Padangs - Nicaragua Padangs is a beach break featuring both right and left waves, with a sandy bottom interspersed with rocks. The spot is accessible within a 5-minute walk and is suitable for four-wheel drive vehicles. It works best at low tide during rising tide conditions, with optimal swell coming from the south and wind from the east. This surf spot is known for its ordinary power and typically sees few surfers during the week and weekends. While it offers inviting waves, be cautious of the rocks that can pose a danger. The unique wave setup at Padangs can provide enjoyable rides, but it’s essential to monitor the tide and swell closely to maximize your experience. Arriving early is advisable, as the spot can attract surfers quickly when conditions align.

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Chigga's

Chigga's - Nicaragua Chigga's features a rocky reef break with sharp coral and rocks, providing a challenging surf experience. Located at latitude 11.9043 and longitude -86.6156, it offers instant access with a short walk from parking in San Diego or Gran Pacifica. The spot works best at high tide, with optimal conditions from a south swell and east winds. Situated north of Playa San Diego, Chigga's boasts an exposed black sand beach that caters to surfers of all skill levels, particularly on smaller days. Its unique location near a golf course and rivermouth adds to its appeal. While the crowd is generally light during the week and weekends, the spot can be inconsistent, so checking swell forecasts is essential for maximizing your surf session. Be cautious of the rocky bottom, as it poses a danger to surfers.

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Quizala

Quizala - Nicaragua Quizala is a beach break that offers both left and right waves, breaking consistently at heights of 0.9 to 1.5 meters, with larger swells reaching up to 3 meters. The sandy bottom provides a fast and hollow ride, particularly on the right, which breaks closer to the river mouth. This spot is accessible within a 5-minute walk and works well at all tides. The best surfing conditions occur from January to May, when offshore winds prevail and rainfall is minimal. With few surfers during the week and on weekends, Quizala presents an excellent opportunity for those seeking less crowded waves. The right wave is known for its long, rippable sections, while the left can also deliver impressive rides on bigger days. Overall, Quizala is a prime destination for surfers looking for consistent and quality waves in a beautiful setting.

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Popoyo

Popoyo (Outer Reef) - Nicaragua Popoyo features a reef break with both left and right waves, characterized by hollow, fast, and powerful conditions. The bottom consists of coral and sharp rocks mixed with sand. This spot is accessible via a short walk (5-15 minutes) from parking near the beach, and it works at all tides, particularly mid to high tide due to the shallow reef at low tide. Popoyo Outer Reef is renowned for its intense waves, making it ideal for experienced surfers seeking thrills. Located about a quarter-mile from the more beginner-friendly Popoyo Main Reef, it offers minimal crowds, often just a few surfers when conditions are optimal. The area is generally safe, but caution is advised due to potential rips and undertow. With offshores prevalent over 300 days a year, this spot stands out as one of the best big-wave locations in Central America, attracting both locals and adventurous surfers alike.

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Pipes

Pipes - Nicaragua Pipes is a beach break featuring hollow and powerful waves that break both right and left over a sandy bottom. The spot is accessible with instant access (less than 5 minutes walk) from parking at an abandoned restaurant. It works best at low tide with rising tide movement, particularly under south to southwest swell conditions. Located just north of Miramar Point, Pipes is known for its barrels, making it a popular choice among experienced surfers. The waves are best suited for small to medium swells, and while it can produce fun performance walls, the rocky areas pose a challenge. Expect a crowded lineup on both weekdays and weekends, so be prepared for competition. Always check the swell direction before heading out to maximize your chances of scoring quality waves.

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Cherrio's

Cherrio's - Playa San Diego Cherrio's features a reef break with a rocky bottom, primarily composed of coral and sharp rocks. This surf spot is accessible from the village of San Diego or by walking south from Gran Pacifica, with instant access in under 5 minutes. It works best at high tide and is influenced by south swells and east winds. Known locally as Chiggas, this spot attracts surfers of all skill levels, particularly on smaller days. The high tide reefs create decent waves, making it a popular choice for both locals and visitors. Its unique location near a golf course and rivermouth adds to its appeal. While conditions can vary, Cherrio's remains a reliable option for a good surf session. Always check swell forecasts to ensure optimal conditions before heading out.

