Top 10 Things to Do in Popoyo, Nicaragua
Popoyo is one of those places where time slows down whether you want it to or not. Known for its surf breaks and quiet beaches, it’s less about ticking off attractions and more about embracing the moment. I spent 4 nights here meeting other backpackers, playing drinking games, and just enjoying the simplicity of beach life.
Here’s what I did — and what I’d come back to do next time.
Popoyo may be known for surfing, but I fell in love with its dramatic coastline, quiet beaches, and slower pace of life.
1. Relax on Popoyo Beach ⭐ Did This
Popoyo’s main beach is wide, quiet, and perfect for doing absolutely nothing. I spent most of my time here tanning, walking along the shore, and just watching the waves roll in. It’s not crowded, which makes it feel like your own little slice of paradise.
💡 JD’s Tip: Bring a towel, water, and snacks — there aren’t many vendors around, so come prepared.
The kind of beach where you can walk for miles and still feel like you have it all to yourself.
2. Watch the Sunset Every Night ⭐ Did This
Sunsets in Popoyo are unreal and quickly became part of my daily routine. Every evening, people slowly make their way to the beach, grab a drink, and just sit and watch. It’s simple, but it never gets old.
💡 JD’s Tip: Don’t rush off after the sun dips — the sky lights up even more 10–15 minutes after.
Every evening, Popoyo put on a show — and somehow each sunset was better than the last.
3. Hang Out in Hammocks ⭐ Did This
If there’s one thing Popoyo does well, it’s hammocks. Whether at your hostel or near the beach, you’ll find plenty of spots to swing and relax. I spent hours just laying there, doing nothing — and honestly, that’s the whole vibe here.
💡 JD’s Tip: Claim a hammock early in the day — the best ones get taken fast.
Popoyo isn't about being busy — it's about finding a good chair and staying there for a while.
4. Meet Other Backpackers ⭐ Did This
Popoyo has a small but social backpacker scene, and it’s easy to meet people. I ended up joining a group, and we spent our days hanging out, playing drinking games, and just going with the flow. It’s one of those places where friendships happen quickly.
💡 JD’s Tip: Stay at a social hostel — that’s where most of the connections happen.
New country, new friends, same questionable beer pong skills.
5. Have a Beach BBQ ⭐ Did This
One of my favorite memories here was having a BBQ on the beach with fish the group had caught earlier. It wasn’t planned — it just happened naturally, like most things in Popoyo. These are the kinds of moments that make this place special.
💡 JD’s Tip: If someone invites you to something spontaneous — say yes.
The backpackers caught the fish, someone found a grill, and somehow dinner happened.
6. Watch the Waves (or Surfers) ⭐ Did This
Even if you don’t surf, watching the waves is oddly relaxing. Popoyo is known for its surf, so you’ll often see experienced surfers out in the water. I didn’t surf, but I still loved just sitting there and taking it all in.
💡 JD’s Tip: Bring a drink and make it your “afternoon activity.”
I never actually learned to surf in Popoyo, but that didn't stop me from pretending I knew what I was doing.
7. Learn to Surf ❌ Missed This
Popoyo is one of Nicaragua’s top surf destinations, with waves for all levels. There are surf schools and board rentals available if you want to give it a try. Even beginners can find smaller, manageable waves nearby.
💡 JD’s Tip: Take a lesson if it’s your first time — the currents can be strong.
8. Explore Nearby Beaches ❌ Missed This
There are a few quieter beaches nearby that are worth exploring if you want even more solitude. Some are just a short walk, while others may require a ride. They’re perfect if you want to escape even the small crowd in Popoyo.
💡 JD’s Tip: Ask locals or your hostel for hidden beach spots — they know the best ones.
I never made it to all the nearby beaches, but my daily walks still led to some incredible views.
9. Disconnect from Everything ⭐ Did This
Popoyo isn’t the place for fast Wi-Fi and busy schedules. It’s where you unplug, slow down, and just be present. I found myself naturally spending less time on my phone and more time just enjoying where I was.
💡 JD’s Tip: Don’t fight the slow pace — lean into it.
Turns out disconnecting from the internet leads to some interesting forms of entertainment.
10. Watch the Chaos of Beach Life ⭐ Did This
Entertainment in Popoyo comes in unexpected ways. One day, we watched a car get stuck in the sand — and somehow that became the highlight of the afternoon. It’s a reminder that here, the smallest moments become the most memorable.
💡 JD’s Tip: Don’t over-plan — Popoyo creates its own fun.
We didn't need Netflix — we had front-row seats to a beachside recovery mission.
Final Thoughts
Popoyo isn’t about checking off a list — it’s about slowing down and enjoying where you are. Whether you’re surfing, socializing, or just laying in a hammock, this place has a way of making time feel different.
It may not have big attractions, but that’s exactly why people love it. If you’re looking to reset, recharge, and experience true slow travel — Popoyo is the place.
The sunsets were my favorite time of day in Popoyo; a chance to slow down, appreciate the view, and remember why I travel.
