Last updated on October 23rd, 2023 at 09:35 am
If you are looking for a surf camp in Nicaragua, you came to the right place. In this post, we listed our top picks for a surf camp in Nicaragua, where you can have the perfect surf vacation and improve your surfing skills.
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About Nicaragua
Nicaragua is definitely one of the best surf destinations in Central America. With over 250 KM of Pacific coastline, it offers a great variety of surf spots. For instance, if you drive along the coast in the southern part of the country, you will find beach breaks, reef breaks, points, and everything in between.
When choosing a surf camp in Nicaragua, several key factors must be considered. The type of accommodation, transportation, location, and price are obviously important, but not as much as the level of the surf instructors and their coaching tools. Moreover, your current surf level and the kind of people you will meet are also things to take into account in order to make the best out of the experience.
So, let’s get right to it, in detail; these are the most recommended surf camps in Nicaragua:
A List of the Best Surf Camps in Nicaragua:
Miramar Surf Camp
Located up north in a small fishing village, this spot offers more than just perfect waves. It is filled with opportunities for recreational activities and a calming, peaceful atmosphere. Blessed with offshore winds and rich with points and beach breaks, it produces sets for all levels of surfers all year long.
Miramar Surf Camp offers packages for surfers at all skill levels:
BEGINNERS ALL-INCLUSIVE PACKAGE– this is a “Learn to Surf” package which includes:
3 Delicious, home-cooked meals with juice or Ice tea day.
Surfboard rental for the duration of your stay.
1 surf lesson a day with a trained, attentive surf instructor.
Accommodation in your choice of lodging.
Transportation in and out from Managua or Leon.
SURFERS ALL-INCLUSIVE PACKAGE– this is a package for advanced surfers who come to Miramar strictly for the waves. Therefore, instead of surf lessons, you will get 1 boat trip a day to one of the breaks in the area.
For more info about surf camps in Nicaragua, please click here.
Malibu Popoyo
Popoyo is a world-class surf spot, so it is no wonder that one of the best surf camps in Nicaragua is found here. Malibu Popoyo is an all-inclusive, eco-friendly surf resort & yoga retreat. It combines a hotel, a surf break, a retreat center, a restaurant, and a yoga studio.
With over 10 fabulous breaks within 30 miles, this is definitely a surf heaven. It offers something for everyone, with waves ranging from longboard peelers and beach breaks to deep and hollow reef breaks.
Malibu Popoyo is not the place for beginners who have never stepped on a surfboard, as it doesn’t offer a significant coaching program. However, this is the place to be for good surfers seeking the great waves of Nicaragua.
For more info about surf camps in Popoyo, please click here.
Nica Surf- Dale Dagger Surf Lodge
Nica Surf has been operating since 2002. It is one of the first surf camps in Nicaragua and one of the best ones, too. This surf lodge is a perfect home base for a surf vacation, primarily for experienced surfers. It has a great location right on the beach of Playa Gigante, and it offers easy access to some of the best surf spots in the country.
As for the surf package, it is the ultimate all-inclusive surf trip, which includes the following:
Transportation from the Managua airport.
7-day / 6-night stay at the beachfront Nicaragua Surf Lodge.
UNLIMITED surf sessions via boat to a variety of breaks.
Experienced surf guides.
Massage therapist available daily.
All meals, snacks, and drinks are included.
FREE daily surf photos.
For more info about surf camps in Playa Gigante, please click here.
Nicawaves
This is definitely one of the best surf camps in Nicaragua for advanced surfers. The Nicawaves team has over a decade of experience hosting and guiding surfers to the best waves in the country. The camp is ideally situated between Finca Popoyo and Magnific Rock, so Popoyo Reef Break and Beginner’s Bay are just nearby.
Additionally, Nicawaves offers airport transfers, surfing and fishing boat trips, surfboards, scooters, and quad rentals. The onsite full-service restaurant is open daily, offering fresh, healthy meals and seafood next to a large, beautifully furnished pool terrace. The camp takes care of all your needs and guides you to the best surf breaks in the Popoyo area.
