Playa Santana is a surf haven. With more than ten world-class breaks within 30 miles, our priority is surf. We offer everyone waves ranging from longboard peelers and beach breaks to deep and hollow reef breaks. Nicaragua enjoys 300 plus days of offshore winds a year.
The ideal tropical climate and deep-water swells create the perfect conditions for year-round surfing. There are two main seasons, wet (May to November) and dry (December to April), with occasional tropical showers throughout the year.
The most consistent and most significant water swells hit the coast from March through November. Waves come in fast, averaging from shoulder to overhead on fun surf spots but often reach double overhead or higher at more adventurous breaks. October is an off-season month due to strong onshore winds and frequent heavy rains, although the weather gets more fair towards the tail end.
November still sees heavy winds and strong swells. For those who like to brave the elements, this is the least crowded time in Nicaragua as the weather becomes cooler. December to February have stronger offshore winds that create waist to shoulder high surf. The water is also cooler at this time. Exhaustion and dehydration can be your biggest enemies here, so make sure you drink lots of water. Mosquitoes are not a problem in the dry season, but be aware of scorpions and other assorted critters.
Nestled in the trees just off the beach at Playa Santana, Malibu Popoyo centers around a beautiful pool, lounge area, and cantina. We aren’t just a hotel, a surf break, a retreat center, a restaurant, or a yoga studio. We are all of these and so much more. We offer a curated experience with something for explorers, adrenaline junkies, and first-timers.
Our goal is to immerse you in nature, culture, and vitality so you leave with more life in your mind, body, and spirit. At Malibu Popoyo, you score an all-access pass to soak up all that Nicaragua has to offer.
Restaurant
Enjoy healthy meals prepared using only fresh ingredients from La Quinta, our local organic farm. Our cantina serves amazing and healthy meals inspired by an authentic fusion of Central American and Western cuisines. In addition, we offer various dishes packed with flavor and designed to sustain your energy and vitality throughout your stay.
Activities
With more than 10 world-class breaks within 30 miles, our priority is surf. We offer something for everyone with waves ranging from longboard peelers and beach breaks to deep and hollow reef breaks.
Our beautiful open-sided, wooden-floor palapa was specifically crafted for a relaxing and revitalizing yoga experience nestled among our lush Nicaraguan gardens and neighboring ocean waves. After yoga, take a post-surf dip in our 16-meter pool and lounge while listening to live music or a mellow playlist. Our poolside cocktail service includes locally-inspired craft cocktails and organic cold-pressed juices.
Sometimes we need deep relaxation to propel us into a higher state of adventure-seeking. For that, treat yourself to a rejuvenating full body massage, reflexology, detox scrub, or facial. If the mood asks for more adrenaline, immerse yourself in the Nicaraguan lifestyle and explore our adventure collection. We offer an adventure for all seasons and interests, including hiking, horseback riding, and local tours.
After traveling the world searching for surf, Jade Sheppard opened Malibu Popoyo in 2017. Since then, Jade is focused on delivering an unparalleled experience in both surf and lifestyle. Malibu Popoyo is genuinely a paradise from both a design and activities perspective. Jade has brought on a team of an amazing staff and built a beautiful boutique hotel.