Thinking about learning to surf in Nicaragua? San Juan del Sur is a great place for beginner surfers, with warm water, beautiful beaches and several surf spots nearby.

One important thing to know: San Juan del Sur itself is not the main surf beach. Instead, some of the best waves are a short drive outside town, including Playa Maderas, Playa Remanso and Playa Hermosa. This gives you access to different conditions depending on your experience and the day's waves.

Why Is San Juan del Sur Good for Beginners?

A Variety of Surf Spots

Having several beaches nearby is a big advantage when you're learning to surf. Conditions change with the swell, tide and wind, so the best beach for beginners can be different from one day to the next.

Playa Maderas is one of the most popular surf beaches near San Juan del Sur and offers waves for different experience levels.

Playa Remanso can offer smaller, more manageable waves and is a popular choice for beginners when conditions are right.

Playa Hermosa, where Tribu Surf is located, offers a beautiful setting and a variety of conditions depending on the day.

Never Surfed Before?

No problem!

You don't need previous surfing experience to take a beginner lesson. Your instructor will start with the basics on the beach, including ocean safety, how to position yourself on the board and how to stand up.

Once you're ready, you'll head into the water and start catching your first waves.

Everyone progresses differently, so don't worry if you don't stand up straight away. The goal of your first lesson is to get comfortable in the ocean, have fun and hopefully catch your first wave.

Warm Water & Tropical Weather

Nicaragua's warm Pacific water makes it a comfortable place to learn to surf. You can spend plenty of time in the water without needing a thick wetsuit.

Just remember to bring reef-conscious sunscreen, a rash guard and plenty of water to stay protected from the strong tropical sun.

Getting to the Surf Beaches

The nearby surf beaches are outside the center of San Juan del Sur, so you'll need transportation to get there.

With Tribu Surf, we make it easy. We'll pick you up before your surf lesson, take you to the beach and bring you back afterwards.

You don't have to worry about finding a surf spot, transporting a board or figuring out the local roads. Just show up and get ready to surf.