Things to Do in San Juan del Sur, Nicaragua

San Juan del Sur is Nicaragua's premier beach destination, a crescent-shaped bay town on the Pacific coast that perfectly balances laid-back surf culture with vibrant nightlife. This former fishing village has evolved into a backpacker haven and increasingly popular destination for travelers seeking pristine beaches, world-class surfing, and authentic Central American charm. The town's colorful colonial architecture lines the malecón (waterfront promenade), while the iconic Christ of the Mercy statue overlooks the bay from the surrounding hills. Beyond its stunning coastline, San Juan del Sur serves as a gateway to some of Nicaragua's most beautiful beaches and outdoor adventures. The area offers everything from turtle nesting tours and sportfishing to volcano boarding and colonial city excursions. With its affordable prices, friendly locals, and growing expat community, San Juan del Sur has become a must-visit destination for travelers exploring Central America's Pacific coast.

Top Things to Do in San Juan del Sur

Surfing Lessons and Board Rental

San Juan del Sur offers excellent surf conditions for beginners and intermediate surfers, with consistent waves year-round and several surf schools along the beach. The main bay provides gentle waves perfect for learning, while nearby beaches like Maderas and Remanso offer more challenging breaks. Local instructors are experienced and equipment is readily available for rent.

Booking Tip: Surf lessons cost $25-35 USD for 2 hours including board rental. Book directly with beachfront schools for best rates, and aim for early morning sessions (7-9 AM) when winds are calmer. Look for schools that provide rash guards and have certified instructors.

Sportfishing Charters

The Pacific waters off San Juan del Sur offer world-class sportfishing opportunities, with chances to catch marlin, sailfish, mahi-mahi, and yellowfin tuna. Full-day and half-day charters are available, ranging from budget-friendly pangas to luxury sportfishing boats. The fishing is excellent year-round, with peak seasons varying by species.

Booking Tip: Half-day trips cost $300-600 USD for up to 6 people, full-day $800-1200 USD. Book 2-3 days in advance during high season. Choose operators with good safety records and recent boat maintenance - ask to see the vessel before booking.

Sea Turtle Nesting Tours

From July to December, several beaches near San Juan del Sur become nesting grounds for olive ridley and leatherback sea turtles. Guided nighttime tours take visitors to protected nesting sites where you can witness these magnificent creatures laying eggs or watch baby turtles make their first journey to the ocean. These tours support local conservation efforts.

Booking Tip: Tours cost $15-25 USD per person and run from 8 PM to midnight. Book through your hotel or local tour operators, and choose tours that support official conservation projects. Bring insect repellent and a red flashlight if you have one.

Day Trip to Granada

Nicaragua's colonial jewel, Granada, makes for an excellent day trip from San Juan del Sur, featuring colorful Spanish colonial architecture, historic churches, and the famous Islets of Granada on Lake Nicaragua. The city offers excellent restaurants, artisan markets, and the opportunity to climb Mombacho Volcano or take a horse-drawn carriage tour through the historic center.

Booking Tip: Organized day trips cost $45-65 USD including transportation and guide. Alternatively, take a chicken bus for $3-5 USD each way (3-4 hours) for a more authentic experience. Start early to maximize your time in Granada.

Beach Hopping to Nearby Beaches

San Juan del Sur serves as a perfect base for exploring some of Nicaragua's most beautiful Pacific beaches, including Playa Maderas (famous for surfing), Playa Marsella (pristine and less crowded), and Playa Hermosa (great for swimming and sunbathing). Each beach has its own character and can be reached by taxi, rental car, or organized tours.

Booking Tip: Taxi rides to nearby beaches cost $10-20 USD each way. Rent a scooter for $15-25 USD per day for more freedom, or join beach-hopping tours for $30-40 USD including transportation and guide. Always negotiate taxi fares in advance.

Getting There

San Juan del Sur is located about 140 kilometers south of Managua, Nicaragua's capital. The most common route is flying into Managua's Augusto C. Sandino International Airport, then taking a shuttle service (2.5-3 hours, $35-45 USD), rental car, or chicken bus ($3-5 USD, 4-5 hours with transfers). Some visitors also arrive overland from Costa Rica via the Peñas Blancas border crossing, which is about 45 minutes south. Shuttle services from popular Costa Rican destinations like Manuel Antonio or Tamarindo are available through tour operators.

Getting Around

San Juan del Sur is a small town easily walkable within the main area, with most hotels, restaurants, and the beach within a few blocks of each other. For longer distances or beach hopping, taxis are readily available and inexpensive ($1-3 USD within town, $10-20 USD to nearby beaches). Many visitors rent scooters or motorcycles ($15-25 USD per day) for exploring surrounding beaches, though roads can be rough during rainy season. Bicycle rentals are also available for $5-10 USD per day. For day trips to Granada or other distant destinations, organized tours or rental cars are recommended.

Where to Stay

Town Center Near the Beach

Hillside with Bay Views

Beachfront Hotels and Resorts

Budget Hostels in Town

Playa Maderas Area

Playa Marsella Vicinity

Food & Dining

San Juan del Sur's dining scene perfectly reflects its international surf town vibe, offering everything from traditional Nicaraguan gallo pinto and fresh seafood to international cuisine catering to backpackers and expats. Beachfront restaurants serve excellent grilled fish, lobster, and shrimp, while local sodas (small family restaurants) offer authentic and affordable Nicaraguan dishes. The town has embraced international flavors with Italian pizzerias, Mexican taquerias, and even sushi restaurants. Most restaurants are concentrated along the main beach road and in the town center, with many offering happy hour specials and live music. Don't miss trying the local rum, Flor de Caña, and fresh fruit smoothies from beach vendors.

When to Visit

San Juan del Sur enjoys a tropical climate with two distinct seasons. The dry season (November to April) is the most popular time to visit, offering sunny skies, minimal rainfall, and ideal conditions for beach activities and surfing. However, this is also peak season with higher prices and larger crowds. The rainy season (May to October) brings afternoon showers and higher humidity but also lush green landscapes, fewer tourists, and better deals on accommodation. Surfing is excellent year-round, while turtle nesting season (July-December) overlaps with both seasons. For the best balance of good weather and reasonable prices, consider visiting during the shoulder months of May or November.

Insider Tips

Download the offline maps before arriving, as WiFi can be spotty and cell service weak in some beach areas - having navigation will help you explore confidently.

Always carry small bills (córdobas or US dollars) as many local businesses and taxi drivers cannot make change for large denominations.

The Sunday Market is the best place to buy fresh produce, local crafts, and interact with locals - it's held in the town center and much more authentic than tourist shops.

Things to Do in San Juan del Sur