Nicaragua’s Pacific coast has many faces. While San Juan del Sur attracts the crowds, the northern coastline retains an unspoilt, wild and welcoming soul. Here, between fishing villages, pristine beaches and dormant volcanoes, we find the essence of a still confidential journey. As a team, we wanted to rediscover this discreet region of Nicaragua!
El Tránsito: the simple charm of a fishing village
Around an hour from León, El Tránsito lives to the rhythm of the tides. Its inhabitants, most of whom are fishermen, maintain a warm and friendly atmosphere. The beach, a vast expanse of dark sand, is ideal for a sunset stroll or an impromptu baseball game with the local children. Surfers are also well catered for, with regular but accessible waves.
There are no large hotel complexes here: just a few hostals, boutique hotels and guest houses blending into the background. At the comedor El Encla (to name but one), you can enjoy freshly caught fish, grilled vegetables and Calala juice, all overlooking the ocean.
Nahualapa: a meeting place for surfers
A little further north, after Chinandega, Nahualapa beach unfolds into a wide bay lined with coconut palms. It’s one of the most popular spots among surfers for the quality of its waves. But you don’t need a surfboard to appreciate it: the bay, protected and uncrowded, is perfect for swimming, lounging and spectacular sunsets.
The atmosphere is more bohemian: a few beach huts, charming hotels, beach restaurants and colorful bars welcome travelers and locals alike.
Between volcano and ocean: a perfect day
There’s more to the North Pacific coast than its beaches. Just a stone’s throw from Nahualapa, the Cosigüina volcano dominates the horizon. Its immense crater, invaded by a lagoon, can be discovered after a hike accessible to all, offering a unique panorama: on one side, the infinite Pacific, on the other, the Gulf of Fonseca and the lands of Honduras and El Salvador.
This is the magic of Nicaragua: starting the day on the slopes of a volcano and ending it with your feet in the sand.
