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Best Hotels in Nicaragua

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About Nicaragua

Along one beautiful coastline of Nicaragua runs the bright blue waters of the Caribbean, and on the west, the crashing waves of the Pacific. In between are some incredible volcanic landscapes, with lush, hardly-explored forests and breathtakingly underdeveloped islands and beaches. Nicaragua's history, too, reads like a novel and includes the founding of some beautiful colonial cities and towns. So choosing the best places to stay in Nicaragua revolves around the reason you want to visit this Central American beauty. Below, we have listed hotels in four main geographic regions, from colonial boutiques to remote ecolodges.

If you’re here for the history and drama of old Nicaragua, then the best places to stay are in elegant Granada, which is one of the country’s best preserved colonial towns. Or, if you prefer your history a little more dramatic, then vibrant, working-class León might be for you, with its revolutionary murals and architectural masterpieces now housing very work-a-day stores and offices.

If you’re here to surf then the Rivas Isthmus on the Pacific coat, to the south west, is one of the best places to stay in Nicaragua. It offers perfect sandy beaches and some secluded areas only accessible by 4WD. And if you’d rather snorkel, dive or muck around with boats then the Caribbean Corn Islands will entrance you, while for mangrove swamps, thick jungles and tropical ports, consider the Caribbean coastline itself. And if you’re here for the coffee and or tobacco, then the best places to stay in Nicaragua are in the Northern Highlands.

But one of the unique things about Nicaragua is how underdeveloped it is. It doesn’t take long for the tourist trail to ebb away and you’re on your own, exploring its wonderfully varied interior. Its amazing mountains hide volcanic lakes, unmapped jungles, pre-Columbian runs and old Spanish fortresses. Elsewhere you will find wetlands, remote farms, acres of empty beaches, and welcoming arms to visitors.

The Best Places to Stay in Nicaragua

Colonial Granada

  • La Gran Francia Hotel is a converted ancestral home in the centre of Granada. Colonial styled rooms feature dark antique furniture set against pastel hues. A central courtyard hosts a pretty pool. Find two restaurants serving excellent continental dishes. The ideal base for city exploring.
  • Centrally located, Hotel Plaza Colon is a boutique colonial property set around a picturesque central courtyard. Traditional rooms feature high ceilings, exposed beams and dark antique furniture. Indulgent breakfasts are served and the pool provides the perfect spot to unwind after a day exploring the city. Very chic.
  • Ideal for couples, Los Paios is a small boutique property in the centre of Granada. Chic rooms are all white on white with minimalist style and large French doors leading onto leafy patios. Find utter tranquility in the central courtyard complete with pool or head to the spa for some serious pampering. A fabulous city base.

Rivas Pacific coast

  • 99 Surf Lodge is a minimalist, chic and laid-back hotel on the stunning Santana beach. Simple and elegant rooms, all with ocean views, allow direct access to the beach - and what a view! The restaurant Taberna uses organic produce to create local delicacies with a modern twist.
  • Malibu Popoyo is an eco-friendly surf hotel nearby in Popoyo. Contemporary design blends with local art in the hotel suites, which feature artisan tiles and a wide expanse of glass. Sign up for yoga in this holistic retreat.
  • Further south, just short of San Juan del Sur and set back from the beach in the rainforest, Aqua Wellness Resort is a boutique property hidden in the trees. Its luxury tree houses provide a fun stay plus the treetop vantage point offers spectacular views. Water activities are available nearby, whilst evenings are tranquil and romantic. Fabulous.
  • Nearby, close to San Juan, Morgan's Rock Ecologe is another luxury lodge hidden on the edge of the rainforest, it has everything you need for a romantic break - stunning cabanas, a private beach and an excellent restaurant specialising in local flavours. A haven of tranquility.

