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NICARAGUA SURF CAMP AT MAGNIFIC ROCK
Where the waves are just outside your room.
At Magnific Rock, you don’t have to chase waves
They’re right below you. We’re a surf camp set on a rocky point in Popoyo, Nicaragua, overlooking one of the country’s most consistent and iconic breaks.
This place is easygoing, surf-focused, and all about getting you in the water as much as possible.
Whether you’re here to push your limits or just keep things mellow, the waves, the setup, and the vibe are all in one place.
Welcome To The Best
Surf Camp In Nicaragua
Our surf camp in Nicaragua is surrounded by world-class surf breaks and overlooks the famous Popoyo surf break, which is widely regarded as one of the best in Central America. With non stop offshore winds and consistent swells. So unlike most Nicaragua Surf Camps, you won’t need to drive to get to the most popular beginner surf break. Staying in our stunning ocean-view hotel, you’ll have access to the best waves in Nicaragua just by walking.
We offer personalized coaching sessions and video analysis, where you can review your surfing footage with our coaches and get feedback on how to take your skills to the next level. Our surf coaching program is designed to help you improve your skills quickly and safely.
Nicaragua Surf Camp For
All Level Surfers
One of the best things about surfing here is that there’s something for everyone.
BEGINNER
Just down the hill is Beginner’s Bay, a soft, sandy wave with an easy paddle out. Ideal for first-timers or anyone wanting to dust off some rust.
INTERMEDIATE
Nearby breaks like Popoyo mainbreak and Playa Santana offer friendly walls and fun faces to practice turns and improve your takeoffs.
ADVANCED
Outer Reef Popoyo, Lance’s Left and Playgrounds can get serious on the right swell fast, punchy, and hollow barrels when it’s on.
Why Stay at Magnific Rock?
There are a lot of surf camps out there. Here’s what makes ours stand out:
1
RIGHT ON THE BREAK
Check the lineup while you eat breakfast. Popoyo is directly out front.
2
ROOMS FOR EVERY STYLE
Penthouse, Private ocean-view studios, affordable apartments, and everything in between.
3
GOOD FOOD
Our restaurant serves fresh, locally sourced meals, tailored to your appetite.
4
LOCAL KNOWLEDGE
We surf here daily. If you want to know when and where to paddle out, we’ve got the inside info.
5
IN HOUSE EQUIPMENT
We rent surfboards, offer lessons and guided boat trips or 4×4 excursions to secret locations.
6
CUSTOMIZED PACKAGES
Stay solo or come with friends. Everyone’s welcome. And we can customize any trip!
From Our Happy Guests
With over 100+ 5-star reviews on Google, see what our surfers have had to say about their experience at the camp.
DSSKI S
I booked a last minute surf package. Brian and Jess take care of everything. 5 star service. The airport pickup was perfect, he had a sign with my name on it. Super easy. I asked to stop for a beer. Very accommodating. My very private room had an incredible 180* view of beginners bay to world famous popoyo. The balcony was awesome. The food and drinks were incredible and my pro surfer instructor Hector was amazing. He takes you to the best breaks at optimal tide and puts you in the perfect position to catch more waves than you can handle. Locals get priority so I got the best waves of my life. The photos they took were great and the massage was the best of my life. The boat trip to Lances Left was spectacular! This is the nicest place around. Don’t hesitate. It is reasonably priced and the best surf experience ever. Off shore winds all day with consistent swells.All inclusive surf camp. Surfing Nicaragua. Uncrowded spots. Epic surf. Best surf camp. Perfect for beginners to experts.
alex A.
I am so glad I decided to choose Magnific Rock for my stay in the area.- On arrival at the hotel, it makes an immediate impact, as the views of the surrounding beaches and surf breaks from the peninsula location are absolutely stunning.- The team are really friendly and helpful - Lisa, Ronnie and all, are great at making you feel welcome and accommodating your needs - I ended up extending my stay 3 times.- My apartment room had the most incredible view over the bay, where you could sit and watch the surf all hours of the day, ending with amazing sunsets. Added to that, it is a short walk from the hotel to the Beginner's Bay, with the other more advanced breaks of the main Popoyo break in walking distance too.- Brian, the Surf Director was awesome. I am an infrequent middle aged surfer, and he was really good at helping to build up confidence, improve my skills, and push me to progress my capabilities - I caught more waves in my sessions with him, than ever before. Great attitude, relaxed approach, and a nice guy - and would highly recommend scheduling sessions with him.I will definitely be back - best spot in Nicaragua 😉
Mitchell L.
