This beach town in the southwest of Nicaragua is the epitome of paradise. With brown sugar beaches, surfing enclaves to explore and plenty of color everywhere, San Juan del Sur is the perfect getaway. Let FlipKey help you find the ideal rental property to stay, so you can get exploring!

About San Juan del Sur

San Juan del Sur has deep historical roots dating back to the 16th century, starting with the Spanish conquistadors.

The town was once a fishing village until 1851, with the boom of the California Gold Rush. This transformed the town into a transit route for gold prospectors.

Between the 1940s and 1990s, the town became the largest shipping port. It wasn't until the late 1990s that the town turned to tourism, making way for the San Juan del Sur we know and love today.

Set on a horseshoe bay, San Juan del Sur is enclosed by prehistoric volcanic hills and boasts spectacular views if you're happy to go for a hike!

Be sure to try some Nicaraguan cuisine—tostones (plantain slices), gallo pinto (rice and beans), or fritanga (grill). Check out Asados Juanita to sample some delicious Nicaraguan food!

What to do in San Juan del Sur

San Juan del Sur was made for relaxing. Don't be fooled, however, as this town also has a party scene!

During the day, there is plenty to do in San Juan del Sur. There are dozens of remote beaches in the north and south to help you escape and get some downtime.

If you're looking for an adventure, you'll be able to take a zip-line canopy tour and hang out in the treetops with spider monkeys and other tropical creatures!

Go from July to February and you'll be able to take a night time turtle tour to see Olive Ridley Sea Turtles.

The Cristo de la Misericordia—the Christ of the Mercy—towers over the town. The hike to the statue is quite tough, but it’s all worth it in the end, as it’s one of the best places to witness the glorious sunset.

Top travel tips for San Juan del Sur

The adventurous traveler will surely spot the 'chicken bus'. This perhaps the most colorful way to get around San Juan del Sur, but it’s also one of the slowest… and the most cramped.

When in Nicaragua, it's always good to try the local specialties, including Flor de Caña (if you like rum) and Toña (if you prefer beer!).

If you're traveling from Costa Rica, you can easily take a taxi from the border into San Juan del Sur, which will take roughly 20 minutes. If you're flying into Managua, you'll be able to book a shuttle or express bus from Mercado Huembes into town.

With its dollar beers and live music, San Juan del Sur will transport you to a place of ultimate relaxation. When the sun comes up, there are stunning beaches and glorious rainforest to explore. And when the sun sets, it’s time to dance! Be sure to snap up a FlipKey rental property, so that you'll be moments away from the party.