Lake Island Life

  • Just a few miles to the south of Granada on the shores of Lake Nicaragua are a group of 365 small volcanic islands called the Isletas de Granada. For a total escape, Jicaro Island Ecolodge is set on the remote Jicaro Island overlooking the lake, a tranquil island paradise. Made up of nine delightful casitas, everything is tailored towards relaxation with an excellent spa and a floating yoga deck. Made for honeymoons and romantic getaways.
  • Nearby, Isleta El Espino is private island ecolodge offering treetop ranchos on stilts amid tropical vegetation, rustic-style bungalows and cosy 'casitas'. Start your day on the yoga platform before joining one of the many excursions on offer.
  • Further south, Totoco Eco Lodge sits on the slopes of a volcano on Ometepe Island in lush forest. Rooms are natural in feel with thatched roofs, plenty of wood, crisp white linen and luxury bathrooms. Enjoy meals cooked with produce from the lodge's own farm. The perfect remote getaway.

Caribbean Island Life

  • Yemaya Reefs is a picturesque palm fringed resort on the tiny Little Corn island in the Caribbean. A laid back vibe prevails on the island's only luxury resort, offering elegant suites, hardwood floors and splashes of local art. The beachside restaurant offers seafood centric Mexican cuisine, and the spa is fantastic.
  • Just off the Caribbean coast, wake up to the sound of the sea at the 5* luxury private island resort of Calala Island. Guest suites have traditional thatched roofs and floor-to-ceiling windows; step out through sliding doors directly onto your own beach terrace. Cool off in the seafront pool before island exploring; paradise found.

Rural hideaways

  • Guacimo Lodge is a beautiful eco-lodge nestled within a forest on the banks of the San Juan River. Guest bungalows sit on raised stilts on the riverbank with a wooden roof but no walls, allowing complete immersion in nature; the best have terraces with river views. Start the day on the yoga deck; a unique hideaway.
  • Rancho Chilamate, inland on the Rivas Isthmus, is traditional ranch and offers stunning rural views. Rooms are traditional in style with cast iron beds and French doors leading onto a veranda. Spend days riding horses in the great outdoors or simply curl up with a book by the pool. Meals are served in a laid-back 'family style'. Rural bliss.

For an apartment or Villa

  • If you’d prefer to stay in an apartment or private villa we recommend you visit our online partner, booking.com.

Travel Information

  • Nicaragua has one international airport, Augusto C. Sandino (Managua) International Airport. You can fly direct from the UK and the US, or from Paris or Madrid.
  • If you’re thinking about hiring a car we recommend checking what our online partners, Rentalcars have to offer.
  • Nicaragua has a tropical climate with little seasonal variation - the temperature ranges between 21˚C-27˚C. There are two rainfall seasons: the 'wet' season' runs May-October, while the 'dry' season runs November-April. This is the most popular time of year to visit, so make sure you book well in advance if you are planning to travel then.

Still not sure what to book

Still not sure which is the best place to stay in Nicaragua for you? Contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.

See all » 3 hotels in Granada

  • La Gran Francia Hotel Granada 35 rooms from AU$123

    City Style  -  A chic colonial style property complete with courtyard pool and a renowned restaurant.
    Local markets  -  Wander to the Crafts Market and pick up some local artecrafts.
    Sights nearby  -  Just steps from the impressive Cathedral of Granada.
    Full of character
    Air conditioningRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenDisabled accessParkingNo pets

    A converted ancestral home in the centre of Granada. Colonial styled rooms feature dark antique furniture set against pastel hues. A central courtyard hosts a pretty pool to unwind by. Find two restaurants serving excellent continental dishes. The ideal base for city exploring. See More

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  • Hotel Plaza Colon Granada 27 rooms from AU$130

    Local exploring  -  An authentic stay with easy access to the city's attractions.
    Eco break  -  A Rainforest Alliance Certified™ property.
    Sailing  -  Hire a boat and take a picturesque cruise through 'Las Isletas' made up of 360+ islands.
    Local markets  -  Pick up some local artefacts at the handicrafts market.
    Air conditioningSwimming PoolGardenParkingNo pets

    A boutique colonial property set around a picturesque central courtyard. Traditional rooms feature high ceilings, exposed beams and dark antique furniture. Indulgent breakfasts are served and the pool provides the perfect spot to unwind after a day exploring the city. Very chic. See More

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See all » 3 hotels in San Juan del Sur

  • Rancho Chilamate San Juan del Sur 4 rooms from AU$204

    Riding  -  Take a long trek through the picturesque countryside and along beaches before resting for snacks and rum.
    Country Escape  -  Spend days in the great outdoors riding horses through the picturesque countryside.
    Surfing  -  El Yankee beach is well known for its waves.
    Barefoot Luxury  -  For total relaxation.
    RestaurantSwimming PoolGardenViewsParkingNo pets

