Manzanillo
Manzanillo is Nicaragua's serious point break - a quality left-hander at Guacalito de la Isla that needs solid swell to turn on but rewards patience with long, workable walls over rocky reef. While the neighboring beach breaks work on any swell, Manzanillo requires size and period to show its true character. When conditions align, the wave offers one of the region's better point break experiences: defined takeoff zone, predictable walls, and enough length to really open up. The rocks and reef sections demand respect, but competent surfers will find this a welcome step up from the beginner-friendly alternatives.
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Spot Details
CustomizeCustomize this spotSwell Requirements
- Optimal direction
- SSW (205°)
- Direction range
- 180° - 240°
- Size range
- 1m - 3m
- Ideal size
- 2.4m
- Height multiplier
- 0.97×
- Ideal period
- 16s+
Wind Requirements
- Optimal direction
- ENE (60°)
- Offshore range
- 20° - 100°
Tide Requirements
- Optimal tide
- mid
- Optimal range
- 0.4m - 1.4m
Water temp
28°C
Wetsuit
Boardshorts / Rashguard
Bottom
Rock
Difficulty
6/10
Crowd level
3/10
Access: Near Popoyo. Private resort or boat access.
Frequently Asked Questions
What tide is best at Manzanillo?
Manzanillo works best on a mid tide, ideally between 0.4m and 1.4m on the local tide chart. The tide chart above shows today’s strike window.
What wind direction is offshore at Manzanillo?
Offshore wind at Manzanillo blows from the ENE (60°). Anything in the 20° to 100° range grooms the faces; outside it, expect chop or bumpy conditions.
What swell size and direction work best at Manzanillo?
Manzanillo wants SSW swell (180° to 240°) between 1m and 3m, with a period of 16s or more for quality waves.
When is the best time of year to surf Manzanillo?
The main season at Manzanillo is Apr-Oct. A secondary window runs Nov, Mar. Needs solid SW swell. Best in peak season.
How do I get to Manzanillo?
Fly into MGA, then allow about 125 minutes by road. Near Popoyo. Private resort or boat access.
What kind of wave is Manzanillo?
Manzanillo is a point break, a left-hander over a rock bottom. Difficulty is rated 6/10.
Best Season
Peak: Apr-Oct
Secondary: Nov, Mar
Needs solid SW swell. Best in peak season.
Getting There
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