Surfnica ''Nicaragua Surf Guide'' October - December 2014 by Surfnica Nicaragua Surf Guide

Surf Spots Maps

North, Central & South Pacific

Nica Hot Spots

Discover El Transito surf zone

From The Community

International Coastal Clean-up 2014 Fun Limon: Sustainable Community Development

Photo: TonySurf Roberts Surfnica Nicaragua Guide

Surfnica Nicaragua Surf Guide

STAFF/

Content

VOLUME 6 OCT-DEC 2014

2624

08 -Nica Knowledge

38-Nica Hot Spots

12- Surf Spot Maps 12- San Juan del Sur 22- Tola 32 - Occidente 34 - Managua 21- Casa Oro (Turtle Program)

42- News

Publisher César Medina Editor at Large Jake Howard Art Director Luis Arriola Staff Photographer Tony Roberts

46- From The Community 48- Places To Visit 52 - Directory 56 - Tide Charts

40 EDITORIAL

Recently we were told Nicaragua was missing a publication that specialized in promoting our surfing. We think so too! Our first attempt to create a surf guide was back in 2009, and despite many challenges, two editions were published. And while a lot’s changed since then, we are now excited to be launching the sixth edition of Surfnica. Our first four issues were hybrid publications combining a surfing magazine and a surf guide. From the fifth edition we started polishing this publication merely as a surf guide, expanding our sections and international distribution. You will be stoked to find out more complete surf spots´ map, more regional profiles, plus an extended three-month tide chart. We will also be launching two brand new sections: “Places to Visit” and “From the Community.”

Renato Cardoso Michael Dennison Miguel Espinoza Roberto Garcia John Matthews Brian Scott Donald Stone

2014 was a good year. We are honoured to have Mukul Beach, Golf & Spa join our exclusive selection of advertisers. We organised and ran one of the biggest national surf contests to date. And recently we launched our website www. surfnicamagazine.com, the Nicaragua Surf Media Point. Make sure to follow us on our social networks and learn what next year holds.

Business Developer Adolfo Mejía

Soon… 2014 Surf Photo Book will be launched!

Contributing Photographers

Marketing Coordinator Maria Gómez

Jerson Barboza Rick Briggs Benny Crum

Legal Adviser Maria Medina

Surfnica Nicaragua Surf Guide

Surfnica wants to give special thanks to our Editor at Large Jake Howard; the community of collaborating photographers; the Nicaraguan Tourism Board and every of our advertisers directly contributing to the promotion of Nicaragua as a surfing destination. Mahalos

Digital Version Availible surfnicamagazine.com Sales info@surfnicamagazine.com Follow us:

SurfnicaMag SurfnicaMag Surfnica505

Photo: Rick Briggs / Dondex Photography Surfnica Nicaragua Surf Guide

NICA KNOWLEDGE

Presented by www.visitanicaragua.com www.surfnicamagazine.com

N icaragua is the land of lakes and volcanoes, or tierra de lagos y volcanes, as the father of modernism literature and a Matagalpa native Ruben Dario described his country. There is so much to see and do in Nicaragua that you are sure to

have an unforgettable experience. Leon and Granada are two historical famous colonial cities that are must-sees. Just outside of Granada, the 1,800-meter deep crater lake of Laguna de Apoyo is a great zone to pass some tranquilo time. There are tons of cool places to explore around Lake Cocibolca, such as Ometepe Island, Isletas of Granada, Solentiname Islands and Zapatera Island, where you can have a very close interaction with natural ecosystem. The list of things to do in Nicaragua is almost limitless. There’s great surfing, deep-sea fishing, diving, kayaking, and sailing. And if you are more of a land person, you must experience volcano sand-boarding, as well as the hiking and climbing terrain. There are also lots of historical, cultural and tourist sites to experience.

Official Name

Republic of Nicaragua

Capital

Managua

Language

Location

Population

Nicaragua’s population of 5,675,356 (July 2007 estimate) is concentrated mostly in the western regions of the country. The largest ethnic population is mestizo, or mixed European and indigenous, with other indigenous minorities also blending into the population.

History

Nicaragua is an indigenous word, with Nahuatl roots. Nic-atl-nahuac: “Here near the water.” The name was taken from Chief Nicarao. The word “Nicaragua” represents the brave origin of its indigenous people, and is a symbol of the native resistance to the outside colonialism. Nicaragua is a sovereign state that is a victorious defender of freedom and independence. Examples of this are found throughout its history.The fight against United States filibusters in 1856, the fight led by the “general of the people,” Augusto C. Sandino, against the intervention of the United States in 1927 and the final triumph of the people in the last revolution of the 20th century, the Sandinista People’s Revolution against the Somoza dictatorship, July 19, 1979, led the way to democracy and solidarity in Nicaragua, Surfnica Nicaragua Surf Guide

Religion Currency Calling Code

Spanish, spoken the majority of Nicaraguans. English and indigenous languages are used along the Caribbean coast and in parts of the Atlantic coastal plain Central America, Caribbean Sea (East), Pacific Ocean (West), Honduras (North) and Costa Rica (South). 58% Roman Catholic; 42% Protestantism, other Christian denominations. Cordoba +505

Time Zone

-6h GMT

INTUR

+505 2254-5191

Customs

+505 2248-2642 118 +505-2270-6400

Augusto C. Sandino Airport

National Police PRO NICARAGUA

+505 2233-1624

Culture

Nicaragua is also known as the land of poets and arts. The marimbas, folkloric dances, and mazurkas give vibrant colour to our fiestas. And our long-time theatre, the “Güegüense,” is a Cultural Heritage of Humanity. El Güegüense is a theatrical play, a summary of Spanish and Indigenous fusion where theater, dance, and music combine. It is considered one of the most distinctive expressions of the colonial era in Latin America. In 2005, UNESCO declared this theatrical play to be an Oral and Ethereal Patrimony of Humanity. The music and dance of the Caribbean is felt throughout the land. In the Atlantic coast, the music has a strong Afro-Caribbean influence and its rhythms are intense, sensual, and frenzied. The best occasion to see this aspect of our culture is during the Palo de Mayo (May Pole) festival in the city Bluefields. The marimba is Nicaragua’s national instrument and is usually accompanied with guitars and percussion. There is also a strong theatrical heritage from our native ancestors. The majority of these shows are performed during town festivals, and on occasion at the Ruben Dario National Theater. Among the most important portrayals are the “Nicaraguan Native” and an epic drama of the fancy Gentleman “El Toro Guaco” which is a simulation of the conquering Spaniards. The culture of Nicaragua reflects the mixed Ibero-European and Indian ancestry of the majority of its people.

Nature and Climate.

Nicaragua claims the largest expanse of tropical rainforest north of the Amazon, covering much of the northern and eastern regions. The mountains and the western part of the country are somewhat more arid. Nicaragua has 7% of the world diversity, 17% of the land for natural reserves, and 7.14% of the country’s square miles is comprised of water. The Nicaraguan tropical climate ranges from 2735°C, depending on the season and the region of the country. In the central north highlands of Nicaragua the temperature can drop to 10°C while on lower ground it reaches 38°C. On the Atlantic Coast and Rio San Juan, the winter almost extends all year long.

Bosawas Biosphere Reserve qualifies Nicaragua as the second lung of the Americas.

