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Surfing
in
Nicaragua

Why
the
Emerald
Coast
is
a
favorite
among
seasoned
and
beginner
surfers.
Updated
on
February
18th,
2025
What
is...

Why the Emerald Coast is a favorite among seasoned and beginner surfers.

Updated
on
February
18th,
202
5

What is Nicaraguan Surfing?

Few
activities
in
the
realm
of
water
sports
can
match
the
exhilaration
and
freedom
of
surfing.
It’s
a
sport
that
challenges
the
body
and
mind,
offering
a
unique
blend
of
adrenaline
and
peace
as
you
ride
the
waves.
For
those
looking
to
dive
into
this
world,
surfing
in
Nicaragua,
especially
along
the
stunning
Emerald
Coast
,
presents
an
opportunity
unlike
any
other.

The Emerald Coast

With
its
sprawling
coastline
and
consistent
offshore
winds,
Nicaragua
has
emerged
from
the
shadows
as
a
beacon
for
surf
enthusiasts.
The
Emerald
Coast,
in
particular,
is
renowned
for
its
variety
of
surf
spots
that
cater
to
all
levels,
from
the
novices
getting
on
their
boards
for
the
first
time
to
the
seasoned
veterans
searching
for
the
perfect
barrel.
This
stretch
of
coast
benefits
from
the
geographical
wonder
of
being
sandwiched
between
Lake
Nicaragua
and
the
Pacific
Ocean,
producing
offshore
winds
nearly
300
days
a
year.
Such
conditions
are
rare
and
highly
sought
after
in
the
surfing
world,
making
surfing
in
Nicaragua
a
must-experience
for
anyone
with
a
penchant
for
wave
riding.

Rancho Santana Surf Resort

Among
the
gems
of
the
Emerald
Coast
is
Rancho
Santana,
a
destination
that
embodies
the
essence
of
Nicaraguan
surfing.
With
over
30
miles
of
diverse
coastline,
Rancho
Santana
offers
more
than
just
waves;
it
provides
an
immersive
experience
of
the
surf
culture
.
The
area
is
adorned
with
pristine
landscapes
and
a
community
that
welcomes
surfers
with
open
arms.
Whether
you’re
paddling
out
into
Beginner’s
Bay
or
taking
on
the
majestic
barrels
at
Playa
Colorado,
the
essence
of
surfing
in
Nicaragua
is
captured
in
every
moment
here.

Who Can Surf at Rancho Santana

For
beginners,
the
secluded
nature
of
the
Emerald
Coast,
coupled
with
Rancho
Santana’s
Beach
&
Surf
Club
,
provides
the
ideal
setting
to
learn.
With
experienced
instructors
from
the
local
surfing
community,
new
surfers
can
safely
and
effectively
learn
the
ropes,
from
paddling
out
to
catching
their
first
wave.
This
supportive
environment
is
crucial
for
building
confidence
and
skills
in
the
water,
making
surfing
in
Nicaragua
an
accessible
adventure
for
all.

The
allure
of
surfing
in
Nicaragua
extends
beyond
the
waves.
The
Emerald
Coast
is
a
haven
of
natural
beauty,
offering
surfers
and
visitors
the
chance
to
explore
lush
landscapes,
vibrant
wildlife
,
and
serene
beaches.
After
a
long
day
of
surfing,
there’s
nothing
quite
like
relaxing
on
the
beach,
watching
the
sunset
over
the
Pacific,
and
reflecting
on
the
day’s
adventures.
Moments
like
these
capture
the
essence
of
the
surfing
lifestyle—a
blend
of
adventure,
relaxation,
and
connection
with
nature.Surfing
in
Nicaragua
is
not
just
about
challenging
yourself
against
the
waves;
it’s
also
about
connecting
with
a
community
that
shares
a
deep
love
for
the
ocean.
Playa
Santana,
the
namesake
beach
of
Rancho
Santana,
is
a
prime
example
of
this.
With
its
barreling
peaks
and
friendly
atmosphere,
it’s
a
spot
where
locals
and
tourists
can
come
together,
sharing
waves
and
stories.
However,
it’s
not
just
Playa
Santana
that
draws
surfers;
nearby
Playa
Rosada
offers
an
advanced
left
point
break,
while
Playa
Los
Perros
is
perfect
for
those
just
starting
out,
with
its
slower
waves
and
sandy
bottom.

If
you’re
unfamiliar
 
with
surfing,
you
may
be
wondering
where
to
start.
Knowing
which
break
to
try,
or
what
board
to
choose
can
be
confusing
and
crowded
beaches
can
make
learning
a
little
tricky
for
novice
surfers
–
that’s
where
 
Rancho
Santana
 
comes
in.
 

