If you love riding the waves or want to learn how to do it, Nicaragua should be at the top of your travelling list! With 300-plus days of offshore winds and less crowd than neighbouring Costa Rica, Nicaragua is a priority for people seeking a surf trip destination. So, keep reading to discover the best surf hostels in Nicaragua.
It has some of the best sandbars and reefs and offers surf breaks in Central America. Some of its most popular surf beaches are those near San Juan del Sur, such as the Playa Majagual and Playa Maderas.
The surf trip cost in Nicaragua is very reasonable, and the good news is that you can plan an incredible trip on a tight budget. Our goal in writing the article is to help you plan a fantastic trip to this popular surf destination where you can stay comfortably in some of the best surf hostels in Nicaragua!
Discover the most awesome hostels in Nicaragua in our comprehensive guide!
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Make sure you read through all our guide to hostels.
Your shortcut:
- Escondite Pacifico
- Dreamsea Surf Resort Nicaragua
- Saltwater Hostel
- Hush Maderas
- Mano o Mano
- Hostal La Tortuga Booluda
Money-saving tip: Compare hostel prices with Hostelz.com. They compare prices from Hostelworld, Booking.com and others with 1 click.
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Nicaragua for long has been a well-kept secret and a favourite spot amongst experienced surfers as well as the ones who are looking to get started. With over 30 miles (ca. 48 km) of shoreline, the coast has emerged as one of the premier surfing destinations worldwide. Its location is right between Lake Nicaragua and the Pacific, making it one of the fewest places where you can enjoy offshore windows throughout the year.
The best time to travel to Nicaragua is during the summer, between July and August. September and October are the peak time of the wet season with the heaviest rain, resulting in all-day downpours. During January and February, you can experience the strongest winds, causing water to be colder than usual. At this time, the waves tend to be the smallest, which is ideal for beginners.
Breathtaking nature adorned with pristine landscapes and the unique culture of the locals attract multitudes of surfers and backpackers. If surfing is on your mind, then Nicaragua is the ideal place for you! Let us help you find some of the best surf hostels in Nicaragua to make the most of your stay.
Ready for your next destination? You might want to have a look at our guides to the best hostels in Leon and the best hostels in Ometepe.
List of Cities in Nicaragua with great hostels
On the menu we have for you the following destinations hosting epic surf hostels in Nicaragua on the beach:
Any questions about hostels in Nicaragua?
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What else we cover in this guide:
- Backpacking tips for Nicaragua
- Surf Camps in Nicaragua
- Map with all hostels
- How to book hostels in Nicaragua
- FAQ
- Flights to Nicaragua
- Promo codes and Discounts
We put all of the best Nicaragua hostels on the beach on a map.
This map is here to help make your planning easier. It lists all of the above locations, with each surf hostel added to the map. Simply tick/untick areas you’re interested in visiting and find the best surf hostels in that area.
This guide is perfect for YOU, when you…
- are tired of crappy hostels!
- want a social Hostel to actually meet people
- are happy to spend $1 to $2 more for a much better experience
🎁 New to Hostels? Read our guide to staying in a Hostel for the First Time here. We especially recommend reading:
- How to book hostels? (and websites to save $)
- 23 clever items: the hostel packing list to download
- How does the Hostelworld App work exactly? Our Advanced Guide
Overview: Best Hostels by Traveler Type
| 🏄🏻♀️ Surf lovers: | Dreamsea Surf Resort |
| 🦸 Solo Traveler: | Escondite Pacifico |
| 🙎♀️ best for Female Solo Traveler: | Mano o Mano |
| 🥳 Party Hostel: | Hostal La Tortuga Booluda |
| 🎒 for Backpacker: | Hostel SaltWater |
| 👩💻 For Digital Nomads: | Tribu Hostel Holbox |
| 👫 For Socializing: | Hush Maderas |
| 🌊 Surf Camp: | Dreamsea Surf Resort |
TOP Surf Hostels in Nicaragua
One of Nicaragua’s best beaches to learn to surf is Playa Remanso in San Juan del Sur. Other famous beaches near San Juan del Sur include Playa Maderas and Playa Majagual. If you are planning to learn to surf or are already an expert, you must look for surf hostels in Nicaragua. That offers decent breaks. Here are some of our recommendations!