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Hongo Reef

Hongo Reef - Gigante, Nicaragua Hongo Reef features a reef break with flat rocks, delivering hollow and powerful waves that break both right and left. The spot is best at low and mid tides, particularly during falling tide, and offers a fun drop, though rides are typically short unless the right swell arrives. Located in the town of Gigante, access is instant, requiring less than a 5-minute walk from the beach. The wave conditions are ideal with swells coming from the west and southwest, complemented by favorable winds from the south and southeast. While the spot remains mostly empty during the week, expect a few surfers on weekends. Caution is advised due to potential dangers such as urchins and rocks. When the swell is right, Hongo Reef can deliver heavy barrels, making it a thrilling experience for surfers seeking both challenge and fun.

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Playa Remanso

Playa Remanso - San Juan del Sur Playa Remanso features a sandy beach break with both right and left waves, ideal for beginner to intermediate surfers. The spot works best at mid to high tide, with rising and falling tides providing fun conditions. Access is straightforward via a dirt track, suitable for any vehicle, with parking available at a nearby hotel. Located south of San Juan del Sur, El Remanso is a picturesque cove that attracts both locals and visitors. The relaxed atmosphere makes it a great choice for novice surfers looking to hone their skills. While the waves may not be the most challenging, they are manageable and fun, perfect for learning. The beach can get crowded with beginners, so be prepared to share the waves. With a little bar and shaded areas, it’s also a nice spot to unwind after a surf session.

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Miramar

Miramar - Puerto Sandino, Nicaragua Miramar features a powerful left-breaking reef wave over flat rocks, ideal for intermediate surfers. Access is straightforward, with parking available at an abandoned restaurant and an instant walk to the surf spot. The wave works best at low tide during rising tide conditions, with optimal swell coming from the south and wind from the east. Located just south of the Puerto Sandino power plant, Miramar offers a variety of surf options, including pointbreaks and reefbreaks. While the main wave is suited for intermediates, nearby spots like Pipes and Shacks cater to different skill levels, providing fun rights and fast lefts. The area is known for its clean environment and can get crowded, especially on weekends. The prime surf season runs from April to September, attracting surfers looking for solid summer swells. Be cautious of the rocky bottom while enjoying the waves.

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Playa Amarillo

Playa Amarillo - Nicaragua Playa Amarillo features a beach break with both right and left waves, characterized by a sandy bottom interspersed with rocks. The spot is known for its hollow, fast, and powerful waves, making it ideal for experienced surfers, while also being suitable for beginners during smaller swells. Offshore winds prevail 90% of the time, enhancing the surfing experience. This secluded and pristine beach is easily accessible from the town of Gigante, requiring only a short 5-minute walk or drive to reach the main peaks. Playa Amarillo works best at mid to high tide, particularly during rising tide conditions, offering heavy barrels on good swells. With minimal crowds throughout the week and on weekends, surfers can enjoy a tranquil session in paradise. The combination of consistent offshore winds and favorable swell directions from the Northwest, West, and Southwest makes this spot a hidden gem for surfers seeking both fun and challenging waves.

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Asunchillo

Asunchillo - Gran Pacifica Resort, Nicaragua Asunchillo features a beach break with both right and left-hand waves over a sandy bottom. The spot picks up various swells but is best surfed during rising tide and low tide conditions. It can become challenging with unfavorable winds, particularly from the east. Located within the Gran Pacifica Resort area, Asunchillo is ideal for surfers of all levels, especially on smaller days. The spacious beach allows for a comfortable surfing experience, even when crowded with locals on weekends. Access requires a fee, typically around $5, and involves a short walk from the parking area near the Palapas. The atmosphere is laid-back, with friendly local surfers and plenty of peaks to explore. For optimal conditions, aim for sessions when the wind is coming from the east.

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No Names

No Names - Nicaragua This spot features a beach break with sandy bottom, offering fun waves that break both right and left. It is best surfed during low tide with rising tide conditions. The location is somewhat remote, requiring a four-wheel drive for access, and is ideal when other spots are blown out or too large. No Names is a hidden gem for surfers seeking less crowded conditions, as it remains empty during the week and on weekends. While the access can be tricky, with options to park near an abandoned lot or walk south from Padangs, the effort is rewarded with quality surf. Even when the waves appear unorganized, surfers can still find opportunities to execute aerial maneuvers. The optimal wind direction is from the east, and the swell typically comes from the south, making it a reliable choice for adventurous surfers.