Had an amazing experience at Mag Rock. Staff was incredibly attentive to all our needs. Brian and Jess took me to score some amazing waves, provided coaching and photos. I usually go to new surf spots blind but having them along was a cheat code as they told me when, and where to score waves in the area.The food was excellent and when we asked about going to Granada, the GM Martin took us personally and guided us around the the city. We fell in the love with the place and will definitely be back soon.
Roxanne L.
Magnific Rock, near Popoyo was a perfect choice for an all inclusive surf retreat! The surfing and coaching couldn’t have been better, Brian and Jess took great care of us. Our room had a balcony overlooking the ocean and popular surf spot, Beginners Bay. The beds were comfortable, the air conditioning and the shower worked great. We enjoyed the yoga classes very much and the sunset views were stunning!
Flagler S.
I came to Magnific Rock on a solo surf trip with no expectations and had the best time! Brian and Jess were my surf guides and made my trip! We adventured to some fun surf spots and they encouraged me through some large swells. My stay was relaxing and the food memorable. Also learned a fun new pool game. My getaway was 5 stars for sure!
Norm D.
1st trip to Nicaragua and after doing my own research, I picked Magnific Rock due to its location and amenities. I also booked a surf package that gave me 2 awesome guides (Brian and Jess) and they put me on the best surf and were there to answer any questions and show me around! They made my stay/trip well worth it and I will use them again when I return!
Hannah S.
Spent a wonderful week surfing in Popoyo with the Mag Rock team. Brian and Jess took such good care of us - finding great waves, offering specific and targeted coaching, and being great hosts!Our group (5 women) had a wide range of skills and I was a bit nervous that I would hold back the rest of the group (still working on my pop-ups…). However Brian managed to push me into waves while they both offered tips to my more advanced friends on their timing and technique. Combined with really helpful video analysis, we all made significant gains - despite our varied starting points!We had two sessions a day for six days across a variety of breaks. Some steps from the hotel (Beginner’s Bay and both sides of Mag Rock itself), some a short truck ride away (including two amazing sunset sessions at Gavilán), and two boat trips. We appreciated the variety and learned a lot by exploring a range of different waves.The Mag Rock surf package included hotel (due to holiday availability we spent the first couple of nights at a sister hotel La Jolla before moving to the Penthouse at Mag Rock), and three meals a day. The staff at both sites were very accommodating and welcoming - shuttling us around and making sure we had a chance to explore the area!All in all a great trip. I’ll be sure to look up the Mag Rock team next time I’m in Nicaragua!
Terumi M.
Fantastic week long Nicaragua surf trip at Magnific Rock in Popoyo, thanks to our amazing hosts & guides, Brian and Jess!One thing that really elevated the experience was the complimentary video call with us beforehand to discuss what we were looking for out of the trip. That was an unexpected but nice touch.We were blessed with amazing waves and perfect weather, and our guides went above and beyond to anticipate our needs and accommodate all of our requests. The location is perfect for beginner to intermediate surfers (literally in front of Beginner's Bay), and they drove us to other really fun, more advanced spots and took us on two boat trips.We had a few issues with facility / maintenance, but the staff was attentive and Brian & Jess were great advocates for us throughout our stay.We all caught so many waves, received video analysis, and were given pointers on how to improve. Highly recommend for all levels–these guys really listen to what you want and will show you the best time! We also had a great experience with Taylor and Tomas at La Jolla, a sister property close by.I'm usually the group trip planner, and I have to say, putting everything in Jess & Brian's hands made for the most relaxing and action-packed vacation ever! Muchas gracias!!
Steve W.
