Popoyo

Popoyo is the heart of the Nicaraguan surf scene. Located in the Rivas region, this stretch of coastline benefits from constant offshore winds from Lake Nicaragua, providing excellent surfing conditions nearly 300 days a year. The most famous break, 'Popoyo Reef,' is known for its powerful A-frame waves that attract experienced surfers from around the globe. However, beginners also find gentler conditions in nearby bays like Guasacate. Beyond the waves, Popoyo has a pleasantly quiet and rustic atmosphere. There are no large resorts, but rather welcoming boutique hotels, hostels, and eco-lodges that blend harmoniously into the landscape. A highlight is the natural thermal springs of Las Salinas, just a short drive away, well-suited for relaxing after a long day in the water. The beaches are expansive and often nearly deserted, handy for long walks. Local gastronomy ranges from simple 'comedores' to creative international restaurants. Access usually requires a 4x4 vehicle, as roads in this region are often unpaved. The best time to visit is from May to October for the largest waves, while the dry season (November to April) is convenient for beachgoers.

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.

Playa Maderas

An iconic surf beach near San Juan del Sur, known for its distinctive rock formations and trendy jungle vibe.

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.