Lake Cocibolca occupies 8,000 km2 and Lake Managua approximately 1,000 km2. Nicaragua has more than 70 different eco-systems. Bosawas Biosphere Reserve qualifies Nicaragua as the second lung of the Americas. Nicaragua has 24 volcanoes along Cordillera de los Maribios fault line. Volcano Masaya stands out among the others for being one of the most visibly active in the country. It emits a nearly constant plume of sulphurous gas, smoke, and ashes, visible from as far away as the airport in Managua. Looking into the volcano, you can see the glowing magma. Mogotón is the highest elevation with 2,107 m.a.s.l., located in Nueva Segovia.

Surfnica Nicaragua Surf Guide

Getting to Nicaragua

Nicaragua is served by a variety of international, regional, and domestic airlines. American Airlines (nonstop from Miami); Continental Airlines (nonstop from Houston); Avianca Taca (flights from Miami; connections from Los Angeles, New York, Canada, Mexico City, and Central America); Copa Airlines (daily flights from Panama City and other Central American cities, and USA); Aerocaribbean (one weekly flight from Cuba); Delta Airlines (nonstop from Atlanta); Spirit Airlines (nonstop from Ft. Lauderdale.) Nature Air flies from Panama and Costa Rica, to Nicaragua.

By land

International Bus Companies run between Managua and the rest of Central American capitals. Either you are coming from Mexico, Guatemala, El Salvador, Honduras, Costa Rica or Panama, all companies offer competing schedules and prices, and are definitely safe for travellers with bags and surfboards. For more information on rate, offices and departures/arrival check with King Quality, Transnica, Central Line, Del Sol Bus and Ticabus.

Getting Around

Getting around can be easy, enjoyable and safe throughout Nicaragua. According to statistics by Interpol and the United Nations, Nicaragua is one of the safest countries in the Americas, and the safest in Central America, but always stay alert and take precautions especially in remote areas or at night. As in every big city there are dangerous neighbourhoods, ask in your accommodation about safety issues. Taxis are plentiful and relatively inexpensive throughout the country. It is advisable to use officially registered taxis, which have red license plates (the numbers should be legible), or licensed tour guides. When hiring a taxi, take some minutes to ask a local what a regular rate is for your trip; and make sure to agree on a price with the taxi driver before you go. We recommend taking an empty taxi and agreeing on an exclusive ride (no extra passengers). Radio-dispatched taxis are available at the airport and major hotels. Major rental car companies are located at the airport and

10 Surfnica Nicaragua Surf Guide

NICA KNOWLEDGE

in other locations. A 4WD car is recommended especially during winter; prices range from US$60 to US$120 per day, and get in advance directions on how to get your surf zone. Make sure to bring good straps. If you wish to rent a vehicle and travel to other countries in the region, making the necessary arrangements this several days in advance is recommended. You can use your home country driver’s license for 30 days after entry into Nicaragua. Inter-city buses and rental cars are also plentiful. Ferry services and passenger vessels are available for travel on Lake Nicaragua and the Río San Juan. La Costeña flies to Bluefields, Corn Island, and Bilwi and other localities. Flight rates range from US$127 to US$149.

Money

The national currency is the Cordoba (C$), exchange rate: C$26.30 (August 2014). American dollars are accepted everywhere in the country unless they are worn, have a rip, stained or generally damaged in anyway. Always have small bills because breaking big bills can be difficult, especially at the little town stores (aka pulperias). Major credit cards are widely accepted throughout the larger cities and touristic areas. Sales tax is 15% added value tax (I.V.A.) on all purchases. If you wish to exchange dollars to Cordobas, it is advised to visit any of the national banks, BANCENTRO (Euros to Dollars exchange available), BAC, BANPRO, and BDF. Please visit www.bcn.gob.ni for the official exchange rate. Banks operation hours generally are: Monday to Friday from 8:30

am to 4:30 pm; and Saturday from 8:30 am to 12:30 pm.

Water.

Airport/hotel baggage handlers: US $1.00 per bag is acceptable. For restaurants and other services, 10% of value of service is customary, but not obligatory (however, a good service should be recognized).

Shopping

Tipping

Travel documents & visa

Citizens of most countries do not need a visa to enter Nicaragua; they just need to buy a tourist card at the airport or at the borders for US$10. All visitors need a passport valid for at least six months after the date of entry. For more information visit: www.visitanicaragua.com. If you would like to prolong your stay in Nicaragua beyond the period permitted with the tourist card (90 days), request an extension at the Immigration and Foreign Services Office in Managua

Tap water in Managua is considered safe to drink, however make sure the water is filtered. Outside of the capital, bottled water is advised When visiting Nicaragua, save some space in your luggage for beautiful local crafts. A hammock, a sculpted piece or other mementos and souvenirs may be found at the arts and crafts market in Masaya, as well as in San Juan de Oriente, Diriomo, Diria, Niquinohomo, and the Catarina Villages. Shopping centres such as the Galerías Santo Domingo, Metrocentro, Plaza Inter, and Centro Comercial Managua, are located in the capital city. Duty Free shopping is available at airports and borders. Surfnica Nicaragua Surf Guide

SURF SPOTS MAPS

SAN JUAN DEL SUR

acific Nicaragua is blessed with almost 400 kilometers of dramatic coastline, creating all kinds of different set-ups for insane surf. There are multiple world-class beach breaks, a handful of unbelievable left-hand point breaks, sand and reef, a couple different wedge set-ups, Lowers Trestles-like cobblestones, and the list goes on. Another great reason of why Nicaragua is a top surf destination is because we have ride-able waves almost every single day, and nice weather conditions.

Regards crowd factor, surely you don´t like surfing crowded spots, and you should know the best and most popular waves are almost the most crowded, but there are plenty of waves as you will learn in this section, you just have to know when to go. Nicaragua’s south-facing coastline make it an excellent location for Southern Hemisphere ground swells which lights up from mid-March-November and can even see south swells sneaking in for December, January and February. Northern and Central Pacific also has chances to see some Northern swell surf, but not all day offshore winds. Usually by midday it turns side offshore or onshore during winter, but from November to February (first months of summer) offshore winds are more prevalent throughout the day, and that’s when all waves located mostly in Central Pacific are unveiled. Southern Nicaragua sees more consistent surf and is groomed by offshore winds for about 300 days of the year. Lake Nicaragua and the land topography causes low-pressure, creating a wind belt that blows east to west and makes for perfect offshore winds. Many of the spots are accessible by car but if you are willing to spend a little extra, hiring a boat is a nice way to go. With no highway along the coast, boats are the fastest way to travel plus the view is beautiful, the fish are plentiful, and there’s access to any desired wave. Along the Pacific coast there are five departments: Rivas, Carazo, Managua, Leon and Chinandega (South to North). Carazo and Rivas represent the South coast, Managua make up the central coast, and Chinandega and Leon

