San Juan del Sur
Rivas, Nicaragua
Beach breakBeginner
A lively beach town in southern Nicaragua with a crescent-shaped bay, lively nightlife, and gentle beach break waves that make it one of Central America's most popular beginner surf destinations.
Typical Conditions
The Surf Window
Swell Window
OptimalW (270°)
WindowSSW–NNW (210°–330°)
Wind
Offshore winds
Tide
Varies
LowMidHigh
Season
Varies
The Wave
Type
Both
Bottom
Sand
Shape
Gentle, rolling beach break, slow and forgiving on smaller swells
Length
20–60m
Skill Level
- •Who it's for: Beginner
- •Why: Protected bay geometry reduces wave size and power, great for first lessons and confidence building.
Hazards
- •Boat traffic in the bay (fishing boats and tourist vessels)
- •Shore pound when bigger swells push in
- •Crowded with surf schools during peak season
Local Tips
- •The beaches north and south of town (Playa Maderas, Playa Hermosa) offer far better waves, San Juan is the best base for exploration.
- •The statue of Christ overlooking the bay is a magnificent landmark visible from the water.
Location
11.2523, -85.8708