Best Surf Hostels in Popoyo: Escondite Pacifico
Whether you are a beginner or an experienced surfer, Escondite Pacifico, Popoyo, guides you through all the right spots for surfing. Located in Popoyo, it’s a literal surf Mecca with waves for everyone at every level!
The nearest airport is Augusto Cesar Sandino International, and the hostel offers airport pick-up and drop-off services. Other facilities include a comfortable lodging facility, pizza nights, surf boat trips and more.
The most popular areas of interest near the hostel include La Albina, San Martín and Popoyo Beach. The beachfront accommodation is just a few steps from Popoyo beach and provides several facilities, such as a restaurant and bar.
The hostel offers adults-only accommodation with on-the-spot dining. There is free Wi-Fi and a shared kitchen facility as well. It’s considered one of the best surf hostels in Nicaragua, which offers you unforgettable lifetime experiences. Furthermore, various programs and activities are planned for the entertainment of travellers.
Check prices at: Booking.com | Hostelz.com
Best Surf Hostels in San Juan del Sur:
Hit the waves at San Juan del Sur! It’s the perfect spot for travellers to surf and soak up the sun.
Here we have listed the best surf hostels in San Juan del Sur:
If you want to check the best hostels in San Juan del Sur, we have a detailed guide that you don’t want to miss.
1. Dreamsea Surf Resort Nicaragua
Dreamsea Surf Resort is one of the best surf hostels in Nicaragua. It is conveniently located within 2.4 km of Marsella beach and 2.8 km from Nacascolo beach. The nearest airport is 126 km from the hostel, and the guests are provided with paid airport shuttle services. The hostel features an outdoor swimming pool, terrace, garden, restaurant & bar.
Every room in the hostel features a seating area, and some even have exceptional pool views. Also, the rooms have a balcony, and the hostel provides efficient room services and an evening entertainment facility. You can enjoy à la carte, continental or an American breakfast at the hostel.
The hostel is a piece of paradise that offers guests a welcoming and friendly atmosphere. The three-floor main building made of bamboo has several lounges and chill-out facilities. There is a dedicated space on the third floor for the yoga lessons.
It has ten elevated cabanas on the wooden deck, out of which three are dorm rooms, two are twin, and five are suite rooms with private bathrooms. The outdoor swimming pool is perfect for relaxing after a great surfing session. As you visit the hostel, you immerse in the beautiful world of a little jungle village.
You can have a look at their 8 Refreshing Days Surf Camp in San Juan del Sur if you are looking for a program where you can immersive yourself.
Compare prices at: Booking.com | Hostelworld | Hostelz.com
2. Hostel SaltWater
Hostel SaltWater is conveniently located and is just 2.2 km from San Juan del Sur beach. The location is perfect, and you can take a short walk to the city centre, with additional stores, bars and supermarkets in the general vicinity. It provides accommodation with free private parking, a shared lounge, garden, shared kitchen, free Wi-Fi and a terrace.
Hostel SaltWater provides options of shared rooms with a private bathroom with shower, AC facility, and a patio that offers stellar garden views. À la carte and vegetarian breakfast options are also available at the hostel.
There is also a shared kitchen facility with a fridge where you can cook at your convenience. Even if you don’t like cooking, you can enjoy a delicious menu of traditional Nicaraguan food cooked with so much love by the hostel cooks! A large garden overlooks the bay, where you can enjoy the sunset or sunrise and interact with fellow travellers.
