Hola! You’ve landed on the one and only guide you’re going to need to discover the absolute best hostels in Nicaragua.
We’re excited for you to be venturing to Central America.
More importantly, we want to help you save precious time and energy. Which is why we’ve done all the hard work for you!
Are these really the best hostels in Nicaragua?
You bet, 100% – we only recommend the coolest hostels out there.
This guide explores the top sights of Nicaragua including León and Granada.
Looking for the best surf hostels in Nicaragua? Take a look at our detailed guide to the best surf hostels in Nicaragua.
Hostelgeeks is an independent travel brand collecting the world’s greatest hostels. This means, we do not belong to any booking or media agency. Make sure you read through all our guide to hostels.
Here we cover all topics around hosteling, including situationship, packing lists, and design-led hostels to fall in love with.
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List of Destinations with the Best Hostels in Nicaragua
In case you have a city in mind, feel free to skip straight to that section.
The destinations covered in this guide are:
We put all hostels and backpacker places in Nicaragua on this big hostel map. It will help a lot of planning your Nicaragua Backpacking trip.
We also answer common FAQs.
Overview: Best Hostels by Traveler Type
| 🦁 Best Hostel in León: | Poco a Poco Hostel |
| 🎣 Best Hostel in Las Peñitas: | Mano a Mano Eco Hostal |
| ⛪ Best Hostel in Granada: | Hostel De Boca en Boca |
| 👩💻 For Digital Nomads in León: | Casa Lula |
| 👫 Best for Socializing in Granada: | Selina Granada |
| 🧘 Best for Yoga-Lovers in San Juan del Sur: | Hush Maderas |
| 🏖️ Best Beach Hostel in Popoyo: | Escondite Pacifico |
| 📖 Best for Relaxing in Laguna de Apoyo: | Paradiso Hostel |
Best Hostels in León
Let’s kick start the adventure in León, a big city in western Nicaragua. The massive cathedral is certainly striking, and there are volcanoes nearby!
Other reasons that may pull you to León probably include the salsa dancing, diverse food and fun street art.
And of course these four great hostels to choose from:
Good To Know: Check out our guide to discover the best hostels in Leon Nicaragua! Explore the best places to stay and save on your next getaway.
1. The Spot Leon
Would you believe us if we said The Spot is the spot to be in Leon? You soon will!
Here are 6 reasons why this is the spot for you:
- Laidback atmoshpere
- Weekly activities
- Yummy burgers
- Garden with hammocks
- One of the best sushi in Leon
- 15 minutes from the beach
As for rooms, there is a 6-bed mixed dorm and a double private.
Location: 2-minutes from Central Park and within short walking distance to all of the major sights. Spot on.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld | Hostelz.com
2. Poco a Poco Hostel
Aside from the cool name, Poco a Poco Hostel specialise in fun vibes.
How could you fail to smile when there is option to go Volcano Boarding after a free welcome drink and breakfast?!
Many more activities are on offer, too. Join a food tour or spice it up a little with a salsa session.
Dorm rooms come with 4, 8 and 10-beds. There is also a private option for 2 or 4 people.
Location: right in the historical area just two blocks from central square. An ATM, bars and restaurants are close by to the hostel.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld | Hostelz.com
3. Casa Lula
Casa Lula is housed in a 200 year old colonial home that surrounds a beautiful open courtyard garden.
Make use of the business-grade WiFi and rustle up something yummy in the shared kitchen. There is even Netflix!
Staff are at hand 24/7 to show you to your room.
Solo travellers can opt for the 6-bed dorm. Couples might prefer a double private.
Location: a mere 200m from the Cathedral, Central Park and Central Market. Easy.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelz.com
4. Hostal La Tortuga Booluda
No doubt the words ‘swimming pool’ will grab your attention.
Yep; Hostal La Tortuga Booluda boasts an outdoor pool and a cute little turtle called Tito.
It’s a hostel that’s more like a home, and far from a party place. Relax and unwind here easily.
Enjoy a
- Free breakfast
- Range of musical instruments
- Book exchange
- Self-service bar
Location: situated 3.5 blocks from Central Park, in a safe residential street. All of the city’s attractions plus bars and restaurants are a short walk away.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld | Hostelz.com
Best Hostels in Las Peñitas: Mano a Mano Eco Hostal
Just a short (but sweaty) bus ride from León is a fishing village and tourist beach community called Las Peñitas. It’s the place to go for beach, surf and beachfront cafes.
And honestly, once you arrive at Mano a Mano Eco Hostal you might never leave.
It’s built up of completely recycled and organic materials with amazing beach views. Get your yoga on, take a surf class (or ten) and chill in the beach bar and restaurant.
