Nicaragua’s Pacific Coast
San Juan del Sur is one of the most popular travel destinations on Nicaragua’s Pacific Coast! Not long ago this area of Nicaragua was primarily made up of small fishing villages, but has slowly been recognized as a hidden paradise- an area to discover unbelievable natural resources, as well as world class sports fishing and surfing and above all- RELAXATION!
Bay of San Juan del Sur
With a local population of approximately 20,000 Nicaraguans and a growing ex-patriot community, San Juan del Sur is the perfect merging of cultures. All of this adds extensive charm to this once quaint fishing village. The crescent shaped bay of San Juan del Sur is home to a plethora of different vessels ranging from colorful local fishing boats, sports fishing and recreational boats and the occasional cruise ship. Small restaurants and bars line the sand and evenings are often filled with local children playing soccer on the beach while locals and visitors enjoy cold drinks, fresh seafood and Nicaraguan delicacies.
Local Color and Flavor of San Juan del Sur
San Juan de Sur has the charm of a traditional Nicaraguan village mixed with some International flavor! The sounds of church bells fill the mornings and the town bustles with a lively town market where local produce and handicrafts are available. A variety of tourism services and transportation options can be contracted easily from the center of town- find scuba and snorkeling trips, Spanish schools, local handicraft vendors, Internet cafes, a plethora of hotel options and almost anything else that you could possibly want!
History of San Juan del Sur
Originally a sleepy fishing village, San Juan del Sur was suddenly transformed in 1851 by the California Gold Rush. Suddenly this quiet area of Nicaragua became a stop on the transit route between east and west coasts of the US. Later it retained its reputation as a port for the export of local products and import of items ranging from autos and appliances to farm equipment and other items not indigenous to Nicaragua. Since the late 90’s the local investment in tourism services and foreign cash influx in real estate and other ventures have allowed for many improvements in the immediate area- a new sports center, improved parks and beachfront areas. Having celebrated its 150th anniversary as a city in 2002 the port of San Juan del Sur has transformed itself into a incredible travel destination, as well as retaining its original charm as a fishing village!