Check prices at: Hostelworld | Booking.com | Hostelz.com
3. Hush Maderas
Hush Maderas is a boutique hostel that is a short 10-minute walk from Playa beach. It offers an infinity pool, a lounge area, 180-degree ocean views, and a yoga deck. The top floor has an incredible rooftop where you can relax, enjoy and watch the fantastic sunsets.
The hostel is nestled near some of the finest attractions and landmarks, such as Cristo de la Misericordia and Parque de Aventura. It’s one of the best surf hostels in Nicaragua, where you can spend quality time and learn surfing.
Travellers are provided with high-speed Wi-Fi backed by solar energy that lets them work easily – ideal for digital nomads! The private rooms have spectacular ocean views, while the garden dorm view overlooks the jungle.
There are seven rooms overall that come with a wardrobe, luggage space and an ensuite bathroom facility. The garden dorm has six comfortable double beds, and there are several common areas across the hostel where travellers can enjoy time together and share their travel stories. It’s an adult-only hostel with a bar, restaurant, and barbecue facility.
Other activities you can enjoy nearby are fishing, snorkelling etc. Amongst other facilities, breakfast in bed and laundry are also included. There is a parking space for the car owners, and the space is well-attended by the staff.
Check prices at: Booking.com | Hostelworld | Hostelz.com
Best Surf Hostels in Las Peñitas: Mano o Mano Eco Hostal
Mano o Mano is an amazing hostel in the community of Las Penitas. It’s a beautiful, dream hostel made of wood, recycled and organic materials. It has incredible beach views and three dorms – 2 for eight people and 1 for six – all of which include private bathrooms.
Additionally, there are three private rooms for a maximum of 4 people. Travellers can easily choose between suite, twin, double, and dormitory. All the rooms offer individual fans, lockers with plugs to charge the devices, and mosquito nets. Finally, there is a shared kitchen facility for all your cooking needs!
The garden has several hammocks to chill after surfing and an onsite bar that is always functional where you can enjoy refreshing cocktails. Free Wi-Fi is offered across the property – an excellent benefit for digital nomads and people who work remotely! You can even rent a bicycle, which you can use to get around town. The staff is highly committed to providing you with a comfortable stay and is fluent in English, German, Portuguese, Dutch, French, and Spanish.
The hostel provides to and fro shuttle services from the airport. The famous places of interest near the hostel are Las Penitas beach, Juan Venado Nature reserve beach and Isla del Venado.
Check prices at:Booking.com | Hostelworld | Hostelz.com
Best Surf Hostels in León: Hostal La Tortuga Booluda
Hostal La Tortuga Booluda in Leon is one of the best surf hostels in Nicaragua that treats you to lovely colonial towns, tropical beaches and steaming volcanoes. All the city attractions are within walking distance, and you can find many cafés, restaurants and bars.
The famous Cathedral of Leon is hardly a few minutes away and is near other attractions such as the art museum Fundacion Ortiz Gurdian and Museo de Leyendas y Tradiciones. The guests have two breakfast options: pancake & banana or Nica – a traditional meal made of rice, beans, and eggs. Other facilities include filtered water, all-day coffee, WiFi, and a swimming pool.
The hostel can accommodate you in comfortable rooms with AC and non-AC facilities. You can choose from different types of rooms, such as quadruple, twin, double, and single. All the prices offered include breakfast, all-day coffee and use of other facilities. You can also benefit from renting a bicycle, a private garden, a 24/7 front desk, and airport transfer facilities.
The friendly little hostel is excellent for spending time and surfing across the beaches. If you have children accompanying you, you can also take advantage of the playroom and board games!
Good To Know: We have a detailed guide to the best hostels in Leon.
Check prices at: Booking.com | Hostelworld | Hostelz.com
Surf Camps in Nicaragua
Let’s have a look at these surf camps in Nicaragua. You can sign up here if you want to have surf lessons for a couple of days.
You can learn the basics of how to stay safe in the water, how to paddle and get onto the wave, and how to stand up on your board. It’s also a great way to meet like-minded people and have a lot of fun!