12 Surfnica Nicaragua Surf Guide

MAJAGUAL MADERAS

COCIBOLCA LAKE

MARSELLA

PACIFIC OCEAN

SAN JUAN DEL SUR

EL REMANSO TAMARINDO P L AYA H E R M O SA E L YA N K E E E S C A M EC A E L CO CO L A F LO R

PEÑAS BLANCAS

EL OSTIONAL

SURF MAP

COSTA RICA

Surf Spot Borders

EL NAR ANJ O

Surfnica Nicaragua Surf Guide

14 Surfnica Nicaragua Surf Guide

consist of the North coast (Occidente), San Juan del Sur What was once a small, quiet fishing town has now become one of Nicaragua’s most visited tourist destination. With a population of 16,000, San Juan del Sur is made up families that earn a living from the sea, as well as foreigner transplants from the U.S., Canada and Europe. Only 140 km (87 miles) from Managua, it’s easy to access and has pretty much anything you could be looking for: hotels, restaurants, bars, discos, a market, schools, a central park, a post office, and of course, there’s the beautiful bay and Pacific Ocean. If you are a traveling surfer San Juan del Sur is a must. The waves in its surrounding areas are amazing. Here we list some of those waves you don’t want to miss (North to South):Playa Majagual, good surfing on large and medium size waves. Boating will take only 5 minutes from San Juan del Sur. Playa Maderas is a consistent, sand-bottom beachbreak that has playful and fast waves with barrel sections. There are three main peaks: a peeling right hander breaking in the middle of the beach; a peeling left, a bit shorter and faster; and at the south end of the beach, in front of the rocks, there is “Punta Machete” left peak, an unforgettable wave for experienced surfers only, that breaks on bigger swells. Its proximity to touristic San Juan del Sur (20 minutes by car) makes Maderas a 30+ crowded line-up but if you stay in Maderas beach the chances are high you will be surfing alone at sunrise or sunset. Playa Marsella, beach-break with decent rights and lefts. San Juan del Sur. North in front of the river mouth has the greatest potential for waves, mainly during the months of September – October. Regularly the left is more consistent. When large winter swell hit, there is a fun left breaking by the dock. Playa El Remanso is the place to learn, not when the large winter swells hit though. But if you are experienced surfer, you will want to come surf the waves that break on both sides out of the bay on a large swell. This spot is located only 6km sout from San Juan del Sur.Want to learn how to surf? San Juan del Sur is certainly blessed with beautiful landscapes.

Surfnica Nicaragua Surf Guide

16 Surfnica Nicaragua Surf Guide

SURF SPOTS MAPS

Local surfer from Playa Maderas Photo: Jerson Barboza Playa Tamarindo. Mostly surfed by locals but if you make the 20 minutes south walk from El Remanso, you will find a right point wave on the north end, and a beachbreak on the south side and middle of the beach. Recommended for intermediate and advance surfers.

Playa Hermosa. Hermosa is a long beach with two different areas that hold nice waves, depending on the swell. Both sides are similar with many peaks, known for its long right and left peaks with playful walls. Short-boarders can do a lot of cutbacks and still get strong steep sections. Hermosa works similar to Maderas, with the best waves forming at rising and falling tide, softer at high tide.It works at 3 to 6 feet on a medium swell, with most directions. This spot is accessible by car, but we recommend you boating from San Juan del Sur, stopping for a surf session, and continue exploring south. El Yankee. Waves are quick and powerful breaking on a beach-break left point on the south side. It is great spot for aerials. Works best with South and South-west swell on an incoming tide. There is also a point break on the north end of the beach, best during low tide.Avoid a long drive and take advantage of an adventurous boat trip of 30 minutes from San Juan del Sur.

Escameca. Left and right, works well at high tide. The left is as powerful as Yankee, breaking off the rock on the south end where it creates a barrel and then opens to give you plenty of time to rip, before it ends up connecting with the right.When the right is big, it throws a nice little barrel too, and if you past the barrel, you will have a steep clean wall until you connect up with the left. El Coco. Fun beach breaks, and a couple of reef/point breaks.Works at low and rising tide. La Flor. At Natural Reserve La Flor you can witness the annual arrival of Oliver Ridley sea turtles which come to lay their eggs at La Flor beach. 50 days later you can also enjoy the baby turtles come out of their eggs and run toward the sea. On the north end there is a beach break, and to the south there is a long, hollow left point. Best during mid tide and start working at 3.5 feet. El Ostional. Left point reef break and decent beachbreak in front of town. Swell needs to be coming from the south and better when large. Accessible by car (a 4x4 recommended especially during winter) and boat.If you are a traveling surfer San Juan del Sur is a must. The waves

in its surrounding areas are amazing. Here we list some of those waves you don’t want to miss (North to South): Playa Maderas is a consistent, sand-bottom beachbreak that has playful and fast waves with barrel sections. There are three main peaks: a peeling right hander breaking in the middle of the beach; a peeling left, a bit shorter and faster; and at the south end of the beach, in front of the rocks, there is “Punta Machete” left peak, an unforgettable wave for experienced surfers only, that breaks on bigger swells. Its proximity to touristic San Juan del Sur (20 minutes by car) makes Maderas a 30+ crowded line-up but if you stay in Maderas beach the chances are high you will be surfing alone at sunrise or sunset. Playa Majagual, good surfing on large and medium size waves. Boating will take only 5 minutes from San Juan del Sur. Playa Marsella, beach-break with decent rights and lefts. San Juan del Sur. North in front of the river mouth has the greatest potential for waves, mainly during the Surfnica Nicaragua Surf Guide

months of September â&#x20AC;&#x201C; October. Regularly the left is more consistent.Want to learn how to surf? Playa El Remanso is the place to learn, not on a big swell though. But if you are experienced surfer, you will want to come surf the waves that break on both sides out of the bay on a large swell. This spot is located only 6km south from San Juan del Sur. Playa Tamarindo. Mostly surfed by locals but if you make the 20 minutes south walk from El Remanso, you will find a right point wave on the north end, and a beachbreak on the south side and middle of the beach. Recommended for intermediate and advance surfers. Playa Hermosa. A two miles of A-framed beach-break, known for its long right and left peaks with playful walls. It works at 3 to 6 feet on a medium swell, with most directions. This spot is accessible by car, but we recommend you boating from San Juan del Sur, stopping for a surf session, and continue exploring south. El Yankee. Waves are quick and powerful breaking on a beach-break left point on the south side. It is great spot for aerials. Works best with South and South-west swell on an incoming tide. There is also a point break on the north end of the beach, best during low tide. Avoid a long drive and take advantage of an adventurous boat trip of 30 minutes from San Juan del Sur.

Photo: Jerson Barboza

El Coco. Fun beach breaks, and a couple of reef/point breaks. Works at low and rising tide. La Flor. At Natural Reserve La Flor you can witness the annual arrival of Oliver Ridley sea turtles which come to lay their eggs at La Flor beach. 50 days later you can also enjoy the baby turtles come out of their eggs and run toward the sea. On the north end there is a beach break, and to the south there is a long, hollow left point. Best during mid tide and start working at 3.5 feet. El Ostional. Left point reef break and decent beachbreak in front of town. Swell needs to be coming from the south and better when large. Accessible by car (a 4x4 recommended especially during winter) and boat San Juan del Sur and its surrounding areas are like the end of the rainbow for a surfer. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a pot of gold full of waves waiting for you to find. Come surf your dream! Uncrowded waves guaranteed. For custom surf trips visit us at www.surfedoutnicaragua.com.

18 Surfnica Nicaragua Surf Guide

The famous Indian Face shaped rock Photo: Jerson Barboza

Surfnica Nicaragua Surf Guide

20 Surfnica Nicaragua Surf Guide

OLIVE RIDLEAY SEA TURTLES IN NICARAGUA AN UNFORGETTABLE AND RESPONSIBLE EXPERIENCE

icaragua is fortunate to be home to the Olive Ridley sea turtles who come by thousands to La Flor Wildlife Reserve located 20km South of San Juan del Sur. This reserve is officially protected by the Nicaraguan government. All sea turtles are considered as endangered species and efforts are made to protect the eggs from poachers as well as the destruction of nesting sites. Each year between July and February, more than 150 000 Olive Ridley sea turtles come ashore on La Flor beach. This specie is famous for its impressive “arribadas” (large arrivals), an incredible phenomenon related to the lunar cycle.

