Surf Spots
There’s a reason surfers keep coming back to San Juan del Sur: a short drive north or south and you’re spoiled with world-class breaks that work almost every day of the year. From mellow, rolling peaks to punchy beach-break barrels, the coastline dishes up waves for every stage of your progression. Below you’ll find a quick look at six of our favorite spots—each one tried, tested, and surf-coach approved.
Whether you’re paddling out for the first time or looking to tighten up your cutback, these beaches give you the canvas; our coaching gives you the tools. Let’s dive in.
Playa Maderas
Just 25 minutes north of San Juan del Sur, Playa Maderas is one of the most iconic surf beaches in southern Nicaragua. Known for its consistent year-round swell and variety of peaks, Maderas is a go-to spot for surfers of all levels - from beginners catching whitewater to advanced surfers chasing more critical waves.
This classic beach break features multiple A-frame peaks scattered along the shoreline, providing both lefts and rights at different tides.
During the rainy season (May to November), expect larger, more powerful waves with the occasional double-overhead set, while the dry season brings in smaller, clean conditions - ideal for learning and progression.
Playa Remanso
Just a short drive south of San Juan del Sur, Playa Remanso is a charming, sheltered bay famous for its gentle, slower waves that break both right and left. It’s a favorite spot for beginners to build confidence, thanks to its forgiving conditions and welcoming vibe.
On bigger swell days, when other breaks might get too powerful, Remanso becomes a reliable alternative to other beaches that can handle larger waves while still prioritizing safety. It does tend to get busy, especially during peak surf season, but the relaxed atmosphere and relaxed beachside restaurants with ocean views make it a special place to spend time, whether you’re surfing or just soaking in the scene.
Playa Tamarindo
Just south of Playa Remanso, Playa Tamarindo is a hidden gem known mostly to locals and adventurous surfers seeking a more secluded experience. Tamarindo offers a peaceful, uncrowded spot with a natural landscape.
Tamarindo features a high-quality right-hand point break with long, peeling waves, plus a left-hand break, providing fun, powerful rides that reward those ready for a bit of challenge.
If you’re looking to explore beyond the usual breaks and appreciate raw, untouched coastline, Playa Tamarindo is the perfect secret spot to add to your surf adventures.
Playa Hermosa
This beach lives up to its name with pristine waves and a spacious, uncrowded coastline stretching over a mile. Playa Hermosa offers a variety of left and right peaks suitable for beginners and experienced surfers alike.
Though it can attract more surfers on busy days, there’s plenty of room to spread out and find your perfect wave. After your session, relax in comfortable hammocks and enjoy stunning views of the Costa Rican mountains just across the border. The beach access is private but on-site amenities include a restaurant and showers, making it a perfect blend of surf and comfort.
Playa Yankee
A favorite for advanced surfers, Playa Yankee is one of the most powerful breaks on the south coast of Nicaragua. Located about 30-40 minutes south of San Juan del Sur, this exposed beach offers fast, punchy waves with long left and right-hand barrels when the conditions are right.
This spot demands respect, skill, and a solid understanding of ocean conditions, making it best suited for intermediate to advanced surfers.
What makes Yankee truly special is the solitude: no restaurants, no surf rentals, and often no one else in the lineup. Just raw nature, powerful surf, and the occasional howler monkey in the hills behind. You’ll need to bring all your gear and supplies, and we always assess conditions carefully before heading out.
Playa Escameca
A short walk from Playa Yankee you will find Playa Escameca with both right and left-hand point breaks. Because of the private access, Escameca rarely sees crowds adding to the the laid-back, unhurried vibe.
Six beaches, countless take-off zones, and one simple takeaway: the south-Nicaraguan coast is built for surf progression. If the peeling rights at Remanso or the hollow lefts at Yankee sparked your stoke, imagine what a focused session with a local coach could do.
At Marea, we offer everything from private coaching and small group lessons to multi-daysurf coaching packages that include theory and video analysis as well as surf retreats in Nicaragua for those looking to dive all the way in. Every session is designed to meet you where you’re at - no pressure, no egos, just real progress and good energy.