1. Costa Dulce Retreat
Let’s take a look at the 8-Day Surfin Yogies Utopia Retreat with Beachfront with Costa Dulce. Immerse yourself in the stunning Nicaraguan nature and retreat to Costa Dulce, the renowned ecolodge, retreat center, and surf School!
Here, you can detox from a hectic, externally oriented life and take a break to relax and enjoy the serene, secluded beach. Learn the basics of surfing or brush up on your skills with two daily surf and yoga classes, various workshops, and one-on-one guidance.
Sample some of the finest Nicaraguan, local and farm-to-table cuisine while basking in the good vibes of beautiful nature and like-minded people. Treat yourself to a natural massage or beauty treatment in the ocean-view spa to complete your experience.
Plus, you’ll be doing your part to help the local community by supporting the social responsibility and conservation projects Costa Dulce is involved in, such as releasing baby turtles into the ocean!
Check prices at: BookYogaRetreats
2. Amaru Nicaragua
Discover the hidden gem of Amaru Nicaragua, where thrilling surfing waves, invigorating yoga and meditation, and nourishing meals await you!
Escape to their private cliff-top property and experience the ultimate surf adventure surrounded by tropical waters and stunning beaches. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced barrel hunter, you’ll find the perfect wave to ride.
Enjoy this 7-Day Find Balance; Surf and Yoga Package in Nicaragua. Recharge your body with healthy and delicious meals grown from their garden and the local community.
Check prices at: BookRetreats
Backpacking Tips for Nicaragua
It’s often said that Nicaragua is the new Costa Rica that has everything you need. With a beautiful coast, perfect waves and the best rum, the Caribbean island is a great place to explore and make a memorable backpacking trip. We have compiled some essential backpacking tips for your next trip.
1. Make a visit to San Juan Del Sur. Earlier, it used to be a small, sleepy fisher town, and today, it’s the epicentre of surf tourism in Nicaragua. The place has plenty of hostels and hotels to choose from and is known for good surf breaks. You can easily visit the beaches of Playa Hermosa and Playa Maderas, where you can learn to surf.
2. Las Penitas is a quaint little town located on the country’s northern side. It’s on a long beach where you can relax, eat, drink, hit the waves, and enjoy your heart’s desire. The atmosphere in the region is incredible. You can come here to detox, surf and even learn to surf if you are a beginner.
3. Don’t miss visiting the colonial jewel of Central America and admiring pastel-painted buildings as you weave through the cobblestone streets. Appreciate the local art galleries while sipping on a coffee in the plaza.
4. Nicaragua is not just a surfing destination. You can even plan a hiking trip. The two most popular hikes are the Concepción and Maderas, with an additional 19 volcanos to explore! The Masaya volcano is the most active one – you can even see the lava bubbling there!
What about the cheapest hostels in Nicaragua?
Of course, there are always cheap hostels. But how do you actually find them? When you are traveling on a shoe-string budget and you want to save every dollar, there are ways to find the cheapest places in Nicaragua.
- Open Hostelz.com with a full list of all hostels in Nicaragua
- add your dates
- Order the listings by price
Simple as that.
Hostelz.com is a price comparison site for hostels. They list every single one in the world and tells you exactly which website is cheaper to use.
Another smart Tip: Check what is actually included, and what is excluded. Take a closer look at the location, too. A further location might mean more costs in transport.
Any Discounts?
You can find all our hostel discounts worldwide here. Subscribe to our newsletter to receive the freshest hostel discounts directly in your inbox. We even have special discount codes we only share in the newsletter.
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How to book?
The most popular booking platforms are Booking.com and Hostelworld.com. On both platforms, your credit card is 100% protected and the booking 100% confirmed.
We included some handy links to each of the recommended hostel. Just click on the hostel name. The link will lead you to check prices and availability.
Read: Step-by-Step guide on how to book with Hostelworld
We recommend booking your hostel as early as possible! All of Nicaragua best hostels are popular; especially in high-season. To make sure you end up in those stylish and good hostels, secure your room/bed as soon as you have your travel dates fix.
