Playa Maderas

Playful peaks for all levels, offshore winds most mornings.

Playa Maderas is the most popular surf beach near San Juan del Sur, Nicaragua, situated about 25 minutes north of town via a rocky dirt track through coastal jungle. The wave is a shapely A-frame beach break producing peeling rights and shorter, punchier lefts over a sandy bottom, working best on mid-to-high tide. Conditions are rideable nearly every day of the year, but the strongest and most consistent surf arrives during the wet season from May to October, when powerful S-SE swells push up from the deep Pacific. The spot suits a wide range of abilities — beginners enjoy the soft rolling waves on smaller days, while experienced surfers find steeper, more challenging faces during bigger swells. Early mornings offer the cleanest conditions before onshore winds and crowds arrive. The beach has a relaxed atmosphere with a few beachfront restaurants and is easily accessible by shuttle, taxi, or rental vehicle from San Juan del Sur.

Best months to surf Playa Maderas

Wave consistency

Very Consistent

Things to do nearby

• Explore the vibrant nightlife in San Juan del Sur
• Take a boat tour to spot dolphins and sea turtles
• Visit the Christ of the Mercy statue for panoramic views of the bay
• Relax on the beach or take a yoga class at one of the local studios