Things to Do in San Juan del Sur

Catching a wave at Playa Maderas

Waves crash nonstop. Surfers shout as they paddle through the break. Cool spray hits your face while you wait for a set. Green hills frame dark sand.

Watching the sunset from the Christ of the Mercy statue

The hill climbs steep. Sweat trickles. Twenty-four meters of concrete Christ loom overhead. Below, the whole horseshoe bay spreads out. Fishing boats nod. The sky blushes pink.

Sailing on a catamaran cruise

Sails snap overhead. The deck thrums under bare feet. Hidden beaches slide past. The water glows an unreal blue. Crew hand up grilled snapper still hot from the galley.

Walking the shoreline to Playa Remanso

Start at the north end of the main beach. Rocky outcrops hiss on the left. Dry brush crackles underfoot. The trail ends on a quiet cove where town noise fades.

Experiencing a Sunday Funday pool crawl

Music thumps. Pools splash. The crowd skews young and stays young.

Stay downtown. Bars hum outside your window.

Climb the hill. Villas overlook the bay. Birds replace bass.

Maderas keeps it simple. Hostels and cabins steps from the break.

Playa Remanso is quieter still, good for travelers wanting more isolation.

The road to Marsella has a few tucked-away lodges with a jungle feel.

Playones offers bare cabanas. Ocean roar lulls you to sleep.