I was hesitant in writing a review about Magnific Rock, due to pure selfishness. We had such a special experience that we wanted to hide it, like buried treasure. We had no expectations going in, and had friends for life coming out. The surfing was as good as it gets. The staff, the community, even the dogs will remain forever in our hearts. Billy and Jared are rock stars - accomplished and professional, yet humble and always stoked - the true embodiment of surfing.
Stoked On Life P.
I had the most amazing stay and experience at mag rock. Our room was clean, cool, and comfy and right outside we had an amazing view of the beach and sunset. Billy was an unbelievable guide who arranged everything, including boat trips to incredible surf spots and amazing food experiences. He also told stories and educated me on the history of land which was an awesome part of my experience. I would definitely recommend that everyone who is visiting Nicaragua stay at mag rock!
Tyler W.
Billy and the team at Magnific Rock were incredible. We booked the all inclusive surf package and it was everything we hoped for and more. The hotel has a great selection of boards to choose from including epoxy long and short boards as well as fiberglass performance boards depending on your skill level. The waves were consistently great and our surf guide Dylan checked the weather and waves with us every morning to make sure we surfed the best breaks! The rooms were great and had a view of the surf break right from our porch, the food was incredible and they had amazing vegetarian options. One of the days we took a boat trip to an awesome wave that is only accessible via boat, followed by a truly authentic Nicaraguan meal at one their local friends homes.If you are considering a surf trip to Nicaragua and want relax and let someone tell you when and where to surf to have a great experience, this is the place.
Lynn E.
I highly recommend Magnific Rock Surf Resort and its All Inclusive Surf Package! I had never surfed before. With all the coaching from my surf instructor Dylan and the Mag Rock Surf Coordinator Billy, I gained the confidence to return home, buy a board, and keep improving my surfing. After only 4 sessions over 4 days (I opted for a single longer surf session each day rather than 2 surf sessions each day), I was able to pop-up, and I caught a few of the waves with only verbal coaching from Dylan. Billy’s video taping session was hugely useful! The video let us see what I need to work on next. My time at Mag Rock definitely got my psyched to buy my own surfboard and continue improving back at home. Dylan was a great coach both on land and in the water! Besides pop-ups, he taught me a huge amount about the water and handling a surfboard, including how to: safely enter the water and get out to the line-up; enter a line-up; read the water to see waves and sets forming; strap a board onto the roof of a car; and all sorts of other great info. Dylan’s guidance continued over lunch each day along with sharing life stories. Dylan and Billy were great to hang out with. Billy was always available to answer questions and work with me before I arrived, during my time at Mag Rock, and afterwards. The studio room I had was comfortable and worked perfectly. The food in the restaurant was fresh and delicious. And, I appreciated the airport pick-up. The Mag Rock Surf Resort All Inclusive Surf Package is great!
Angie C
I just completed a 5-day surf camp at Magnific Rock. Billy, the surf coordinator, was responsive and very helpful throughout both the booking process and my stay. Before my trip, I had only taken a couple of surf lessons, so the hotel's location right next to Beginner's Bay was perfect for me as a beginner surfer. As a first-time solo traveler, I felt comfortable and welcomed. The room was clean and air-conditioned, and all the staff were very friendly. In addition to surfing, the hotel offered fun classes like aerial yoga. The view from the hotel, especially during sunset, was just amazing. I left the surf camp feeling much more confident in the water. The surf lessons were excellent because I had my own instructor, and the lessons were tailored to my own level and pace. I can't wait to go back!
Samual M.
I can't say enough about the staff and hospitality we experienced here. The four of us stayed for a few days, travelled around Nicaragua and then headed back because we decided this place was too good not to go back.Billy and Jered were absolutely amazing! They literally went above and beyond to make sure we had the best time. I am not kidding when I say the boat trip was probably one of the best travelling experiences of my life. Our group had all different levels of surfing abilities and Jared was the perfect couch for the beginners to the more advanced, either telling you were to sit and how the wave breaks or will be right by your side (the man also has some crazy stories, you'll learn a thing or two about the area!)Then after the surf we jumped back in the boat and went fishing. You can tell Billy genuinely loves what he does and it just makes the experience so much better, he's also a plethora of knowledge so you really know you're in good hands. We caught some fish including some white tuna (which I hear is quite rare!) and then the chef prepared it that night, definitely a check off my bucket list!!The staff there are also just the most wholesome, some are still learning English so it's an excellent opportunity to brush up on your Spanish! They were very helpful and always smiling, excellent vibes.We were recommended by friends up here in Canada to head down there and now I'm recommending this place to everyone else!