As for the surf, it is based on local knowledge and the type of waves you want to ride. Mike, the Nicawaves owner, is a two-time US Surfing Championships finalist, so he knows precisely what surfers are looking for and has 15 years of experience in the Nicaragua surf. If you are looking for the ultimate surf vacation, Nicawaves will be a perfect choice.
For more info about surf camps in the Popoyo area, please click here.
Costa Dulce Retreat, San Juan
Costa Dulce is located on a private beach at Playa Escameca Grande. The camp offers a surf & yoga program led by professional guides who are really stoked to do what they love and pass that love on to the guests.
Playa Escameca is far enough away from San Juan del Sur that it doesn’t attract the same crowds as the beaches closer to town. Moreover, the waves here are perfect for beginners. The more waves you can catch, the quicker you will learn how to surf, and when you stay this close to the waves, you will be in the water all the time.
A week-long yoga and surf retreat is a great way to experience everything Costa Dulce has to offer and finally learn how to surf. It is a place to enjoy your days without crowds, intimate instruction, and all-day offshore wind.
For more info about surf camps around San Juan del Sur, please click here.
Verdad Nicaragua, San Juan
Verdad’s Surf Camp aims to get you surfing confidently and independently during your seven-day stay. The program specifically breaks down your week of surf coaching to help you learn fast and progress quickly so you will ride waves in no time. The camp program includes individual training for each student.
If you have some experience, they will guide you through the local breaks, helping you understand how to find the right spots and catch the best rides. However, if you’re just learning to surf, the camp will give you a full rundown of the basics both on land and in the water, teaching you how to consistently paddle out and catch waves.
With a professional background in instructing and a burning passion for surfing, the surf coaches strongly believe in incorporating surf theory and technique both in and out of the water. Beyond just learning the “how-to’s” of surfing, our coaches pay close attention to your individual level of expertise and work with you one-on-one to improve your knowledge and skills.
The program also incorporates photo and video analysis into your daily lessons, giving you visuals that show you exactly what you are doing right and wrong and what you need to work on to improve.
For more info about surf camps in San Juan del Sur, please click here.
Selina Maderas
Selina is a well-known brand in the surf community, with various accommodations for surfers in some of the best surf spots in Central America. Selina always has the best locations, high-quality facilities, and surf lessons with the best equipment.
Selina Maderas is just a few minutes’ walk from Maderas beach. The traditional jungle destination boasts views of Pacific coastal hills and jungle foliage and sounds of Howler monkeys singing nearby. Other features include a coworker space complete with high-speed WiFi, an outdoor pool, a restaurant, a yoga deck with mountain views, and a fully equipped outdoor common kitchen.
In Selina Surf Club, you can learn from professional and experienced surf teachers who will take you to the next level. They use the latest and most advanced tools to guarantee your safety, improvement, and comfort.
Selina Surf Club offers different surf packages according to your needs and budget. From 1-hour surf lessons all the way to 10-night surf camps, all options are available.
For more info about surf camps in Playa Maderas, please click here.
ThunderBomb surf camp
At ThunderBomb surf camp, you will have a once-in-a-lifetime surf experience with uncrowded waves and great accommodations. With surf vehicles and local boat captains, you will have the freedom to surf more than just the beach out front. Here, you can surf world-class waves, get barreled at The Boom, carve epic points, or even learn to surf without the annoying crowds.
Need a photographer to capture your dream vacation? ThunderBomb has all the equipment and access to local and international surf photographers. Whether you are looking to book an all-inclusive guided surf tour, yoga retreat, learn to surf, or book a vacation rental, ThunderBomb Surf Camp in northern Nicaragua is the place for you.
All Packages Include:
Transport to and from Managua airport in private AC shuttles.
7 days, 6 nights deluxe beachfront accommodations in an air-conditioned room.
Empty waves out front.
Your own personal surf guide with local knowledge.
3 Full meals per day are prepared by the resident chef.
Horseback riding tour on the beach.
1 massage
And more…
For more info about surf camps in Nicaragua, please click here.
