Last updated on January 23rd, 2024 at 06:13 pm
If you are looking for the best surf spots in Popoyo, you came to the right place. In this surf guide to Popoyo, you will find all the information you need for your next surf trip, including surf tips, surf seasons, and everything related to surfing in Popoyo, Nicaragua.
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About Surfing in Popoyo, Nicaragua
Popoyo is a beautiful beach town located in South Nicaragua. It offers world-class waves and several surf spots. In fact, Popoyo is the spot that put Nicaragua on the world’s surfing map back in the 70s. Since then, both locals and foreigners come to surf in Popoyo regularly, and it has established its reputation as an incredible surf destination.
To get to Popoyo, you must take about a 1.5-hour drive from Managua International Airport. You will find many accommodation options for different budgets when you get here. Unlike its neighbor, Costa Rica, the prices in Nicaragua are very convenient, and Popoyo is no exception. Moreover, it is a quiet place with a relaxed vibe, no parties, no distractions. Therefore, you will not find any crazy nightlife like San Juan Del Sur offers. Here, it is all about surfing.
So what will you find here?
Well, when surfing in Popoyo, you will enjoy consistent swells, offshore winds, warm water, and spectacular tube rides.
The Best Surf Season in Popoyo
Popoyo’s surf season starts in April and lasts until October. Like all of Nicaragua’s Coast, this time of year brings consistent south swells, creating perfect surf conditions and warm water of about 28-29°C.
During the surf season, the offshore wind blows from sunrise to sunset (due to nearby Lake Nicaragua), and the average wave size is about 4-6 feet. Of course, some swells can bring even 10-20 feet waves. When that happens, you just need to choose the right spot for you; there are several options in the nearby area.
The Best Surf Spots in Popoyo
When Surfing in Popoyo, you can choose between several different breaks, depending on the swell size and your skill level. So, in detail, these are the best surf spots in Popoyo:
Popoyo Main Reef:
This is an A-frame reef break that opens up to both the right and the left sides. Amazingly, it is so consistent that you can find something here to ride on, even on the smallest days. In this spot, the upcoming swell breaks over a flat reef (a forgiving one) and produces open rides with barreling sections. Luckily, this break performs well at all tides. On the other hand, the lineup is crowded, so be ready for some competition.
Popoyo Outer Reef:
Paddle out a bit further from the main reef, and you will get to the most famous surf spot in Popoyo. In fact, this is one of the country’s most challenging and dangerous breaks. The outer reef picks up big swells and crashes them on a very shallow rocky bottom, creating a massive barrel that opens up mainly to the left side. Therefore, this spot is suitable for advanced surfers only. Know your limits so you don’t get hurt.
Playa Santana:
This spot is a classic, powerful beach break, perfect for barrel seekers. In fact, you can get barreled here almost every single day. It performs at its best during mid to high tide and hosts many surf competitions.
Beginner’s Bay:
As revealed by its name, this is the perfect spot to learn to surf or practice your skills. It can also be a good solution for huge swells when the other spots get too big and messy. This break is protected and offers soft and mellow rides, which will not punish you for your mistake.
Can Beginners Surf in Popoyo?
Yes, definitely!
As mentioned, Beginner’s Bay is the ultimate beginner spot. It offers a soft break over a sandy bottom, and that’s where many surf lessons take place.
However, if you are an intermediate or an advanced surfer, head to the Main Reef or the Outer Reef to ride more challenging waves.
Surf Camps in Popoyo
If you are a beginner making his first steps in the surfing world or even an intermediate seeking improvement, you can explore Popoyo’s surf scene at a surf camp. These are the most recommended ones in town:
1. Popoyo Surfcamp – For more details, please click here.
2. Magnific Rock Surf Resort & Yoga Retreat– For more details, please click here.
3. Wild Waves Surf-House – For more details, please click here.
4. Nicawaves – For more details, please click here.
5. Malibu Popoyo – For more details, please click here.
Surf Hotels in Popoyo
When coming to surf in Popoyo, you better ensure you stay in the right place, which means as close as possible to the reef break. So, these are some of the most recommended surf hotels in town:
1. The Barrel Hostel, Popoyo– The Barrel Hostel has a restaurant, bar, a shared lounge, and a private beach area in Popoyo. Boasting luggage storage space, this property also provides guests with a barbecue. The accommodation features a 24-hour front desk, a shuttle service, a shared kitchen, and free WiFi.
2. Mola Mola Surf Popoyo– Located in Popoyo, Mola Mola Surf Popoyo provides free WiFi, and guests can enjoy a restaurant, a bar, and a garden. In addition, all units have seating and a dining area, and continental breakfast is available daily.
3. Casitas Pacific– This property is a 1-minute walk from the beach. Located in Popoyo, Casitas Pacific provides free WiFi, a restaurant, a bar, and a garden. Some units also include a seating area and/or a balcony.
For more surf hotels in Popoyo, check out the best deals on Booking.com.
Popoyo- Travel Information
Language– Spanish.
Currency– Nicaraguan Cordoba.
Calling code– +505.
Time zone– GMT -6.
Pros– great barrels, offshore winds, warm water, low prices.
Cons– sharp reef.
Conclusion- A Final Thought
To sum up, Surfing Popoyo will give you the ultimate surfing experience. Regardless of your skill level, it has the perfect wave for any surfer. We hope you enjoyed reading this surf guide to Popoyo. Have a great surf trip!
