I first discovered San Juan del Sur three years ago while backpacking with a childhood friend. We had originally planned to spend more time in Costa Rica, but after a reality check on prices, we crossed the border into Nicaragua instead. We were supposed to stay for 3–4 days. We stayed over a month. My friend never left : she lives there now. And I just got back from visiting her for 10 days.
This guide is based on my personal experience, combined with tips from locals and expats who call San Juan del Sur home.
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Why Visit San Juan del Sur?
San Juan del Sur is one of those rare destinations that balances laid-back beach life with an unexpectedly vibrant social scene.
Here’s why travelers fall in love with it :
- Beautiful beaches for surfing and relaxing
- Legendary nightlife (without big-city prices)
- Large expat and backpacker community
- Weekly events and parties year-round
- Close to the Costa Rican border
- Diverse food scene : local and international
- Fishing trips and ocean activities
Whether you want to surf, party, work remotely, or slow travel, SJDS delivers.
Where to Stay ?
Stay in town. It’s the most convenient base for restaurants, nightlife, transport, and beach shuttles.
Budget / Backpackers
Los Chamos : Central location, social atmosphere, inner courtyard, breakfast included.
Mid-Range
There are plenty of boutique guesthouses and Airbnb options in town offering excellent value for money.
Luxury
La Santa Maria Resort : Upscale apartments overlooking the bay with resort-style amenities.
FOOD GUIDE
Best Places for Breakfast & Brunch
- 💲 Local Market : Local breakfast spot. Try the huevos rancheros (around $3).
- 💲💲 OHLA : Avocado toast, pancakes, omelets, bagels, smoothie bowls.
- 💲💲💲 Ding Repair Café : Pricey but excellent quality.
Brunch with a view : Dockside with Great coffee, avocado toast, oceanfront setting.
Where to Eat Lunch
- 💲 La Reina del Sur : Daily changing local buffet (~120 córdobas).
- 💲💲 Simon Says : Lovely courtyard, fresh salads.
Must-try : fish burger - 💲💲 La Lancha : Lobster with an ocean view for under $20 (great value).
Best Dinner Spots
- La Vecchia Signora : Arguably the best pizza in town
- Nacho : Top tacos and strong margaritas
- Sabores de mi Patio : High-quality grilled meat
NIGHT GUIDE
Where to Go for Drinks & Sunset
- Iguana : Beachfront, giant daiquiris perfect for sunset
- Bottom’s Up : Poolside bar with happy hour (3–5 PM), jalapeño croquettes, frequent events
Budget option : Grab a drink from a convenience store and join locals on the main beach near the volleyball courts : one of the best sunset spots in town
Weekly Events & Nightlife
San Juan del Sur parties every day of the week :
- Tuesday : Trivia Night at La República
- Wednesday : Open Mic at Surf Town
- Friday : Beer Pong at Pachamama
- Sunday : Pub Crawl (aka Sunday Funday)
Clubs in San Juan del Sur
The main party venues:
- Arribas : Best on Friday or Sunday nights
- Sunny Beach Club : Saturday hotspot
- Tuanis : Another Saturday favorite
Getting Around
Shuttles
Reliable options include :
- Los Chamos
- Casa Oro (very popular for beach transfers)
Renting a Vehicle
Motorbikes, ATVs, and cars are available but can be expensive : especially in high season. Compare prices before booking.
From Peñas Blancas Border
If you’re arriving from Costa Rica via Peñas Blancas Border Crossing:
- Take a bus to La Virgen (~$2)
- Cross the road
- Catch another bus to San Juan del Sur (~$1)
From Managua
- Private taxi: about $80
- Budget option : Bus to Rivas, then local bus to San Juan del Sur
✨ Tips from Shiny Expatrie Frenchie ✨
- Currency : Nicaraguan córdobas + US dollars widely accepted
- Weather : Hot year-round
- Best for : Surfing, nightlife, remote work, slow travel
- Wi-Fi : Generally good in cafés and accommodations
