Playa Maderas: A Tropical Paradise for Beach Lovers
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Playa Maderas, a top beach destination in Nicaragua offering surfing, relaxation, and stunning sunsets.
Playa Maderas is a stunning beach nestled on the Pacific coast of Nicaragua, known for its soft sands, vibrant surf, and breathtaking sunsets. It is a haven for tourists seeking relaxation, adventure, and natural beauty, making it a must-visit destination.
A brief summary to Playa Maderas
Local tips
- Visit during the early morning or late afternoon for the best light and fewer crowds.
- Bring cash, as some local eateries may not accept credit cards.
- Consider renting a surfboard to fully enjoy the waves, as the conditions are often ideal.
- Pack sunscreen and stay hydrated, especially if you plan to spend the whole day at the beach.
- Explore nearby hiking trails for a chance to see local wildlife and stunning views.
Getting There
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Car
From Rivas Isthmus, head towards the town of San Juan del Sur. Take the main road south, and approximately 15 kilometers from Rivas, you'll see signs for Playa Maderas. Turn right onto the road leading to Playa Maderas. Continue straight until you reach the beach. There is a parking area available at Playa Maderas, and parking fees may apply, typically around $2-$5.
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Public Transportation - Bus
To reach Playa Maderas from Rivas Isthmus using public transportation, take a bus from the main bus terminal in Rivas heading to San Juan del Sur. The bus ride costs around $1 and takes approximately 30-40 minutes. Once you arrive in San Juan del Sur, you will need to transfer to a local taxi or a shuttle service that can take you to Playa Maderas, which is about 10-15 minutes away. Taxi fares may vary, but expect to pay around $10-$15 for the ride.
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Taxi
If you prefer a direct route to Playa Maderas, you can hire a taxi from anywhere in Rivas Isthmus. Make sure to negotiate the fare before starting your journey. The cost to Playa Maderas from Rivas is generally around $20-$30, depending on your starting point and the taxi driver.
Discover more about Playa Maderas
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Hush Maderas
0.6 km
Experience the tranquil beauty of Hush Maderas, a unique hotel in San Juan del Sur, where modern architecture meets nature's serenity.
Selina Maderas
1.0 km
Discover the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation at Selina Maderas, a vibrant hostel and coworking space by the stunning Nicaragua coastline.
Marsella Valley Nature Center
1.1 km
Explore the breathtaking Marsella Valley Nature Center for a unique blend of adventure and tranquility amidst Nicaragua's lush landscapes.
Balcones de Majagual
1.2 km
Experience the tranquility of Balcones de Majagual, a charming holiday home in San Juan del Sur, offering stunning views and modern comfort.
Marsella Beach Front
1.4 km
Experience the charm of Marsella Beach Front, a picturesque bed and breakfast with stunning ocean views and delectable dining in San Juan del Sur, Nicaragua.
the SPACE.
3.2 km
Experience the vibrant energy of The SPACE in San Juan del Sur, where comfort meets creativity in a stunning coastal setting.
Eden on the Chocolata
3.3 km
Discover tranquility and wellness at Eden on the Chocolata, a serene retreat in San Juan del Sur, perfect for relaxation and rejuvenation.
Cristo SJDS
4.6 km
Explore the breathtaking Cristo SJDS in San Juan del Sur, a spiritual landmark offering stunning views and a serene atmosphere for all visitors.
Bahia del Sol Villas and Condominiums
4.6 km
Discover tranquility and adventure at Bahia del Sol Villas and Condominiums, your perfect retreat in the heart of San Juan del Sur, Nicaragua.
Hotel Alcazar
5.8 km
Experience the beauty of San Juan del Sur at Hotel Alcazar, where stunning views and relaxation meet adventure in Nicaragua's vibrant coastal paradise.
Hostel Pachamama
5.8 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere and local culture at Hostel Pachamama, your perfect base in San Juan del Sur, Nicaragua.
The Beach House Nicaragua
5.9 km
Discover the perfect blend of relaxation and culinary delight at The Beach House Nicaragua, a coastal gem in San Juan del Sur.
Iskra Travel & Tours
6.0 km
Explore the enchanting beauty of San Juan del Sur with Iskra Travel & Tours, your reliable transportation partner for unforgettable adventures in Nicaragua.
Hotel Gran Oceano
6.1 km
Discover the charm of Hotel Gran Oceano, a cozy retreat in San Juan del Sur, just steps away from the beach and local attractions.
Casa de Cultura Carlos Contreras Espinoza
6.1 km
Explore the vibrant Casa de Cultura Carlos Contreras Espinoza in San Juan del Sur, a hub of Nicaraguan art, music, and community spirit.
Unmissable attractions to see
Playa Madera
0.3 km
Experience the stunning beauty and tranquility of Playa Madera, a premier beach destination in San Juan del Sur, Nicaragua, perfect for relaxation and adventure.
Playa Nacascolo
3.7 km
Experience the tranquil beauty of Playa Nacascolo, a hidden beach paradise in San Juan del Sur, Nicaragua, perfect for relaxation and adventure.
