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Beach
both
Level 4/10

Playa Maderas

San Juan del Sur, Nicaragua
🌀Strong rips

Playa Maderas is Nicaragua's most beloved intermediate wave—a fun beach break near San Juan del Sur that has become the heart of the country's growing surf scene. The wave offers consistent left and right peaks that work for all skill levels, from beginners finding their feet to experienced surfers looking for playful sessions. The vibe here is pure Central American warmth: sunset sessions, beachfront bars, and a community of international travelers who've discovered Nicaragua's incredible value proposition. When the southwest swells pump from April through October, Maderas delivers daily surfable conditions at a fraction of Costa Rica's prices.

Spot Details

Swell Requirements

Optimal direction
SSW (210°)
Direction range
180° - 250°
Size range
0.8m - 2.5m
Ideal period
14s+

Wind Requirements

Optimal direction
NE (45°)
Offshore range
0° - 90°
Best window
morning

Tide Requirements

Optimal tide
all
Optimal range
0.3m - 1.5m

Water temp

28°C

Wetsuit

Boardshorts / Rashguard

Difficulty

4/10

Crowd level

5/10

Access: Near San Juan del Sur. Easy beach access.

Getting There

Airport
MGA
Drive time
130 min

Best Season

Peak: Apr-Oct

Secondary: Nov, Mar

SW swell season April-October. Consistent beach break.

Data Quality

verified

Verified by Nicaragua surf community