Audio Guide of Maderas Beach

Maderas Beach is open 24 hours a day as a public beach, but visiting during daylight hours is recommended for safety. You can get there by taxi (about 15-20 minutes, approximately 5-10 USD round trip) or by local bus from San Juan del Sur, following the main road and then a 2 km dirt road; consider a 4x4 vehicle if you are driving yourself. Check the map on Google Maps.

Entry to Maderas Beach is completely free, as it is a public beach. You will only pay for transportation or services such as surfboard rental (around 10 USD per hour) if you use them.

It is recommended to spend 2-4 hours swimming, surfing, or relaxing on the beach. If you plan to surf or walk along nearby trails, you could extend your visit to half a day.

Maderas Beach is famous for its consistent waves, ideal for beginner and intermediate surfers, and has attracted Nicaragua’s surfing community since the 1990s. It is part of the natural charm of San Juan del Sur, noted for its coastal biodiversity and its role in local ecotourism.

The best time is during the dry season (November to April) to avoid rain, and early in the morning (8-11 am) for calmer waves and fewer crowds. Avoid the afternoons if you are not an expert surfer, as the onshore wind can make conditions more difficult.

The main access is via a steep, rocky dirt road of about 2 km, which makes it poorly accessible for wheelchairs or people with reduced mobility; there are no ramps or specific facilities. If you need assistance, contact local taxis or consider more accessible beaches in San Juan del Sur such as El Coco Beach.

Nearby you will find Yankee Beach (a 10-minute walk away) for more surfing, or you can return to San Juan del Sur for the main church and restaurants. Other options include the Chocoyero-El Brujo Reserve, a 30-minute drive away; more information at INTUR San Juan del Sur.

Bring sunscreen, water, snacks, and cash in US dollars, as there are no ATMs; rent a surfboard if you are a beginner (there are surf schools on the beach). Go in a group for safety, use mosquito repellent, and respect the environment by not leaving trash behind.