To top it off the bedrooms are absolutely gorgeous. Private suites come with a hammock and dorm beds are made from bamboo.
Location: quite literally by the sandy beach of Las Peñitas, a surfers paradise. Need we say more?
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld | Hostelz.com
Best Hostels in Managua: Manyaku Hostel
The capital city of Nicaragua! A city like many others, you may just find yourself passing through.
Just in case, we found a chill accommodation for you.
Manyaku Hostel is brand new on the scene, calling themselves an alternative hostel.
The artistic expression of the place is cool. Supporting local creativity, the garage/patio/bar is a place for music, painting and theatre.
Enjoy a splash in the garden pool and enjoy the use of a fully-equipped kitchen.
Location: In the heart of Managua, 2 blocks from the Metrocentro shopping area. Bus stations and a supermarket are within walking distance.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld | Hostelz.com
Best Hostels in Granada
Not to be confused with the Granada in Spain, though the weather might trick you into thinking you are there.
Photographers eat your heart out – the Old Town is one to be captured.
The coolest hostels in Granada are:
Read: We also have a detailed guide about the best hostels in Granada.
1. Selina Granada
BUM, this is the coolest hostels in Granada, Nicaragua, no doubt! In our opinion, it is one of the best Selina Hostels.
Selina Hostel in Granada is a hub for art, cultural curiosity, and roasted coffee. Yes, Matt is still a coffee-nerd.
Location: Based in the heart the colonial city. You are just a 10 Minute walk away from the Mombacho Volcano, Nebliselva Forest, Lake Nicaragua and even beautiful beaches.
Same as with many Selina Hostels, you can enjoy morning Yoga which we do recommend.
Join the weekend parties, experience live music acts, indulge in coffee infused rum or a homemade mochaccino, and connect with international and local crowds.
A pity 😔, the discount code to Selina Hostels expired. Check all valid discounts here.
How to book Selina Hostels the best way?
Rumor has it, new discounts are coming soon. We will share them first in our newsletter. Join us, it is free!
Compare prices: Booking.com | Hostelworld | Hostelz.com
2. Hostel De Boca en Boca
Hostel De Boca en Boca has many things to entice travellers, including:
- An open kitchen (& free breakfast)
- Hammocks
- Bar & free coffee
- Rooftop area
Every dorm bed includes linen, reading light and a little spot for your drinking bottle. A big locker also includes a charging point.
Location: right in the centre of Granada, 2 blocks from Central Park. Less than 30-minutes from kayaking, zip lining, crater swimming and chocolate making opportunities.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld | Hostelz.com
3. Hostal Azul
Hostal Azul is perfect for couples who want to have a getaway.
Relax by the pool and enjoy their ice-cold beer while sharing your travel experiences with new found friends.
They have private rooms and form rooms.
Check prices at: Hostelworld | Booking.com | Hostelz.com
4. Hostel Oasis
Hostel Oasis Granada is one of the finest and cheapest in Granada. This party hostel has filtered water and a pool.
The hostel offers a great vibe, wonderful common spaces, and everyday events.
Check prices at: Hostelworld | Booking.com | Hostelz.com
5. El Caite Hostel
Coming in a close second is the atmospheric El Caite Hostel.
You’ll easily spend most of your time in the pool or swinging in a hammock. We won’t judge.
Fun: Caite is a Nahault word meaning shoes or sandals.
Depending on your budget, you can choose a room with or without A/C. Female solo travellers can opt for a female dorm.
Sad to say, they have bad reviews so you might want to check it out at Hostelworld before booking.
Location: In one of the most privileged parts of Granada, minutes from Fortaleza de la Pólvora.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld | Hostelz.com
Best Hostels in Laguna de Apoyo: Paradiso Hostel
On the edge of Apoyo Lagoon, in a small area called La Laguna is a pretty impressive place we want you to discover. It’s also within shuttle distance of Granada.
Leave the fast-paced life behind and settle down in nature at Paradiso Hostel.
The well stocked bar and restaurant serves homemade food and delicious cocktails at a fair price.
Then all that’s left to do is play! You’ll have direct access to the water, free kayaks, volleyball and a water dock to make use of.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld | Hostelz.com
Best Hostels in Popoyo: Escondite Pacifico
Looking for beach, beach and even more beach? We reckon you’ll like Popyo, in that case.
Get active and engage in ecologically committed accommodation with Escondite Pacifico.
It’s right bang on the shores of Playa Guascate – hit the waves and wind down with some yoga afterwards.
Go crazy and enjoy the great food menu, cold beers and fun movie nights on the big outdoor screen.