For more info please Contact Us: vcasaoro.manager@yahoo.com Phone: +505 2568-2415

Casa Oro is deeply involved in the preservation of the Olive Ridley sea turtles. In 2008, the Ministry of Environment of Nicaragua officially acknowledged Casa Oro’s ongoing participation in the protection of the sea turtles at La Flor Reserve. Casa Oro offers responsible night expeditions where people can witness a wonderful nature show while minimizing the impact on the Olive Ridley sea turtles.This complete and unforgettable experience allows to learn about these magnificent but threatened creatures and to observe at night the nesting or hatching process on the beach in a respectful way. The Casa Oro tour includes an English presentation, 4X4 transport, entrance fee to the park and guided tour, and is offered at night from 7pm to about midnight.

San Juan del Sur / La Flor 49 min

22.3 KM

San Juan del Sur

Surfnica Nicaragua Surf Guide

SURF SPOTS MAPS

TOLA

he word “Tola” is derived from its ancient idiomatic origin, meaning “Tierra del Tule” or “Land of the Toltecas.” In Asian Sanskrit it means “Sacred Ground” or “Incomparable Land.” Founded in 1750, Tola is located 124 kilometres southeast of Managua. It is one of ten municipalities of the Rivas department. Although San Juan del Sur is the main surf town in Nicaragua, Tola has an incomparable surf zone with almost year-round offshore winds. The coastline of more than 33 miles of Tola offer exuberant and stunning beautiful beaches, tranquil cover, and picturesque, rocky points. All this and its tranquillity and friendly people makes it a charming destination for surfers, fishermen, and beach lovers. Surf in Tola can be described as world-class. Pros are regularly seen here capturing photos and videos and training. The consistent and powerful south and southwest swells from the southern hemisphere plus the Cocibocal lake-effect offshore winds, generate clean, hollow waves with perfect shape, and a surf season running nearly year round. In Tola, you can also enjoy exploring the beaches and swimming in clear blue water. There are also natural thermal springs that remain at that perfect hot-tub temperature. Horseback riding is a nice option to explore the countryside and beaches; sport-fishing guarantees a real adventure; nature lovers can turtle release and watching. There are several options for accommodation, including surf camps, beach resorts, hotels, and hostels. If you know where to stay, some of them located strategically located near world-class waves. Unless you’re staying at one of those camps, it can be a good idea to look into hiring a car for your trip. The spots can be somewhat spread out and knowing somehow who can navigate the back roads is helpful. Public transportation is also available; buses run from Rivas to Las Salinas de Nahualapa parallel to most spots.

22 Surfnica Nicaragua Surf Guide

Surfer: John Mathews Photo: Renato Cardoso

From North to South El Peñon. (search it) El Astillero. El Astillero is a small fishing village located almost on the north end of Tola surf zone. It is a place ideal to relax and get closer to nature. You can go fishing, and whale and dolphin watching. Right in front of the river mouth, there is the beach-break throwing hollow rights and lefts. Best with shoulder to double over-head swell, around mid-tide. There is also a powerful reef break nearby. While in Astillero make sure to visit the Women’s Cooperative Weavers, women who make crafts from recycled plastic bags.

Playa Guasacate. Beautiful, long, and fun beach break, good for all surfers unless there is a big swell.Guasacate is considered a quiet place to enjoy the sea, sun and relaxation. Playa Sardinas. Playa Sardinas is a very consistent and powerful rocky reef break. It breaks both left and right and is recommended for experienced surfers who will enjoy its long and powerful walls with thick barrel sections. Sardinas breaks at all tides but most people surf high tide. This spot is probably the 2nd most crowded in Nicaragua packed of locals and ex-pats. Playa Jiquelite holds some of the best waves in the re-

gion. This intermediate to advanced wave is a really fun, consistent beach break that works best on higher tides and mid-period southwest swells. It offers a series of peaks, due to swells that bounce off the lava shelf on the south end of the beach. The first two peaks are usually always best and offer fast, barrelling waves. Playa Rosada. Short walk south from Jiquelite takes you to a fast breaking, hollow and powerful left over rocky reef. Rides can be long but watch out for the really shallow, thick lipped section on the take-off, there can be consequences if you fall. Works best on low tide. Playa Escondida. When the surf gets over eight feet everywhere else, a perfect left forms over rock reef in the middle of the bay. Surfnica Nicaragua Surf Guide

24 Surfnica Nicaragua Surf Guide

SURF SPOTS MAPS

Photo: Roberto García / NSR Playa Los Perros. Very powerful right hander for experienced surfers.Best place to stay to surf Jiquelite, Rosada, Escondida and Los Perros is Rancho Santana, a beach community resort now offering all-inclusive surf package Panga Drops. Located just a short walk north of Colorados. A deep water rock reef creates big slabby waves, with long rippable walls, rampy inside sections (big barrels sections too) and long rides all the way to the beach. Breaks best on low tide, and can handle any swell. Playa Colorado. If you want to get barrelled, Colorado is the place to visit. One of the best beach-breaks in all of Nicaragua, From March through November, Playa Colorado blossoms into a series of world-class A-frames. With powerful, hollow, and consistent waves, and 300 days a year of straight offshore winds, it’s hard to go wrong. Colorado offers both rights and lefts with plenty of big, open

barrels; breaks on sand but it’s only recommended to intermediate or advanced surfers.

of businesses offering fishing and surfing trips by boats, surfboard rental, and surf lessons.

Works best on an incoming tide and can handle knee to double-overhead and bigger. Depending on swell direction, interval and your luck, it’s quite possible to bag the best barrel of your life.

Playa Manzanillo. This world class wave offers large and medium long waves with some tubular sections. It is a left point, breaking on shallow water over a rocky bottom; recommended for experienced surfers.

Direct beach access to Playa Colorado and Panga Drops is private, but you can book accommodations along at the beachfront property with Iguana Surf Rentals/NSR Beach House or Nica X-Treme Adventures. There’s also the option of boating in, or it’s just a 20-minute walk north from Playa Gigante.

It is a dangerous spot but the wave is so perfect. When an XL swell hits, there’s a second peak breaking a bit far out offering some serious heavy barrels.It works best on midtide, and it’s usually an empty line-up.Playa Manzanillo is located right in front of world class resort Mukul, Beach, Golf and Spa. Mukul is a luxury hotel and spa in Guacalito de la Isla, now offering surf package for beginners or professionals. You can also access Playa Manzanillo taking a boat from Playa Gigante.

Playa Pie del Gigante. Fast and hollow right at the north end of beach, known as El Arco by local surfers. Also at the south side there is a left point. Works best on the incoming tide.Playa Pie del Gigante is a small fishermen village. There are many places to eat and stay, and a couple

Surfnica Nicaragua Surf Guide

26 Surfnica Nicaragua Surf Guide

Photo: Brian Scott

Surfnica Nicaragua Surf Guide

28 Surfnica Nicaragua Surf Guide

Photo: Francois Marseille Surfnica Nicaragua Surf Guide

30 Surfnica Nicaragua Surf Guide

Surfnica Nicaragua Surf Guide

SURF SPOT MAPS

HONDURAS

OCCIDENTE

n Chinandega lies the country’s highest volcano, Concepcion. The economy of Chinandega is based on agriculture; growing sugarcane, bananas, peanuts, sesame seeds, cashews, oranges, and grains butalso consists of shrimping, fishing, and manufacturing salt and leather goods. The port of Corinto is the most equipped port on the Pacific coast in Nicaragua and is very important for the department’s economy.The department has numerous beaches, natural reserves, historic towns, mangroves, and ancient churches. Further east, you’ll find the peninsula-forming Cosigüina volcano.

