The best beach resorts in Nicaragua lie along the coast of the Caribbean Sea and the Pacific Ocean. While some are hidden in a secluded bay, offering the perfect spot for an intimate honeymoon getaway, others are along the busy and lively areas of Nicaragua’s picturesque coastal towns, perfect for those who want an adventure-filled beach getaway with their loved ones.
The largest country in Central America, Nicaragua is home to charming towns and villages full of fantastic beaches. Nicaragua boasts a coastline of over 900 kilometers with beaches of all shapes and sizes. Many of these have luxury resorts cater to all kinds of visitors, from families to solo adventurers and honeymooners.
So, if you’re looking for a unique destination for your next beach getaway, head to Nicaragua. And if you need help deciding where to stay, refer below for a list of the best beach resorts in Nicaragua.
Also, be sure to read my guides on 15 Best Beach Resorts in Costa Rica, and 7 Music Festivals in Central America To Experience Before You Die for more adventures in this amazing region!
1. Morgan’s Rock
Where: San Juan del Sur, Rivas Region
Price: $498+ per night
https://www.booking.com/hotel/ni/hacienda-amp-ecolodge-morgan-s-rock.en-gb.html
Located along the mile-long Playa Ocotal, a quaint cove in San Juan del Sur, Morgan’s Rock promises a beach holiday you’ll never forget. As one of the most eco-friendly beach resorts in Nicaragua, Morgan’s Rock has an organic farm and reforestation program, allowing you to enjoy a luxurious holiday without causing too much harm to the environment.
The 15 rustic-style bungalows at Playa Ocotal are constructed from sustainably sourced wooden materials and decorated with handcrafted furniture. While there’s no TV, you’ll have access to Wi-Fi and a range of fun activities like hiking and cycling. The resort has a lovely pool and a spa offering aromatherapy and massages. They can also arrange an excursion to take you to the area’s best snorkeling and diving spots.
2. Calala Island
Where: Set Net, South Caribbean Region
Price: $3,500+ per night
https://www.calala-island.com/
https://www.booking.com/hotel/ni/calala-island-raas.en-gb.html
Calala is a five-star resort set in an idyllic private island of the same name, featuring gorgeous views of the Caribbean. Getting to the resort requires an hour’s flight from Managua and then a two-hour boat ride, where you journey through lush mangroves and picturesque fishing villages. Those who don’t mind the splurge can take an 80-minute helicopter flight to the island.
The four stunning suites are made from sustainable hardwoods, and each has a king-sized bed with crisp-white linens and floor-to-ceiling windows offering incredible sea views. Head to the deck at sunset and relax in the hammock for two. During the day, take a boat ride to the stunning sandbar called Little Calala. The resort also provides complimentary paddleboards, kayaks, and dinghies for a fun-filled getaway.
3. Mukul Beach Resort
Where: Tola, Rivas Region
Price: $1,800+ per night
https://www.facebook.com/MukulResort/
Nicaragua is one of the world’s best destinations for eco-friendly getaways, home to luxurious lodgings that aim to protect nature. One of these is Mukul, one of Nicaragua’s most stunning beach resorts. It sits along the majestic Pacific Coast in an expansive coastal area called the Emerald Coast.
Mukul offers numerous options for luxury accommodations, from beach villas to private residences. Each offers comfort, privacy, and space that complements well with the natural surroundings. They feature well-crafted furnishings and decor by Nicaraguan artists. Mukul is also home to one of Nicaragua’s premier golf courses. The sprawling resort also offers wellness-centered activities, from spas to yoga classes and fitness centers.
4. Jicaro Island Lodge
Where: Isletas de Granada, Granada Region
Price: $1,600+ per night
https://www.booking.com/hotel/ni/jicaro-island-ecolodge.en-gb.html
Those looking to experience a private island getaway in Nicaragua should check out the Jicaro Island Lodge. The luxury beach resort is only a short boat ride from Granada, a charming coastal city famous for its Spanish colonial landmarks. Jicaro offers nine comfy casitas with breathtaking views.
While you might be tempted to relax in your casita all day, soaking up the relaxing sounds of nature, you should also venture out and discover what the island has to offer. Go on a scenic hike and get up close to volcanoes and active craters. When you return to the resort, indulge in relaxing couples’ massages or yoga by the sea.