Nicaragua
has
long
been
a
jewel
in
the
rough,
a
well-kept
secret,
and
a
favorite
among
experienced
surfers
or
those
looking
to
get
started.
With
over
30
miles
of
coastline,
the
Emerald
Coast
has
emerged
as
one
of
the
premier
surfing
destinations
in
the
world,
and
it’s
no
wonder
why.
Its
location
right
between
 
Lake
Nicaragua
 
and
the
Pacific
means
the
Emerald
Coast
is
one
of
the
few
places
in
the
world
to
enjoy
offshore
winds
about
300
days
out
of
the
year.

The
friendly
culture
of
the
local
communities
and
the
pristine
landscapes
further
drive
home
the
renowned
surf
breaks
in
the
area.
From
the
aptly-named
Beginner’s
Bay
to
the
magnificent
barrels
at
the
neighboring
Playa
Colorado:
when
it
comes
to
surfing,
the
Emerald
Coast
has
it
covered.
Rancho
Santana’s
prime
location
right
in
its
heart
with
 
five
beaches
of
its
own,
three
of
which
are
highly
popular
with
surfers,
makes
it
the
perfect
destination
to
discover
Nicaragua’s
best
breaks.
But
don’t
just
take
our
word
for
it,
The
Ranch
is
home
to
many
ex-pats
who
have
either
made
the
move
completely
or
work
remotely
during
the
surf
season.
Roger
Hochman
owns
a
home
overlooking
Playa
Escondida,
he
comes
down
regularly
to
enjoy
the
daily
surf
while
working
remotely.

Probably
the
biggest
attraction
is
the
consistency
of
the
conditions.
The
prevailing
wind
being
offshore
300+
day
x
year
is
something
you
don’t
find
many
other
places
in
the
world.
That
alone
pretty
much
covers
one
of
the
3
main
factors
for
good
waves.
Conditions,
Swell
&
tide.
Nicaragua
is
pretty
well
situated
in
the
Southern
Hemisphere
swell
path,
so
during
that
season
(March
–
Oct)
there
is
very
little
shortage
of
swell.
Basically,
you
only
have
to
check
the
forecast
models
to
know
how
much
swell
is
in
the
water
and
pick
your
place
to
surf
based
on
wave
height
and
tide.
Oh,
and
82°
water
is
a
big
bonus
too.

Gray Gardner – Full-time Resident and Owner at Rancho Santana

What are the Different Types of Nicaraguan Surf Swells?

Nicaragua’s
surf
swells
primarily
originate
from
the
Southern
Hemisphere,
especially
during
the
North
American
summer
months,
from
May
through
October.
These
swells
travel
thousands
of
miles
across
the
Pacific
Ocean
before
reaching
the
Nicaraguan
coast,
growing
in
size
and
power
along
the
way.
This
period
is
often
considered
the
prime
surf
season
in
Nicaragua,
attracting
surfers
eager
to
tackle
the
consistent
and
often
sizable
waves.

Types of Swells

Southern
Hemisphere
Swells:
These
are
the
most
prevalent
and
significant
for
surfing
in
Nicaragua.
They
generate
the
largest
and
most
powerful
waves,
ideal
for
experienced
surfers
looking
for
a
challenge.
The
beaches
facing
directly
into
these
swells,
particularly
along
the
Pacific
coast,
see
the
best
action
during
this
period.

Northwest
Swells:
During
the
winter
months
(November
through
February),
the
Northwest
swells
can
also
impact
Nicaragua,
albeit
to
a
lesser
extent.
Winter
storms
in
the
North
Pacific
generate
these
swells
and
can
provide
an
alternate
surf
season,
particularly
beneficial
for
beaches
oriented
to
capture
this
swell
direction.

What is the Lake Nicaragua Effect?

A
unique
feature
enhancing
the
surf
conditions
in
Nicaragua
is
the
“Lake
Nicaragua
effect.”
This
phenomenon
involves
the
lake’s
role
in
creating
offshore
winds
that
blow
across
the
country
to
the
Pacific
coast.
These
winds,
known
as
Papagayo
winds,
help
to
groom
the
incoming
swells
into
cleaner,
more
perfect
waves
by
holding
up
the
wave
faces.
This
effect
is
most
pronounced
during
the
dry
season
(December
through
April),
contributing
to
the
offshore
conditions
that
can
last
all
day,
a
rarity
in
many
surf
destinations
where
winds
typically
turn
onshore
by
midday.

What is the Lake Nicaragua Effect’s Impact on Surfing Conditions?

The
consistency
and
quality
of
the
swells,
combined
with
the
offshore
winds,
create
a
surfing
paradise
in
Nicaragua.
The
variety
of
waves
means
there’s
something
for
every
level
of
surfer:

For
Beginners:
Gentler
swells
at
beaches
with
sand
bottoms
provide
ideal
conditions
for
learning
and
improving
surfing
skills.

