Overview

Once a sleepy Pacific coast village, San Juan del Sur has transformed into a beloved destination for backpackers and surfers, drawn by its stunning beaches and breathtaking sunsets. Situated on the Pacific coast at the southern tip of Nicaragua, it's just an hour's drive from the Costa Rican border. This charming town boasts a history and culture dating back to the 1800s, initially settled by gold miners. Today, it offers a laid-back atmosphere that attracts surfers, adventurers, and travelers eager to soak in Nicaragua’s relaxed coastal vibe.

Things to See and Do

Learn to Surf at a Surf Camp. Nicaragua is one of the best places to learn how to surf. There are plenty of surf camps to choose from, and guided surf tours are available as well. And, if you don’t want to surf with a surf camp, then simply head to one of the many beaches, with a variety of surf spots in the area suitable for all skill levels.

If you want to learn how to surf, Playa Maderas is the perfect place to do so. Located about 20 minutes from town, this beautiful beach is known for its consistent waves and friendly vibes. It’s a great place for beginners, and several surf schools in the area offer lessons and rentals. Surf camps are a great option for those who want to fully immerse themselves in the surf culture. Playa El Yankee is a beautiful and secluded beach with boards for rent and lessons available. The great thing about surfing in San Juan del Sur is that there are often lots of beach bars and shacks on the beach, so you can take frequent breaks to buy snacks and a drink as you please.

Take a beach day…or a few. San Juan del Sur is home to several amazing beaches that are perfect for lounging, surfing, and soaking up the rays. Playa Maderas (mentioned above) is one of the most popular beaches in the area. It’s known for its beautiful white sand, clear blue waters, and offers several surf schools, as well as restaurants and bars. A 10-minute drive from the town, Playa Remanso is a quieter and more secluded beach that is perfect for relaxation. There are several others that make for a perfect beach day as well.

Enjoy some outdoor adventure. If you’re looking to explore the surrounding area, there are several hiking and biking trails to discover. One popular spot is the Mirador de La Cruz, which offers breathtaking views of the town and the Pacific Ocean. Horseback riding is another unique way to enjoy the area. Ride the hillsides around San Juan del Sur while taking in the sites of wildlife and spectacular views of the coastline. Several stables in the area offer guided tours through the countryside and along the beach.

Go Ziplining. This is a great adrenaline-pumping adventure! Fly above forest canopies with tropical birds, monkeys, sloths, and even some waterfalls. The views of the Pacific Ocean and the surrounding countryside are breathtaking. Many of the ziplining tours also include suspension bridges, rappelling, and climbing walls. It’s the perfect way to get a bird’s-eye view of the area and experience the natural beauty of Nicaragua.

Visit the Christ of the Mercy Viewpoint. Located about a mile outside of town, this viewpoint offers stunning views of the surrounding area and is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. The Christ of Mercy (locally known as El Cristo de la Misericordia) is almost like a smaller version of ‘Christ the Redeemer’ in Rio. To get here, you can either walk or drive up the hill. The walk takes about 20 minutes and offers a moderate level of difficulty, with some steep inclines. The drive is a bit easier, with a paved road leading up to the viewpoint. Once you reach the top, you’ll be rewarded with views of the Pacific Ocean, the surrounding mountains, and the town of San Juan del Sur. In addition to the beautiful views, the Mirador del Cristo de la Misericordia is also home to a statue of Jesus Christ. The statue is quite large, standing at 80 feet tall, and it’s made of marble and concrete. It’s great walking up just before sunset as the weather can be cooler and the colors of the sky are truly unbelievable!

Take in the party scene. In peak season, San Juan del Sur is known for its lively party scene! Every Sunday the town has a massive pub crawl where all the backpackers gather and barhop all day and into the night. It’s called Sunday Funday! There’s even a Sunday Funday Pool Crawl for those looking to cool down in the heat. It’s a great way to meet people and have fun. Many bars have live music and drink specials during the week.

Enjoy a catamaran cruise. heading out on the ocean is undoubtedly one of the best things to do in the area. There are plenty of options for catamaran cruises. Many of the full-day package deals include food and drinks, as well as stops throughout the trip so you can jump out for a swim. You’ll also want to give snorkeling a try as the waters are so clear.

Markets & Shopping