Las Dunas Surf Resort, Aposentillo
Las Dunas Resort is a Boutique Hotel located on Aposentillo Beach at the epicenter of the tourist area “Ruta de Las 7 Playas”, in a small natural paradise. It is the safest and most peaceful area of the Nicaraguan coast.
All surf programs here are for 7 days and include the following:
Transfers to/from Managua airport.
The friendly, experienced, and very hospitable staff ensures you stay in the best environment.
6 nights’ accommodation in a shared room with a private bathroom and air conditioning.
Access to all the amenities of the Resort, 24-hour pool, bar, music sessions, family dinner, etc.
Surf sessions every day, morning and afternoon, with highly qualified surf coaches who have all the knowledge of the area, providing safe and fun surf sessions.
Surf photos- the photographer will deliver at the end of the surf camp the best photos of his sessions at no additional cost.
In addition, you can add a variety of half-day activities in the area.
For more info about surf camps in Nicaragua, please click here.
Los Clavos Surf Camp, El Viejo
Los Clavos is another spectacular surf camp in Nicaragua. Away from the crowds, it is located on the beautiful, untouched North Pacific Coast and offers “all-inclusive” surf & yoga retreat vacations in a peaceful atmosphere.
The camp offers several surf packages depending on your needs and level:
FOR BEGINNERS – SURF COACHING & YOGA PACKAGE.
FOR ADVANCED SURFERS– SURF GUIDING PACKAGE WITH BOAT TRIPS TO THE BEST SPOTS IN THE AREA.
For more info about surf camps in Nicaragua, please click here.
Rise Up Surf Camp
Rise Up is a super professional surf camp that operates in several destinations in Central America. Here, the surf coaching program is all about personalization – focusing on your unique goals and intentions. Paired with a small group based on similar surf levels, your coach will be sure to give individual attention to each student. All coaches are experienced in delivering programs that help everybody achieve their goals.
Whether you want to learn how to surf or take your surfing to the next level, this surf program will help you reach your goals. On every retreat, you will surf uncrowded waves with fun, professional, and certified surf coaches. The surf coaching is tailored to meet the needs of each student. With a strong focus on details, you are guaranteed to see progress in your surfing abilities. The Rise Up coaches will take your surfing confidence to a new level.
For more info about surf camps in Nicaragua, please click here.
Two Brothers Surf Resort
Situated on a private hilltop, Two Brothers is incredibly private and secure, at the center of some of the best surf areas that Nicaragua has to offer – surf Popoyo, Paranoias, Middles, Outer Reef, Beaches, Dairy Queens, Astillero, Chacocente, Peaks, Playgrounds, Colorados, Panga Drops, Santana, Rosadas, Auggies (and others just waiting to be named…)
This is a great place for advanced surfers seeking the best breaks in the area. As for the beginners, there are surf lessons for $50-$70 an hour.
For more info about surf camps in Nicaragua, please click here.
Dreamsea Surf Camp Nicaragua
Situated in San Juan del Sur, Dreamsea Surf Camp Nicaragua offers excellent accommodations with a natural and authentic vibe.
No matter your skill level, San Juan del Sur’s beaches are a great place for all levels of surfers. Playa Maderas is the most popular and easily accessible surfing beach near Dreamsea Surf Resort. It is a location where both beginners and experts can find great waves, with tides being the main deciding factor of when to paddle out.
For more info about Nicaragua surf camps, please click here.
Why Do People Love Surf Camps in Nicaragua?
Going on a surf vacation in Nicaragua is one of the best things a surfer can do for himself. There is something magical about leaving everyday life and dedicating a week or two to something you love. However, planning a surf vacation can be quite a hassle, especially when you lack local knowledge. Tasks like booking hotels, finding restaurants, and knowing which surf spots to go to can be pretty exhausting.
This is exactly where a surf camp kicks in. By booking a surf camp in Nicaragua, you basically take the annoying part out of the equation and focus only on the fun part. While the camp will take care of transportation, accommodation, meals, equipment, and surf lessons, you can simply enjoy your vacation time. In addition, surf camps in Nicaragua are a great place to meet new surfers from all over the world.
What is the Cost of a Surf Camp in Nicaragua?
