The Surf Window

Playa Hermosa Nicaragua

Rivas, Nicaragua

Beach breakIntermediate

A long, powerful beach break stretching south of San Juan del Sur, Playa Hermosa Nicaragua is more exposed than the town beach and fires on solid Pacific swells.

Typical Conditions

The Surf Window

Swell Window

N
OptimalW (270°)
WindowSSW–NNW (210°–330°)

Wind

Offshore winds

Tide

Varies

LowMidHigh

Season

Varies

The Wave

Type

Both

Bottom

Sand

Shape

Powerful, variable beach break, can be excellent on a clean south swell with light offshores

Length

40–100m

Skill Level

  • •Who it's for: Intermediate
  • •Why: More power and exposure than the town beach, intermediate wave reading skills needed.

Hazards

  • •Strong shore pound on bigger swells
  • •Rip currents along the length of the beach
  • •Limited facilities, bring water and sunscreen

Local Tips

  • •Playa Hermosa (not to be confused with the Costa Rican beach of the same name) is quieter and less developed than San Juan del Sur.
  • •The wave works across a range of tide levels, explore the beach to find the best sandbar for the conditions.

Location

Map showing the location of Playa Hermosa Nicaragua in Rivas, Nicaragua

11.2769, -85.8833