Playa Maderas

Playa Maderas is one of Nicaragua's most popular and photogenic beaches. Located just a short drive north of the party town San Juan del Sur, Maderas provides a more relaxed yet spirited atmosphere. The beach is famous for its distinctive rock cliffs rising from the Pacific and the dense jungle that reaches right down to the sand. Surfers appreciate the year-round good conditions, with waves suitable for both intermediates and beginners eager to learn. The area around Playa Maderas has evolved into a hub for digital nomads and wellness enthusiasts, featuring trendy eco-lodges and cafes offering healthy food and yoga classes. Hiking trails lead to hidden viewpoints with panoramic vistas of the coast. At low tide, you can explore neighboring bays like Playa Marsella on foot. Despite its popularity, the place has retained its natural charm, as buildings are mostly tucked away discreetly in the greenery. Access is easy via shuttle buses from San Juan del Sur. The best time to visit is the dry season, though the 'green season' (rainy season) is also attractive due to the lush vegetation.

Nearby cities

Rivas

Strategic city located between Lake Nicaragua and the Pacific Ocean.

San Jorge

The main port for ferry service to Ometepe Island.

Belén

A small agricultural municipality in the department of Rivas.

Potosí

A municipality in the department of Rivas dedicated to agriculture.

Moyogalpa

The main port and largest town on Ometepe Island.

Altagracia

Second largest town on Ometepe with a rich pre-Hispanic history.

Tola

Municipality with some of the most famous surf beaches in Nicaragua.

Buenos Aires

A small municipality on the shores of Lake Nicaragua.

Cárdenas

A border municipality with Costa Rica on the shores of Lake Nicaragua.

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Playa Gigante

A laid-back fishing village on the Pacific coast, famous for world-class surf breaks and an authentic Nicaraguan atmosphere.

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Popoyo

A legendary surfing hotspot with world-class waves, a laid-back atmosphere, and beautiful, remote bays.

History & landmarks

Christ of the Mercy Statue

A gigantic statue of Christ on a hill overlooking the bay of San Juan del Sur, offering sweeping views of the ocean.

More places

Port of San Juan del Sur

The Port of San Juan del Sur is the most important passenger and cruise port in Nicaragua on the Pacific coast.

Sanctuary of Jesús del Rescate

An important pilgrimage center in Popoyuapa, Rivas.

Amayo Wind Farm

The Amayo wind farm in Rivas was the first major wind power project in Nicaragua.

Camilo Ortega Wind Farm

Also located in the Rivas region, the Camilo Ortega wind farm further contributes to the diversification of Nicaragua's energy matrix.

La Flor Wildlife Refuge

An important nesting beach for Olive Ridley sea turtles on the Pacific coast.

Charco Verde Butterfly Garden

A butterfly sanctuary within the mystical Charco Verde lagoon on Ometepe.

Finca San Juan de la Isla

A hacienda on Ometepe that combines agriculture with tourism.

Ojo de Agua

Two natural swimming pools with crystal-clear water of volcanic origin.