6 Best Surf Spots in Southern Nicaragua
From the original women-only surf camp in San Juan del Sur
Nicaragua has earned a place on every surfer’s map, thanks to its year-round swell, reliable offshore winds, and warm Pacific waters. But what makes Southern Nicaragua especially magical is the variety of surf breaks, all within a short drive from town. Whether you’re new to surfing, just learning to paddle out, or you’re refining maneuvers and reading the line-up, there’s a wave here for every stage of your journey.
At Chica Brava, the leading women only surf camp in Nicaragua, we’ve spent years exploring these breaks, and we know how to match each guest’s level with the perfect spot. Here are six of our favorite surf spots in Southern Nicaragua:
1. Playa Maderas
Just north of San Juan del Sur, Maderas is the heart of the local surf scene. Consistent, playful, and with multiple peaks, it’s a great all-around wave for surfers progressing past the beginner stage. It’s also where you’ll get a real feel for Nicaragua’s surf culture: laid-back vibes, stunning sunsets, and a line-up that’s always buzzing.
2. Playa Remanso
A short drive from town, Remanso is one of the most beginner-friendly beaches in the area. Soft takeoffs, sandy bottom, and forgiving waves make it perfect for building confidence and getting lots of reps in. We love using Remanso for foundational coaching and video review sessions as it’s a great place to focus on technique without distractions.
3. Playa Hermosa
True to its name, Hermosa is beautiful, spacious, and super versatile. With multiple peaks and plenty of room to spread out, this beach works well for mixed levels and offers both mellow sections and steeper faces to challenge growing surfers. It’s also one of our favorite locations for surf + chill beach days, thanks to the beach amenities: showers, wifi, hammocks, bathrooms, and a delicious restaurant.
4. Popoyo
A legendary wave in Nicaragua, Popoyo draws surfers from all over the world. The main reef break here offers a long, powerful left and right, making it an ideal spot for intermediate and advanced surfers ready to push their limits. While it’s a bit farther afield, we often recommend it for our more experienced guests extending their trip.
5. Playa Colorados
Known for fast, hollow waves and consistent swell, Colorados is a dream for advanced surfers. It’s a beach break with real punch, and one of Nicaragua’s most photogenic waves when it’s firing. We don’t visit it on every retreat, but for the confident surfer looking for barrels and speed, this one’s a must.
6. Playa Yankee
South of town, Playa Yankee is a heavy, world-class beach break offering powerful lefts and rights. This break is best suited for intermediate surfers and up. It’s a bit remote, but on the right tide and swell, it delivers a thrilling, uncrowded session. Outside of surfing, we love to visit this beach for its breathtaking beauty. Undeveloped, untouched, Central American beauty.
Experience Southern Nicaragua with a Women Only Surf Camp That Knows the Breaks
At Chica Brava, we rotate between the best surf spots in Southern Nicaragua based on the day’s conditions and your skill level. Whether you’re looking for gentle green waves or something steeper and more technical, we’ve got you covered. Our women only surf camp is built around progression, connection, and adventure. You will grow your skills and confidence while surfing incredible waves in a supportive all-female environment.
Ready to ride with us?
Learn to surf in Nicaragua and check out our upcoming retreats and let’s get you paddling out where you belong.