Popoyo, the best Nicaraguan wave!

Walk along the coast. Watch the swell roll in. Feel the east wind. And thinking it might be a good idea to get in the water. Have a session or simply take up surfing or boogie boarding. It couldn’t be better. Nicaragua is a surfing Eldorado!!.. Unlike Costa Rica, Nicaragua is a surfing destination that is still not very popular with surfers. Only addicts and « spot escondidos » hunters know the secret. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced surfer, there are spots for all levels. It’s impossible to find yourself in the middle of a crowd of surfers on the line-up. Exploring the more remote beaches ensures solo surfing in superb conditions.

Popoyo is a legend, a reef-break, a wave that breaks on a slab, a sort of break of the element on a reef. A regular and constant wave, inevitably a little crowded during the tourist season (around Christmas). Avoid surfing at low tide, of course. Are you a beginner? Popoyo offers an alternative, the beginner’s bay, which is easy to find. It is overlooked by the famous Mag Rock and the restaurant bearing its name, Magnific Rock. You and your family can take to the water in the early hours of the morning, although the area is a little less tranquil in terms of accessibility. As you can imagine, a small multi-wheel-drive machine can help. For all seasons, however, it’s useful in Nicaragua and in the secret, sacred paths of Popoyo. THE Popoyo wave, like many of the country’s spots, « works » all year round! A little further out in the ocean is the Outer Reef, a slightly violent wave that some say is « the most brutal in Nicaragua ». Locals only and very good levels only allowed on this lip that can kiss you dangerously especially when it wakes up. It can be up to 20 feet high, about 6 meters. Spectacle guaranteed. Take a look at the video at the end of this article.

When is Popoyo open?

All year round except October. There are over 330 days of off-shore wind, thanks to the presence of inland lakes. January to March is the season for small waves, with off-shore wind that can be strong. In April-May, it’s now! And yes, the southern swells are arriving right now, and the water is a little cooler (let’s not be picky). The global health situation is not conducive to a return trip to Nicaragua at the moment, but plan your next surf-trip! As far as the climate is concerned, it’s no exaggeration to say that the weather is always fine and sunny. Whatever the season, you’re sure to catch some great waves and sunshine

Top 7 surf spots

Bdlr (Editor’s joke): Count 1 session/day/spotMaderas, Popoyo, Colorado, Panga Drops, El Transito, Miramar, BoomWater temperature: 26-28°CWave season: Year-round, biggest waves from March to August