Surf Camps in Nicaragua That You Need To Try (2024)

Looking for the ultimate surf adventure in Nicaragua? We’ve got you covered. 

In 2021, we found ourselves living the dream in Nicaragua for 3 months, a country that’s a vibrant, wave-rich haven for surfers like myself. Let me tell you, if you’re on the hunt for the perfect wave, Nicaragua won’t disappoint you! 

Imagine this: you’re out there, surrounded by Nicaragua’s breathtaking landscapes, with the Pacific’s warm waters beneath you and the steady offshore winds shaping the perfect waves.

There’s more than surfing on offer too. Nicaragua is where the soul of Central America comes alive, with its rich culture, welcoming locals, and untouched natural beauty. It’s where you can ride the waves by day and immerse yourself in the vibrant local life by night.

So, whether you’re looking to carve, cruise, or simply catch your first wave, join me as we dive into the heart of Nicaragua’s surf scene. Let’s take a look at our favourite surf camps:

Best Surf Camps in Nicaragua

1. 6 Day Tranquil Surf Camp in Puerto Sandino, Leon

Location: Miramar Surfcamp, Puerto Sandino, Leon, Nicaragua

Length: 6 Days

Skill Level: Beginner, Intermediate

Why We Recommend This Surf Camp:

Miramar Surfcamp offers an unparalleled surf experience in Nicaragua, blending expert instruction with the serene beauty of Puerto Sandino. Ideal for both beginners and intermediate surfers, this camp promises personalized attention and uncrowded waves, ensuring a memorable and transformative surf journey.

What to Expect:

Expect a harmonious blend of thrilling surf sessions and serene moments. With daily surf lessons tailored to your skill level and the tranquil setting of Miramar Surfcamp, you’ll find the perfect balance between adventure and relaxation, all while being surrounded by Nicaragua’s stunning coastal beauty.

Surf Camp Inclusions:

• 5 nights’ accommodation in the serene Miramar Surfcamp, offering both comfort and breathtaking ocean views.
• 3 daily home-cooked meals, providing a taste of local cuisine with fresh, organic ingredients.
• Daily surf lessons with experienced instructors, ensuring you make the most of the world-class waves.
• Surfboard rental and unlimited water and coffee, keeping you energized and hydrated.
• Roundtrip airport transfers from Managua or Leon, for a hassle-free travel experience.

2. 8 Refreshing Days Surf Camp in San Juan del Sur, Playa Maderas

Location: Dreamsea Surf Camp, Zona Norte, Marsella 250 mts, San Juan del Sur, Rivas Department, Nicaragua

Length: 8 Days

Skill Level: Beginner, Intermediate, Advanced

Why We Recommend This Surf Camp:

Dreamsea Surf Camp is a haven for surf enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Located by the iconic Playa Maderas, this camp offers a unique blend of comfort, exclusivity, and community. It’s the ideal spot for those looking to immerse themselves in Nicaragua’s vibrant culture and pristine natural surroundings, all while improving their surf skills.

What to Expect:

Prepare for an immersive experience that combines the thrill of surfing with the tranquility of yoga and the beauty of Nicaragua’s landscapes. With expertly guided surf lessons, daily yoga sessions, and a variety of weekly activities, you’ll connect with like-minded adventurers and embrace the laid-back lifestyle that makes San Juan del Sur so special.

Surf Camp Inclusions:

• 7 nights in the eco-friendly and comfortable accommodations of Dreamsea Surf Camp, offering a true glamping experience amidst the jungle.
• 10 hours of surf lessons tailored to all skill levels, complemented by daily surf theory to deepen your understanding of the sport.
• 3 hours of yoga lessons to enhance your flexibility and relaxation, perfect for unwinding after a day in the waves.
• Nutritious daily breakfasts and dinners, crafted with local ingredients to fuel your adventures.
• Free access to surf equipment, allowing you to practice and perfect your skills at your own pace.
• A variety of weekly activities, including a Sunday trip to the private Hermosa Beach, ensuring every day is filled with new experiences.
• Transfers to the surf lesson spots, ensuring you’re always at the best location for the day’s conditions.

3. Surf Introduction Camp for Beginners in Playa Popoyo, Rivas

Location: 99 Surf Lodge, Playa Popoyo, Tola, Rivas, Nicaragua

Length: 6 Days

Skill Level: Beginner

Why We Recommend This Surf Camp:

Designed specifically for novices, this surf camp at 99 Surf Lodge offers an idyllic setting for your first taster of surfing. With daily lessons at Beginners Bay and a focus on providing a supportive and enriching learning environment, this camp is the perfect starting point for anyone looking to embrace the surf lifestyle.

What to Expect:

Embrace the laid-back beach life and the thrill of catching your first waves at one of Nicaragua’s most beautiful surf spots. With a dedicated surf instructor, you’ll quickly find your footing and start riding the waves like a pro. The camp’s beachfront location ensures stunning ocean views and easy access to the surf.

