Nicaragua 🇳🇮

San Juan del Sur, ometepe, Granada, Leon

San Juan del Sur

San Juan del Sur is a laid-back coastal town in southern Nicaragua, nestled in a stunning bay and surrounded by lush hills and beautiful beaches. It’s a popular spot for both backpackers and tourists looking to relax, surf, or enjoy the vibrant social scene. The town itself has a friendly, welcoming atmosphere with a mix of local Nicaraguans and international visitors, making it an excellent place for mingling, exploring, and soaking up some sun.

With its mix of great beaches, lively nightlife, and a range of accommodations from budget hostels to more upscale resorts, San Juan del Sur is known as both a relaxation destination and a party hotspot, especially during weekends and holidays.

Beaches in San Juan del Sur:

• San Juan del Sur Beach

• Playa Tamarindo: Playa Tamarindo is a beautiful, more secluded beach about 10-15 minutes south of San Juan del Sur. It’s popular for its golden sand and consistent surf, making it an excellent choice for beginner surfers or those just wanting to relax by the water. The beach is not as crowded as San Juan del Sur Beach, which gives it a more peaceful vibe, and it's also a great place to watch the sunset.

• Playa Hermosa: Playa Hermosa is a stunning, relatively quiet beach located a bit further south of San Juan del Sur. It’s known for its long stretch of golden sand, calm waters, and picturesque setting. It’s less developed than some of the other beaches, which contributes to its peaceful vibe, making it a great spot for swimming, sunbathing, or just enjoying nature. The beach is perfect for those looking to get away from the crowds, and there are a few beachside restaurants where you can grab fresh seafood or a cold drink. The area is also known for its wildlife, and you might spot monkeys or iguanas nearby.

• Playa Maderas: Playa Maderas is one of the best-known surf beaches near San Juan del Sur and is a favorite among surfers due to its consistent waves. Located a short 20-minute drive from the town, it’s also a great spot for a more relaxed vibe, away from the bustle of the main beach. The beach itself is a beautiful stretch of sand surrounded by jungle, and there are a few beachside cafes and surf hostels where you can chill out and watch the surfers in action.

Sunday Funday at Pachamama Hostel:

Sunday Funday is one of San Juan del Sur's most infamous events, and it takes place at Pachamama Hostel, a well-known party hostel. It's a weekly pool party that has earned a reputation as one of the best hostel parties in Central America. Expect a day filled with sun, music, drinks, and a massive crowd of international travelers looking to have a good time.

pachamamanicaragua.com/events

Granada

Granada is one of Nicaragua’s most charming and historic cities, located on the shores of Lake Cocibolca/Lake Nicaragua in the western part of the country. It’s often considered one of the oldest colonial cities in the Americas, founded in 1524, and it’s known for its colorful colonial architecture, cobblestone streets, and lively, welcoming atmosphere. The city offers a perfect blend of cultural exploration, history, and natural beauty, making it a popular destination for both locals and tourists.

The city is surrounded by stunning natural landscapes, including lakes, volcanoes, and lush forests. Granada’s historic center is full of grand old churches, museums, and markets, while the nearby Laguna de Apoyo and Masaya Volcano provide opportunities for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

Laguna Apoyo:

Laguna de Apoyo is a stunning crater lake located about 20 minutes outside of Granada, and it’s one of the most beautiful and peaceful natural spots in Nicaragua. This lake was formed in the crater of a dormant volcano, and its clear blue water is perfect for swimming, kayaking, or simply relaxing on the shore. The surrounding hills and forest provide a serene atmosphere, and there are a number of eco-lodges and cafes around the lake where you can unwind.

Masaya Volcano:

Just a short drive from Granada is Masaya Volcano, one of Nicaragua’s most active volcanoes and a must-see for adventure seekers. The Masaya Volcano National Park offers the unique opportunity to peer into a boiling lava lake from a viewing platform at the summit. The volcano is known as the "gateway to the underworld" in Nicaraguan folklore, and standing at the rim of its crater is a thrilling experience.

Treehouse Party on Fridays:

One of the fun and unique party spots in Granada is the Treehouse, which hosts a lively Friday party that has become a local tradition. The Treehouse is located in the heart of Granada and offers a fantastic rooftop bar with incredible views of the city. The Friday night parties are known for being a great mix of travelers, expats, and locals who come to enjoy live music, DJ sets, and a vibrant atmosphere.