JIQUILILLO

Chinandega is known for its world-class beach break, Aserradores, but also has a left-point break in a beautiful half-moon bay that towers over the beach. The heavy beach break is a magnet for swell. A mediumswell with low intervals is ideal. Aserradores is a couple hundred yards of perfect wedging split peak offshore barrels all morning until the wind switches around midday. There are several places to stay along the beach. Having your own transportation is key up north so you can get around to other nearby spots if desired.

he city of Leon was the capital of Nicaragua forover two hundred years. In 1610 Momotombo Volcano erupted and habitants were forced tomove out. This abandoned city is known as “The Ruins of Old Leon.” Leon’s architecture reflects the city’s long history. Its sixteen churches go from baroque to neoclassical. There is many attractions in the department of Leon, besides tour the famous capital. Sand-boarding on Cerro Negro Volcano is a must-do. Another is hiking the great cone shaped Momotombo Volcano.Like all Nicaragua, the department of Leon has incredible surf. The most prevalent is PuertoSandino. Puerto Sandino is a sand-bottom endless left that breaks where the estuary meets the ocean. Puerto Sandino can only be surfed on low tide going high. It’s said that on an ideal day at Puerto Sandino you can get up to 16-second tube rides. On normal days, it’s long and rippable with some gnarly barrels mixed in every once and a while. The currents caused by the push and pull of the ocean and the estuary make getting back out very difficult. There are different places you can sit along the wave for different levels of surfers. Puerto Sandino basically holds any swell. Right next to this break lays Miramar, which has several fun reef breaks. There are multiple surf camps in the area to stay with or you can rent a car and do it on your own.

32 Surfnica Nicaragua Surf Guide

SOMOTO BORDER

ESTERO PADRE RAMOS

SOMOTILLO

ASERRADORES

CHINANDEGA PASO CABALLOS

PACIFIC OCEAN

PUERTO CORINTO

PONELOYA

SURF MAP Surf Spot Village & CIty Border

LAS PEÑITAS LAS SALINAS PUERTO SANDNO PUNTA MIRAMAR EL VELERO PLAYA HERMOSA EL TRANSITO

LEON

Surfer: Alex Alvarado Photo: Benny Crum Surfnica Nicaragua Surf Guide

SURF SPOT MAPS

MANAGUA

he name Managua originates from the term Mana-ahuac, which in the indigenous Nahuatl language translates to “adjacent to the water” or site “surrounded by water.” Managua was declared capital of Nicaragua in 1852. Today it has a population of roughly 1,800,000 and is the second most populous city in Central America after Guatemala City. The city’s economy is based mainly on trade. Managua is Nicaragua’s chief trading center for coffee, cotton, and other crops. It serves as an important industrial, commercial, political and cultural center. Its chief products include beer, coffee, matches, textiles and shoes.Only a 50-minute drive from Managua’s airport (Augusto C. Sandino), is Nicaragua’s central Pacific coast, which is blessed with waves for any level of surfers. Asunchillo: a beautiful beach break that offers lefts and rights with long playful walls. With bigger swells it becomes a barrel-making machine. It works well with all tides and is perfect for all abilities. Best to surf in the morning when the winds are light.Punta San Diego: a hollow, world-class left point break. Featured on the front cover of Surfing Magazine in Feb. 2010, the wave breaks fast over a shallow, rocky reef, making it only surfable at mid-high tide. Looking for barrels? San Diego is the place to find them.Find the best peak in front of the river mouth. Quizala: Lefts and right breaking on a sandbar beach break. Best from January to May when the wind blows offshore all day. Regularly breaking at 3-5 feet, on big swells it holds up to 10 feet. The right breaks by the river mouth and can be a 200-yard rippable wave with a few hollow sections. The left can be long but only on big swell. Pochomil: is a soft and fun beach-break, works best with mid-high tide. Long lines and walls right in front of all Ranchos (Palapas), best break in front of the river mouth. This beach can fit 100+ surfers, peaks are everywhere, but during our trips here there were no more than six local surfers. This is the place to surf with no crowd.The Central Pacific is home to Surfed Out Nicaragua. We invite you to experience the ultimate surf trip. No Limits! Uncrowded waves guaranteed! We want you to surf as many waves as possible! All-inclusive packages are available. To customize your surf trip visit them at www.surfedoutnicaragua.com

34 Surfnica Nicaragua Surf Guide

XOLOTLAN LAKE

PACIFIC OCEAN

ASUNCHILLO SAN DIEGO

QUIZALA EL MUELLE MASACHAPA OUTER REEF MASACHAPA POCHOMIL POCHOMIL VIEJO

SURF MAP Surf Spot Village & City Panamerican Highway

MANAGUA

Photo:Rick Briggs Surfnica Nicaragua Surf Guide

36 Surfnica Nicaragua Surf Guide

Surfnica Nicaragua Surf Guide

NICA HOT SPOTS

PLAYA EL TRÁNSITO

THE CLOSEST SECLUDED SURFING TOWN IN NICARAGUA

Photo: GreenSurf Nicaragua

l Transito is a small, quaint fishing pueblo just off the beaten path on the Pacific coast of north-central Nicaragua. This unique crescent shaped cove provides a beautiful backdrop to a line-up that offers multiple peaks, which tend to bounce off of a few scattered rocks located just outside the take off zone. The view to the north and south consists of beautiful lava rock formations, rustic Nicaraguan construction and, in the rainy season, lush hills covered with cactus, coconut palms and other vegetation. The pueblo is generally clean, with local surfers and volunteers helping to keep the beaches and the town area pleasant. The locals here are gracious and hospitable, eager to welcome travellers with a smile and a handshake. In this land of lefts, you can find plenty of rights here as well. Although the best, most common swells are from the SW-SSW, El Transito also accepts the occasional West-WNW swells too during the Nicaraguan summer (as long as it’s less than 290 degrees). Best periods are

