The Surf Window

Playa Maderas

Rivas, Nicaragua

Beach breakIntermediate

A powerful, rawer beach break 20 minutes north of San Juan del Sur, Playa Maderas is the pick for surfers who want real waves and are willing to navigate the rough access road.

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

Punchy, hollow beach break peaks, significantly more powerful than the protected San Juan del Sur bay

Length

30–80m

Skill Level

  • •Who it's for: Intermediate
  • •Why: The beach break has real power and the peaks shift with the tide, reading the lineup requires experience.

Hazards

  • •Strong shore pound on solid swells
  • •Rip currents near the rocky headlands
  • •Rough dirt road access, 4WD or taxi required

Local Tips

  • •The beach is small and beautiful with a single surf camp and restaurant, arrive early for the best peaks.
  • •Rock outcroppings at each end of the beach produce reef sections that can hold excellent shape on bigger swells.

Location

Map showing the location of Playa Maderas in Rivas, Nicaragua

11.3103, -85.8972