The party kicks off in the evening with drinks, dancing, and mingling. The open-air treehouse setting adds to the fun, offering a relaxed but energetic vibe. It’s a favorite hangout spot for anyone looking to have a good time, meet new people, and experience Granada’s nightlife in a memorable way. The parties are often casual and laid-back, but the energy can definitely pick up as the night goes on.

Ometepe

Ometepe is one of the most unique and stunning destinations in Nicaragua, located in Lake Cocibolca/Lake Nicaragua. The island is formed by two massive volcanoes—Concepción and Maderas—and offers a striking combination of natural beauty, adventure, and culture. Ometepe is famous for its lush landscapes, biodiversity, and outdoor activities, including hiking, swimming, kayaking, and exploring the island’s many waterfalls and natural springs.

The island has a relaxed, rural vibe, with small villages, eco-lodges, and a friendly local population. Visitors can enjoy the tranquility of the island while experiencing its rich history and natural wonders. Ometepe is also a place of cultural significance for the indigenous Chorotega and Nahua peoples, whose traditions and customs are still present today.

Madera Volcano & Waterfalls

Ojo de Agua

Ojo de Agua is a natural spring and freshwater pool located near the base of Maderas Volcano. The crystal-clear waters are fed by underground springs, creating a tranquil and refreshing oasis perfect for swimming and relaxing. The springs are surrounded by beautiful gardens and lush vegetation, making it a peaceful escape for those wanting to cool off in nature.

El Pital

El Pital is a high-altitude area located on the northern side of Ometepe, near the Concepción Volcano. The area is known for its rich biodiversity, including unique plant species, butterflies, and birdlife.

Playa Mangos

Playa Mangos is one of Ometepe’s hidden gems, offering a quiet and beautiful beach on the shores of Lake Cocibolca. This beach is not as crowded as other popular beaches on the island, making it a peaceful place to relax and enjoy the natural beauty. Playa Mangos is also a great spot for kayaking, as the calm waters of the lake provide excellent conditions for paddling.

There’s a small restaurant at Playa Mangos where you can enjoy fresh seafood, Nicaraguan specialties, and cold drinks while taking in the stunning views of the lake and the volcanoes. The combination of kayaking, swimming, and enjoying local food makes Playa Mangos a perfect place for a leisurely day on the water.

Punta Jesus Maria

Punta Jesús María is a narrow peninsula that extends into Lake Cocibolca and is one of the most picturesque spots on Ometepe. It’s a popular spot for visitors looking to take in sweeping views of the lake, surrounding islands, and both Concepción and Maderas volcanoes. The calm waters around Punta Jesús María are also ideal for swimming and kayaking, and the area is a fantastic spot for sunset views.

Charco Verde

Charco Verde is a nature reserve and lagoon on the western side of Ometepe Island. The lagoon is surrounded by lush forest, and visitors can explore the area on walking trails, enjoying the sights and sounds of tropical wildlife along the way. Charco Verde is known for its rich biodiversity, including monkeys, birds, and various reptiles. The lagoon itself is beautiful and serene, offering a quiet and peaceful place to paddle around in a canoe or simply relax by the water.

Cerro Negro Volcano Boarding: BigFoot Hostel

Cerro Negro is one of the most famous and exciting volcanoes in Nicaragua, not just for its incredible views and volcanic landscape, but because it offers the unique activity of volcano boarding—riding down the side of an active volcano on a specially designed board. It’s a thrilling experience that draws adventure-seekers from all over the world.

The hike offers amazing views of the surrounding landscapes, including other volcanoes and the plains of León. The trek isn’t too difficult, but it can be hot and steep.

Once you reach the top, you’ll sit on the board and speed down the slope of loose volcanic sand and gravel, reaching speeds of 50-60 mph (80-100 km/h)! The experience is a mix of thrill and chaos as you zoom down the volcano’s ash-covered slope.

Cerro Negro is still an active volcano, which adds a bit of extra excitement to the experience.

Cathedral-Basillica of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary

The Cathedral-Basilica of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary is one of León’s most iconic landmarks and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Located in the heart of the city, this grand cathedral is the largest in Central America and an architectural masterpiece of colonial-era design. Its pristine white facade and towering spires are an iconic sight, and the interior is equally stunning, with intricate details and impressive artwork.

Playa las Penitas

Playa Las Peñitas is a charming beach located about 30 minutes from León, along the Pacific Coast. It’s a quiet, relaxing beach that is popular for swimming, surfing, and enjoying a laid-back atmosphere. The beach is relatively undeveloped compared to some of Nicaragua’s more famous beaches, so it’s a great spot for travelers looking for a peaceful place to unwind.