38 Surfnica Nicaragua Surf Guide

anything 16 seconds or under, with 13 to 14 second periods being the sweetest. Over 16 seconds, it tends to shut down as the beach is fairly small. With a nice spread out line-up, it would take more than 15+ surfers for it to even begin to become crowded. However, there are rarely more than 5 in the line-up year round. The extremely consistent El Transito break can be good all year round, just as long as it stays under a couple feet overhead. Typically, this spot is best in the Nicaraguan off season (November to March), as the swells are usually smaller during that time of year and more suitable for the break. There is a small point-left at the south end of the beach that we call the Corner with a rock/sand bottom that works on mid-period S/SW swells. It is a typically a mellow wave that can offer longer, playful lefts that can be fun on various boards, but sometimes it can offer up an easy barrel section. The other peaks on

the main beach (sand bottom) are typically mellow lefts and rights, with short and easy barrel sections and short to medium length waves suitable for most levels of surfers. This is a great beach for beginners learning to surf, especially in January and early February. El Transito´s main beach is best from waist high to 1 ft overhead and on a mid tide; however, there is a ridable wave on most tides. The tide swings here can be drastic, so the peaks will often change. The predominant offshore winds (250+ days/year) are best from the E/NE. These offshores rarely get too strong here, as opposed to the early months of the year in Southern Nicaragua, (hardly ever upwelling in El Transito) and the water typically stays warm year round. However, you may occasionally need a 1mm top from Jan to March. El Transito really shines in the typical Nicaraguan ‘slow season’ from the end of November through March. This is the Nicaraguan summer, when the weather is typically impeccable, with bright blue sunny skies and the winds

are almost always offshore. The days are warm, not hot. The water is crisp and refreshing, not cold. The nights are clear and cool with little need for even a fan while sleeping because of the all-night breeze. More than this, due to the shape of this small crescent shaped beach and the underwater terrain just offshore, it sort of funnels every single little bump from Ma Ocean, which means it rarely ever goes flat. When other breaks to the north and south look like a lake, El Transito will often be waist to chest high + and fun! There is little crowd during the typical high wave season from March to September, however, from October to March, the line-up is often completely empty, aside from GSN crew and clients. There are other breaks within walking distance or a short boat ride that GSN can hook you up with. A point left barrelling slab (if you dare) is a 45 min boat ride to the south. We prequalify our clients before this trip! About a 30 min boat trip to the north, there is the increasingly popular break of Puerto Sandino, which is one of the longer lefts in Nicaragua, offering 200+ yard lefts. However, with the increasingly crowded line-up at Puerto Sandino

NICA HOT SPOTS

Surfer: Kayro Aguilar Photo: GreenSurf Nicaragua

Surfnica Nicaragua Surf Guide

(30 - 50 on a good day), there are other gems (and we mean precious!) within walking distance which are known by the GSN crew that feature empty line-ups and similar wave quality. GSN is located directly in front of the barrelling right hand wedge that we call PISTOLS. There is a little known big wave reef that shows up on the larger, longer period swells and a few others if you are down for a hike. This means waves for virtually all skill levels and you really don´t need wheels or a boat. The water hazards are minimal in the main beach as they are mostly located outside of the line-up at most tides. Bring your long board, short board, fish, SUP or anything you want to ride a wave on, there is enough variety here for it all!

Photo: GreenSurf Nicaragua

Although there’s not much for nightlife here, it is paradise if you are really just looking to eat/sleep/surf as it is offshore almost every day and rarely goes flat. Other daytime options include checking out the local rodeo or a game at the baseball field on Sundays. There is some great coastal hiking to the south and north of El Transito’s beach. The near and offshore fishing is world class and GSN can dial you into that. Snorkelling on the rare flat days can be fun. Catch lobster and fish from the beach or meet the local fisherman as they arrive in from work early every morning and buy fish for a ridiculously cheap price straight off the panga. Walk into town and mingle with the friendly locals and buy a beer. We encourage the support of the local establishments. Leon and Managua are only a 2 hour bus ride away if you want to dab into some culture or Nica city life. The main access roads are being repaired and we expect by 2015 to be one of the most accessible beaches from the capital city of Managua. We recommend Leon as it is the closest, vibrant Colonial city to the north with shops, markets, restaurants, museums, bars, discos, a movie theatre and more. San Juan del Sur is approximately 3 and 1/2 hours south.

o Photo: GreenSurf Nicaragua

40 Surfnica Nicaragua Surf Guide

ffers the region´s most comprehensive variety of services for traveling surfers and adventurers. Services range from basic shared rooms available for $10 per night to the popular Simple Green adventure, for about $140 per night, which introduces traveling surfers to the waves of this region while integrating culture and altruism, offering an all-inclusive option that has been the backbone of the GreenSurf product model. Newer, more intense options like the SCLAT (Surf, Culture, Love & Adventure Tour) are available and we are proud to be extremely flexible to individual desires, ocean experience and budget.

NICA HOT SPOTS

Photo: GreenSurf Nicaragua

Surfnica Nicaragua Surf Guide

NEWS

National Surfing Circuit 2014

he final stop of the National Surfing Circuit 2014 landed at the popular beach break of Playa Maderas in San Juan del Sur, Rivas department. The Association of Surfers from San Juan del Sur (A.S.S.U.R.) strategically chose the dates from September 13-15 because of the national holidays (Nicaraguan Independence). The first competition ever held at Playa Maderas was 14 years ago; an event was organized by well-known surfer/ shaper Tom Eberly and now Popoyo Surf Lodge owner James Yemma. Only 16 surfers from San Juan del Sur showed up. Since then, other national and international events have taken place in Maderas, including the Central American Surfing Games 2010, and the penultimate stage of the ALAS Latin Tour in 2011, the Latin Pro Nicaragua, a 6-star event sponsored by the Nicaraguan Tourism Board. The 2014 circuit started at Playa Hermosa, south of San Juan del Sur. It was followed by the historic Pacífico Surf Cup 2014, an event organized by Surfnica magazine, sponsored by Paso Pacífico, and featuring 130 surfers from all over the country. Held at the world-class wave, Playa Sardinas (Popoyo), even surfers from Managua competed for the first time. The Pacífico Surf Cup lasted for three days, included U-14, U-16, U-18, National Open, International Open, Women and Longboard categories, and hosted an environmental workshop by Paso Pacífico Nicaragua. Playa Maderas offered the best conditions of the circuit with head-high and occasional over-head surf, barrel sections and consistent offshore, for an outstanding last event, which was dominated by surfers from Tola, with the exception of the Longboard and Bodyboard category. The Nicaragua Surf Team that will represent in the Central American Surfing Games 2014 in El Salvador next December will be selected out of the national ranking.

42 Surfnica Nicaragua Surf Guide

Augusto Chamorro Photo: Sonia Bocale

National Surfing Circuit 2014 / Playa Maderas Event Open

Sub 16

Sub 18

Damas

Longboard

Rex Calderón (San Juan del Sur)

Oscar Espinoza (Colorado)

Kevin Cortez (Gigante)

Valentina Resano (Popoyo)

Norwin Estrella (San Juan del Sur)

Sean Pearson (Chacocente)

Jose Fino (Leon)

Juan Lopez (Popoyo)

Candelaria Resano (Popoyo)

Pedro Flores (San Juan del Sur)

Joel Chavéz (Astillero)

Eric El Niño Cruz (Chacosente)

Juan Aguilar (San Juan del Sur)

Eloisa Fino (Leon)

Luis Chamorro (San Juan del Sur)

Augusto Chamorro (San Juan del Sur)

Jackson Obando (Gigante)

Juber Martinez (Playa Santana)

Christen Smith (San Juan del Sur)

Oscar Sanchez (San Juan del Sur)

National Surfing Circuit Ranking 2014 / Playa Maderas Event Open

Longboard

Sub 16

Joel Chavez 10.5 (Astillero)

Norwin Estrella 8.93 (San Juan del Sur)

Oscar Espinoza 9.73 (Gigante)

Yuber Martinez 9.66 Jose Lino Bermudez 7.50 (Santana) (San Juan del Sur)

Jose Fino 6.76 (Popoyo)

Rex Calderon 9.36 (San Juan del Sur)

Eduardo Pomares 7.00 (San Juan del Sur)

Elvin Jose 6.36 (San Juan del Sur)

Jackson Obando 8.4 (Gigante)

Javier Baldovinos 2.10 (Gigante)

Erick Cruz 6.20 (Playa Santana)

Damas

BodyBoard

Sub 18

Valentina Resano 11.16 (Popoyo)

