This coastal town on Nicaragua's Pacific coast draws surfers to its curved beach and consistent waves. Small fishing boats dot the bay near seafood restaurants and beach bars.
San Juan del Sur sits in a crescent-shaped bay in southwestern Nicaragua. You can surf at nearby beaches, swim in the calm waters of the main beach, or climb to the 134-meter Christ of the Mercy statue. The town's streets are lined with small bars and seafood restaurants, and the surrounding coastline stretches south toward Costa Rica with multiple beaches for swimming and surfing.
Surf Spots Near San Juan del Sur
The main town beach has calm waters, but you'll find good surfing spots just outside town. Playa Maderas, 20 minutes north, has waves year-round and several surf schools. More experienced surfers can head to Playa Hermosa or Playa Remanso, which have stronger waves during the north swells from December through March.
Christ of the Mercy Viewpoint
The Christ statue stands 134 meters above sea level and ranks among the ten largest Jesus statues worldwide. A paved road leads to the top, taking about 15 minutes to walk. The viewing platform looks out over the bay, mountains, and on clear days, the Costa Rican coastline. The site closes at 5:30 PM, making it ideal for watching the sunset.
Getting Around the Area
The town center is compact - you can walk between most places within 10 minutes. Regular shuttle vans connect to Playa Maderas and Playa Hermosa throughout the day. Many hostels and hotels run their own shuttle services to popular beaches and nearby spots.
Safety and Practical Tips
Stay in groups after dark and watch your belongings, especially during the Sunday Funday pool parties. At night, the beach area has minimal lighting, so stay on the main streets in town. The peak season runs from December to April, with temperatures around 30°C (86°F) and minimal rain. During these months, book your accommodation well in advance.