5. Rancho Santana
Where: El Limón, Rivas Region
Price: $400+ per night
Nestled on over 2,000 acres of rolling hills with five gorgeous beaches, Rancho Santana is one of the best beach resorts in Nicaragua for those looking to relax and explore. The stunning boutique hotel features ocean-view homes on secluded lots and is spacious enough to accommodate families.
Those looking for adventure will find plenty to enjoy at Rancho Santana. Here you can spend your time fishing, surfing, paddle boarding, horseback riding, hiking, and more. On some nights, the resort arranges complimentary activities and fun experiences such as bonfires with S’mores, offering a more enjoyable holiday by the beach.
6. Yemaya Reefs
Where: Little Corn Island, South Caribbean Region
Price: $191+ per night
https://www.booking.com/hotel/ni/yemaya-island-hideaway-amp-spa.en-gb.html
Yemaya Reefs is a luxurious resort on a private island called Little Corn Island, Nicaragua’s best-kept secret. The tiny island has secluded beaches, lush jungles, and colorful reefs, offering an enjoyable snorkeling and diving experience.
Yemaya Reefs offers luxurious casitas with comfy beds and all amenities you expect from a luxury hotel. Featuring dark hardwood furniture with pops of bright colors, these casitas offer the most comfortable beach getaway experience. The stunning resort offers plenty of outdoor activities to allow you to get back to nature. After a day spent outdoors, treat yourself to freshly caught lobster and relax to the sound of the ocean waves in your casita.
7. Aqua Nicaragua
Where: El Gigante, Rivas Region
Price: $150+ per night
https://www.booking.com/hotel/ni/aqua-nicaragua-by-hmc.en-gb.html
If you’re looking for a tranquil and unplugged beach getaway, stay in Aqua Nicaragua. It’s located in El Gigante, only a few steps from Playa La Redonda, one of Nicaragua’s most beautiful beaches. The resort offers outstanding treehouse villas, with some having outdoor pools and looking out into the sea.
All villas are well-equipped with necessities, including luxury extras. They have spacious bathrooms with showers and toiletries. Other villas have a kitchenette with a fridge. If you’re up for outdoor adventures, you can go hiking at the nearby trails. You can also enjoy snorkeling on the resort’s private beach.
8. Villas de Palermo Hotel and Resort
Where: San Juan del Sur, Rivas Region
Price: $144+ per night
http://www.villasdepalermo.com/
https://www.booking.com/hotel/ni/villas-de-palermo.en-gb.html
Villas de Palermo Hotel and Resort is a lovely r sort in San Juan del Sur along the Pacific Coast. The upmarket beach resort sits on a hillside that looks out to the breathtaking ocean views. While it’s not on the beach, there are numerous beaches only a short distance from this resort.
Villas de Palermo Hotel and Resort offers numerous accommodation options, including two-bedroom villas facing the Pacific Ocean. The bedrooms boast stunning ocean views, as well as the upstairs balconies. Resort amenities include a swimming pool, spa, and restaurant. Feel free to approach the staff if you want to go on day excursions, such as ATV tours, ziplining, and horseback riding.
9. Arenas Beach Hotel
Where: Big Corn Island, South Caribbean Region
Price: $140+ per night
https://www.facebook.com/arenasbeachhotel/
Arenas Beach Hotel is one of the best beach resorts in Nicaragua, located on the picturesque Corn Island, about 50 miles off the eastern coast of Nicaragua. The lovely resort offers stunning views and thrilling activities for an exciting and fun beach getaway. Enjoy swimming in the island’s crystal-clear blue waters, discover the resort’s tropical greenery on a scenic hike, and marvel at the stunning coastal views from the comfort of your room or suite.
Featuring colorful rustic decor, the rooms at Arenas Beach Hotel have comfy beds with crisp white linens and plenty of spaces to relax and spend quality time with your loved ones. Take advantage of the resort amenities, such as the beachfront restaurant and boat bar, offering the best selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks.
10. Gran Pacifica Beach Resort & Homes
Where: San Diego, Managua Region
Price: $103+ per night
https://www.booking.com/hotel/ni/milagro-del-mar.en-gb.html
Housed in a Spanish colonial-style building, Gran Pacifica Beach and Golf Resort is a lovely resort nestled along the stunning stretch of the Pacific Coast. It’s one of the most family-friendly beach resorts in Nicaragua, offering child-friendly amenities and spacious accommodations to accommodate the entire family, such as the two-bedroom beachfront suite with a kitchenette.