The coolest Hostel App you need comes as well from Hostelworld. It gives you super cool features like you can contact your hostel mates beforehand, ask questions, and make plans together. Find more details in our review of the app.
Scan the QR Code with your Smartphone to download the Hostelworld App from the App Store - like a real Hostel Geek!
Need an eSIM Card for Nicaragua?
Get your eSIM Card with Airalo.com instantly online. It is easy to set up and cheap! Read our review of Airalo here.
No more searching for mobile stores. Get your eSIM Card for now and enjoy it instantly after landing in your new destination.
Our Favorite Hostels in Nicaragua put on a map + sights
How about we put all hostels that we just mentioned on a map? Of course, we did this for you.
Below you find our handmade map with all hostels, our secret tips, and so much more.
Personally, we love to plan our trips with a map having all sights and potential hostels on it. We thought this map will help you with planning your trip too.
We included handy links to each of the recommended hostels. Just click on the hostel name. The link will lead you to check prices and availability.
All of the best Nicaragua hostels are popular; especially in high season. To make sure you end up in those stylish hostels, secure your room or bed as soon as you have your travel dates fixed.
Any questions about hostels in Nicaragua? 🤔
Join our Facebook Group!
Ask all your questions and connect with like-minded wanderers 🔥
FAQs
Here we share with you the most asked question:
Is Nicaragua good for beginner surfers?
Yes, Nicaragua is a great place for beginner surfers. There are plenty of beginner-friendly surf spots and plenty of surf camps that offer lessons to help you get started. Nicaragua also has warm water and consistent waves throughout the year, making it an ideal destination for beginner surfers.
Do shark attacks happen in Nicaragua?
You don't have to worry about shark attacks in Nicaragua because they are rare.
Are hostels in Nicaragua safe?
Not all hostels in Nicaragua are necessarily safe, especially the ones that offer cheap prices in sketchy areas. They might be illegal hostels or ones without the proper licenses and safety measures put in place.
In all fairness, it is best to check out Hostelgeeks.com because we feature safe hostels in Nicaragua. You can find backpacker hostels with top ratings here! Keep a close eye on the overall ratings on booking platforms!
If you are not secure, you can also email us and ask us!
Is Nicaragua worth visiting for surfers?
Yes, Nicaragua is a great destination for surfers. With its warm Pacific waters, consistent waves, and great budget-friendly surf spots, Nicaragua is a great destination for surfers of all skill levels.
Any questions about hostels in Nicaragua?
🤔Join our Facebook Group!
Ask all your questions and connect with like-minded wanderers 🔥
Flights to Nicaragua?
We use Skyscanner and Omio.com to find cheap flights and good connections all over the globe.
Skyscanner has a bunch of cool features like Multi-City Trip. Instead of doing this research step-by-step, Skyscanner offers this flight planning tool.
More handmade Guides for you
We did the leg work for you and bring you more hostel guides to destinations:
- 44 coolest hostels in Costa Rica – for backpacker and glamping
- best surf hostels in Costa Rica
- best hostels in Ometepe Island
- best hostels in San Jose
- best hostels in Quepos
- best hostels in Tamarindo, Costa Rica
- best hostels in Antigua Guatemala
- best hostels in Granada Nicaragua
- best hostels in Lake Atitlan, Guatemala
- best hostels in Leon Nicaragua
- best hostels in Rio Dulce
Over to you
Do you have any questions left, maybe doubts? Then please leave it in the comment below. We are very keen to help you - and actually you would even do us a favor!
Your question will help us to improve this Nicaragua guide.
Last note: Our commitment
This is a genuine article to help you travel a bit smarter, and find the best place on a budget! We will never recommend you any place we haven’t evaluated or are not convinced by. We are constantly updating all our guides to keep them as fresh and accurate as possible.
Safe travels,
The Hostelgeeks
