Playa Maderas
The most popular surfing beach north of town, with consistent waves suitable for beginners and intermediate surfers alike, framed by reef rocks on both sides. At sunset the beach fills with surfers.
Playa Maderas is about 8 km north of San Juan del Sur and is the heart of the local surf culture. The sandy bottom in the middle of the beach has waves suited to beginners. At high tide, the reef area on the outer side offers stronger waves for advanced surfers. The beach has surfboard rentals, surf lessons, small restaurants and several places to stay, and many backpackers stay right here. Shuttle buses run several times a day between town and the beach, taking about 20–30 minutes one way for around USD 5–10. You can also rent a motorcycle or take a taxi, though the dirt roads get muddy in the rainy season. The beach has rip currents, so non-swimmers should not go into deep water. To the north, you can walk along the reef rocks to the neighboring Majagual Beach.
Opening hours
All day
Nearby sights
- Playa Majagual
- Playa Marsella
- Cristo de la Misericordia
- San Juan del Sur Bay
- Playa Remanso
- Playa Hermosa
- Playa Yankee
- Playa El Coco