For
Intermediate
Surfers:
A
variety
of
point
breaks
and
reef
breaks
offer
the
opportunity
to
tackle
more
challenging
waves
without
the
intensity
of
the
biggest
swells.

For
Experienced
Surfers:
The
largest
swells
hitting
a
reef
and
point
breaks
create
perfect
conditions
for
advanced
surfing,
including
barrel
riding
and
performing
high-level
maneuvers.

What Types of Surf Breaks Does Nicaragua Have?

Nicaragua
is
blessed
with
abundant
surf
breaks
that
cater
to
every
level
of
surfer,
from
beginners
taking
their
first
tentative
steps
into
the
waves
to
seasoned
professionals
looking
for
challenging
barrels.
The
variety
of
beach,
point,
and
reef
breaks
combined
with
the
country’s
consistent
offshore
winds
and
swell
conditions
make
Nicaragua
a
premier
destination
for
surfers
seeking
quality
waves.
Here’s
an
overview
of
the
types
of
surf
breaks
found
in
Nicaragua
and
some
of
the
most
notable
spots.

Types of Surf Breaks in Nicaragua

Beach
Breaks:
These
are
found
where
waves
break
over
a
sandy
bottom.
Nicaragua
beach
breaks
are
ideal
for
beginners
and
intermediate
surfers
because
they
typically
offer
softer,
forgiving
waves.
However,
they
can
also
provide
some
fast
and
hollow
sections
for
advanced
surfers,
especially
when
the
swell
is
right.

Point
Breaks:
Point
breaks
occur
when
waves
hit
a
point
of
land
or
rocks,
peeling
along
the
coast
for
a
longer,
more
defined
ride.
Nicaragua
has
several
point
breaks
that
offer
long
rides
and
are
excellent
for
surfers
looking
to
improve
their
wave-riding
skills.

Reef
Breaks:
Waves
breaking
over
coral
or
rocky
bottoms
are
known
as
reef
breaks.
These
can
produce
some
of
the
most
consistent
and
hollow
waves,
appealing
to
experienced
surfers
seeking
a
challenge.
Reef
breaks
in
Nicaragua
are
known
for
their
power
and
can
offer
exhilarating
barrels
when
conditions
align.

Nicaraguan Surf Culture at Rancho Santana

The
surf
culture
in
Nicaragua
is
deeply
intertwined
with
the
local
way
of
life,
creating
a
vibrant
community
that
supports
and
celebrates
the
sport.
At
Rancho
Santana,
this
culture
is
alive
and
well,
with
expats
and
locals
mingling,
sharing
stories
of
their
surf
adventures,
and
enjoying
the
laid-back
lifestyle
that
surfing
embodies.

We
have
the
perfect
trifecta
–
Offshore
winds
almost
every
day,
warm
water
and
many
spots
that
produce
a
variety
of
waves
for
everyone
from
beginners
to
hard
core
chargers.

Roger Hochman – Part-time Resident and Owner at Rancho Santana

Rancho Santana Surf Experiences

Does Rancho Santana Have Surf Packages?

Elevate
your
group’s
surfing
adventure
with
Rancho
Santana’s
exclusive
“Beyond
the
Swell”
Advanced
Surf
Package,
designed
for
passionate
surfers
seeking
an
extraordinary
wave-chasing
experience.
This
package
is
ideal
for
small
groups,
revitalizing
retreats,
or
high-energy
surf
camps
looking
for
a
memorable
adventure.
 

Discover
an
unparalleled
surfing
destination
at
Rancho
Santana,
featuring
five
beautiful
beaches
and
easy
access
to
Nicaragua’s
renowned
surf
breaks.
Enhance
your
trip
with
beautiful
accommodations,
fine
dining
options,
and
exceptional
wellness
amenities
to
create
an
unforgettable
group
getaway.

Enjoy
up
to
15%
off
room
rates
as
part
of
this
exclusive
package!


This
package
includes:

Reserve
this
Surf
Package
Today

What is a Surf Butler?

A
Surf
Butler
at
Rancho
Santana
is
a
unique
service
designed
to
enhance
your
surfing
experience
on
the
Emerald
Coast.
It
offers
a
personalized
approach
to
surfing,
ensuring
you
have
everything
you
need,
from
the
right
gear
to
expert
guidance.
The
service
includes
private
transportation,
a
selection
of
surfboards,
daily
surf
reports,
and
a
tailored
surf
plan.
Additionally,
you’ll
enjoy
unlimited
surf
sessions,
a
surf
boat
charter
experience,
and
a
wellness
massage.
The
package,
designed
for
up
to
four
people,
aims
to
maximize
your
surfing
adventure
with
convenience
and
luxury.
For
more
details,
visit
Rancho
Santana’s
Surf
Butler
page
.

view of two surfers taking surf lesson on playa los perros at Rancho Santana

What is Taking a Surf Lesson Like at Rancho Santana?

