Nicaragua’s raw beauty is its best-kept secret. This Central American country offers a captivating mix of wild volcanoes, lush forests, and stunning beaches. Its commitment to sustainable tourism makes it an authentic escape—a destination for travelers who want more than a typical beach getaway. Your guide to sustainable tourism in Nicaragua, featuring the most beautiful and eco-committed places on the west coast from north to south, starts here.
León and its surroundings
To explore the region, I didn’t drop my bags directly in León, but 20 minutes away on Isla Brasiles, at the Surfing Turtle Lodge. Getting there was an adventure in itself: I walked across a stretch of land and sea, got into a small motorized boat, and ended the journey in a horse-drawn cart. Once there, I was greeted by kilometers of pristine beach, a favorite spot for surfers who bravely take on the Pacific Ocean’s powerful waves.
I discovered this unique place, with its laid-back vibe and connection to nature, has its own organic farm where the products are cooked on-site. The lodge also runs a hatchery that protects endangered turtles, an initiative funded by lodge profits, donations, and customer volunteers. For a very small budget (from $5 to $55 CAD), you can stay in a huge dorm with a panoramic ocean view, or you can opt for one of the three private cabins for a total relaxation experience.
Granada – The colonial city
If colonial architecture appeals to you, you’ll find Granada to be an absolute enchantment. The city is full of beautifully designed boutique hotels like Los Patios and the Tribal Hotel. For a more historic experience, I recommend staying at La Gran Francia, a hotel where breakfast is served in a magnificent garden.
Just off the coast of Granada, I discovered the Las Isletas archipelago is home to sublime eco-lodges, perfect for a retreat on the water. Among them, the Jicaro Island Ecolodge offers an exceptional setting where you can stay in private cabins for a true nature escape.
Isla Ometepe – A perched beauty
Perched 200 meters high with a view of the Concepción volcano, the TOTOCO Ecolodge is a place straight out of a dream, surrounded by glorious nature. The 6-hectare property features an organic farm, a coffee plantation, and eight luxury cabins and villas, starting at $100 per night. These accommodations blend into the scenery, combining ecology and design.
The panoramic view from the lodge is breathtaking, as are the hotel’s common areas and the pool. The restaurant’s menu changes daily with a varied selection based on local, seasonal products, and the breakfast is truly exquisite.
Playa Gigante – A luxury yoga retreat
I discovered the Aqua Wellness Resort, a comfortable retreat nestled on the Costa Esmeralda, in the heart of an enchanting site with 24 eco-cabins built in the trees. I spent my days here taking yoga classes held on a platform overlooking the sea and a tropical landscape.
This place offers its guests a breathtaking view and a private cove protected from the strong waves of the Pacific Ocean. It was an ideal nature and relaxation break to recharge my batteries.
San Juan del Sur – The young and chill vibe
To be honest, for me, the vibe of the most touristy parts of San Juan del Sur was a bit of a turn-off. The town’s charm got a little lost in the crowds, and it felt too busy.
However, I found the real treat is to venture just beyond the main town. This is where you can escape and discover the surrounding beaches, each with its own unique vibe. For an authentic experience away from the hustle, I highly recommend staying at Maderas Village. This accommodation offers rustic yet very pleasant cabins, perfect for immersing yourself in an atmosphere that feels like a hidden gem.
