The best surf trip in Nicaragua

With over 330 days of off-shore wind and solid swells all year round, Nicaragua has gradually become a must for surf enthusiasts. When it comes to waves, there’s something for everyone, from numerous beach breaks to point breaks and reef breaks, from small waves for learning and progressing to real bombs for having a blast… Nicaragua’s beaches are now considered the best spots in Central America, and not just because you can surf them all year round in your swimming trunks.

A surf trip to Nicaragua has to be earned. It might be easier to go to Morocco or Costa Rica. Adventure is at the end of the road, and you won’t regret it. Nicaragua is considered the safest country in Central America, and the people are warm and authentic, for the simple reason that mass tourism has not yet arrived. In the water, on the line-ups, it’s all the same: you’ll have the pleasure of sharing your sessions with friendly, passionate locals. If you’re looking for more « secret » spots, the locals will be delighted to point you in the right direction. Far from the stereotypical localism of surfing, Nicaragua welcomes its travellers, and surfers are always welcome.

Unlike its neighbor Costa Rica, Nicaragua is not yet very well known or visited. This guarantees you great sessions, alone or in good company. No traffic jams on the spot, no need to wait your turn. The waves are clean and suitable for all levels, and from north to south you’re in for a real treat when you arrive on the beach. Of course, the beaches in the south are starting to become well known, notably the famous Popoyo wave and the many spots around San Juan Del Sur. But a few kilometers further north, the real exploration begins. You’ll have the chance to discover pristine beaches and waves empty of tourists. A few locals are always in the water, with a smile and a good mood, and all you have to do is slip in a smiling « Hola » to become part of the team. In the evening, you’re likely to share a drink with them, and find out more about the next spot you’re aiming for. Secrets are shared.

With ambient temperatures approaching 30 degrees all year round and water temperatures in excess of 25 degrees, Nicaragua offers comfortable and ideal surfing conditions all year round. Don’t pack a wetsuit, as this makes more room for your collection of swimming shorts. Don’t forget your sun cream, of course. The biggest waves of the year often arrive before the arrival of tropical storms during the rainy season between May and November. Rainy season? Note that this is far from a deluge. It rains regularly and abundantly in September and October, and no more. The dry season, from December to April, is more than interesting. The off-shore wind is strong and constant, so conditions are more than favorable. It’s virtually impossible to go a day without getting in the water.

And no, it’s not just surfing! If your arms ache a little and your physical condition falters a little, you won’t be bored for all that. Nicaragua has a truly unspoilt environment and landscape, with nature everywhere and in all its diversity. You can take in the fresh air in the north of Nicaragua, visit coffee fincas, relax on the shores of warm freshwater lakes and contemplate the incredible views from the summits of volcanoes. Travelling around the country is a real pleasure, as you pass through some colonial towns rich in architecture and history before reaching your next surf spot.