Nestor Aleman 5.96 (San Juan del Sur)

Kevin Cortez 7.10 (Gigante)

Candelaria Resano 6.33 Eduardo Pomares 5.83 (Popoyo) (San Juan del Sur)

Carlo Yesca 6.06 (Popoyo)

Tiffany Manchester 5.63 Stuardo Escamilla 2.33 (Hawaii) (Las Peitas)

Juan Lopez 5.43 (Popoyo)

Kaltrine Beltran 1.6 (Colorado)

Alexander Blanco 2.30 (Las Peñitas)

Juan Aguilar 4.76 (San Juan del Sur)

U-18 National Champions 2014 Photo: Sonia Bocale

NEWS

Rex Calderon, National Open Champion 2014 Photo: Sonia Bocale

Oscar Chavez Photo: Sonia Bocale

U-16 National Champions 2014 Photo: Sonia Bocale Surfnica Nicaragua Surf Guide

FROM THE COMMUNITY

Mark & Kathryn Ford Family Foundation

Our sports facilities (soccer field, covered basketball court, baseball stadium, martial arts center and fitness center) create a great place for local athletes to excel in their chosen sport.

MICRO-FINANCE

Since 2008, we have lent over $70,000 in loans to local families for 1) home improvements, 2) creation and expansion of small businesses and 3) medical emergencies. We have lent to over 350 individuals with a 1% default rate. We work hard to provide business-planning advice for local entrepreneurs. Our entrepreneur training program provides business owners with important resources needed to improve accounting, marketing and sustainability.

SUSTAINABILITY

un Limón is a community center that focuses on education, sports and micro-finance—come visit us, we’re located just across the street from Rancho Santana!

MISSION

Our mission is to provide opportunities in education for youth and adults in the Tola region so that they can obtain the skills and knowledge necessary to become agents of change in their families and the community.

EDUCATION

Our youth education program includes English, computers and music courses. We have over 150 students that take classes with us each week.Our adult literacy programs give community members the opportunity to read, write and continue their education.For university level students, we offer INATEC accredited English and computer courses that are accredited and nationally recognized. FunLimon also grants 20 full tuition scholarships each year so that graduating high-school seniors can continue their education.

SPORTS

Several times a week we host sporting events for children and adults; including soccer, baseball, softball and basketball. We have even started many sports teams and leagues of our own. We also provide a range of martial arts classes and competition including Judo, Jiu-Jitsu, Taekwondo, boxing and MMA. Our youth Judo team brought home three bronze medals during the last national tournament held in Managua.

44 Surfnica Nicaragua Surf Guide

Our sustainable farm produces beef, chicken, eggs, milk, organic honey, fruits and vegetables. The sale of these products allows us to donate over 130 lbs. of meat each month to supplement school lunches in the local primary schools of Limon 1, Limon 2, las Cañas and Berlín.

CONTRIBUTE

100% of all donations we recieve are put directly towards educational, athletic, agricultural and community outreach initiatives. If you would like to invest in creating important opportunities for deserving individuals, please visit our website www.funlimon.org. All donations are tax deductible.

FUNLIMON NEWS

Open Enrollment for INATEC English Course Our Accelerated English course will begin on November 1st, 2014. Enrollment is now open for anyone interested in perfecting his or her English pronunciation, conversation and writing skills. Since our course is taught by a certified instructor and accredited by INATEC, all graduates will receive an official diploma, recognized on an international level. Sign up today! FunLimon English and Computer Students Graduate Friday, September 19th, FunLimon students, parents, teachers and administration gathered to celebrate the many achievements of our students. 42 English students, 21 computer students, and 11 INATEC Windows, Office e Internet students proudly received diplomas. This event was especially important because it was our first graduation ceremony for university level courses. Beginning Construction on Vocational Education Center We are excited to announce that we will begin construction in the coming months of a 2740 square foot vocational education center. The facility will have three workshop style teaching

spaces that will be versatile in order to rotate course offerings each year. This year’s courses: electrical work, plumbing and cosmetology, are set to begin in November 2014. FunLimon Scholarship Students give back to their Communities each year, FunLimón sponsors 20 deserving high-school graduates with full tuition university scholarships to study the career of their choice. Each of the 20 students is required to do a community service project in order to put their university studies to practice while benefitting the members of their communities. Here, Diter Acevedo, a first-year English language student, gives English classes to a group of primary school students in the El Remate community. Diter has created a very important learning opportunity for the kids of his community.

EVENTS

Third Annual Legends for Youth Baseball Clinic November 15th and 16th FunLimon will host baseball and softball trainings taught by former Major League Baseball players. Youth and adults from all surrounding communities are invited to participate! Free transportation will be provided. Promoting Local Entrepreneurs Saturday, August 2, 2014, FunLimón hosted Tola Conecta’s first “Made in Tola” festival. Over 1.000 participants spent the day discovering all of the wonderful products, activities and experiences that Tola has to offer. The day was packed with traditional folklore dancing, judo and taekwondo demonstrations, youth and adult soccer and baseball games, cultural poems and theatrical presentations.

Over 38 entrepreneurs from the Tola region presented their products; local non-profits and organizations shared their projects and initiatives. A diverse group of local community members, business owners, tourists, and visitors joined together to contribute to the development of a sustainable Tola. Dentists without Borders Brigade Between July 21st-25th, FunLimón hosted a brigade of twenty dentists from Dentistas Sin Fronteras Madrid. Dentists worked long days and were able to attend over 550 patients over the 5-day clinic. This is an increase from last year’s, 398 patients. The dentists also gave several dental health workshops in the local schools to help kids learn proper oral health practices. A huge thanks to all organizations and individuals who helped put on this special event.

CONTACT

We are located on KM 35 Carretera Las Salinas, just across the street from Rancho Santana. For information about programs, course schedules, gym memberships and more, visit our website www. funlimon.org or contact us at funlimonnicaragua@ gmail.com.As a reward for perfect attendance, Funlimon youth English and computer students earn the privilege to participate in surf lessons with volunteers from the Rancho Santana surf team. Surfing has been a great motivator for our students and has helped them create valuable friendships with the RS surfers. Surfnica Nicaragua Surf Guide

FROM THE COMMUNITY

HECHO EN TOLA T

ola Connects, a platform that emerged from the Alliance between Mukul Beach, Golf & Spa and UNICEF, held on Saturday, August 02 the first fair “Made in Tola”, aiming to highlight the initiative of entrepreneurs from the municipality, which with their business proposals, are trying to develop a responsible tourism, particularly for the benefit of the children and adolescents in the area.

Besides enjoying a fun-filled day in which there were sport games, music and food, everybody had the opportunity to connect with entrepreneurs and people who contributed with their ideas and creativity to projects that can be started in Tola.The idea is to hold this event annually, and that more and more visitors come from different parts of Nicaragua, as well as guests of the hotels in the area and service providers.

The fair is part of the activities developed by Tola Connects, integrated by NGOs, community leaders, Mukul and UNICEF, and that more than a year ago, begun to bear fruit with the creation of approximately 30 businesses with impact on social development. “Hecho en Tola” brought together 35 exhibitors, among which were Don Ramon and his Nicas pizzas, potters of Higueral, weavers of Astillero, the youth group Nanci-gui creators of hair pins made of coconut, corn artisans, Massiel’s bags, the “Novia de Tola” tour, Ninfa‘s Bee Honey, Berri’s sea salts, Loli’s paintings, the bakers of La Casa de la Mujer and Katy’s pastries.

