The Ultimate Emerald Coast of Nicaragua Travel Guide
Where to stay, the best surf breaks and beaches, things to do, restaurants, transportation and practical tips from travelers who spend part of every year here.
Our first trip to Nicaragua's Emerald Coast turned into something much bigger than a vacation—we eventually bought a condo here and now spend part of every year exploring everything this incredible stretch of coastline has to offer. From surfing world-class waves and discovering the amazing beaches to enjoying fresh food and unforgettable sunsets (like the one pictured here), we've come to know this region far beyond the typical tourist experience.
This guide is built from our firsthand experiences and includes the places we genuinely recommend, the mistakes we would avoid, and everything we wish we had known before our first visit.
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Plan Your Trip
Best Place for a Resort Stay?
Rancho Santana
Best Area for Surfers?
Hacienda Iguana
Best for Nightlife?
San Juan Del Sur
Do I Need Insurance?
Highly Recommended
Is There More Than Surfing?
Yes!
Best Way to Get Around?
Rental Car
In This Guide
Emerald Coast Quick Facts
Where is Nicaragua’s Emerald Coast?
Best Time to Visit
How to Get There
Where to Stay
Best Beaches and Surf Breaks
Things to Do
Best Restaurants
What to Pack
Travel Tips
Frequently Asked Questions
How do we get there? When should we go? Where do we stay?
You’ll want to fly into Managua International Airport. From there, it’s about a 2.5-3 hour drive, depending on where you stay.
Nicaragua is great any time of the year but it will depend on what you want to do while you’re visiting. The wet season is from May to October, but it’s a typical tropical rainy season where it may rain for brief amounts of time - this is also the best time for surfing. It can be hot and humid but I don’t mind it. I would avoid October, it’s usually pretty dead and some restaurants are closed.
I recommend staying in one of these three places on the Emerald Coast: (1) San Juan del Sur (SJDS), (2) Hacienda Iguana, or (3) Rancho Santana.
SJDS is known to be a party. They have epic “Sunday Funday” pool crawls (think bar crawl style), great bars but also beautiful beaches. I recommend staying here if you want some fun nightlife, some good beach time and a little more action. Surfable waves are also close by.
Hacienda Iguana is laid back. It’s a gated community on the coast packed with people on surf trips, expats who live there full or part-time and locals. Hacienda has a handful of delicious restaurants and two world class surf breaks. This is where we choose to stay.
Rancho Santana has more of a resort feel. The hotel here is beachfront and the property is STUNNING (pictured on the right). They also have homes for rent. Similar to Hacienda, this is a gated community with a mix of people and retired expats. The property has a handful of restaurants, a spa and tons of amenities (horseback riding, bike tours, surf lessons, etc.) If you’re looking for a resort style vacation, this is your place.
Emerald Coast Quick Facts
Location: Southwest Coast of Nicaragua
Nearest Major Airport: Augusto C. Sandino International Airport in Managua (MGA)
Transfer Time: 2-2.5 hours
Do You Need a Car?: We recommend one!
Best Time to Visit: November to April is dry season but the best surf is often May to October
Best for: Surfing, beach lovers, couples, families, digital nomads and wellness retreats
Recommended trip length: 7-10 days
Currency: Nicaraguan Córdoba but most places accept U.S. Currency and credit cards
I often get asked, “what do you do in Nicaragua?” Nicaragua is a well known surfer’s destination…..but I don’t surf. My husband does, but not me. Yet, I still find plenty to fill my days. These are some of the most fun things to do in Nicaragua:
Obviously, surfing is number one. Nicaragua is consistently named as having some of the best waves in the world. But, if you’re like me and don’t know how, you can easily take lessons. Most of the best beaches have surf schools. Playa Maderas, Popoyo, Playa Colorados and Playa Santana.
Take a trip to Ometepe Island - An island made up of two different volcanoes. This half day tour will show you the highlights and you can see some of Nica’s beautiful flora and fauna. You can also do this full day tour which includes a stop in the historical city of Granada and the wonderful market in Masaya.
Volcano boarding is a thing here. Pictured on the right, you’re basically sledding down the side of a volcano. It’s an insane experience and so much fun. (Picture courtesy of Vamos Travel).
Turtle watching is one of my favorite things to do. Last time we were here, we saw a baby turtle heading for the ocean. If you’re here between July-January, visit La Flor Reserve when the turtles typically nest. Hatching takes place about 50 days after a nest is laid.
Need transportation from Managua?
Restaurant Recommendations
Have a Hortaleña cocktail while you watch the sunset at La La Finca y El Mar at Rancho Santana. La Finca utilizes the on-site garden to make seasonal, fresh dishes that are absolutely delicious.
Pili’s is the beach club restaurant at Hacienda Iguana and it is delicious. They also use the freshest ingredients from local farmers and ranchers. They serve breakfast, lunch and dinner and have a really great happy hour. Pili’s is where the community congregates to watch the sunset, jump in the pool or play sand volleyball.
The Beach House in SJDS is a favorite restaurant of ours. Their Poké bowl is outstanding and so fresh. We’ve heard some news that it’s been closed lately but I can’t confirm or deny. Dale Pues is also an amazing restaurant.
Downtown Iguana (in Hacienda Iguana) has some of the best ceviche I’ve ever had. It’s so good!
In Gigante is a little beach bar called Juntos. It’s right on the beach, two floors, has a pool table and often has live music or a dj.
If you’re looking for a stunning view to sip on your cocktail. Head to Magnific Rock (pictured on the right). This place has an incredible view that can’t be missed. 2-for-1 happy hour cocktails doesn’t hurt either.
Bottom Line
Nicaragua is an incredible country with wonderfully kind people. This a trip for people who love the beach and want to experience a laid back vacation with fresh food and plenty of fun. We love it so much that we decided to buy a condo here! You can follow our journey on Insta! You’ll catch us hanging with the monkeys at Hacienda Iguana. :)