El Encanto del Sur
4.1 km
Experience the harmony of modern living and nature at El Encanto del Sur, a unique housing development and nature preserve in San Juan del Sur.
Cristo de La Misericordia
4.6 km
Explore Cristo de La Misericordia: A breathtaking statue in San Juan del Sur offering stunning views and spiritual reflection.
VISTA DEL CRISTO DE LA MISERICORDIA HACIA LA PLAYA DE SAN JUAN DEL SUR
4.6 km
Discover stunning panoramic views and serene surroundings at the Vista del Cristo de la Misericordia in San Juan del Sur, Nicaragua.
Cara del Indio
4.8 km
Explore the captivating Cara del Indio in San Juan del Sur, a stunning tourist attraction where nature and culture blend seamlessly.
Playa San Juan del Sur
5.3 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty and vibrant atmosphere of Playa San Juan del Sur, Nicaragua's premier beach destination.
San Juan del Sur Bay
5.4 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty and vibrant culture of San Juan del Sur Bay, Nicaragua's coastal paradise for adventure and relaxation.
Canopy Tour San Juan del Sur, Da'Flying Frog, Zip Line.
5.5 km
Experience the thrill of soaring through the treetops with Da'Flying Frog's zip line adventure in San Juan del Sur, Nicaragua.
Sunday Funday Pool Crawl ( Nicaragua)
5.8 km
Join the electrifying Sunday Funday Pool Crawl in San Juan del Sur, Nicaragua, for an unforgettable tropical party experience filled with fun and excitement.
Rio San Juan Del Sur
5.9 km
Experience the stunning landscapes and vibrant culture of Rio San Juan Del Sur, Nicaragua's coastal paradise with adventure, relaxation, and breathtaking sunsets.
Puerto San Juan Del Sur
5.9 km
Explore the vibrant port town of Puerto San Juan Del Sur, where stunning beaches and rich culture await every traveler.
San Juan del Sur
6.0 km
Discover the stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and thrilling adventures in San Juan del Sur, Nicaragua's coastal gem.
Malecón de San Juan del Sur
6.1 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and breathtaking views at the Malecón de San Juan del Sur, the heart of Nicaragua's coastal charm.
Nica Sail & Surf The Catamaran
6.1 km
Explore the breathtaking coastline of San Juan del Sur with Nica Sail & Surf, offering unforgettable catamaran sailing and adventure on the Pacific.
Essential places to dine
Doña chilo–"La humalera", bar y restaurante.
1.1 km
Experience the authentic flavors of Nicaragua at Doña Chilo – 'La Humalera', a must-visit restaurant in Rivas for food lovers.
Mango Rosa
2.0 km
Experience the best of Nicaraguan cuisine and thrilling adventures at Mango Rosa in San Juan del Sur.
Comida Nica La Gordita
3.6 km
Experience authentic Nicaraguan cuisine at Comida Nica La Gordita—where every bite tells a story.
El Jardin Hotel & Restaurant
3.9 km
Experience comfort and delightful cuisine at El Jardin Hotel & Restaurant in San Juan del Sur - your perfect getaway in Nicaragua.
Ranchos De San Juan Del Sur.
5.4 km
Experience authentic Nicaraguan cuisine at Ranchos De San Juan Del Sur, where every meal tells a story of flavor and tradition.
La bocana
5.4 km
Experience the best of Nicaraguan cuisine at La Bocana—where fresh seafood meets breathtaking ocean views in San Juan del Sur.
Restaurante Roca Mar
5.5 km
Discover exquisite flavors at Restaurante Roca Mar in San Juan del Sur - where culinary delights meet breathtaking coastal views.
Casa Mallela
5.5 km
Discover Casa Mallela: A must-visit restaurant in San Juan del Sur offering authentic Nicaraguan cuisine with stunning views.
The Palms Beach Bar & Grill
5.5 km
Discover The Palms Beach Bar & Grill in San Juan del Sur – where delicious cuisine meets stunning ocean views for an unforgettable dining experience.
The Fisherman, Cuban Ranch
5.8 km
Discover The Fisherman in San Juan del Sur: A coastal paradise serving fresh seafood and authentic Nicaraguan cuisine with stunning ocean views.
La Reina del Sur
5.8 km
Experience authentic Nicaraguan cuisine at La Reina del Sur - the perfect family-friendly restaurant in San Juan del Sur.
Bendición de Dios
5.8 km
Experience authentic Nicaraguan flavors at Bendición de Dios in San Juan del Sur - a traditional restaurant celebrating local cuisine.
TurnTable SJDS
5.9 km
Discover TurnTable SJDS - A top-rated restaurant and cocktail bar in San Juan del Sur offering delicious food and vibrant nightlife.
Restaurante Vivian
5.9 km
Experience authentic Nicaraguan flavors at Restaurante Vivian in San Juan del Sur – where culinary tradition meets coastal charm.