The resort has a golf course, making it an ideal choice for a golf holiday in Central America. It also offers various opportunities for outdoor adventures, from horseback riding to deep-sea fishing and surfing. Resort amenities include an infinity-edged swimming pool.
11. San Juan de la Isla
Where: Altagracia, Ometepe
Price: $65+ per night
https://www.booking.com/hotel/ni/san-juan-de-la-isla.en-gb.html
Hotel San Juan Ometepe is the perfect base for those who want to explore the famous island of Ometepe. The luxurious eco-lodge is nestled along the idyllic shores of Lake Nicaragua and offers beachfront log cabins with impressive views. Each cabin has comfy beds, air-conditioning, and thoughtful extras like a well-stocked minibar and coffee-making facilities.
Offering the ultimate beach vacation experience in Nicaragua, Hotel San Juan Ometepe offers direct access to a stunning sandy beach with sun loungers. The resort can also arrange fun island activities for all ages, from hiking to volcano to kayaking, mountain biking, and horseback riding.
12. Magnific Rock – Surf Resort & Yoga Retreat Nicaragua
Where: Popoyo, Rivas Region
Price: $82+ per night
https://www.booking.com/hotel/ni/magnific-rock.en-gb.html
Located in the beach resort town of Popoyo, Magnific Rock is one of Nicaragua’s best beach resorts for surfing and yoga. The 3-star resort offers beautiful accommodations with sea views and modern amenities. Some rooms have a kitchenette with a toaster, stovetop, and fridge, perfect for those who prefer to cook their meals, but there’s also a restaurant serving local and international cuisine.
With many activities onsite, you will enjoy your stay at Magnific Rock. Aside from surfing and yoga classes, you can play table tennis or hike the surroundings. Resort amenities include an outdoor swimming pool, terrace, and bar, offering the perfect place to relax after a long day outdoors.
13. Hotel Victoriano
Where: San Juan del Sur, Rivas Region
Price: $124+ per night
https://www.hotelvictoriano.com/
https://www.booking.com/hotel/ni/victoriano-san-juan-del-sur.en-gb.html
Occupying a historic, Victorian-style building, Hotel Victoriano is one of Nicaragua’s most beautiful beach resorts. The charming resort is in San Juan del Sur, a charming coastal town famous for its gorgeous beaches. Staying in Hotel Victoriano will put you close to the town’s magnificent beaches. It sits just across the road from the beach and is within walking distance of the town’s great restaurants.
The rooms are vibrant, featuring colorful bed sheets, checkered tile floors, and decorated with handcrafted wooden furnishings. The best ones are those on the top floor, with outstanding ocean views. Resort amenities include a swimming pool with sea views and a restaurant.
14. So Lost
Where: Tola, Rivas Region
Price: $50+ per night
https://www.facebook.com/SoLostHotel/
So Lost is only a block from Jiquelete Beach, a popular surfing spot in Nicaragua. It’s nestled beside an estuary, offering the perfect spot for swimming. Unlike the larger beach resorts in Nicaragua, So Lost gives off an authentic feel. It features several artistic touches reflecting the town’s coastal vibe.
The eight spacious rooms in So Lost feature a rustic vibe with oversize mirrors and high ceilings, decorated with locally made cushions and lamps. Enjoy excellent service from the friendly staff who can arrange activities on your behalf. They also provide yoga and exercise classes in the morning. After a day of surfing, cool off at the small pool and order your favorite drink from the bar.
15. Xalli, Ometepe Beach Hotel
Where: Altagracia, Ometepe
Price: $41+ per night
https://www.booking.com/hotel/ni/xalli.en-gb.html
Ideally situated along the Playa Santo Domingo beachfront, Xalli offers an exciting beach getaway in Nicaragua. The resort has elegantly decorated air-conditioned rooms with all the modern conveniences you can expect in a luxury hotel room, including a spacious bathroom with flush toilets and hot showers.
As one of the best beach resorts in Nicaragua, Xalli is known for offering the best service to its guests, thanks to its friendly, helpful, and knowledgeable staff. If you want to explore, they can arrange vehicle rentals and taxis. They can also arrange a hiking excursion to the volcano, the area’s most popular activity.