Location: a tranquil beach paradise where there is only waves, jungle and silence. Oh and cool party options nearby such as Big Surf House and Viento Este Pizza.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelz.com
Best Hostels in Ometepé (Balgue):
You will fall in love with this island. We have put together a thorough guide, an overview of the best hostels in Ometepé. Here we cover many more details like prices, get around and such. The coolest backpacker hostels in Ometepe are:
1. La Urraca Loca Hostel
In case you’re a little confused; Ometepé is a small island in Lake Cocibolca, and Balgue is the area where you’ll find La Urraca Loca Hostel.
And might we say, what a gem!
Get lost amongst the flowers and fruit trees. Watch the hummingbirds and capuchin monkeys from the hammock. Admire two volcanoes from the garden. Take a Spanish lesson.
There are both dorm and private rooms with a shared bathroom on offer.
Location: Two minutes from the bus stop, close to local people and next to a forest. Plenty of restaurants and shops around the hostel.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld | Hostelz.com
2. Hostel Life is Good
In Ometepe, Hostel Life is Good is one of the best place to stay if you’re a traveller wishing to sit and relax. The hostel has quickly become a top choice for visitors visiting Nicaragua because of its charming, peaceful, and familiar atmosphere.
Concepcion Volcano and San Juan Beach are both easily accessible on foot from the hostel (only a twenty-minute drive). While getting about is still a hassle, tourists have the option of taking the bus or exploring at their own pace by renting a scooter, motorcycle, or ATV.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Hostelworld | Hostelz.com
3. Hospedaje Soma
If you’re travelling to Ometepe Island with a group, Hospedaje Soma is a gorgeous place to stay and could well be the best-kept secret in Moyogalpa. This hostel is great for large parties, small families, and romantic getaways. You may choose from two large cabins, luxury queen rooms, dorm rooms, or ordinary accommodations at Hospedaje Soma.
The large cottages are great for groups of people or couples in need of some alone time. A single bed, a queen bed, solar hot water showers, a private veranda with plenty of seating, and a hammock are all included in each cabin.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld | Hostelz.com
4. El Pital Chocolate Paradise
A trip to Nicaragua’s El Pital Chocolate Paradise will be unforgettable for those in search of a relaxing beach vacation. The beach hostel’s cosy cottages and dormitories are designed to harmoniously coexist with their natural surroundings.
In order to keep guests active and interested throughout their stay, the hostel offers a full schedule of activities. There are chocolate excursions, seminars, movie evenings, Reggae Nights every Wednesday, Sunday house parties, and Friday and Saturday night bonfire raves for the guests to enjoy.
This hostel is in our Yoga Hostels in the World guide too.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld | Hostelz.com
Best Hostels in Big Corn Island: Mimundo Corn Island Hostel
Update: This hostel has permanently closed. We do not currently have another recommendation for Big Corn Island.
About 70 kilometres east of Nicaragua are two Corn Islands. Let’s venture to the Big one!
Mimundo Corn Island Hostel happens to be the first (and so far only) hostel on the island. It also happens to be the perfect place to enjoy paradise.
The ocean is practically on the doorstep. And the balcony is an ideal spot for sunrise and sunset.
There is also a bar, free Wifi and small dorms with 4-beds.
Best Hostels in San Juan del Sur:
We wrote a super detailed guide on the coolest hostels in San Juan del Sur. We are talking Party, we are talking epic swimming pools with gorgeous views. The best hostels are:
Read the detailed guide on best hostels in San Juan del Sur here. There we go into detail of the first 3 hostels. Let’ check the other two hostels here below:
1. Dreamsea Surf Camp Nicaragua
The San Juan del Sur forest is home to the eco-friendly Dreamsea Surf Camp. The main building has three floors, a friendly atmosphere, a restaurant, a bar, a lounge, a front desk, a place to hang out, and a room for yoga lessons on the third floor.
There are 10 elevated cabanas at Dreamsea Surf Camp. Five of them are suites with private bathrooms, three are dorm rooms, and two are for two people.
This super social hostel has parking, towels, bedsheets, Wi-Fi (in the lobby and common areas), luggage storage, airport pickup, 24-hour security, and more.
Oh, and as the name implies, it is a fantastic Surf School, too! They offer different packages from daily surfing, weekly packages etc. On top, they also offer Yoga classes. Last but not least, the bar and swimming pool. The photos speak for themselves.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld | Hostelz.com
2. Puk’s Palace
Puk’s Palace is a simple party hostel for a solo traveler or a partier. Up in the hills, the hostel has one pool that makes a great instagrammable sunset spot.