When booking a surf camp in Nicaragua, the cost should play a major part in your decision. Luckily, you will find a great variety of camps and packages to suit any budget here. In fact, most of the surf camps in Nicaragua offer a great value for your money. What determines the cost of a surf camp are factors like the quality of the accommodation, number of days, number of surf lessons per day, seasonality, and additional services. Therefore, depending on your budget, you can customize the package that suits you best. In most cases, booking a surf camp in Nicaragua will actually cost you less than it would be if you booked all services on your own. As for the numbers, a one-week package in a surf camp in Nicaragua should cost somewhere between $250 to $1100.
Are Surf Camps in Nicaragua Suitable for Beginners?
Nicaragua offers a wonderful variety of beaches that receive different types of swells to suit all skill levels. For instance, the waves in Popoyo Reef are powerful and hollow, but just next to it, in Beginners Bay, you will find small waves and an excellent environment for some surf lessons. Therefore, surfers of all skill levels can come for a surf camp in Nicaragua. Moreover, the instructors in all the surf camps in Nicaragua know exactly where to take their students to keep them safe and help them practice in waves that suit their skills.
What Time of the Year is Best for a Surf Camp in Nicaragua?
Luckily, Nicaragua receives consistent swells all year long. However, if you want to score the best waves, it is best to come between April and November. During these summer months, the swells are consistent pretty much every day. Although it can get rainy, especially during September, the surf conditions are spectacular.
Which Location in Nicaragua is Best for a Surf Camp?
Although there are many good surf beaches in Nicaragua, these are the most recommended ones for a surf camp:
1. Popoyo- This is the number one surf spot in Nicaragua.
2. Playa Maderas- Beautiful beach with fantastic waves.
3. Playa Colorado- Epic barrels for advanced surfers only.
Essential Things You Should Check Before Choosing a Surf Camp in Nicaragua
Before choosing a surf camp in Nicaragua, it is crucial to understand exactly what the camp provides, so don’t forget to check the following:
1. What is the student-to-instructor ratio during the surf lessons? In general, the smaller the group is, the more personal guidance you will get from the instructor. Therefore, look for a ratio of 5 to 1 or less.
2. Are surfboard rentals provided by the camp, or must you bring your own surfboard? Also, can you use the camp’s equipment for practice on your own?
3. Are airport transfers included, or should you get there on your own? What about transfers to different surf spots during the camp?
4. Is the package all-inclusive, or should you pay for meals? If it is an all-inclusive, which meals are included and which ones are not?
5. How many surf lessons are included in the package each day? Is there a precise schedule?
6. What type of accommodations will you be staying at? Is it a private room or a dorm? How many people will you be sharing the room with?
7. Does the coaching program suit your skill level? Is there a separation between beginners and advanced surfers during the sessions?
8. Which qualifications do the surf instructors have? Are they certified? Remember, your safety is above everything.
9. Which coaching tools will be used during the camp? Is there a theoretical part? Video analysis? Enough practice time?
10. Are there any add-ons or additional services you should know about, or does the initial price cover everything?
How to Book a Surf Camp in Nicaragua
Once you choose your preferred surf camp in Nicaragua, booking it is pretty easy, as everything is available online. The main question, though, should be what type of surf camp are you looking for, and these are the two main options:
1. If you are a beginner or an intermediate surfer and you are looking for a coaching program, then the best website to book your surf camp is www.booksurfcamps.com. This is where you can get the most reliable information about the surf instructors, weekly schedule, and general guidance.
2. If you are an experienced surfer and all you need is a place to stay close to the waves, then you can simply book your stay on www.booking.com.
Both websites are trusted and user-friendly, so you can feel comfortable using them for booking your surf camp in Nicaragua.
Conclusion- Final Thought
To sum up, these are the top surf camps in Nicaragua. In reality, it doesn’t really matter which one of them you choose, as they are all good and offer pretty much the same. What’s most important is your attitude. If you come open-minded to learn, practice, and make the best of it, you can improve your surfing drastically, meet great people, and have lots of fun.
Before you go, you might want to visit our post about the best beginner surf beaches in Nicaragua, and the one about surf resorts in Nicaragua.
