The beginner surfer’s paradise—Popoyo, Nicaragua

Popoyo is one of the few destinations frequently mentioned by the Girls Who Can’t Surf Good. This small beach town on the Pacific Coast of Nicaragua is blessed with consistent, day long offshore winds making it the most popular and therefore – the most crowded spot in the area.

Popoyo at a glance ⬇️

🌊 Waves: A-frame point break (another Word of the Week!), easy paddle out with a channel on both sides

🚰 Water quality: Almost always clean

👙 Wardrobe: Bikini-forward, water temp 80-85F/27-29C

☀️ Best time to surf: small, beginner-friendly swell is December-April, larger swell May-November, The Beginners Bay almost always works for beginners unless it’s flat

⚠️ Hazards: Crowded with locals and tourists, shallow rock reef in places, spotty Wi-Fi

🎉 What else to do: there’s yoga and horseback riding, tide pools in Guasacate, a few bars and restaurants

🏄️ Solo traveling: Popoyo is a friendly spot, we’re hearing from the Girls Who Can’t Surf Good who visited on their own

Girls Who Can’t Surf Good recommend:

🏄 SURF SERVICES

Board rental:

• Michael’s surf shack near Beginners Bay
• Cafe con Leche
• Popoyo Surf Camp
• 99SurfLodge
• Nicawaves

Surf lessons & guides:

• Alex’s Surf School (also in San Juan del Sur)
• Rise Up Surf (retreats & lessons)
• Salty Surf Popoyo
• Living in Flow retreats
• Many hostels offer packages

🏠 WHERE TO STAY

Budget & social hostels:

• Amahula Hostel
• Big Surf House
• Casa Oro
• Cafe con Leche
• Ola Ola Hostel
• Las Palmas
• Popoyo Reblux
• Dreamsea (SJDS)

Luxury surf & yoga stays:

• Malibu Popoyo
• 99SurfLodge
• Sirena Surf House
• Salty Surf Popoyo
• Rise Up Surf
• Casa La Barra

For digital nomads:

• Kooks Café + Waves & Wi-Fi co-working space