Kurtis A.
Absolutely amazing! Check the waves from your balcony, surf your brains out with breaks all over, cool off in the AC, get in the pool or play pool, and enjoy a cold crisp Tona and top notch meal to round it off. The local staff, amazing. Billy, the surf coordinator, amazing. Jared, the surf guide, amazing. The food, amazing. The view and location, amazing. Mag Rock made everything about our trip straightforward, convenient, and an absolute blast. Not to mention boat trips, fishing, yoga, horses, and more. 100% would go again.
Andrew B.
Our group of 4 stayed here with the surf package and it didn't disappoint! Billy and Jared's love for the area and surf spots was incredible and definitely rubbed off on us. We liked it so much that after visiting Ometepe and Granada we decided to head back to Mag Rock to close out our Nicaragua trip. We couldn't get enough of the views, sunsets and waves.Excellent value for money especially if you want a stress free vacation. The food at Magnific Rock was 10/10 and so were the staff. The views were incredible and you can watch all the happenings in beginners bay from there.The highlight of the trip for me was the boat trip. We headed out to Lance's Left and caught some waves in the morning. Jared was making sure we were all catching waves and Billy was down the line with a camera getting some great footage of us. Afterwards we headed out to the open ocean for some fishing. It's always a good sign when you're guide loves what they do and Billy clearly loves fishing. We wrestled a few tunas into the boat and brought them back for the chef's at Mag Rock to slice up for dinner. An absolutely perfect day.Overall I'd highly recommend Magnific Rock, our group had a mix of surfing abilities and the crew there made sure everyone got the most out of their experience.
Monica H.
Enjoyed an incredible week at Magnific Rock! Billy, Poloma and Dylan were amazing surf guides and coaches. They took us out to several different breaks and offered great coaching and support. Marco was always kind and helpful in the restaurant. The room we had was not great but if you get a newer room they are certainly much nicer and more comfortable. When our AC stopped working, there was someone onsite who fixed it right away. You can’t beat this location!
Nicole A.
I spent a week at Mag Rock and it was an incredible week. Everything about this week was perfect. I did the week long surf program and it was exactly what I wanted. First the property is gorgeous. It’s about a 2 hours drive from the airport which is fun because you get to drive through Nicaragua and see the culture. When you get there it’s like you have arrived in paradise. It’s on top of a cliff that overlooks the ocean. It’s breathtaking! I stayed in a suite that was awesome. The balcony was the best part. I would sit out there in between surf sessions and enjoy the view and would enjoy sunrises and sunsets out there. The food was delicious. Smoothies were great before hitting the water.The best part was the surfing and people. I met some awesome people that I was able to surf with all week. But the best was my two surf guides Billy and Dylan. They were so patient and comprehensive on teaching us how to be good surfers. I’ve taken surf lessons all over before and people just want you to stand up. They taught us about surf etiquette and how to read waves and techniques. I had a million questions and they answered all of them. If you’re thinking of coming here DO IT! You won’t regret it. I know I’ll be back!
Braedon V.
I had an amazing time at Magnific Rock. Billy, the surf instructor was super cool and knowledgeable when it came to riding waves. The rest of the staff and experiences were above and beyond. The sunsets and epic coast lines make it a hard place to leave. I can’t wait to get back out there.
Paddy B.
An absolutely must go location. I honestly can’t fault this place and the people that work and run it!Billy and Brian, the two surf guides were unreal and helped me develop my skills so easily.It’s hard not to write a cheesy and corny review where I say everything was great but it’s true. This surf camp and it’s location is spot on.By far my favourite place in all of Nicaragua.
kathrina S.