Surf Camp Inclusions:

• 5 nights in the stylish and comfortable accommodations of 99 Surf Lodge, where modern design meets the natural beauty of Playa Popoyo.
• A full meal plan at the gourmet restaurant Taberna 99, offering a delightful culinary experience with breakfast, lunch, and dinner included.
• Daily surf lessons tailored to beginners, with surfboard rental included during lesson hours, ensuring you have the right equipment for your skill level.
• Access to the lodge’s facilities, including an infinity pool, gym, and outdoor shower, enhancing your stay with luxury and convenience.

4. SurfYogaBeer – Fitness Holiday in Playa Maderas, San Juan del Sur

Location: Villas Playa Maderas, 8 kilometers north of San Juan del Sur, San Juan del Sur, Rivas Department, Nicaragua

Length: 6 Days

Skill Level: Beginner, Intermediate, Advanced

Why We Recommend This Surf Camp:

SurfYogaBeer Nicaragua offers an invigorating blend of surf, fitness, and fun in the stunning setting of Playa Maderas. This camp is perfect for those looking to combine the thrill of surfing with group workouts and the relaxation of yoga, all while enjoying the tropical paradise of Nicaragua.

What to Expect:

Prepare for action-packed days filled with surfing, stand-up paddleboarding, and fitness sessions designed to energize and inspire. With a catamaran tour included, you’ll explore the beauty of Nicaragua’s coastline from a unique perspective. The camp’s focus on community and shared experiences makes it an ideal choice for solo travelers and groups alike.

Surf Camp Inclusions:

• 5 nights accommodation in the beautiful Villas Playa Maderas, where comfort meets the natural beauty of San Juan del Sur.
• A full fitness program, including daily workouts and yoga sessions, to keep you in top shape for surfing and exploring.
• Surf lessons tailored to all skill levels, from beginners to advanced surfers, ensuring everyone catches the perfect wave.
• A memorable catamaran day trip, offering a chance to snorkel, relax, and soak in the stunning views of Nicaragua’s coastline.
• All meals provided, fueling your adventures with delicious, locally-sourced cuisine.
• Comprehensive transportation services, including all necessary transfers, ensuring a hassle-free experience.
• A SurfYogaBeer welcome package and the services of experienced SurfYogaBeer adventure leaders, enhancing your holiday with expert guidance and insider tips.

5. Multi Day Surf Tour in Nicaragua

Location: Managua, Nicaragua, including San Juan del Sur, Popoyo, and Granada

Length: 9 Days

Skill Level: Beginner, Intermediate, Advanced

Why We Recommend This Surf Tour:

Embark on a surf adventure that takes you through Nicaragua’s most stunning landscapes, from the vibrant coasts of San Juan del Sur and Popoyo to the historic streets of Granada. This tour is a perfect blend of surf, culture, and exploration, offering a comprehensive experience of Nicaragua’s natural beauty and rich heritage.

What to Expect:

Daily surf lessons across Nicaragua’s famed surf spots ensure you’re always riding the best waves. The tour includes private transport, English-speaking assistance, and a variety of self-guided hikes and excursions to immerse you fully in the local culture and landscapes. From the revolutionary past of Managua to the colonial charm of Granada, this tour is a deep dive into the heart of Central America.

Surf Tour Inclusions:

• 8 nights accommodation in carefully selected hotels, offering comfort and local charm.
• Daily surf lessons with equipment rental included, catering to all skill levels and ensuring personalized attention.
• All breakfasts provided, fueling your days with delicious local cuisine.
• Private transport throughout the tour, including airport transfers, ensuring a seamless and comfortable experience.
• A rich itinerary that includes a self-guided hike on the Mombacho Volcano, relaxation at the Laguna de Apoyo, and a night visit to the Masaya Volcano, among other activities.
• English-speaking assistance available 24/7, offering support and insights throughout your journey.

6. Wellness Retreat with Surf, Yoga, and Fitness in Playa Maderas

Location: Villas Playa Maderas, San Juan del Sur, Nicaragua

Length: 6 Days

Skill Level: Beginner, Intermediate, Advanced

Why We Recommend This Retreat:

Set against the backdrop of Nicaragua’s serene Playa Maderas, this wellness retreat by Surf Yoga Beer is the ultimate blend of exhilarating workouts, surf lessons, and yoga sessions. What we like about this one is, it’s designed for those who seek balance between intense physical activity and blissful relaxation. This retreat promises an unforgettable experience of personal growth and fun.

What to Expect:

Dive into a full itinerary of fitness activities, including surf lessons on world-famous waves and yoga sessions that harmonize body and mind. Evenings at this retreat are just as exciting, with themed parties and social gatherings that celebrate the joy of life. The retreat’s secluded beach location offers the perfect setting for a transformative journey.

Retreat Inclusions:

• 5 nights of beachfront accommodation, providing a tranquil and luxurious base for your wellness journey.
• A comprehensive fitness program featuring daily workouts, 2 surf lessons, and 3 yoga sessions, catering to all levels and designed to energize and inspire.
• A 60-minute massage to soothe your muscles and enhance relaxation, ensuring you’re rejuvenated for the next day’s activities.
• A catamaran day trip, adding an element of adventure and the opportunity to explore Nicaragua’s stunning coastal beauty.
• 4 breakfasts and 4 dinners, offering nutritious and delicious meals to fuel your active days and nights.
• Full transportation services, including roundtrip airport shuttles, ensure a hassle-free experience from start to finish.
• An SYB welcome package, along with the services of SYB Adventure Leaders, to guide you through each day’s activities and ensure a memorable retreat.

