Overview
Playa Gigante is a tiny fishing village turned surf haven on Nicaragua's Southern Pacific Coast, roughly 40 km north of San Juan del Sur. With about 300 locals, two surf camps, and a handful of beachfront restaurants, it offers a genuinely remote beach experience far removed from tourist crowds.
Beach · Budget Travel · Nature · Surfing
Before you go
Accommodation
Options range from hostel hammocks (Monkey House) to private guesthouses ($40-100/night). Surf camps dominate March-September. Most places are pet-friendly.
Activities
Surf is the main draw (walk to 3 local breaks or boat to distant ones). Other options: Giant's Foot hike (1 hour), kayaking, snorkeling, howler monkey tours, hot springs (30 min drive).
Connectivity
English more widely spoken than typical for Nicaragua. Mobile coverage available. WiFi limited at accommodations—check ahead if essential.
Food
Main dishes cost C$120-300 (July 2019). About 10 beachfront restaurants with generally good quality. Prices are higher than inland Nicaragua but reasonable for a remote beach destination.
Money
Local currency is the Nicaraguan córdoba (C$). US dollars widely accepted in tourist areas. ATMs are limited in the village—bring cash from Rivas. Prices often quoted in USD.
Transport
Public buses from Rivas run hourly toward Las Salinas; get off at first Gigante entrance and walk 5 km or hitch. Direct buses at 13:30 (not Sundays) and 07:30 (weekdays only). Taxis from Rivas cost up to US$20.