    A traditional ranch with stunning views. Rooms are traditional in style with cast iron beds, uneven walls and French doors leading onto the veranda. Spend days riding horses in the great outdoors or simply curl up with a book by the pool. Meals are served in a laid-back 'family style'. Rural bliss. See More

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  • Aqua Wellness Resort San Juan del Sur (1 Redonda Bay Tola) 20 rooms from AU$302

    Total relaxation  -  Set within the rainforest and next to a white sandy beach find utter tranquility and escapism.
    Sailing  -  Search for sea turtles, dolphins and whales on a relaxing boat trip.
    Surfing  -  The area is known as having the most consistent surf in the world.
    Views  -  Great views from hotel
    Air conditioningRestaurantGardenViewsParkingNo pets

    A boutique property tucked away amidst the rainforest. A collection of luxury tree houses provides a fun and comfortable stay plus the treetop vantage point allows for spectacular views. Find a host of water activities for day time fun whilst evenings are tranquil and romantic. Fabulous. See More

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See all » 2 hotels in Isletas de Granada

  • Jicaro Island Ecolodge Jicaro, Isletas de Granada 9 rooms from AU$660

    Romantic Break  -  Set on a beautiful remote island with lovely luxurious cabanas, perfect for couples.
    Back to Nature  -  Immerse yourself in the natural environment of the Granada Isletas.
    Fishing  -  The lodge can organise sea fishing trips for guests.
    Birdwatching  -  Superb birdwatching on the Isletas de Granada.
    RestaurantSwimming PoolGardenViewsParkingNo pets
    Recommended by  -  Mr & Mrs Smith

    Set on the remote Jicaro Island overlooking Lake Nicaragua, this lodge is a tranquil island paradise. Made up of nine delightful casitas, everything is tailored towards relaxation with an excellent spa and a floating yoga deck. Made for honeymoons and romantic getaways. See More

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  • Isleta El Espino Isletas de Granada 5 rooms from AU$823

    Active Holiday  -  There are lots of packages available at the hotel to keep active holidaymakers entertained, from volcano tours to zip-lining
    Local exploring  -  With a privileged location on an island off the coast of Granada, there is lots to explore local to this hotel
    Hideaway  -  Set on a private island on Lake Nicaragua, this hotel is the perfect boutique hideaway holiday destination
    Local markets  -  Visit the artisan markets in Masaya and Pueblos Blancos and discover the rich local traditions in arts and crafts
    SpaRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenViewsParkingNo pets

    This private island ecolodge is located on Lake Nicaragua. Choose from treetop ranchos on stilts amid tropical vegetation, rustic-style bungalows or homely 'casitas' dressed in beautiful, locally-crafted furniture. Start your day on the yoga platform before an excursion; a holistic island getaway. See More

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See all » 1 hotel in Ometepe Island

  • Totoco Eco Lodge Isla de Ometepe, Ometepe Island 8 rooms from AU$125

    Eco break  -  An eco-lodge providing sustainable lodging and a number of programmes to benefit the planet and local community.
    Kayaking  -  Kayak on the Istian Wetlands and spot crocodiles, birds, monkeys and turtles.
    Views  -  The property boasts jaw-dropping views from its hillside location
    Restaurant  -  Serving a mix of Nicaraguan and International dishes.
    RestaurantSwimming PoolGardenPet friendlyDisabled accessViewsParking

    A small eco-lodge boasting a spectacular position amidst the lush forest and overlooking a volcano. Rooms are natural in feel with thatched roofs, plenty of wood, crisp white linen and luxury bathrooms. Enjoy meals cooked with produce from the lodge's own farm. The perfect remote getaway. See More

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See all » 1 hotel in LIttle Corn Island

  • Yemaya Reefs LIttle Corn Island 16 rooms from AU$139

    Total relaxation  -  With free daily yoga sessions and a wonderful spa that combines reiki, aromatherapy and massage to smooth out every knot
    Sights nearby  -  Guests are recommended to spend a day on the uninhabited island of Pearl Keys, pack a picnic and some snorkelling equipment
    Fishing  -  Head out deep-sea fishing to catch yellowtail and snapper, and the chefs will cook your catch in the local style
    Swimming Pool  -  Outdoor pool
    Air conditioningRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenViews
    Recommended by  -  Small Luxury Hotels