Take advantage of the free shuttles that go in and out of town. While you shouldn’t need to leave the hostel, you are always welcome to explore San Juan del Sur and its beach, boutiques, and restaurants.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Hostelworld | Hostelz.com
3. Hostel SaltWater
Hostel SaltWater is another place for partiers and solo travelers. Located in the heart of San Juan del Sur, you have access to any store, ATM, supermarket, boutique, or bar nearby. Not only that, but you are close to the beaches, and the hostel offers a shuttle service to ensure safe visits.
Whether you want to relax and read a book from the bookstore or go out and party, the Hostel SaltWater has it all.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld | Hostelz.com
4. Hush Maderas
You made it right to the end of the guide, we’re impressed. You won’t regret it! Hush Maderas might be last in the list, but it’s certainly not the least exciting.
How do you like the sound of:
- Infinity pool w/ lounge area
- 180 degrees of ocean views
- Sunset yoga on the rooftop
It’s an 100% off-grid eco-lodge running purely on solar power!
Tip: book for at least 3-4 nights to really soak it all in. It books fast.
Every room has an ensuite and patio with sitting area. The breakfast is also free. Race you!
Location: Situated in Playa Maderas near to some of the finest attractions. This includes Cristo de la Misericordia and Museo del Chocolate.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld | Hostelz.com
5. Selina Maderas
Selina Maderas is just a 20-minute drive from San Juan del Sur’s town center.
This redesigned, traditional jungle destination boasts bedroom views of Pacific coastal hills, stretches of sea-washed beaches, and sounds of Howler monkeys singing nearby. Other features include an
- outdoor pool
- cocktail bar
- restaurant
- and a yoga deck with breathtaking mountain views.
In the mood for adventure?
As often with Selina, they do have an activity center, offering
- group yoga classes
- surf courses
- ocean kayaking
- and snorkeling
Upstairs you will find their fully-equipped coworking space to enjoy high-speed WiFi.
A pity 😔, the discount code to Selina Hostels expired. Check all valid discounts here.
How to book Selina Hostels the best way?
Rumor has it, new discounts are coming soon. We will share them first in our newsletter. Join us, it is free!
Compare prices: Booking.com | Hostelworld | Hostelz.com
Our Favorite Hostels in Nicaragua put on a map + sights
Below we have put ALL of the greatest hostels in Nicaragua mentioned in this article on a map.
That’s because we want to make your planning as hassle free and straight forward as possible!
We’ve marked them as follows:
- Backpacker Hostels: Orange
- Design Hostels: Blue
- Best Nicaragua Hostels: Pink
- Coolest San Juan del Sur Hostels: Purple
- Best Hostels in Ometepe: Green
Any questions about hostels in Nicaragua ? 🤔
Join our Facebook Group!
Ask all your questions and connect with like-minded wanderers 🔥
FAQ
What are the best hostels in Nicaragua?
All of the hostels worth visiting in Nicaragua can be found in this article. Here are our top 5:
- The Spot Leon
- Mano o Mano Eco Hostal in Las Penitas
- Hostel De Boca en Boca in Granada
- Hush Maderas in San Juan del Sur
- Paradiso Hostel in Laguna de Apoyo
What are good places to surf in Nicaragua?
Las Penitas is certainly the place to go for surfing! Mano o Mano Eco Hostal offer surf classes and is located right by the beach.
Is Nicaragua a good country for backpackers?
Absolutely! It’s affordable and the hostels have been designed with backpackers in mind. Skip to the map to discover great backpacker hostels (hint: they are coloured orange).
More Hostels in the Americas
There are many, many awesome hostels in the Americas to be discovered and enjoyed, including out-of-this-world 5 star hostels.
Easy: find all of the best hostels in Central America here.
We’ve gone one step further and created these awesome guides to more Central American destination:
- 44 coolest hostels in Costa Rica – for backpacker and glamping
- best surf hostels in Costa Rica
- best hostels in Caribbean
- best hostels in San Jose
- best hostels in Jamaica
- best hostels in Rio Dulce
- best hostels in Tamarindo, Costa Rica
- best hostels in Antigua Guatemala
- best hostels in Lake Atitlan, Guatemala
- best hostels in Flores, Guatemala
- best hostels in Monteverde, Costa Rica
- best hostels in Cuenca, Ecuador
- best hostels in Puerto Rico
Summary
By now you should have the answer to your question where to stay in Nicaragua. Which of the beautiful hostels in Nicaragua have you fallen in love with? Let us know!
This guide is your shortcut to your hostel-picks, saving you lots of time in your accommodation research.
And for sure, it gives you the security of a top-hostel choice without any bad surprises.
Any questions?
Then please please leave a comment below. We would be thrilled to hear from you and to help a fellow backpacker.
Have fun & Safe travels!
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