Amusez vous à San Juan del Sur !

San Juan del Sur, un petit village côtier niché sur la côte Pacifique du Nicaragua, est devenu l’une des destinations les plus prisées pour les voyageurs en quête d’aventure, de détente et de découvertes culturelles. Ce coin de paradis, autrefois un humble village de pêcheurs, attire désormais des visiteurs du monde entier avec ses plages immaculées, ses vagues parfaites pour le surf, sa vie nocturne animée et son atmosphère conviviale. Voici une exploration des six meilleures choses à faire à San Juan del Sur, où chaque activité vous permettra de découvrir les trésors cachés de cette magnifique région.

1. Introduction to Surfing on the Beaches of San Juan del Sur

San Juan del Sur is often referred to as the surfing capital of Nicaragua. With consistent waves and spectacular beaches, it’s the ideal place to learn the sport or improve your skills if you’re already an experienced surfer. Popular surfing beaches include Playa Maderas, Playa Remanso and Playa Hermosa.

Playa Maderas, about 20 minutes’ drive from the centre of San Juan del Sur, is probably the most famous. It is ideal for surfers of all levels thanks to its world-class waves. For beginners, there are a number of surf schools in the area offering courses to suit all ages. Local instructors, often experienced surfers, will teach you not only how to surf, but also how to understand wave dynamics and safety at sea.

Playa Remanso is another perfect beach for beginners, with gentler waves and a relaxed atmosphere. Here you can hire a board and try your hand at taming the waves in a picturesque setting surrounded by lush green hills.

Playa Hermosa is a hidden gem where the waves are powerful but consistent. It’s the perfect place for intermediate and advanced surfers. The beach is also less crowded, offering a more tranquil setting for those who prefer a little privacy.

Surfing in San Juan del Sur isn’t just an activity, it’s a real immersion in the local culture. You can interact with the locals, meet like-minded travellers, and maybe even spot dolphins or turtles in the sea while you’re on your board.

 
 

 

 

2. Explore the Secret Beaches and Hidden Coves

San Juan del Sur and the surrounding area are full of more secluded beaches and coves, ideal for those looking to get away from the crowds. These secret beaches are often accessible after short hikes or by boat, and offer a more intimate and exclusive experience of Nicaragua’s Pacific coast.

Playa El Coco is one of these hidden beaches, offering unparalleled tranquillity. Located around 18km south of San Juan del Sur, Playa El Coco is perfect for a relaxing day in the sun. Here you can relax on the golden sands, swim in the calm waters, or explore the surrounding area by kayak. The beach is also a great place to spot local wildlife, including the howler monkeys that inhabit the surrounding trees.

The Flor Wildlife Reserve is another must-see destination for nature lovers. This reserve is one of the few places in the world where leatherback turtles, an endangered species, come to lay their eggs. Between July and January, you can witness this unique natural spectacle, when thousands of tiny turtles emerge from their nests and rush towards the ocean. It’s a breathtaking experience that will leave you with unforgettable memories.

For those seeking an even more secluded experience, there are hidden coves accessible only by boat. These small coves are often deserted, giving you total privacy in an idyllic natural setting. The waters are crystal clear, perfect for snorkelling and discovering incredible marine life.

 
 

 

 

3. Enjoy the sunset at Christ of the Mercy

Christ of the Mercy (Cristo de la Misericordia) is one of San Juan del Sur’s most emblematic attractions. This monumental statue of Christ, which stands 25 metres high, is perched on a hill overlooking the bay of San Juan del Sur. Not only is it a religious and cultural icon, it also offers one of the best views in the region.

The path to Christ of the Mercy is a short but steep hike, which can be a little strenuous in the heat, but the view that awaits you at the top is well worth the effort. From here, you’ll have a panoramic view of the whole of San Juan del Sur Bay, the surrounding hills and the Pacific Ocean stretching as far as the eye can see.

The ideal time to visit Christ of the Mercy is at sunset. As the sun slowly dips into the ocean, the colours of the sky change from blue to orange, pink and finally purple. It’s a dazzling natural spectacle that attracts locals and visitors alike. Many photographers flock here to capture the beauty of this moment, and it’s also a romantic spot for those travelling as a couple.

After admiring the sunset, you can head back down to town to enjoy the evening in San Juan del Sur, with its many restaurants and bars offering local cuisine and refreshing

 
 

 

 

4. Scuba diving and snorkelling

The waters around San Juan del Sur are rich in marine life, making it an ideal destination for scuba diving and snorkelling. Whether you’re an experienced diver or just looking to explore the coral reefs on the surface, there are several sites nearby that are well worth a visit.