This activity was made possible thanks to the support of the following sponsors: INDE; Rancho Santana; Instituto Nicaraguense de Deporte, Purina (José María distributor); Formunica; Veterinaria Porras; Casa Dcolor; Ferreteria Popular, Lucalza; Banco Lafise, Iguana Surf Rentals & Real Estates; Popoyo; Remax Coastal Properties; Coca Cola; Movistar; Compañia Cervecera; and Surfnica Nicaragua Surf Guide. For further information contact Gilbert Grijalva (ggrijalva@guacalitodelaisla.com +505 8510-0560

46 Surfnica Nicaragua Surf Guide

INTERNATIONAL COASTAL CLEAN-UP 2014

aso Pacifico, the U.S.A. embassy, Surfnica and organisations of the civil society joined thousands of volunteers worldwide for the International Coastal Clean-up, internationally promoted by The Ocean Conservancy. 2014 was the 7th edition in Nicaragua and 29th in the world. On september 20th, volunteers from different organisations, surfers and people from the communities along with numerous Municipality Halls and Paso Pacifico united efforts to clean beaches, lakes and rivers, under the motto “Recycling keep beaches and oceans clean”.Trash goes from our hands through the rives to the ocean. This garbage is endangering the life of human beings, the fauna and the economies that depend on a healthy ocean. Last year, 650,000 people worldwide collected 12 millions of pounds of trash along 13,000 miles of coastline in one day! This year, with 80% of data collected in Nicaragua, the results are as follow: 2,050 people picked up 30,200 pounds of trash from only 20 miles of rivers, beaches and lakes! Paso Pacifico has found “better” conditions on the beach, there is a significant difference in the tipology of trash found in 2008 compared to 2014. From 2008 to 2011, the main debris were plastic bottles and cans; from 2012 to 2014 plastic

FROM THE COMMUNITY

bottles, cans and glass have been reduced. This change is attributed to the recycling programmes that different organisations have implemented, and the results are good. The main materials of concern are plastic bags, polyethylene glasses and dishes, and cigarette butts. All these trash cause great damage to marine fauna, marina and aquatic environments; human health and community economies linked to the ocean and water bodies are affected too. Paso Pacifico wants to continue promoting an environmental care culture, through the invitation to Nicaraguans to take resposability in keeping our oceans clean. It is a fact that recycling keep our beaches and oceans cleaner. Nicaragua has taken important steps in the management of waste, and recycling ha been one of the important axes for this change. But there is still a long way to change minds about not throwing trash and place in the trash bin; about reusing to take advantage of a a non-degradable product; and about reducing the waste we produce. keeping our places clean, our yards, gardens, streets and trowing trash in the right place, give us all great benefits. A cleaner environment means less proliferation of vectors, and infections and pandemics are reduced, that today are affecting our country and world. Lets take care of our oceans, rivers and lakes; take care of water, basic for life! It depends on you making a difference!

Surfnica Nicaragua Surf Guide

PLACES TO VISIT

fter so much press, surfers coming and going, and international surfing events, the word is out and Nicaragua has become a very unique surfing destination especially for its well-known offshore winds. While it is true that you might already know this, you probably didn’t know that our land of volcanoes, lakes and waves, was listed by National Geographic in its “2013 Tours of a Lifetime”. Such list featured 50 tours offering authentic and innovative travel experiences (http://travel.nationalgeographic.com/travel/tours/central-south-america-tours-2013/). Nicaragua has three areas: Pacific region, Central region, and the Caribbean region consisting of two sub-regions, the Autonomous North Atlantic Region and the Autonomous South Atlantic Region. Every region has diverse and sometimes contrasting landscapes, getting from volcanic valleys, steep conical elevations and beaches in the Pacific, to forest covered mountain

48 Surfnica Nicaragua Surf Guide

systems where water springs emerge; and of course, enormous extensions of marshes and crystalline quiet waters in the Atlantic. All regions offer amazing destinations, but we will be mainly focused on the Pacific. We encourage you to take some days off your surf-trip and go explore these unique destinations. On the Pacific, you will be able to enjoy natural beauty hiking up volcanoes, paddling through the waters of Lake Cocibolca, the biggest water reserve of the CA isthmus; visit Spanish colonial cities (Granada and Leon), with over 500 years of existence; and the stunning Isla de Ometepe in Lake Cocibolca or Nicaragua. Ometepe –two hills in the native náhuatl- is a 276 square kilometres island formed by two volcanoes: Concepcion (1,610 m.a.s.l.) and Maderas (1,394 m.a.s.l.), connected through a small strip of land.Both volcanoes can be climbed, and each of them hosts a different

experience. Concepcion Volcano is a tough hike up of 7 hours, first through a thick forest and then loose volcanic stone. Once at the top, if not cloudy you will have an amazing view over the lake, the Pacific Ocean and the volcanic spine. Even you can see in the horizon the city of Rivas as if it were a toy-story. Climbing Conception demands a good physical condition and real hiking shoes. We highly recommend giving an epic touch to this climbing: request with your tour guide a night stay at El Mirador or a few metres below. You will be sleeping surrounded by nocturnal wildlife and a very nice breeze, wake up to chill winds, and go for the last track to reach the peak, and feel the power of an active volcano when standing near its smoking magma crater. On the south part of the island, the Madera volcano rises with coffee plantations at the bottom and a cloud forest as it goes uphill. Contrasting with Concepcion, Maderas Volcano is a kind of scar of nature, showing the results

hosts 2,000 species of butterflies.Sowing the host plants was the first stage followed by the laboratory construction where butterflies are bred. This butterfly centre is aimed to reproduce the species that are endangered in the area. It has a laboratory; host plants nurseries, a gazebo and a waterfall, and trails are marked in Spanish and English. Note that travelling to Ometepe Island requires careful transport coordination especially on Sunday. Boats and ferries travel back and forth several times a day from San Jorge port, located a few minutes driving east of Rivas.Enquire at your accommodation for arrangement of transportation: or call 0000.000. You can also request an adventurous tour with Berman Gomez, who has plenty of knowledge, and experience exploring Nicaragua. In 2010, Ometepe was declared by UNESCO as “Biosphere Reserve” because it contains representatives natural resources from the Pacific, Centre and Atlantic Regions, such as cloudy forests, tropical humid forests, transition forests, part of Cocibolca Lake, and last but not least its great archaeological richness which illustrates the past of our ancestors..

of a past eruption that transformed the volcano into a wide diverse ecosystem, with enormous trees (including national tree: Madroño), orchids, wild flowers; and of course, some mammals and birds stalking white-faced monkeys, hummingbirds, chocoyos and rodents. Due to the high humidity, the trails are muddy and slippery to the point that you practically have to crawl some parts. Remember, keep encouraged as in the final stage you will find a lagoon filling with calm waters the sleeping crater. In the middle of wetlands and its vegetation, you can swim in chill water and be part of Ometepe geological history. But there is much more than climbing these peaks in Ometepe Island, you can stick to the lakeshore, enjoy island-grown coffee, lagoons, waterfall, petroglyphs, and amazing views. One interesting place we recommend visiting is the Paraíso de las Mariposas (Butterflies paradise), located in Charco Verde. This project was started two years ago and it now Surfnica Nicaragua Surf Guide

50 Surfnica Nicaragua Surf Guide

Surfnica Nicaragua Surf Guide