Shacks
Shacks is Northern Nicaragua's most challenging wave—a very fast, well-shaped left that breaks over sharp reef and can get extremely hollow when conditions align. The wave doesn't work well at low tide, where it sections out and gets dangerously shallow, but mid-to-high tide transforms it into a world-class barrel. This is the most difficult wave in the Miramar area when it's pumping, but also the most rewarding—surfers who can handle the speed and power will find some of the best tubes in Central America. Not for the faint of heart.
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Spot Details
CustomizeCustomize this spotSwell Requirements
- Optimal direction
- SW (215°)
- Direction range
- 190° - 255°
- Size range
- 1m - 3m
- Ideal size
- 2.4m
- Height multiplier
- 0.97×
- Ideal period
- 16s+
Wind Requirements
- Optimal direction
- E (80°)
- Offshore range
- 40° - 120°
Tide Requirements
- Optimal tide
- mid to high
- Optimal range
- 0.8m - 2m
- Danger below
- 0.5m
Water temp
28°C
Wetsuit
Boardshorts / Rashguard
Difficulty
8/10
Crowd level
2/10
Access: In front of Puerto Sandino Surf Resort.
Frequently Asked Questions
What tide is best at Shacks?
Shacks works best on a mid to high tide, ideally between 0.8m and 2m on the local tide chart. The tide chart above shows today’s strike window. Below 0.5m it gets dangerously shallow.
What wind direction is offshore at Shacks?
Offshore wind at Shacks blows from the E (80°). Anything in the 40° to 120° range grooms the faces; outside it, expect chop or bumpy conditions.
What swell size and direction work best at Shacks?
Shacks wants SW swell (190° to 255°) between 1m and 3m, with a period of 16s or more for quality waves.
When is the best time of year to surf Shacks?
The main season at Shacks is Apr-Oct. A secondary window runs Mar, Nov. Best mid-to-high tide. Sections out at low. SW swell season.
How do I get to Shacks?
Fly into MGA, then allow about 100 minutes by road. In front of Puerto Sandino Surf Resort.
What kind of wave is Shacks?
Shacks is a reef break, a left-hander. Difficulty is rated 8/10.
Best Season
Peak: Apr-Oct
Secondary: Mar, Nov
Best mid-to-high tide. Sections out at low. SW swell season.
Getting There
Nearby Spots
Puerto Sandino
🏄 300-yard rides • Nicaragua's longest • Boat access perfection
El Transito
🎣 Fishing village vibes • Exposed swell magnet • Raw Nicaragua
Asuchillo
🏆 ALAS Pro venue • Year-round consistency • River-shaped perfection
Pipes
🔥 Hollow tubes • Wedging rights • Northern Nicaragua barrel
Miramar Point
🏔️ Northern Nicaragua gem • Multi-break zone • Offshore wind corridor
Poneloya
🌴 León's beach • Beginner paradise • Local beach culture