    A picturesque palm fringed resort on the tiny Little Corn island. A laid back vibe prevails on the island's only luxury resort, offering elegant suites, hardwood floors and splashes of local art. The beachside restaurant offers seafood centric Mexican cuisine and the spa is absolutely fantastic. See More

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See all » 1 hotel in Playa Santana

  • 99 Surf Lodge Playa Santana (Popoyo) 6 rooms from AU$147

    Beach Life  -  A chilled out beach-chic lodge on Popoyo, renowned the world over by surfers as one of the greats
    Value chic  -  A funky and fresh eco-friendly resort with laid back glamour and a very reasonable price tag
    Surfing  -  Popoyo is one of the best when it comes to surf, and the season goes all year
    Fishing  -  Book a local guide and head out fishing for the day
    RestaurantSwimming PoolViews
    Recommended by  -  Tablet

    A fantastically minimalist and laid-back luxe hotel on the stunning surfing beach of Popoyo. Simple and elegant rooms allow the glass wall overlooking the beach to take centre stage, and it is some view!! The restaurant Taberna uses organic produce to create local delicacies with a modern twist. See More

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See all » 1 hotel in Popoyo

  • Malibu Popoyo Popoyo (Playa Santana) 6 rooms from AU$211

    Eco break  -  Boasting a sustainable orchard that supplies the kitchen's organic cuisine, this hotel is an eco-friendly beach getaway
    Active Holiday  -  With a prime location close to 10 world-class breaks, this hotel is a dream stay for surf fanatics
    Beach Life  -  Located on the beautiful coast of Popoyo, this hotel makes an idyllic beach break
    Surfing  -  Hire boards from the hotel and head out to explore some of the best waves in Central America
    Air conditioningSpaRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenViewsParkingNo pets

    A seafront sustainable orchard is the setting for this eco-friendly surf hotel in Popoyo. Contemporary design blends with local culture in the hotel suites, which feature artisan tiles and glass walls showcasing native plants. Recentre yourself in the hotel yoga studio; a holistic retreat. See More

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See all » Other hotels in Nicaragua

  • Calala Island Calala Island, Nicaragua 7 rooms from AU$3006

    Romantic Break  -  Couples love the attentive service and tranquil ambience at this beach bolt-hole; book a couples' treatment at the holistic spa
    Total relaxation  -  With acres of quiet, sandy beaches and a full-service spa, bar and restaurant onsite, this hotel offers guests total relaxation
    Beach Life  -  Set on a paradise-like island in Nicaragua, this hotel is a great choice for a luxury beach break
    Fishing  -  Try your hand at deep-sea fishing during your stay; hotel guides can help you to find the best spots
    SpaRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenPet friendlyViews
    Recommended by  -  Small Luxury Hotels

    Wake up to the sound of the sea at this 5* luxury private island resort. Guest suites have traditional thatched roofs and floor-to-ceiling windows; step out through sliding doors directly onto your own beach terrace. Cool off in the seafront pool before island exploring; paradise found. See More

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  • Guacimo Lodge El Castillo de La Concepción, Nicaragua 7 rooms from AU$176

    Eco break  -  The well-thought out sustainability policy at this lodge means you can enjoy your holiday knowing it won't cost the environment
    Local exploring  -  Set on the banks of the San Juan River, this hotel is the perfect base for local exploring in El Castillo de la Concepción
    Back to Nature  -  With accommodation that consists of bungalows in a riverside forest, this hotel makes an authentic back-to-nature retreat
    Kayaking  -  Explore the river from a unique vantage point on a kayaking trip; book an excursion through the hotel
    RestaurantSwimming PoolGardenPet friendlyViews

    This beautiful eco-lodge is nestled within a forest on the banks of Nicaragua's San Juan River. Guest bungalows sit on raised stilts on the riverbank with a wooden roof but no walls, allowing nature inside; the best have a terrace with river views. Start the day on the yoga deck; a unique bolt-hole. See More

    Check Availability