Digital Nomad Guide to San Juan del Sur, Nicaragua
Where to stay, find fast WiFi, and remote worker friendly spots in San Juan del Sur, Nicaragua.
Want to know what San Juan del Sur, Nicaragua is like for remote workers? Here's our guide to finding coworking, coffee shops, Wifi and what to do when staying in Nicaragua.
Where to stay in Nicaragua
Nicaragua is a small country in Central America, located between Costa Rica and Honduras. The most popular places to stay for remote workers are in San Juan del Sur, Ometepe and Granada. The Corn Islands are also very popular for beach getaways.
San Juan del Sur
This is a beach side town in the south of Nicaragua, close to the border of Costa Rica. From here, you can explore the surf beaches in Maderas, head to Ometepe for the day, and easily travel down to Costa Rica.
Ometepe
There are 2 volcanoes in the middle of Lake Nicaragua, that form the island of Ometepe. It's a popular spot for kayaking, hiking, volcano surfing and swimming in natural pools.
Granada
Granada is a town on the north shore of Lake Nicaragua, perhaps best known for it's neo-classical buildings dating back to the 16th Century.
Getting Around San Juan del Sur and Nicaragua
Ultimately, you'll need a car to see the most of Nicaragua.
Driving in Nicaragua
The best way to get around Nicaragua is by car- especially if you're carrying a surf board or going to and from the beaches.
Uber in Nicaragua
There is no Uber in Nicaragua.
Is Nicaragua safe?
Many travelers are wary of Nicaragua, due to the political protests in 2018. Citizens chose to protest against a corrupt government, and unfortunately, these were met with force. Since then, tourism has been heavily affected, but tourism safety remains high - you just need to be more cautious than you may otherwise be. Check out the Broke Backpacker's full guide to staying safe in Nicaragua.
Digital nomad and startup communities in Nicaragua
While there are remote workers here, it can be harder to meet people as a traveler. By staying in Outsite San Juan del Sur, you're immediately connected with other travelers through the WhatsApp Group.
Coworking Spaces in Nicaragua
Outsite is the only official coworking/coliving space in San Juan del Sur at the time of writing. You can find a handful of coworking spaces in Managua including Huddle and Co.Work.
Coffee shops in San Juan del Sur
Cafes with WiFi in San Juan del Sur
The following recommendations may be affected by the ongoing pandemic, always check before you set off.
Catering to travelers and expats, this cafe serves health focused plates, great smoothies, and fresh juices. The ambiance is relaxing, and while they do have wifi available, it's not perfect.
Check out Tostaderia for smoothies, granola, coffee and breakfast plates.
By day, Simon Says is a place to get a healthy fix of breakfast and blended fruit - by night, enjoy their karaoke and dance events.
The Art Warehouse
Cafe in the front, art studio with classes held in the back. They showcase the work of local artists throughout the space, and serve healthy and plant based food.
Gyms and yoga studios in San Juan del Sur
A variety of yoga classes, held in an open air shala.
This gym is rough and ready, but has everything you need for a good workout from monkey bars to free weights. There are also plenty of classes.
Groceries and shopping in San Juan del Sur
Farmers Markets
Casa Oro holds a farmers market every Saturday morning, and there are usually vendors selling fresh fruit around town. There are also local businesses who will happily deliver fruit and vegetables to your door - join the farmers market Facebook group to get connected.
Grocery Stores
Super X Press is a basic supermarket with meat, produce, alcohol, and toiletries. Miscelania Sánchez has plenty of items imported from the U.S.
For specialty organic/gluten-free/vegan items, check out Nica Naturals.
Surf breaks in San Juan del Sur and nearby
Remanso
The is the most popular surf beach for beginners close around. The (mostly) soft, small waves here are perfect for beginners in San Juan del Sur.
Maderas
20 minutes north of San Juan, you'll find Maderas - a small surf village with a beach bar to boot. This is one of the most consistent places to find waves, occasionally you'll get barrels and waves up to 8ft+.
Hermosa
You might know this mile long beach as the location of Survivor years ago. It's become a very popular among surfers of all levels.
Looking for a place to stay in Nicaragua? Check out Outsite San Juan del Sur.