Iguana Bar
5.9 km
Discover the lively flavors and vibrant atmosphere at Iguana Bar in San Juan del Sur—your ultimate beachfront dining experience.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Seaside Shop
3.9 km
Experience local charm and quality goods at Seaside Shop, your go-to supermarket in San Juan del Sur for fresh produce and unique souvenirs.
Stop & Buy
5.0 km
Discover the convenience of Stop & Buy in San Juan del Sur, your essential stop for snacks, drinks, and local treasures.
La Ceiba Store
5.0 km
Discover the local essence of San Juan del Sur at La Ceiba Store, your one-stop grocery hub for fresh produce and authentic Nicaraguan flavors.
Huglife United
5.9 km
Explore Huglife United in San Juan del Sur for unique, culturally-inspired clothing and accessories that capture the essence of Nicaragua.
We Stay Lost
5.9 km
Discover unique Nicaraguan fashion and local artistry at We Stay Lost, the charming clothing store in San Juan del Sur.
MaaKuu
6.0 km
Explore the exquisite craftsmanship of leather goods at MaaKuu in San Juan del Sur, where every piece tells a story of local artistry.
South Beach Store
6.0 km
Explore the charm of South Beach Store in San Juan del Sur, your one-stop destination for groceries, snacks, and local treasures.
Lara's Fashion
6.0 km
Discover unique clothing and local craftsmanship at Lara's Fashion, a vibrant clothing store in San Juan del Sur that embodies the spirit of Nicaragua.
OceanLove Beach Essential
6.0 km
Shop at OceanLove Beach Essential for stylish swimwear and beach gear in San Juan del Sur, ensuring you are beach-ready for your tropical getaway.
Tienda Karla's moda.
6.0 km
Explore the vibrant styles and local craftsmanship at Tienda Karla's Moda in San Juan del Sur, a top destination for unique Nicaraguan fashion.
El Garaje - Skate Shop & Café
6.0 km
Discover El Garaje, the ultimate skate shop and café in San Juan del Sur, blending local culture with a laid-back atmosphere for all visitors.
AMPM San Juan del Sur
6.0 km
Discover convenience at AMPM San Juan del Sur, where travelers find snacks, essentials, and friendly service in the heart of Nicaragua's beach paradise.
Tienda Sur San Juan del Sur
6.0 km
Discover a charming general store in San Juan del Sur offering local products, beach essentials, and unique souvenirs for every traveler.
Super Express - San Juan del Sur
6.0 km
Discover Super Express, your ultimate convenience store in San Juan del Sur, offering essential shopping for every traveler’s needs.
Osci Surf
6.0 km
Discover the spirit of surf culture at Osci Surf in San Juan del Sur, offering quality gear, vibrant beachwear, and expert surfing lessons.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Maderas Sunset Bar
0.2 km
Discover the ultimate sunset experience at Maderas Sunset Bar, where stunning ocean views and refreshing cocktails unite.
Aquaholic Beach Bar
3.7 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Aquaholic Beach Bar in San Juan del Sur, where delicious grill cuisine meets stunning ocean views.
Isabella's Bar
5.7 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and stunning coastal views at Isabella's Bar in San Juan del Sur, a must-visit for every tourist.
Sunny Beach Bar
5.7 km
Experience vibrant nightlife and stunning ocean views at Sunny Beach Bar in San Juan del Sur, the ultimate tropical escape for tourists.
Arribas Bar
5.7 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Arribas Bar in San Juan del Sur, where great drinks and good times meet stunning coastal views.
Rock Bar SJDS
5.9 km
Experience breathtaking sunsets and vibrant nightlife at Rock Bar SJDS in San Juan del Sur, Nicaragua's coastal gem.
San Juan Del Sur Beach Club
5.9 km
Discover the vibrant San Juan Del Sur Beach Club - your ultimate beachside retreat for relaxing drinks and stunning sunset views.
The Hip San Juan del Sur
6.0 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at The Hip San Juan del Sur with stunning views, delicious cocktails, and a lively atmosphere that captures the essence of Nicaragua.
Nacho - San Juan del Sur
6.0 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Nacho in San Juan del Sur, where delicious cocktails and breathtaking views combine for an unforgettable evening.
Marcos Rental
6.1 km
Experience the best of San Juan del Sur at Marcos Rental, where refreshing drinks and a lively atmosphere come together for an unforgettable time.
The BUS Station
6.1 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of San Juan del Sur at The BUS Station, where great drinks and local flavors meet in a lively atmosphere.
Ranchitos Kalova`s
6.2 km
Experience the lively atmosphere and refreshing drinks at Ranchitos Kalova's, a must-visit bar in the heart of San Juan del Sur.
Salt Bar Nicaragua
7.0 km
Discover Salt Bar Nicaragua in San Juan del Sur for a unique cocktail experience surrounded by vibrant nightlife and a welcoming atmosphere.
Bokana Cocktails & Bar
10.2 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of El Sucio at Bokana Cocktails & Bar, where delicious tapas and cocktails await your discovery.
Slaudy Bar Surf Brothers
10.4 km
Experience the perfect blend of surf culture and delicious local cuisine at Slaudy Bar Surf Brothers in El Sucio.