From mellow beginner-waves to punchy barrels,
the coastline just south of San Juan del Sur area offers something for surfers and families. Here are five beaches worth visiting; each with current condition insights, why they’re fun for families, and what to look out for.
1. Playa Remanso
Surf & beach info:
- Playa Remanso is described as a “learner’s haven,” with mellow, consistent waves and an accessible beach break. (Surf Atlas)
- Forecast conditions: the spot works best with a S-SW swell and light NE winds. (Surf Forecast)
- Reviewers note it is safe and relaxed for kids & families: e.g., “Awesome for beginner surf lessons” and “feels secluded… fun relaxing vibe.” (Tripadvisor)
Info for families:
- The wave energy tends to be gentle, making it suitable for lessons and first timers.
- It’s close enough (just south of SJDS) to allow day trips, and you’ll find some beach bars and friendly local vibe.
- The sand-bottom bay setup means more forgiving conditions.
Tips:
2. Playa Tamarindo
Surf & beach info:
- Also called Tamarind, this beach is a bit more exposed and offers consistent surf from year-round. (Makako Surf)
- The surf-guide notes it’s an exposed point break with S-SW swell direction and offshore (NE) winds ideal. (Surf Forecast)
Info for families:
- The beach feels a bit more remote and less built-up, which is nice for a quieter day.
- It offers variety: beginners can find mellow spots; more experienced surfers can explore the outer breaks.
Tips:
- Because the break is more exposed, conditions may get larger/steeper than Remanso — for families, pick times of smaller swell.
- Access may require a 4×4 or careful driveway depending on conditions. (deepswell.com)
- Bring reef-safe sunscreen and water, shade gear; facilities may be limited.
3. Playa Yankee (sometimes “El Yanke
e”)
Surf & beach info:
- Playa Yankee is described as more advanced: “fun, tough wave … not for beginners” with a left-wedge break and sandy bottom. (bvnica.com)
- Current forecast shows waves at 3-4 ft in a clean condition. (Surf Captain)
Info for families (with caveats):
- If you have mixed levels (some advanced surfers in your group, some non-surfing family members), this is a great spot for the surfers, while non-surfers can enjoy the beach.
- The surrounding undeveloped nature offers a tranquil-beach vibe.
Tips:
- Beginners should steer clear of the main peak; look for white-wash or safer sections.
- Access might be less convenient (trail walk or short paddle) so plan accordingly. (verdadnicaragua)
- Non-surfing family members should bring shade and water; the beach is more rugged.
- Check tide and swell; for families, pick smaller days.
4. Playa Hermosa
Surf & beach info:
- Playa Hermosa is described as a long beach break with many peaks, long walls, and relatively uncrowded line-ups. (everydaynicaragua.com)
- Surf forecast: waves currently about 3-5 ft and water temperature ~84-86°F. (deepswell.com)
- Works year-round; sand‐bottom; good for all levels though some peaks may suit intermediates/advanced. (Makako Surf)
Info for families:
- The long stretch of sand is ideal for kids playing, sunbathing, or non-surfing family members.
- Because the beach break offers multiple peaks, you can find quieter spots away from more intense sections.
- The warm water and gentle entry make it comfortable.
Tips:
- If surfing with kids, pick the gentler peaks and be aware of any rips (which may occur). (Surf Forecast)
- Bring shade, snacks, beach-games for non-surfers; choose lodging with easy access.
- For advanced surfers, check high tide/clean offshore conditions for longer rides.
5. Playa Escameca
- This hidden gem lies just south of San Juan del Sur / Escamequita area; surf camp operators mention it’s “uncrowded” and suitable for all levels. (Makako Surf)
- The wave breaks off a sandy bottom, best at mid to high tide; beginners can find mellow rides; advanced can find fun sections in swell season. (Costa Dulce Beach)
Info for families:
- If you’re looking to base somewhere a little quieter and more exclusive, this is a strong pick.
- The beach ambience is more relaxed, fewer crowds, and the surrounding nature makes for good downtime for non-surfers.
- Because the surf school and lodges are onsite, you can combine surf + rest.
Tips:
- Because it’s more remote, check transport/road conditions (some dirt road access) and bring supplies. (Costa Dulce Beach)
- Non-surfers may enjoy the estuary or jungle-walks in the area; there’s good value in combining surfing for some with rest for others.
- Bring sun protection, shade, water. Facilities will be more limited than in more developed beach towns.
Choosing the Right Beach for Your Group
Beginners + families: Start with Playa Remanso or Playa Escameca - safer, gentle waves, friendly environment.
Mixed-skill groups: Consider Playa Hermosa – long beach gives flexibility and space for different levels.
- Advanced surfers in the group: Take a day to hit Playa Yankee for its more challenging breaks.
- When you want a bit more freedom & less crowd: Playa Tamarindo or Escameca are great escapes from the more populated breaks.
Practical Travel & Stay Tips
- The region’s water temperature is warm year-round (mid-to-high 20s °C) so no heavy wetsuits needed.
- Swell and wind: Many of these beaches favour S-SW swell direction and NE/offshore winds. Check local surf forecasts.
- Access and infrastructure: Some beaches are better developed (bars/restaurants/accommodation) while others are more remote — plan accordingly.
- Family-friendly extras: Even on surf days, plan for non-surfing family members: bring shade, snacks, beach-games, snorkeling or paddle-boarding if calmer water.
- Safety note: Some spots may have rocks, rips or shallows — always check local conditions and ask local surf schools for safe zones.