From surf’s up to downtime, San Juan del Sur serves up a laidback slice of coastal Nicaragua. Life here revolves around the southern Pacific coves and curves of beach, presided over by this country’s version of Christ the Redeemer. With the scent of fritanga and the sound of merengue beats in the air, there’s now a buzz about this once-sleepy fishing village.
SURF
Mother nature has created the perfect conditions for learning – or mastering – surfing in San Juan del Sur. Ever-present swells and relatively reef-free waters are ideal for catching waves, and you’ll find surf schools dotted along the coastline.
BEACH
At Playa La Flor turtles lay their eggs by starlight. On Playa Maderas surfers skim the waves. And Playa El Coco promises beautiful white sands. Many come to San Juan del Sur for its collection of beaches, and it’s easy to see why – with a cove for every mood and moment.
LANDMARKS
It’s worth the hillside hike to enjoy a close-up look at Cristo de la Misericordia – a soaring statue that towers over San Juan del Sur. There are few other statues of Jesus as towering, or as impressive. Or take a walk back through time to see the rock-carved petroglyph thought to date back to the Middle Ages.
Time your visit for September or October, following the lunar cycle, to bear witness to an extraordinary wildlife wonder – as thousands of endangered olive ridley turtles come to lay their eggs.
