San Juan del Sur - Discovering Nicaragua

Travelling to San Juan del Sur

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in San Juan del Sur, a pretty good destination in Nicaragua (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to San Juan del Sur and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around San Juan del Sur, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Nicaragua, here's everything to know about San Juan del Sur for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to San Juan del Sur

San Juan del Sur is a coastal town located in the southern part of Nicaragua, near the border with Costa Rica. It is well known for its beautiful beaches, excellent surfing spots, and vibrant nightlife. The town has a population of around 20,000 people and is a popular holiday destination for both local Nicaraguans and international travelers. Some of the popular attractions in the area include the Christ of Mercy statue, the San Juan del Sur lighthouse, and the stunning Playa Maderas beach. Additionally, San Juan del Sur is the perfect base for exploring other nearby attractions such as the stunning Ometepe Island or the colonial city of Granada.

What to visit in San Juan del Sur

1. Playa Maderas: Playa Maderas is a popular surfing beach in San Juan del Sur. Known for its consistent waves and beautiful surroundings, it is a must-visit destination for surfers and beach-goers.
2. Christ of the Mercy: The Christ of the Mercy is a statue that overlooks the bay of San Juan del Sur. It can be reached by hiking up a steep hill or by taking a taxi or ATV. The view from the top is breathtaking and offers some of the best sunset views in the area.
3. San Juan del Sur Beach: The main beach in San Juan del Sur is a bustling hub of activity. It stretches over a mile long and is dotted with restaurants, bars, and shops. Visitors can relax on the beach, go for a swim, surf, or take a boat out to explore nearby islands.
4. Ometepe Island: Ometepe Island is an hour and a half away from San Juan del Sur. The island is home to two volcanoes, Concepción and Maderas, as well as a number of beaches, waterfalls, and natural reserves. Visitors can hike up one of the volcanoes, rent a bike to explore the island, or take a dip in the refreshing waters of a nearby swimming hole.
5. El Remanso: El Remanso is a private nature reserve just outside of San Juan del Sur. It is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna, including monkeys, sloths, and exotic birds. Visitors can go on a guided hike through the reserve to learn about the local ecosystem or opt for a zipline tour through the treetops.
6. Mirador del Cristo de la Misericordia: Mirador del Cristo de la Misericordia is a lookout point overlooking the bay of San Juan del Sur. It offers panoramic views of the town and the surrounding area. Visitors can walk up to the viewpoint or take a taxi or ATV.
7. La Flor Wildlife Refuge: La Flor Wildlife Refuge is a protected area just south of San Juan del Sur. It is the largest nesting site of Olive Ridley sea turtles in the Pacific Ocean. Visitors can go on a guided tour to see the turtles or take a hike through the reserve to spot other wildlife such as monkeys and birds.
8. Playa Hermosa: Playa Hermosa is a secluded beach just outside of San Juan del Sur. It is known for its perfect waves, crystal-clear water, and peaceful atmosphere. Visitors can surf, swim, or simply relax on the beach and soak up the sun.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Nicaragua, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in San Juan del Sur.

When to go on holiday to San Juan del Sur

The best time to visit San Juan del Sur is during the dry season which runs from November to April. During this time, you can expect sunny days with little to no rainfall, making it ideal for outdoor activities such as surfing, swimming, and hiking. However, it's worth noting that this is also the busiest time of the year when tourist numbers are at their highest, and prices may be higher than during the rainy season. If you're looking to save money and avoid the crowds, you may consider visiting during the rainy season which runs from May to October, although you need to be prepared for occasional showers.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to San Juan del Sur

There are a few different options for getting to San Juan del Sur, Nicaragua: 1. Fly into Managua International Airport, then take a taxi or private shuttle to San Juan del Sur. This is the most common option and takes about 2 hours.
2. Take a bus from Managua or nearby towns to Rivas, then take a taxi or bus to San Juan del Sur. This option is cheaper but takes longer and requires more transfers.
3. If you're coming from Costa Rica, you can take a bus or shared shuttle from Liberia or San Jose to the border at Peñas Blancas, then take a taxi or bus to San Juan del Sur. This option requires crossing the border, so make sure you have all necessary documents and check the current border regulations.
It's also worth noting that many hotels and hostels in San Juan del Sur offer shuttle services from the airport or nearby cities, so that could be another option to consider.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit San Juan del Sur, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in San Juan del Sur