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Colorado

Colorado (Playa Colorado) - Nicaragua Colorado is a consistent rivermouth and beach break featuring fast, hollow, and powerful waves. The sandy bottom allows for fun rides, with waves breaking both right and left. This spot works at all tides, making it a reliable choice for surfers. Access is primarily by boat, although staying at nearby accommodations like Dale Dagger's Surf Shack offers instant access. Known for its world-class waves, Colorado attracts a large number of surfers, especially during the peak season from April to August. While the crowd can be intense, the wave's multiple peaks help distribute surfers, providing a more enjoyable experience. Intermediate surfers will find the shallow impact zone challenging, particularly after heavy rains when debris may be present. Despite the popularity, Colorado remains a must-visit for those seeking thrilling shortboarding opportunities in Nicaragua.

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Poneloya Beach Las Penitas

Poneloya Beach Las Penitas - Nicaragua Poneloya features a sandy point break that offers both right and left-hand waves. This surf spot is accessible with instant access from the beach, located just 18 km west of León. It works well at all tides, making it a versatile choice for surfers. This lesser-known gem is ideal for those seeking a more tranquil surfing experience. While it may not catch as much swell as southern spots, Poneloya can deliver quality waves when conditions are right. The beach is sandy, accommodating various skill levels, and the atmosphere is relaxed, with few surfers on weekdays. The proximity to the Playa Roca Beach Hotel enhances convenience, providing amenities like dorms and a restaurant. With its empty lineup and beautiful surroundings, Poneloya is a perfect escape from the crowded surf spots along the coast.

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Puerto Sandino

Puerto Sandino - Playa Miramar, Nicaragua Puerto Sandino features left-breaking sandbar waves over a sandy bottom with rock. The waves are known for being hollow, fast, and powerful, making it an exhilarating spot for experienced surfers. Accessible only by boat, this secluded break is best reached by staying at local surf resorts like Puerto Sandino Surf Resort or Miramar Surf Camp. Located in the friendly fishing village of Playa Miramar, about 2 hours from Managua, this surf spot offers a unique cultural experience alongside its pristine waves. The local community is welcoming, and surfers can expect to connect with residents who are eager to share their knowledge of the area. The best conditions occur during mid to high tide with rising tide movement, complemented by swells from the southwest and south, and favorable winds from the north and northeast. With few surfers on weekdays and weekends, Puerto Sandino provides an ideal escape for those seeking both adventure and tranquility.

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Pie De Gigante Point

Pie De Gigante Point - Playa Gigante Pie De Gigante Point features a powerful left point break over a reef with sharp rocks and sand. The wave offers a fast takeoff near the rocks, leading to a fun wall and a barrel finish. Access is instant, taking less than 5 minutes from the south end of Playa Gigante. This classic surf spot is known for its perfect conditions when it's breaking, attracting few surfers during the week and weekends. The atmosphere is vibrant, and the wave works well with various wind directions. However, surfers should be cautious of dangers such as urchins, rips, and exposed rocks. If you're looking for an exhilarating surf experience, Pie De Gigante Point is a must-visit location.

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Hemorrhoids

Hemorrhoids - Nicaragua Hemorrhoids features a powerful left reef break over sedimentary rock, ideal for experienced surfers. The wave is hollow and fast, breaking at high tide only. Access is straightforward, located just 1 hour from Managua, in front of the Gran Pacifica Hotel, with a short walk required to reach the surf. This spot is known for its vibrant surf scene, attracting crowds from nearby resorts, especially during peak times. While it can get crowded, the atmosphere remains lively. For those seeking less crowded waves, consider paddling south towards San Diego, where additional high tide reefs await. Always check tide and wind conditions before heading out to ensure optimal surfing experiences. Be cautious of the sharp rocks, as they pose a danger in the lineup.

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Pochomil Beach Break

Pochomil Beach Break - Nicaragua Pochomil Beach Break features a sandy bottom with fun beach break waves that break both right and left. The spot is accessible with instant access (less than 5 minutes) from the tourist village, located approximately 2 hours from Managua by bus. This surf destination is ideal for beginner and intermediate surfers, especially during the off-season in January when conditions are favorable. The waves work best at mid and high tide, with optimal swell coming from the southwest and south, complemented by northeast winds. The area remains uncrowded during the week and on weekends, providing a relaxed atmosphere for surfers. Nearby amenities include local ranchos and a popular bar at the river mouth, making it a convenient and enjoyable spot for surf enthusiasts.

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