Taking
a
surf
lesson
at
Rancho
Santana
on
Nicaragua’s
Emerald
Coast
offers
private
and
group
options
at
Playa
Los
Perros,
perfect
for
beginners.
More
experienced
surfers
can
also
enjoy
off-site
lessons
at
locations
like
Magrock,
Popoyo,
and
Amarillo,
with
transportation
included.
Each
lesson,
lasting
around
90
minutes,
is
conducted
by
professional,
English-speaking
instructors
and
includes
surfboard
use.
Additionally,
professional
photography
can
be
added
to
capture
the
experience.
For
more
details
on
starting
your
surf
journey,
visit
Take
a
Surf
Lesson
at
Rancho
Santana
.

What is Surf Coaching?

Surf
coaching
at
Rancho
Santana
is
designed
for
surfers
looking
to
elevate
their
skills
with
the
guidance
of
professional
instructors.
It
offers
private
and
group
sessions,
customizable
to
include
transportation
and
a
selection
of
up
to
two
surf
locations
daily.
Additionally,
photo
and
video
analysis
can
enhance
the
learning
experience.
Participants
are
advised
to
bring
their
surfboard,
swimsuit,
sunscreen,
and
water.
For
more
details,
visit
Get
Surf
Coaching
at
Rancho
Santana.

What is a Surf Trip Like at Rancho Santana?

A
surf
trip
at
Rancho
Santana
is
like
embarking
on
a
surf
safari,
where
you
and
up
to
eight
companions
can
explore
the
waves
along
Nicaragua’s
coast.
This
four-hour
boating
excursion,
heading
either
north
or
south,
is
guided
by
an
English-speaking
surf
expert
and
includes
soft
drinks.
Optional
add-ons
include
roundtrip
transportation
to
Astillero
and
surf
photography.
Participants
are
reminded
to
bring
their
surfboard,
swimsuit,
rashguard,
sunscreen,
and
water.
For
more
details,
visit
Surf
Trip
at
Rancho
Santana.

Does Rancho Have a Surf Summer Camp?

The
Summer
Surf
Camp
at
Rancho
Santana
is
a
five-day
intensive
program
led
by
former
pro
surfer
Kali
Artavia,
tailored
for
surfers
aged
12-20
years
old
with
an
intermediate
skill
level.
The
camp
focuses
on
advanced
techniques,
including
video
analysis
and
on-land
training,
to
significantly
enhance
participants’
surfing
abilities.
It’s
scheduled
from
July
14th
–
July
18th,
2025,
and
includes
professional
coaching
and
daily
lunch,
and
requires
participants
to
bring
their
swimsuit,
hat,
and
water
bottle.
For
more
information,
visit
Summer
Surf
Camp
for
Teens
at
Rancho
Santana
.

summer surf camp at rancho santana

What is Surf Photography?

Surf
photography
at
Rancho
Santana
allows
you
to
capture
your
surf
adventures
with
professional
photography
or
videography.
Your
photographer
will
document
your
experience,
from
paddling
out
to
catching
waves,
ensuring
you
have
memories
to
bring
back
home.
This
service
is
available
for
the
duration
of
your
surf
lesson
or
can
be
booked
for
4
or
8
hours
if
you’re
not
taking
a
lesson.
It’s
a
fantastic
way
to
keep
a
visual
record
of
your
progress
and
experiences.
For
more
details,
visit
Add
Surf
Photography
to
your
Lesson
or
Session
at
Rancho
Santana
.

Surfing in Nicaragua at Rancho Santana

In
conclusion,
surfing
in
Nicaragua,
particularly
along
the
Emerald
Coast,
offers
an
unparalleled
experience
for
seasoned
surfers
and
those
looking
to
step
onto
a
board
for
the
first
time.
The
Emerald
Coast
is
a
premier
surfing
destination
with
its
perfect
blend
of
consistent
winds,
warm
waters,
and
a
welcoming
community.
Whether
you’re
seeking
the
thrill
of
a
challenging
wave,
looking
to
connect
with
fellow
surf
enthusiasts,
or
simply
wishing
to
enjoy
the
beauty
of
Nicaragua’s
coastline,
the
Emerald
Coast
awaits.
So
grab
your
board
and
dive
into
the
adventure
that
is
surfing
in
Nicaragua—a
journey
of
waves,
wonder,
and
endless
possibilities.

Reserve your stay at Rancho Santana

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