Best Beginner Surf Spots in Nicaragua
Home to some big waves, Nicaragua also has plenty of beginner-friendly beach breaks for those who are in the learning stages.
The Best Beginner Spots
Playa Santana
Crowds - Not really
Surfer Level - Beg/Intermed
Ideal Swell - S/SE
Ideal Wind - N/NW
Break Type - Beach
Consistency - 80%
Be Aware: People
Playa Remanso
Crowds - Somewhat
Surfer Level - Beginner, Intermediate
Ideal Swell - S for the good swells
Ideal Wind - NE
Break Type - Beach
Consistency - 70%
Be Aware: Rocks
Beginner Bay
Crowds - Somewhat
Surfer Level - Beg/Intermed.
Ideal Swell - S/SE
Ideal Wind - N/NW
Break Type - Beach
Consistency - 90%+
Be Aware: Lots of people
Playa Santana, Popoyo
Located just south of Popoyo, Playa Santana is a super long beach with a ton of breaking waves and peaks. There are some better intermediate waves toward the middle and southern end of the beach,but the north end is the place to be for beginner waves. One thing we like about this beach for beginners and surf camps is the ability to progress. Once comfortable on the whitewash, there are a ton of small green waves to begin practicing trimming down the line, turning, or simply catching green waves. This progression willh elp you move from beginner into the beginner/intermediate territory.
El Remanso, San Juan del Sur
El Remanso is just south of San Juan del Sur, an awesome surf town on the Pacific Coast. A relatively small break in a small bay, there is some reef to contend with. There are both left and right peaks, and plenty of whitewash. Although the beginner waves here are small and good for learning, the shape of the bay can cause them to have some serious force for their size, making them ideal beginner waves.
Beginner Bay, Popoyo
The name here says it all. Right in Popoyo, Beginner Bay is probably the best beginner surf spot in NIcaragua in our opinion. It’s a little bay with whitewater that actually breaks down a line. The water is fairly deep and safe, headed to the left, and almost always mushy. There are surf shacks and schools right on the beach, and plenty of rentals and coaches to help you learn to surf.
If you have any questions about the right surf spot for you or your friends/family, reach out. We’re happy to help you find the best beginner surfing spot in Nicaragua for your needs and highlight what each place has to offer.
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