I had the most amazing time during my stay at magnific rock. Everyone was so incredibly welcoming and attentive. Massimo greeted us and made sure that we had everything we needed at all time. Food was amazing and we were graciously attended by all staff, they were accommodating for my vegetarian diet. I thoroughly enjoyed the yoga classes daily and took an amazing Aerial class with Ella. My friend and I also took surf lessons with Billy who was an excellent teacher and had us catching many waves in the beautiful beach in Popoyo. The view was perfect, everyone at the resort was incredible and I can not wait to come back!
Jean Claudine R.
What a magnificent experience! I will never forget our beautiful time here at Magnific Rock. My girlfriend and I booked 4 nights and five days under the yoga package and added surf sessions on top. Best decision ever. We ate like princesses and had a spectacular view of Popoyo from our “Apartamento” accommodation. The food and drinks were incredible. Massimo, the manager, emphasized a family-style experience and we felt so at home even though we were traveling from California. I highly recommend Magnific Rock to first-timers to Nicaragua as we had an experience to be remembered for a lifetime. Ask for Billy for surf lessons and Ella for yoga! They made our trip so much fun. I definitely will be coming back.
Audra W.
I had a magnificent stay at Mag Rock. Dave and Jackson are amazing and caring owners, and you’ll want for nothing while you’re there! The staff are sweet and helpful, though not all speak english, which is a perfect opportunity for me and my English speaking friends to practice our Spanish. The view is breath taking, I stayed for 9 days and it does not get old. The surfing is amazing, quality waves for all types of skill levels, with Nicaragua’s signature offshore winds. Billy who runs the surf camp is an awesome human and guide. I loved my stay at Mag Rock and I cannot wait to come again!
Mac L.
This place is magical!! The pictures online don’t do it justice. The views from Magnific Rock are mesmerizing. The location cannot be beat — you are steps away from one of the main breaks below and can watch people surf from your balcony. And most importantly, the people that work there are the greatest. I did the all inclusive surf package and had 2 amazing surf guides, Billy and Brian. It was the best surf trip of my life. They not only provided great 1:1 coaching that allowed me to significantly progress my surfing skills, but were also awesome guys to hang out with in and out of the water. On the final day, we took a boat trip to Lancer’s Left where I ended the trip with the wave of my life. Thanks for everything guys! I’ll be back soon!
READY TO CATCH THE WAVES?
Book Your Nicaragua Surf Camp
If you’re looking for a place where you can surf solid waves, enjoy the sights, and not overthink the details, this is it. Magnific Rock keeps it simple: stay close, surf often, eat well. Come see for yourself!
Check our surf packages or contact us if you have questions, we’re happy to help you plan it.
Planning Your Surf Trip
To Nicaragua
Best Time to Come
April–September = more swell, bigger surf
November–March = smaller but consistent conditions
Want to bring your own board?
(Or use our in house equipment)
Shortboarders: Daily driver + step-up if you want
Intermediate: Fish or funboard for wave count
Beginner: Soft tops and long boards available for use
Winds and Conditions
Sunny and offshore nearly every day because of the trade winds passing across Lake Nicaragua.
Getting Here
We can help with transport from Managua or Liberia. Just let us know when you book.
Other Tips
Bring tropical wax, a long sleeve rash guard, reef-safe sunscreen like a zinc stick, and a surf hat.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can’t find what you’re looking for below? Feel free to ask us at surf@magnificrock.com
Is This a Family Friendly Surf Camp?
Absolutely! The hotel is perfect for families — safe, relaxed, and just steps from the beach. There’s a pool, plenty of chill areas, and optional daycare if parents want some surf or solo time.
Are We a Block Schedule or Open Booking?
We offer open booking — you choose the dates that work best for you.
How To Book a Surf Retreat?
- Contact us to customize your package.
- Pay a 50% deposit to secure your reservation.
- Pay the remaining 50% one week before your arrival.
How Many Surf Sessions Per Day?
We offer at least 2 surf sessions per day, depending on conditions and your energy.
What Are Our Food Options?
Yes! We offer vegan and vegetarian meals. Just let us know about any dietary needs or allergies at least one week before your arrival.
How To Get To Magnific Rock?
Fly into Managua (MGA) or Liberia (LIR) airports. We’ll arrange a taxi to pick you up and bring you straight to us.