7. Surf and Yoga Holiday in Punta Aposentillo, Chinandega

Location: Amaru Wellbeing Resort, Punta Aposentillo, Aposentillo, Nicaragua

Length: 8 Days

Skill Level: Beginner

Why We Recommend This Holiday Package:

Amaru Wellbeing Resort offers an idyllic setting for a surf and yoga holiday, nestled within walking distance from a variety of uncrowded waves, including the renowned Boom. This package is perfect for those looking to combine the exhilaration of surfing with the tranquility of yoga, all in a stunning, serene location.

What to Expect:

Start your days with a pre-breakfast and choose between an early morning surf or a rejuvenating yoga session. Enjoy ample free time to explore, relax by the pool, or indulge in a massage. The resort’s intimate setting fosters a communal atmosphere, ideal for sharing experiences and making new friends.

Holiday Package Inclusions:

• 7 nights accommodation in the elegant and comfortable rooms of Amaru, designed to cater to various group sizes, from solo travelers to families.
• 5 yoga and/or meditation classes held in the resort’s ocean-view yoga shala, providing a serene backdrop for your practice.
• Unlimited use of surfboards, allowing you to catch waves at your leisure, with the Boom just a 5-minute walk away.
• One massage to help you unwind and rejuvenate after active days.
• Round-trip airport transfers on Fridays and Saturdays for packages longer than 5 days, ensuring a hassle-free journey to and from the resort.
• Three daily meals lovingly prepared by the resort’s staff, along with all-day availability of coffee, tea, and a pre-breakfast bar featuring granola, fruits, and home-made bread.
• High-speed Wi-Fi to keep you connected, should you choose to be.

Nicaragua’s surf paradise, it’s clear that this enchanting country offers more than just waves; it’s a gateway to an unforgettable adventure. From the seasoned surfers to the yoga enthusiasts seeking tranquility by the sea, Nicaragua welcomes all with open arms and endless swells. So, pack your boards, bring your spirit of adventure, and let Nicaragua’s shores be the backdrop to your next epic story.

Best Surfing Spots in Nicaragua

Nicaragua, with its pristine beaches and consistent offshore winds courtesy of Lake Nicaragua, has become a must-visit destination on every surfer’s map. From powerful barrels to gentle rollers, this Central American gem offers a diverse array of waves catering to every level of surfer,

1. Popoyo

Popoyo is one of Nicaragua’s most famous surf spots, known for its reliable and challenging waves. This reef break offers both left and right-hand waves, attracting intermediate to advanced surfers. The outer reef, also known as Popoyo Outer Reef, has waves that can reach epic proportions, making it a site for truly experienced surfers seeking adrenaline-pumping rides.

2. Playa Maderas

Just a stone’s throw from the bustling surf town of San Juan del Sur, Playa Maderas is a haven for surfers of all levels. This beach break is renowned for its consistent waves, making it an ideal spot for both beginners looking to catch their first wave and seasoned surfers looking to perfect their maneuvers. The laid-back vibe, stunning sunsets, and vibrant local community add to the allure of Playa Maderas.

3. Playa Colorado

Tucked away within the Hacienda Iguana beach community, Playa Colorado is famous for its fast and hollow tubes, offering one of the best beach breaks in the country. This spot is a magnet for advanced surfers, especially during the rainy season when the swells are at their peak. The waves here are powerful and demand respect, making for an exhilarating surfing experience.

4. Playa Santana

Known for its consistent surf, Playa Santana is a favorite among locals and visitors alike. This beach break can produce a variety of wave types, catering to different skill levels. On its best days, Santana offers up steep, fast waves that can challenge even the most seasoned surfers, while on calmer days, it’s a great spot for those looking to improve their skills in a less intimidating setting.

5. Punta Miramar

Located near the city of León, Punta Miramar is a lesser-known gem that offers a mix of reef and beach breaks. This spot is ideal for surfers looking to escape the crowds and enjoy a variety of waves. With consistent swells and multiple peaks to choose from, Punta Miramar provides a surfing experience that feels both personalized and adventurous.

6. Astillero

Astillero is a quiet fishing village that opens up to a beautiful beach break with occasional reef sections. This spot is known for its uncrowded waves and friendly atmosphere, making it a perfect getaway for surfers looking to enjoy the essence of Nicaraguan surf culture. The waves here are suitable for all levels, from beginners to advanced surfers looking for a laid-back session.

Each of these surf spots in Nicaragua offers a unique vibe and wave, promising an unforgettable surf adventure. Whether you’re paddling out into the lineup at Popoyo or watching the sunset after a session at Playa Maderas, Nicaragua’s surf spots are something unforgettable! Grab your surfboard, and check it out! 

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