Los Arcos is one of the most famous dive sites in the region. Located a short boat ride from San Juan del Sur, this site is known for its spectacular underwater rock formations, with natural arches and tunnels to explore. Marine life is abundant, with schools of colourful fish, rays, moray eels and even the occasional reef shark. For experienced divers, Los Arcos offers a thrilling experience with deeper dives and moderate currents.

For those who prefer snorkelling, Playa Blanca is an excellent option. This secluded beach is accessible by boat and offers crystal-clear waters perfect for spotting coral and tropical fish. The shallow waters make it easy to see the marine life without the need for deep diving, making it an activity that’s accessible to all the family.

Isla de Ometepe, located in nearby Lake Nicaragua, is also a great option for diving enthusiasts. Although the island is best known for its volcanoes and hiking trails, it also offers some unique diving opportunities, including the discovery of the submerged remains of pre-Columbian civilisation.

For those wishing to explore the marine life without equipment, several boat trips around the bay of San Juan del Sur include snorkelling stops. These excursions are often accompanied by local guides who know the best spots to observe turtles, dolphins and a multitude of tropical fish.

 
 

 

 

5. Take part in San Juan del Sur’s lively nightlife

San Juan del Sur is as famous for its lively nightlife as it is for its beaches and surf. The village, although small, offers a multitude of options for those wishing to enjoy a festive evening, whether sipping cocktails by the sea, dancing until dawn, or simply taking in the friendly atmosphere of the local bars.

The Sunday Funday Pool Crawl is one of San Juan del Sur’s most famous events. This weekly party attracts travellers from all over the world and offers a tour of the bars and pools at various hotels and hostels in the town. It’s a great opportunity to meet other travellers, dance and enjoy live music in a relaxed atmosphere. Tickets usually include entry to several venues, drinks and sometimes even souvenir t-shirts. If you’re in San Juan del Sur on a Sunday, this is an event not to be missed.

For a quieter but equally enjoyable evening, the many beach bars such as El Timon or La Cerveceria offer craft cocktails, local beers and often live music. These establishments are perfect for relaxing after a day of activities, while enjoying the sea breeze and ocean views.

If you like to dance, Arribas and The Black Whale are popular nightclubs where you can dance to Latin American rhythms such as salsa, reggaeton and bachata. These clubs attract locals and tourists alike, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Parties often start late and finish in the early hours of the morning, offering an authentic Nicaraguan nightlife experience.

Finally, for those looking for a cultural experience, many of San Juan del Sur’s restaurants and bars offer evenings with traditional dance performances, live music concerts, or even open-air film screenings. It’s a great way to get to know the local culture while enjoying an enjoyable evening out.

 

6. Exploring the Hinterland and Adventure Activities

Beyond the beaches, San Juan del Sur offers a rich variety of adventure activities in its mountainous hinterland. Whether you’re into hiking, zip-lining or mountain biking, there’s something for every adventurer.

The Maderas volcano, although located on the island of Ometepe, is a popular hiking destination from San Juan del Sur. The hike is a physical challenge, with a steep ascent through the rainforest, but it rewards hikers with spectacular views of Lake Nicaragua and the surrounding landscape. At the top you’ll find a crater with a small lake, a perfect place to rest before heading back down.

For a closer adventure, La Flor Nature Reserve offers hiking trails through dense forests where you can spot local wildlife, including howler monkeys, sloths, and a variety of tropical birds. The reserve also offers horse riding excursions that allow you to explore the surrounding landscapes in a unique way.

If you’re looking for a thrill, Da Flying Frog Canopy Tour is a must. This zip-line tour takes you through the rainforest canopy with breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean. The route includes several starting platforms, suspension bridges and zip lines of varying lengths, some reaching impressive speeds. It’s an exhilarating experience that gives you a completely different perspective on the landscape of San Juan del Sur.

For mountain bikers, trails wind through the hills and valleys around San Juan del Sur, offering routes suitable for all levels. These mountain bike excursions are a great way to explore less-frequented areas, with frequent stops to admire the views or visit local farms where you can sample fresh produce.

In conclusion, San Juan del Sur is much more than just a seaside destination. It’s a place where adventure, relaxation and culture come together to offer an unforgettable travel experience. Whether you’re a surfer, a nature lover, a culture enthusiast or just looking to relax, San Juan del Sur has something for everyone. These six activities are just a sample of the many possibilities available to you in this Nicaraguan paradise.