Surfing in Popoyo: Surf Spots, Beaches, Camps, and Lessons Guide
Surfing in Popoyo is a heaven for nomads that like to surf as it is filled with some fantastic surf spots, beaches, camps, and schools for lessons. This guide sould be a basic run through of the area, how to get to it, and all the more. To give you a sneak peak of why you would want to travel here, you can check out a sneakpeak as of why;
Introduction to Surfing in Popoyo
Located right on the Pacific coast of Nicaragua, Popoyo is a total magnet for swell. You have the massive Pacific Ocean sending energy straight to the beach, but the secret sauce here is the Lake Nicaragua effect. It creates offshore winds that blow almost 300 days a year, keeping the faces of the waves groomed and clean. The main reason you head here is the sheer consistency. You can pretty much count on finding a rideable wave every single day, which is a dream for any surfer or traveler looking to score.
The typical swell is a solid groundswell from the south, hitting a variety of breaks. You have the main reef which is a classic A-frame, and then the outer reef for when the ocean really starts to flex. If you are just starting out, there are mellow beach breaks and the legendary Beginners Bay where the waves wrap around a headland and lose all their bite. When the tide is wrong or the swell is down, the vibe is still high. You can explore the tide pools, grab a local beer, or just hang in a hammock. It is a rugged, beautiful place where the desert meets the sea and the crowds stay thin compared to other spots in Central America.
Best Season to Surf in Popoyo
The green season from May to October is when the Pacific really wakes up. You get the biggest and most consistent swells during these months, fueled by storms deep in the Southern Ocean. The offshore winds stay locked in, making for epic conditions. It might rain in the afternoons, but that usually just cools things down and keeps the dust off the roads.
Beginner Recommendation
The dry season from December to April is the prime window. The swells are generally smaller and much more manageable, which is perfect for learning the ropes at places like Beginners Bay. The water can get a little chilly due to upwelling from those constant offshore winds, so you might want a thin neoprene top, but the sun is always out.
Overall Recommendation
The best season for experienced riders is the middle of the year. If you want to see the outer reef firing or the main reef at its most hollow, June and July are the months to aim for. The energy is high, the landscape is lush, and the waves are world class.
Surf Spots and Beaches
Best Beginner Waves
Beginners Bay: This is a legendary spot for a reason. The wave wraps around the point at Magnific Rock, which filters out the heavy energy and leaves you with long, soft rollers. It is a sandy bottom and deep enough to be safe, making it the ultimate playground to practice your pop up and long rides.
General Recommendation
Check out all the other waves in the area, its quite easy to find wav within these; Main Reef, Playa Guasacate, Stoneys, Playa Santana, Popoyo Outer Reef, Popoyo, Santana, Playa Rosada
Surf Schools and Surf Camps
These guys are located right at the best learning spot in the area. They specialize in getting first timers up and riding with local knowledge and great vibes.
A local legend who knows every peak on the coast. They offer personalized coaching and guided sessions for all levels, focusing on real progression in the water.
There are a handful of surf camps located around the area, and I suggest taking a quick google search on Google Maps to find one that is located closest to the wave that you prefer to ride.
How to get to Popoyo
Most people fly into Managua at MGA and then take a private taxi or shuttle for the two hour drive. The roads are mostly paved now, making it an easy mission. If you are coming from Costa Rica, you can fly into ECI which is way closer, only about 15 minutes away. If you are on a budget, you can catch the local chicken buses from Managua to Rivas and then transfer towards Guasacate, but be ready for a long journey.
General Costs and Considerations
Nicaragua is very affordable for travelers. You can get a solid local meal for under 10 dollars and a cold beer for about 2. The currency is the Córdoba, and while you can use US dollars in many places, having local cash is better for small shops and taxis. You can get cash from ATMs in Rivas or some smaller ones in the surf camps, but they can be moody, so bring some backup.
Travel Advisories
Stay alert and use common sense. While the surf zones are generally chill, crime can happen, so do not leave your gear unattended on the beach. Use official taxis and avoid traveling late at night. Health wise, make sure your routine vaccinations are up to date and use plenty of bug spray to avoid mosquito bites. The sun is also no joke here, so bring the heavy duty zinc.
Other Things to Do in Popoyo
Food
You have to try Gallo Pinto. It is a staple mix of rice and beans usually served with fried cheese, eggs, and plantains. It is the fuel of champions before a long session.
Location to Hike
Hike up to the top of Magnific Rock. It gives you a birds eye view of the entire coastline and the different breaks. It is the best spot for a sunset check.
Cultural Thing
Check out the local hot springs nearby. It is a great way to soak the muscles after a week of paddling and meet the locals who live in the surrounding farmland.
Conclusion
Popoyo is a mandatory stop for anyone who loves the ocean. The consistency is insane and the variety of waves means everyone from a total grom to a pro can have the time of their life. It is not a place for luxury malls or fancy city life, but it is exactly what you want for a real surf trip. The people are friendly, the beer is cold, and the offshore winds are almost guaranteed. It is absolutely worth sending it for a session here.