I just returned from one of the best trips of my entire life — to a place you might not even have on your travel radar: San Juan Del Sur, Nicaragua. Tucked away on the Pacific coast of Central America, this little surf town is as vibrant as it is charming, and it completely stole my heart.
The trip was extra special because it doubled as a family celebration. My sister and her husband, both passionate surfers, had always dreamed of a destination wedding. When a friend suggested San Juan Del Sur, they knew instantly it was the perfect spot. Nearly 60 friends and family members made the journey to celebrate their big day — proof that this small town is worth the trip.
I stayed for about a week, and I left with not only memories of a stunning wedding but also plenty of travel insights. So if you’re planning a trip, here are my tips and takeaways from Nicaragua.
Before You Go
One of the smartest moves you can make before traveling to Nicaragua is visiting a travel clinic. The CDC has updated recommendations you can check online, but here’s what I did: I already had my tDAP (good for 10 years), I got my Hepatitis A vaccine, and I took a Typhoid vaccine (a four-day course of daily tablets). It gave me peace of mind, and thankfully, I didn’t get sick once during my trip.
Another thing to know: Nicaragua’s currency is the Cordoba. The exchange rate hovers around 30 Cordobas = $1 USD. Before I left, I ordered foreign currency through Bank of America, exchanging $100 USD (+ a small fee) for 2,800 Cordobas.
That said, I quickly realized exchanging money wasn’t really necessary. Most places accepted U.S. dollars, and I’d simply get Cordobas back in change. The only time I ran into a snag was when I visited the famous Jesus statue in San Juan Del Sur, which only accepted Cordobas. Luckily, I had just enough on hand to get in. Credit cards worked fine in many places too, though since power outages are pretty common in Nicaragua, it’s always smart to carry some cash.
If you’re budgeting, I’d suggest bringing about $300–400 USD per week, which should be more than enough to cover meals, activities, and transportation, even with a few splurges.
What to Pack
Packing for San Juan Del Sur is refreshingly simple, but there are a few must-haves you won’t want to forget.
- Swimwear (and lots of it). I wore a bathing suit every single day of my trip. Between the humid heat, beach walks, yoga, and ocean swims, it was always the most practical choice. Since San Juan is a surf town, the waves can be rough — so bring suits that stay put. On the plus side, the Pacific water is warm and welcoming.
- Bug spray with DEET. This is non-negotiable. Nicaragua has a higher risk for Zika, and the mosquitos can be relentless, especially at night. I often wore leggings in the evenings to avoid bites on my legs, which worked wonders. Honestly, the number of bugs was wild — far more than I expected — so be prepared.
- Light, breathable layers. Think cover-ups, airy dresses, or athletic clothes you can easily throw over a swimsuit. Comfort is key in the heat and humidity.
- Cash. Even if you plan to use a credit card, keep some small bills in both U.S. dollars and Cordobas on hand. It’ll save you in situations like entry fees, small cafés, or when the Wi-Fi goes down and the card machines stop working.
A Destination Worth Discovering
What struck me most about San Juan Del Sur wasn’t just the beaches (though they were breathtaking), or the surf culture (though it’s a major draw), but the overall energy of the town. It’s casual, lively, and welcoming, with an authenticity that makes you feel like you’re experiencing something real — not just a tourist version of Nicaragua.
Sure, the wedding was the highlight, and seeing my sister and her husband tie the knot in such a dreamy setting was unforgettable. But beyond that, I fell in love with the town itself — its colorful streets, friendly locals, and the way every evening seemed to end with the entire beach gathering to watch the sunset together.
Final Thoughts
If San Juan Del Sur isn’t already on your travel list, it deserves a spot. It’s not just a surfer’s paradise — it’s also a perfect destination for anyone who craves warm weather, ocean breezes, and an off-the-beaten-path adventure.
Just remember: bring your vaccines up to date, pack the bug spray, keep a little cash handy, and don’t forget a swimsuit (or three).
For me, Nicaragua wasn’t just about celebrating family — it was about discovering a place that surprised me in the best possible way. San Juan Del Sur is one of those rare destinations that’s equal parts laid-back and unforgettable, and I can’t wait to return.