Sure, here are some typical foods of San Juan del Sur, Nicaragua: 1. Gallo Pinto: This is a traditional dish made of rice and beans that are cooked together and seasoned with onions, peppers, and spices. It's commonly served as breakfast with eggs, cheese, and plantains.
2. Nacatamales: Nacatamales are a delicious and hearty dish made of masa (corn dough), stuffed with pork, potatoes, and vegetables, all wrapped in banana leaves and steamed until they're tender.
3. Vigorón: Vigorón is a popular snack made of yuca (cassava) and chicharrón (fried pork rinds), served with shredded cabbage salad and marinated onions. It's a perfect street food snack that's both salty and tangy.
4. Tostones: Tostones are twice-fried plantains that are sliced and then smashed flat before being fried and salted. They are a perfect savory snack and are often served with guacamole, beans, or crema.
5. Rondon: Rondon is a rich, flavorful soup made with coconut milk, yuca, plantains, and seafood like shrimp, fish, squid, and crab. It's a perfect warming dish that'll leave you satisfied and full.
6. Quesillo: Quesillo is a traditional snack made with a soft, handmade tortilla, filled with melted cheese, pickled onions, and sometimes cream. It's a common street food snack that's perfect for those on-the-go.
You can find general info about typical foods in Nicaragua here.

Is San Juan del Sur an expensive destination for tourists?

San Juan del Sur is generally considered a relatively affordable destination for tourists. Prices for accommodations, meals, and activities are reasonable compared to other tourist locations around the world. However, the cost of living in San Juan del Sur is higher than in other parts of Nicaragua, which means that prices may still seem high to locals. It is important to do research and compare prices before planning your trip to get the best deals and ensure that you stay within your budget.

Where to find accomodation in San Juan del Sur

In San Juan del Sur, the best areas to find accommodation include the town center, the beachfront, and the oceanview hillside. The town center offers easy access to restaurants, shops, and nightlife, while the beachfront area provides direct access to the beach and water activities. The oceanview hillside area offers scenic views of the bay and usually quieter surroundings. Keep in mind that some areas may be more expensive than others, depending on the level of comfort and proximity to tourist attractions.
You can check hotel prices at San Juan del Sur here:
Booking.com

Is San Juan del Sur a safe destination for tourists?

San Juan del Sur is generally considered a safe place for tourists. However, as with any destination, it's important to take some precautions to stay safe: 1. Stay aware of your surroundings and be alert to any potential danger.
2. Avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit areas.
3. Keep your valuables out of sight and be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas.
4. Use reputable transportation companies and avoid hitchhiking or taking unmarked taxis.
5. Follow local laws and customs, especially regarding drug use.
Overall, as long as you exercise caution and common sense, San Juan del Sur can be a very enjoyable and safe destination for tourists.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Nicaragua here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting San Juan del Sur.

What type of travelers will enjoy San Juan del Sur the most?

San Juan del Sur is a great destination for a variety of travelers, but it is mainly popular among younger travelers looking for fun. The town has a vibrant nightlife and many restaurants and bars to enjoy. It is also a popular spot for surfers, so if you enjoy surfing or would like to try it for the first time, San Juan del Sur is a great choice.
Families and couples can also find plenty to do in San Juan del Sur. There are many opportunities to explore the beautiful natural surroundings through activities like hiking, swimming, and visiting nearby beaches.
Overall, San Juan del Sur is an excellent destination for travelers who appreciate a laid-back beach atmosphere and enjoy outdoor activities.

How to get around San Juan del Sur

In San Juan del Sur, you can move around by walking, taking a taxi, or renting a bicycle, motorbike or car. Taxis are relatively cheap and can be found easily around the town center. Bicycles and motorbikes are also available for rent, and are a popular option for exploring nearby beaches. Rental cars are a good choice if you plan to travel further afield, but keep in mind that roads in this part of Nicaragua can be challenging, so it is important to exercise caution and make sure you are adequately insured.

What to see around San Juan del Sur

Here are some great places to visit on a day trip from San Juan del Sur: 1. Granada: This colonial city is known for its colorful architecture and stunning cathedrals. It's only a two hour drive from San Juan del Sur and is a great place to explore for a day.
2. Masaya Volcano National Park: This active volcano is just a short drive from Granada. You can hike up to the top for incredible views and see the lava lake at the bottom.
3. Ometepe Island: This island is located in Lake Nicaragua and is home to two volcanoes, beautiful beaches, and lush forests. It's about a three hour drive from San Juan del Sur but definitely worth it for a day trip.
4. Mombacho Volcano: This dormant volcano is located near Granada and offers beautiful hiking trails, zip lining, and coffee tours.
5. San Juan River: Take a boat tour down the San Juan River, which connects Lake Nicaragua to the Caribbean Sea. You can see all kinds of wildlife, including monkeys, birds, and crocodiles.
These are just a few options for day trips from San Juan del Sur. There are plenty of other beautiful places to explore in Nicaragua!
For every travel information about Nicaragua you can click here.

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